More From Appalachia

I was contemplating discontinuing my Viewfinder blog but with

 the strong support of friends and relatives, I have had a change of

 heart. My reason for ending this site was my limited amount of

 time and the fact that I am into my fourth year. It's hard to believe

 it has been that long but I do enjoy rambling on and exhibiting

my pictures.Over the Mother's Day weekend I had the opportunity

 to return to my favorite location for my type of photography; North

 Carolina. To be precise, the mountainous, northwestern corner

 that is known as " Appalachia." What makes this area extra

 special for me is that I have family here and great times are

 always had when we are together in the mountains. Mother's Day

 was special because we all attended the little local church where

 the Moms and babies were recognized and honored. The local

 folk are extremely friendly and sincere. A good time was had by

 all. A couple of the pictures that I have up this month were taken

 on this particular weekend but the rest were shot at various times

 of the year. When I'm not with family; I love to roam the hillsides

 with my camera and try to capture the natural beauty of the

 surroundings. Each change of seasons brings an entirely new set

 of images to the viewfinder. Although I shoot mostly black

 and white there are times when the image demands color and

 autumn in Appalachia is one of those times. I guess,as an old

 photographer, I shoot black and white mostly out of a nostalgic

 reasoning but also because I feel I can obtain more drama.  I hope

 you enjoy viewing my images and will leave a comment in  the

 " comment spot " below.

 Thank you,  Keith Vanstone

Watauga River
I shot this picture early in the morning on the Friday before Mother's Day (2013)

Tranquility
This shot was captured in Watauga County, NC. in late October (2009)

Spring in the Appalachians
This is another Mother's Day weekend shot (2013)
I was taken by the dramatic, early morning light

November Storm in Appalachia
This shot was taken within walking distance of home (2008)
The dramatic sky was a prelude to heavy snow

Mountain Stream
This is a well hidden stream that rambles into the Watauga River
Shot in Watauga County, NC. in May (2013)

High Country Winter
This image was taken in Avery County, NC. (2008)

Appalachian Byway
Early morning in fog near Sugar Grove, NC. (2013)

Autumn Mist on Grandfather Mountain
Late October on Grandfather Mountain (2009)