As a child, my vision of the world was only of that shown in the old black and white movies of Hollywood.  Little did I realize that most of those movies were not filmed over- seas but rather here in the United States.  The first time I stepped off the plane in Poland, I was taken back on how similar things actually were in comparison to my own world.  With the exception of the language barrier, I had a lot in common with those who I came into contact with.

 

That would be the first trip of many incredible global adventures.  My mission was to stand on the grounds of where history took place and try somehow to document it.  Raised in a family with a father and ancestors who served in many of history’s conflicts that involved the United States, I felt obligated to do my part.  Soon enough it became an obsession that would practically consume my life.  Reading countless numbers of books, studying maps and talking to witnesses and participants of events that are inconceivable to the majority of us was just the start that launched me into a sophisticated lifestyle that would change my life.  Auschwitz, Stalingrad, Tarawa, Guadalcanal and Vietnam were names that made me tremble as a child.  Instead of shelving those places I decided to educate myself by traveling the world in order to pass on to others the accounts of my experiences.  One of the more effective ways I found that helped people visualize a place was through photographs. 

 

To travel abroad, especially well off the normal path had its limitations.  For me the big issue became film.  Where ever the journey would extend to, the camera was close by.  Unlike the use of digital cameras today, I was restricted to the amount of film that I could travel with.  Not only because of space but due to the limits allowed in certain countries or islands.  Globe-trotting for many weeks at a time meant that every photo had to count, leaving little room for error.

 

On one of my returns, I had a layover in an airport that gave me a few hours of extra time.  When I decided to take a look around, I came across a photo gallery of what I learned was a well-known nature photographer.  I was stopped dead in my tracks at his work and looked at the amazed reactions of others nearby.  It made an incredible impact!  Immediately it called into mind an impromptu trip I took years ago with one of my best friends.  National Parks became the main focus on that adventure and when returning home I felt rejuvenated. Walking out of the gallery, I sensed a little nudge from an invisible man.

 

I am not a professional photographer by any means.  Photography for me is a form of therapy and when things go well it’s a great feeling of accomplishment.  I’ve become inspired by many incredible photographers, wildlife biologists and outdoorsmen.  The mission of this website is not about making money or becoming famous, it’s about achieving that sense of fulfillment.  The professionals know who they are and I respect them while wishing them the best.  

 

Thank you VERY much for taking the time to visit this website.  Many of the historical sites photographed were taken using film.  They have been included in this website for the purpose of historical significance.  It should be important to all of mankind not to overlook history, if so we are destined to repeat it.  With all of the turmoil taking place on this planet, there is still an amazing amount of good that outweighs the bad.  Protect and preserve!

 

-Todd