Behind My Scene

Winter Fun

2012-01-29T18:38:00.000-08:00

Snow Blower

2012-01-25T13:47:00.001-08:00

Well, today of course is Wednesday which means snowboard day. However, gnarly winds closed down the hill after I put in only three runs. For good reason though, that shit was indeed windy, just ask Jesse here.

Growth

2012-01-24T23:00:00.001-08:00

Power

2012-01-16T20:04:00.000-08:00

I like power lines. Always thought that they symbolize humans pretty well, we'll clear all that's in our path, for power.

Aviator

2012-01-01T21:58:00.001-08:00

Take Off

2011-12-27T17:02:00.001-08:00

In my search for wild art today.

Bowl Full of Jelly

2011-12-23T21:48:00.000-08:00

Santa had to bride Norah with a candy-cane in order to get her to sit with him. Shy little girl. The look on her face though when Santa asked why she doesn't keep her room clean was classic. She was like - how does he know? Santa is watching you... kind of creepy actually.

On The Showdown

2011-12-21T18:15:00.000-08:00

Well, finally changed my work schedule so I could hit the hills at least once a week. Made it up to Showdown Mountain today, plenty of pow pow for everyone. This wasn't much of a shooting venture for me, uh uh, I needed to ride. Of course though, there is always time to whip out the little pointer for a few shots...

Another Wednesday warrior up the summit.

Hey look! Pine trees :D

Not going to lie, it was a little chilly up there and the chairs seem to stop longer than I would have liked them to.

The Homeless

2011-12-20T21:32:00.000-08:00

Michael Hiltwein has a smoke on his bed under a bridge in Great Falls. After having his driver's license suspended, Hiltwein had no reliable way to get to work, forcing him to live on the streets. Tribune Photo/Joshua Kodis

Michael Hiltwein says he didn't choose to be homeless, and doesn't plan to live this way forever. Tribune Photo/Joshua Kodis

Michael Hiltwein and Butch sit down for a smoke in the morning in their camp under a bridge before setting off to search for food or work. Tribune Photo/Joshua Kodis

Karl "Butch" Smock has been living on the streets for 40 years. Not because he has to, but at 53 years old, he says he choses to live a free life. Tribune Photo/Joshua Kodis

Supplies are set up under the bridge just as if they would be packed away in cupboards in a house. Life under the bridge is tough, but some of those living here wouldn't have it any other way. Tribune Photo/Joshua Kodis

Michael Hiltwein collects his things stored away on the metal beams of the bridge he sleeps under in Great Falls before setting off on his day in search of money, food and warmth. Tribune Photo/Joshua Kodis

Thoughts-

I didn't set out to find this story. I was looking for wild art one day and wandered down towards the train tracks. I came across a dirt trail leading underneath the bridge that stretched over the tracks. When walked under there, I walked into a camp that was obvious it hosted long term residents. No one was around, so I snapped some empty shots of the camp and later showed them to my editor. He gave to okay to chase after the story for the next few weeks.

HERE is the first part of three stories for the Tribune that I helped write.

Weather

2011-12-18T08:02:00.000-08:00

Ricky Lopez of Great Falls, jumps his bike over Sean Serfes of Great Falls as the two riders enjoyed the unusually warm temperatures Saturday afternoon at the Riverside Rail Park in Great Falls. Tribune Photo/Joshua Kodis

Roots

2011-12-09T04:30:00.001-08:00

Joshua, Tree. Photo by Patty

Huntington Beach

2011-12-03T17:06:00.000-08:00

Huntington Pier, palm trees, sand, beach, killer downtown shopping for stuff I normally have to buy online, all good things. Oh, and of course there is also surfing.

And surf I did. Photo by Patty.

I never had a photo of me surfing before, so luckily, I had someone around to shoot. Although prego, Patty still came out to enjoy the sun but claimed the water was too cold.

Like me, Norah could hang out at the beach every damn day and it would always be awesome.

So you paddle out along the side of the pier where the waves don't break. The hazards of doing this are many, one of them being hooked by a fisherman as this seagull found out.

No, this is not me. Maybe someday. I took shots as I rested up from surfing, now I wish I shot more. No, maybe I should have surfed more.

When I see the sea once more, will the sea have seen or not seen me? Photo by Patty

Skipping School

2011-11-15T14:30:00.000-08:00

I was in the eighth grade when I first skipped school. Seemed like every day, at Luther L. Wright in Ironwood, Mich. I was harassed by teachers and other students. I was called stupid, worthless, because I wasn't into sports in a small town. Finally, one day, I walked by the doors on my way to my next class and said "fuck this" and walked out never to return to that place. I moved to Oceanside, Cali. and went from getting D's and F's to A's and B's.

Looking into a large tank of goldfish at the pet store today reminded me of this. All the fish, swimming in the same direction. Who knows where else I would be if I chose not to blow that place off and just swim with the crowd.

The Office

2011-11-06T13:08:00.000-08:00

This is where I work, for those of you who might be wondering what it looks like.

The outside, incase you couldn't tell.

The lonely newsroom on a Sunday morning.

My desk area. Spend very little time here, cause I work on the street.

Old school press.

Older school press.

Old papers that went to press.

My army of news stands.

And a random old phone which I'm not sure has a purpose or not.

Skate Montana

2011-11-02T21:41:00.003-07:00

Really Quickly

2011-10-27T23:27:00.000-07:00

What up yo? An F-18, dat what up @#$%ers!

You know, I'm not too sure what this is, but it looks awkward. Like a retarded cousin of the Huey.

Saved

2011-10-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

Tribune Photo/Joshua Kodis

This is probably one of my favorite portraits I have ever taken. Bradford Newman, is a recovering drug addict from California who found God and new hope in Great Falls, Mont. Look for the story to come soon on the Great Falls Tribune website.

New Addiction

2011-10-15T15:09:00.000-07:00

OMG! Old cameras are cool. I want them all. Here is my first, a 1961 Canonet 19 rangefinder.
Photo by Patty

Poison Crow Frogs

2011-10-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

I sketched this out after Norah was talking about poison frogs piloting robot crows fixed on destroying us. The imagination of a four year old is awesome... and kind of scary.

Day Off?

2011-10-11T13:00:00.001-07:00

A day away from photography for me usually just means I just downgrade myself to a point&shoot for the day. The S95 is still rockin' off the clock.

Some dude in Helena cracking a whip for something important, I guess.

Downtown has a lot of neat little shops and crap that my mother would love to spend the day exploring. Yes mom, I'm talking directly to you, come and visit again soon.

@#$% Off

2011-10-03T14:35:00.001-07:00

Under The Bridge

2011-10-03T13:28:00.000-07:00

I started filming my first skate video today. Should be pretty rad. While out getting some environment shots this morning, I stopped under a bridge to film what I think, a pretty sweet scene. A still photo doesn't quite do it justice, but you'll just have to settle for this until I finish the video.

Dance

2011-09-30T10:20:00.000-07:00

Norah had her first ballet class yesterday. Due to her being super awesome and a natural girly girl dancer, she was able to keep up with the older age group.

Flower Girl

2011-09-29T12:57:00.000-07:00

What can I say? I've been picking up the ol'pen lately and drawing stuff. Which is a nice change. Usually when I take pictures, the art forms itself and I capture it. Drawing allows me to do whatever I want.

Peace Out

2011-09-28T14:50:00.001-07:00

Let's Move

2011-09-24T07:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I spent the day in Browning, Mont. with the Blackfeet Sioux Indian tribe shooting American Indian Heritage Day. In all honesty, people have told me to avoid Browning. My experience at the high school however was outstanding. The kids were great, the activities they had were fun and the people were just all around stoked. Made me wish that I grew up having such a strong heritage to follow. I don't think those kids realize how lucky they are to have that. Also, this was my first front page photo for the Tribune. You can read the story HERE and view more shots at the web gallery.

No Need for Yahoo! Maps

2011-09-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

Fires in Michigan, can't really spot them easily. Fires in Montana, you can see miles away. This one started off as a structure fire, then turned into a large grass fire.

A Sand Coulee fire fighter soaks down grass to prevent a fire spreading any farther than the large area already consumed by flames in Sand Coulee. The fire originated from a shed at the home of Kris Landon who dialed 911 when her two sons told her there was a fire outside. Tribune Photo/ Joshua Kodis

Raymond Rious uses a hose to put out small flames in his yard after a shed caught fire and spread to the surrounding fields Thursday afternoon in Sand Coulee. Tribune Photo/ Joshua Kodis

Fire fighters work to prevent the spread of a grass fire on the surrounding hills of Sand Coulee Thursday afternoon. Tribune Photo/ Joshua Kodis

The aftermath of a structure fire which took wind and consumed the grassy hills around Sand Coulee, Mt. Thursday afternoon. Tribune Photo/ Joshua Kodis

Where's My Glass Slippers?

2011-09-18T20:14:00.000-07:00

A night at the Air Force Ball. No party for me though, I was tasked with taking portraits, but managed to sneak away for a couple candid shots.

Airmen toast to all that is worthy.

While a Major General talked on to the dinning crowd, a few others slipped away from the speech for a few drinks.

Hay Hay Hay

2011-09-12T06:25:00.000-07:00

Everywhere I have lived, people from every different community some how find their own unique culture. It's amazing really. You'd think that all the fairs, all the annual events wouldn't really be all that different from one place or the other, but traveling will always introduce you to the oddities of different societies. For work yesterday, I was sent to cover an annual event called "What the Hay" which features a number of hay sculptures along a 21 mile stretch of road. You can read the story HERE and there should also be a slideshow up later. But my personal favorite was the "Angr-Hay Birds." And just if you were wondering what I would build? It would be THIS!

Return of the Motar

2011-09-12T06:14:00.000-07:00

I've only been able to ride my bike twice this summer. Which really sucks. The Air Force requires that I take their silly safety class before I'm allowed to ride on base. So finally, I did. Two full days of riding instructions on the hot flight deck. On Sunday, the class was over and I aced the written test and was one of two that had perfect driving scores. Immediately after class, I had to drive 85 miles for work, so of course I took my Harley Iron 883. Montana is a sweet place for a drive.

My Old Hat

2011-09-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. I search through the pile of fall and winter clothing for an old friend. One that has always been there to be the hair on my head. To keep my shiny cranium from feeling the bitter touches of the season's chill. My old Quiksilver beanie. It's been so long, maybe ten years now, I can't even remember where I bought it. Every year when I put it on, people who know me will say "Really? That old hat again?" Yes. Yes indeed. My old hat again.

Bowling

2011-09-07T20:10:00.001-07:00

What are you looking at?

2011-09-04T14:21:00.001-07:00

Just messing around in the studio and photoshop. I might do a series of these, not sure yet though.

Inspire

2011-09-03T11:09:00.001-07:00

Was sitting at the computer listening to music. Cat was playing around the guitar, and I may have farted once or twice. Inspiration strikes from anywhere I guess.

Hairpins

2011-08-29T20:35:00.000-07:00

Haven't been drawing much lately, so here's something to fix that. Not a original idea of mine, I'm extremely rusty at drawing. If you like this, then you'll love THE ARTIST who I attempted to copy this from.

Faces

2011-08-28T20:51:00.000-07:00

This concludes my visit to the Museum of the Rockies. I highly recommend a visit if you're in the area. There was so much there that I could have shot and posted, but you'll just have to see it with your own eyes some day.

No Pictures

2011-08-28T20:47:00.000-07:00

The Museum of the Rockies also has a decent Native American exhibit that I can't show you, for two reasons. One: Norah was freaked out by the Native American music. Two: I was not allowed to use my soul capturer in this particular part of the museum :( I snapped these two outside though.

Living History

2011-08-28T20:33:00.000-07:00

I would have loved to do a photo story on these people. This was by far my favorite part of the museum. A group of people, reacting history by living it for visitors to catch a glimpse of what life was like back in the day. Would have been fun as hell to follow them around day and night, but time only allowed me for a few shots of them and a lot of details.

Wheels

2011-08-28T09:19:00.000-07:00

Frogs!

2011-08-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

Interesting fact: The most poisonous animal in the world happens to be a very beautiful frog.

Do not touch.

Do not touch.

Go ahead and kiss this guy, look into his eyes, you know you want to.

I don't think these ones will kill you either, but I can't be sure...

Hall of Giants

2011-08-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

Had an awesome trip to the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, MT yesterday. There was much to shoot, but I'll start with the dinosaurs, because I've always loved them. Unfortunately, my flash died by the time I got to the dino exhibit. So enjoy these high noise photos as it was extremely dark inside.

Attack of the Tourists: Family trip to Glacier

2011-08-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

Family trips are always an adventure. So what do you get when you pack six people into a mini van for two days?

The mountains.

The McKenzies

The Kodis family

A ton of sheeple to spoil the moment.

The moon never leaves the skies over Glacier. It's always night and day.

Norah is on her way to becoming an experienced alpinist. She hiked around six miles on her own little legs up and down mountains as high as 7000 ft. Not bad for a four year old.

The most help Norah needed, was a holding hand to make sure her wandering mind didn't lead her off a cliff. Here, Patty leads her up the trail to Hidden Lake.

Here, I lead her along a snowy edge that could have turned into one hell of a ride down the face of the mountain.

For sure though, there was a lot of slipping down anyways, but Norah didn't seem to mind.

Down below the peaks, in a much warmer climate, Norah still finds places to play. I really like this shot. Show's her childish curiosity.

Patty takes chance to leave the van for some fresh air overlooking St.Mary's Lake.

Steve looks up and takes in the view before heading back to Ohio, where there is nothing close to epic along the horizon. You can still see the Rockies in Great Falls, which is two hours away. I think Glacier will have lasting impressions on the McKenzies, I know for sure that I will be going back soon.

Inked

2011-08-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

Steve waits to get inked for the first time. Kind of nervous, kind of anxious.

The guns soon to be used to cut into Steve's skin, marking him FOREVER!

He had to hold this pose for a good hour or so as Bill draws him up.

According to Steve, this was the most painful area during the whole experience.

"Family" will forever be at Steve's side.

Feeding Frenzy

2011-08-06T16:22:00.000-07:00

I've taken a lot of birthday photos, but I think this has to be my favorite yet. Taken at our pals, the Meyers' house during the boy's birthday party.

Project Runway Season Two

2011-07-31T18:31:00.001-07:00

A what? A-10 mother@#$%er!

Project Runway

2011-07-31T10:01:00.000-07:00

Skating for the Kids

2011-07-23T14:44:00.000-07:00

The first Capstone Skate Competition kicked off Saturday morning with dozens of competitors showing off their skills for a crowd at the Riverside Railyard Skatepark.

Brad McCullough, who played a major role in organizing the event, said the focus was for kids to just have fun. McCullough founded Capstone Community Inc. which uses donations to fix up homes. He said the idea for the event came to him while working and he would see kids just hanging around the house.

"Kids just desperate for something to do," McCullough said. "The whole goal is to have a huge event where everything is free."

Skateboards and protective gear were also available for those who wanted to compete but do not have the proper equipment. "We don't want any kid feeling like they were left out," McCullough said.

Even though it was a competition, the overall purpose was for everyone to just have fun. "We just wanted the community to get together, something to do with the kids," said Callie McCullough, who helped organize and run the event throughout the day.

There was really no set schedule for the day. People were invited to come out and skate, eat food and listen to music for as long as there was fun to be had. The McCullough's hope for Capstone Skate Competition to become an annual event, and continue to bring the community together.

Eight-year-old Noah Roberts of Great Falls, sits patiently while listening to the rules before the start of the competition. Roberts has been skating for five years and Saturday was his first time entering a skate competition.

Noah Roberts front-side-boardslides a rail during warmups before the competition. Robert's father Jason Roberts says he pretty much stuck his son on a skateboard five years ago and he hasn't stepped off it since. "I'm really proud of him," Roberts said. "He puts in a lot of time."

Josh Ginnaty of Great Falls jumps over a tabletop feature at the Riverside Railyard during practice for the Capstone Skate Competition Saturday.

Other skaters, like Great Falls resident Ryan Simonetti, took advantage of the time when the park wasn't closed off for the competition to get in some of his own riding. Simonetti also helped judge the competitors during the event.

Although too young to compete, two-year-old Timothy Kuglin of Great Falls takes interest in the sport and finds his own time to ride during the Capstone Skate Competition Saturday at the Riverside Railyard Skatepark.

Park

2011-07-21T16:26:00.000-07:00

Jacob Falls

Ricky Lopez

Homework

2011-07-20T20:52:00.000-07:00

Well, looks like I'm going to have to take the path of a studio photographer if I want to make some money. So here it is, the first two shots taken in my home studio. I didn't want to sell out, but let the portraits begin.

Buzz

2011-07-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

The helicopters on base were buzzing over my house like a bee hive this morning, so I figure I'd run out to get some shots. Usually, they fly out into the valley away from the town and base, but today was different. They would take off from the strip and make a short circle back around then dive in for a kiss with the runway. Even though I only have a 24-105mm lens right now, they were flying down close enough for me to get a few decent shots.

Throwing Copper

2011-07-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

While driving back on the empty roads from Yellowstone, I had just enough time to turn my camera on and snap two shots of this lonely church out in the middle of nowhere as we drove by.

Yellow

2011-07-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

Made a short day trip to Yellowstone with Norah and my dad. Was a pretty fun day, wish my feet were up to the task better. I didn't really come back home with as many shots as I should have, but I hate shooting from the road with all the tourists who seemed to have better, more expensive gear than I do... I need a day job.

Norah takes front seat on one of the old tour buses.

Apparently, picking flowers in Yellowstone is a federal offense. Luckily Norah is a master flower thief.

Please Feed the Fish

2011-07-04T07:54:00.000-07:00

Norah feeds trout at a fish hatchery with her grandpa while he visited us for the weekend. The hatchery is also one of our favorite parks in town.

Hooters

2011-07-02T20:26:00.001-07:00

A couple of horned owls, but who gives a hoot? HA! I'm so not funny.

Up There.

2011-06-30T20:39:00.001-07:00

I've been spending a lot of time looking up to things. Some day, I'll look down, I swear.

Crazy

2011-06-30T20:36:00.001-07:00

Sometimes, if not most times lately, there is nothing better to do than shoot photos of what's going on in the living room.

Norah's 4th.

2011-06-24T19:51:00.001-07:00

For all of you who couldn't be here to enjoy Norah's 4th birthday, here it is. This was a tough year, and I felt bad I couldn't give her a big party or more presents, but I think she had fun. Thanks to everyone who sent out gifts and birthday wishes.

Holter Lake

2011-06-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

After over a week of being stuck in town due to not having a freeway worthy vehicle, Norah and I busted out to Holter Lake as soon as we got the Jeep back. Instantly feeling better once out of town. I don't know why, but I sleep best in a tent and feel more at home on the road than I do being in my own house.

Holter Lake isn't the clearest lake I've seen in Montana, but still offers some great camping.

Norah's big into climbing on the rocks. She's not into the lake scum.

The view from behind our campsite. I can't wait until Norah is old enough to start tackling some of these hills.

Our pet deer Norah named Sparkles. I only have one lens right now, just a 28-135mm, so this guy was allowing us to get pretty close.

Nevermind the mountains, the lake, Norah just wanted to play in the tent. Which, out of a hundred or so campers, we were the only ones in a tent. I woke up this morning to the sound of a generator and TV from the guy across from us. Have people forgotten how to camp?

I've said it before and I'll say it again, the only thing kids need to have fun while camping at night is a glow-stick.

Baby Got Back

2011-06-19T18:41:00.001-07:00

Damn

2011-06-17T21:01:00.001-07:00

Air up There

2011-06-17T18:03:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to get better photos of all the helicopters flying around on base here, but either they fly too high, or when they are flying low enough, I don't have my camera on me.

pwn

2011-06-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

Norah doesn't care too much about owning the latest and greatest in gaming technology. I'm not sure how long this will last, but in the meantime, spending $15 on a gamecube with games around $5 each will sure as hell save some money for parents looking to save hundreds on video game software. Sonic was just as fun for me back when I was a kid as it is now for Norah.

Norah is a born gamer. She actually does pretty well with simple games like Sonic. Doesn't bother her that it's only 8bit gaming at it's best.

The gamecube controller is by far the best controller for little kids, ever.

I picked this bad boy up at a pawn shop the other day for only $15. I can't believe it was only 10 years ago (give or take) that I was spending hundreds of dollars on the system plus games.

Damn you Dr. Robotnick!

Rainy Days

2011-06-09T20:31:00.000-07:00

rainy days from Joshua Kodis on Vimeo.

Highwood Drive

2011-05-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

Tried to drive up to the Highwood Mountains for a day hike, but due to rain and melting snow coming down from the hills, roads were closed. So instead, the day turned into a scenic drive with lots of mud.

Guard security: "I would ask how your day is going, but if your car is any indication of how you're feeling, I'd say you're awesome."

Glacier:01

2011-05-15T19:47:00.000-07:00

First trip to glacier today...

Biker Chick

2011-05-14T19:41:00.000-07:00

Kitty helmet, check.

Basket and streamers, check.

Wingman, check.

Pink cowgirl boots? Check. Norah's first bike is a go.

Swing Swing

2011-05-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

With a gnarly playground right down the street from home, Norah has a place to play, every day. Swing swing.

Lewis and Clark and Patty and Josh and Norah

2011-05-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

Hurray, it's the weekend! The Kodis family hauls ass out of town like always. This weekend we drove a couple hours south to check out the Lewis and Clark Caverns. The drive through the mountains was filled with epic scenes of rocky peaks blanketed by a variety of clouds floating in a constant changing sky. Once we arrived at our destination, we hiked 300 ft up to the cave entrance then down into the mountain's cold, wet insides. For Norah, there were as many ups and downs for her emotions as there were stairs inside the caverns. At times she was the best little explorer as she crawled through some of the tighter spaces of the caves. She hit rock bottom though when Patty and her hit the floor as they slid down four stairs. Both girls managed to come back out alive but with some cuts and bruises to show for their adventures.

The view from the hike up to the caverns.

Cave entrance.

A most challenging place to get decent shots with a point and shoot. I'll probably go back again later once I get another dslr and maybe some gels for a bounce flash.

The best pictures taken are with eyes anyways. Patty and Norah know this.

Norah was a little trooper today. The total hike took two hours, after her fall, she didn't feel like walking too much. Even though she was hurt pretty badly taking a fall, she asked if we could go back tomorrow.

Tower Rock

2011-05-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

Been a while since I've posted something. Been a while since I've had any chance to get out and shoot. We're busy setting up our house, eating diners at all the neighbors, and just trying to settle in. I'm also kind of cameraless, only working with a tiny Canon SD 1400. Anyways, today we had the chance to bail and head out to the hills. Ended up at Tower Rock State Park. Don't touch the plants, they bite.

A short hike along the Lewis and Clark Trail.

Norah and Patty boulder for a photo.

Makes me wish I had friends... you know, for rock climbing.

The best friend.

The rock that Norah says looks like a butt.

Another best friend.

The view home.

Wired

2011-04-19T08:25:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, no mountains shots? Well, you'll just have to wait for those. There will be plenty, but until then, you can also see how flat Montana can be. "That John Denver is full of shit man."

Bounce

2011-04-19T08:23:00.003-07:00

Norah takes advantage of one of the many activities living on base provides.

Our House

2011-04-14T16:32:00.003-07:00

Our New House from Joshua Kodis on Vimeo.

Open Road

2011-04-14T15:34:00.000-07:00

Not going to lie, I did most of the driving this trip. I think Patty might of put two hours in, which is fine, she deserved a good rest and it's just probably safer for me to drive. I let her take the wheel on Hwy 200s through Montana, which may have been the most remote road I have ever been on. Miles and miles of nothing, no towns, no people, no other cars and no gas stations. A break down here would have sucked.

Not So Bad Land

2011-04-14T15:31:00.000-07:00

Painted Canyon along I94. Watch out for buffalo poop.

Montana

2011-04-14T15:23:00.000-07:00

On the move. Had to stop at I94 for a classic sign photo.

Shelved

2011-03-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

Norah pouts at school not wanting to leave her cousin who visited class for the day.

Buried

2011-03-13T13:01:00.000-07:00

I think Norah is ready for summer.

All Nighter

2011-03-13T12:45:00.001-07:00

Last night Blackjack Ski Resort held an all nighter in support of the Special Olympics. Was a effing blast. I've been so stoked on riding the last couple of months, when I'm done riding, all I do is look forward to going out again. Last night was sick. Good people and good times. Unfortunately, it was snowing too hard to use a strobe. So, rather than just going home with nothing, I did what I could with the available light, which wasn't much.

I think this is Cody Reed...

Hooked

2011-03-13T12:33:00.001-07:00

Spent part of the afternoon with Scott, Mike and Tom out on the ice of Lost Lake. They said they were fishing, if that's what you want to call it...

Only one of these had fish coming out of it.

Tom caught the most fish, mainly because he looked more yooper than anyone else.

Eventually, Scotty pulled up one, Mike had nothing but beers.

Scott swears he caught one THIS big before.

Devoted?

2011-03-10T13:42:00.000-08:00

Today was such an epic day at the hill that I preferred to just ride rather than shoot. Also, there weren't that many people out enjoying the day as much as I was. I just took one shot, and that was it, back to riding.

Ship Wrecked

2011-03-06T15:49:00.000-08:00

Spotted this beauty in Escanaba, Mich. Snapped this shot with my fancy new Canon S95.

New Beginnings

2011-03-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

Patty is leaving soon for training. Norah and I are collecting all the pieces and preparing to move out to Montana. Epic times are nearing.

Self-portrait

21

2011-02-20T21:48:00.000-08:00

Lieutenant Kodis

2011-02-16T08:19:00.000-08:00

Patty under oath.

U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel David Manki swears in Patty as a Second Lieutenant into the U.S. Air Force.

Col. Manki pins on Patty's rank during the commissioning ceremony.

Col. Manki, a family friend, was the most honorable choice for Patty's commissioning.

Patty and parents pose for photos.

Introducing U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Patricia Kodis.

Shadow Dance

2011-02-15T09:27:00.000-08:00

Norah dances to the Scatman while watching her shadow dance along side her.

Mr. President

2011-02-11T08:12:00.000-08:00

I had the great opportunity to write a column for the Morning Sun about President Obama's visit to Marquette, Mich. Here are some of the photos I took followed by what I wrote.

President Barack Obama visits Northern Michigan University Thursday afternoon in Marquette, Mich. to talk about the universities' innovational WiMax network and how it will help "win the future" by opening up more opportunities to business. The president's speech at the university relates to his five-year-plan to have 98 percent of the population gain access to wireless networks.

A person in the crowd snaps a picture of President Obama on his visit to Northern Michigan University Thursday afternoon in Marquette, Mich. to talk about the universities' innovational WiMax network and how it will help "win the future" by opening up more opportunities to business. The president's speech at the university relates to his five-year-plan to have 98 percent of the population gain access to wireless networks.

President Barack Obama waves to a cheering crowd as he walks off stage after a speech at Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Mich. The president visited the city and campus Thursday to congratulate them for the innovation of their WiMax 4g network, saying it was an example for other cities to follow to help "win the future."

Picture the President

Cheering students and fireworks could easily be heard from my campus apartment at Central Michigan University the night Barack Obama was elected to become the 44th President of the United States.

Back then I was a humble photojournalism student. Now after school, I find myself photographing our nation's leader as he visits Northern Michigan University.

NMU is the only college to offer WiMax 4G network on campus, allowing students and faculty to access and transmit information faster on campus and while out in the field.

Our president was visiting to congratulate the university for its innovation and setting an example for others to follow in order to "win the future."

I've never covered an event on this scale before. As a student, I occasionally worked for CM Life and Morning Sun, but I was part-time and was never handed assignments that went beyond my experience. Back then I covered guest speakers, CMYou, shot Chippewa sports and if I was lucky enough, some breaking news would put me on the scene of some action. I never knew how far journalism would take me, if anywhere at all.

As I stood inside the Superior Dome in Marquette in the middle of a media feeding frenzy, I felt very small-time. My little bag of camera goodies didn't compare to the colossal lenses and other over-my-budget gear other journalists hauled in to record the show. I told myself it didn't matter; I just needed to remember all that I learned. After all, cameras don't take good pictures, photographers do.

Ten minutes before go time, I had a sudden shock of fear take over as I could not remember whether I took out the knife I sometimes keep in my camera bag while shooting wildlife and adventure photography.

I quickly peeked into my bag to find my fear a reality. I quietly walked towards the dome's office where I was able to leave my mistake behind.

Thinking about how different of a day I would have had if I didn't discover this before my security check, I laughed off the incident and prepared to move forward.

After much wait, the media herd was guided to the security wolves who hounded through our equipment with bomb dogs as we individually provided identification and raised our arms in praise of metal detectors.

Then finally, the arena was revealed. Secret Service agents guarded the doors as they stood with a smug yet proud and cautious presence. Media crews quickly scrambled to set up their cameras while photographers immediately began snapping shots of anything presidential looking.

The spectating crowd held up their cell phones for their own Facebook-worthy pictures and status updates making the whole scene look like a modern rock concert. Even journalists were passing cameras off to each other for their own profile pictures. I myself like to think I was taught to maintain a higher standard of professionalism and planted myself at a shooting angle which I thought best anticipated the President's arrival.

Then, after much waiting and a few speakers, the moment we were all waiting for came. President Obama walked onto the stage as the crowd once again cheered for him. Click. I just took a picture of the President of the United States. This is where journalism has taken me.

Rockin Horse

2011-02-03T17:08:00.000-08:00

I was cleaning up my living room this fine evening and noticed I had all the makings for a quick still life. Grabbed my point and shoot and made it happen in five minutes.

Frozen

2011-01-23T17:35:00.000-08:00

Today was cold, not much more to say. Blackjack's park was looking better today, even though I felt like a total noob riding. Feels like forever since I rode park. Hopefully I can get back out there tomorrow to actually ride some more. Here are some shots of the cool kids.

Joe Kafczynski

Unknown

The Blackjack Scene

2011-01-15T12:19:00.000-08:00

First day shooting at Blackjack Ski Resort in Upper Michigan. They have a few nice hits there, but the jumps feel like I'm riding vert. Everyone else must feel the same because there were no riders hitting anything other than rails. I also really wanted to punch five or so kids in the face today. Some girl on skis, probably only 10 or so, took a spill below the chairlift and some punk ass snowboarders started laughing and ripping on everything from her riding to choice of clothing. It was just sad. Other than that, felt good to be back on the hill. Here is a kid from Minnesota who came up to stimulate the economy.

Gordy Kast shows how a frontside is done from Stillwater, Minn.

Kast over the rainbow.

Snow Blind

2011-01-14T19:14:00.000-08:00

Last chance for a winning backyard shot for the TWS.com photo contest. I was invited out to a session this afternoon to the most sick yard setup I have seen yet. I knew I wanted a silhouette shot right from the beginning. The snow was dropping in as big heavy flakes that froze everything on my camera, but looked pretty backlit. Honestly, I'm surprised I was able to get any kind of shot in tonights conditions. For those of you who own the Nikon D300s, I found out that they can take a good beating against cold, ice and water. Here are the results of tonight's shoot.

Melted Memories

2011-01-13T12:23:00.000-08:00

It was the first ski hill I worked at. I rode the chairlift there with the girl who later became my wife. One of my best friends discovered that if we kicked the arcade machine just right, we would get a free game. It's where I have recently been taking my daughter to learn to snowboard. Within minutes, it's all gone. Big Powderhorn Mountain ski resort is nothing more than ashes. It will never be the same again.

The writing on the wall says what once stood.

I arrived after the blaze was extinguished, smoke continues to rise from the ashes.

Firefighters from all over the area were called in to help. A great effort, but a hopeless one.

Ski poles on the racks outside the lodge were melted down to practically nothing.

A firefighter brings in another hose. The difficulty with fires in locations like this, is that there are no hydrants, and water must be brought in by trucks and pored into pools.

Firefighters poor water down onto the lodge as smoke fills the sky.

Goodbye ol' Powderhorn lodge, you will be missed.

Little Shredder

2011-01-09T18:19:00.000-08:00

Norah has impressed me with her quick learning skills out on the hill. I'm convinced that kids make better students than adults. I tell her what she has to do and she simply does it. She's still a little scared to let go on her own, even though when she does she ends up at the bottom of the hill with nothing but a huge smile. This year, I just want her to get used to being on a snowboard so that it doesn't feel so awkward in the later years. My goal was to get her to ride down the bunny hill on her own, and she's already done this.

Pick a Winner

2011-01-09T18:13:00.000-08:00

If you were a booger, I'd pick you.

Backyard Contest

2010-12-28T18:02:00.001-08:00

Here I think is my first entry for the TWS backyard photo contest. This was probably the most pain in the ass shot I have ever captured. There were so many things that were going to make or break the photo. Steve had to be on game to nail a solid grab. Once he landed, he had to run up the hill to turn off the light so that I could run over, grab my strobe, put a gel on it, shoot a 30 second exposure over my first shot and haul ass up to the house to color it blue and red. After I think an hour or so of shooting, I came home with only 11 shots. This was the best one of the night.

Night Rider

2010-12-27T17:45:00.000-08:00

Warming up for a photo contest... practice practice practice. Tim has been the best of friend to ride and work with this season. He's really stepped up his game this year in order to get a better shot. Hopefully, after a few more nights of shooting we'll get a winning shot. Until then, here are some others.

Tim claims he should have been a model.

Like I said, Tim has really pushed himself this year. Last season the kid wasn't riding rails at all, now he's mastering boardslides.

Ride

2010-12-22T07:19:00.001-08:00

A couple of stills of me this season. Photos shot by Tim and Einar.

More Water Falling

2010-12-19T19:19:00.000-08:00

Peterson Falls. Might look nice, but don't drink the water.

Day Hiker

2010-12-18T17:46:00.000-08:00

For some of us, there are certain needs. A need to get away. A need to breathe fresh air. A need to explore. A need for time to do such things.

Today I decided to take a short day hike. Short trips are easy and cost nothing more than the gas to get you to your destination. Today, for me, my destination was the much familiar Black River Harbor. I've spent more time hiking around this area than my own yard. Although less visited in the winter, it still has much to offer those in need of a peaceful day hike.

If it wasn't for the cold temperature of the water and the five foot wall of ice along the shoreline, it would be a decent day for some fresh water surfing.

Basically everything is blanketed by ice.

Rainbow Falls splits into two during the winter.

Lost and Found

2010-12-16T17:31:00.000-08:00

I took this photo a few months ago and forgot I had it. It's a little soft because I didn't have a tripod, but I still think it's pretty. Taken at Little Girl's Point on Lake Superior.

Story in a Face

2010-12-15T06:48:00.000-08:00

A cliche shot that I always hate seeing is the well seen black and white wrinkly old person face shot. I hate them. We've all seen an old wrinkly face photographed before. I think it could be a good shot if it actually tells the viewer something other than just that the person is old... we get it, they have wrinkles.

So here I took this shot of Norah yesterday after she covered herself in makeup. Honestly, I think it's a terrible shot of her. Just as I was about to delete it forever I found myself hesitating for some reason. The more I looked at the photo, the more it spoke to me. It showed not just a little girl who mischievously found her mother's makeup, but shows that also that morning she painted, eat chocolate and even has a little bit of a cold. The goofy smile on her face suggests that she was proud of the work she has done despite not having any wrinkles.