Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone
Few people think of Santa Barbara and funk zone in the same thought, but as Santa Barbara’s industrial area continues to disappear, the “Funk Zone” becomes more obvious. Unlike most coastal tourist destinations, the city’s industrial yards and storage areas have always been located down near the beachfront. With a mix of old brick structures … Read more
Gracious Dining in Paso Robles
During the last decade or so, Paso Robles has undergone a major transformation. It started with the introduction of wineries to the area and is now manifesting itself in a variety of great restaurants. I recently photographed Thomas Hill Organics Market Bistro and Wine Bar for Westways Magazine. Long title—great restaurant. All ingredients are locally … Read more
California, New Cuisine of the American Riviera
All photographers love book projects! I know that’s a rather sweeping statement, but I have never heard of any pro turning down a book assignment. It’s the opportunity to immerse yourself in a subject, to really cover an area or topic and not just skim the surface. And there is no denying that receiving your … Read more
Artisan in Paso Robles
Paso Robles has changed a lot in the last twenty years. In the early part of my career, I would stop there for gas on my way north. It was all gas stations and cattle country. The arrival of vineyards has changed all that. I recently photographed an assignment there for Westways Magazine and was … Read more
Celebrities and wine tasting
Working as an editorial photographer, I am occasionally assigned to photograph a celebrity. I never know what to expect. In this case, I traveled to Richard and Thekla Sanford’s Alma Rosa Winery, in the Santa Ynez Valley near Santa Barbara, California, to photograph their colorful tasting room manager, Chris Burroughs, who has attained notoriety after … Read more
Dos Carlitos Mexican Restaurant–Spicey and Sweet
What a great job. I get to travel to beautiful places and eat delicious food–and I get paid to do it! We just received our newest issue of Westways Magazine with our coverage of Dos Carlitos Restaurant in the wine country of the Santa Ynez Valley in California. The layout looks great, thanks to the talents of Creative … Read more
Wine Country Terroir–the “Dirt” on Wine Production
This was my first assignment photographing dirt—terroir, as the vintners call it. Well, not just dirt of course. Grape vines thrive in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley in California where a wide variety of soil types favor a large selection of award-winning wines. I recently spent a fun day with Tracy Smith Reed, the talented … Read more
