Apr 11, 2025 - It’s inspiring to see incredible architecture from around the world on social media, magazines, photography groups, and through tutorials and workshops. However, it’s easy to mistakenly believe that capturing stunning architectural photos requires traveling to far-flung, exotic locations. The truth is, fantastic architectural subjects are everywhere, right in your own city, town, or village – whether you’re in Belleville, Illinois, or anywhere else across the globe! The real joy of architectural photography lies in discovering the hidden gems and unique character of the buildings around you and bringing their essence to life through your lens. Here’s a classic example of a doorway I discovered down an alleyway in a small town (Carlinville) here in central Illinois. 

Apr 8, 2025 - Last night, I had the privilege of giving a Zoom presentation to the Connecticut Valley Camera Club (CTVCC). Deb Swaney-Jones (coordinator) reached out to me many months ago to see if I would be interested in showcasing my WanderSTL project with a presentation called ‘St Louis Scenery’. It was a great opportunity to meet the group and share my photos from the city and surrounding area. I especially enjoyed their great questions and feedback. Thanks to Deb and the CTVCC for giving me the opportunity. I thoroughly enjoyed it.  

Apr 4, 2025 - I’m a huge fan of doing a photo walk (or photo drive if wanting to venture further). I simply grab my camera and go with no agenda, no plan, and no real direction. Of course, my main interest when out photographing is to capture architectural images, so I’m naturally looking for buildings and structures. What amazes me is how many interesting things you serendipitously stumble upon when you head down an alley, around the corner, or the backside of a building. These are details you never notice when you’re going about life and driving through the city every day. For me, the real value of a photo walk is that it forces me to slow down, pay attention, and make discoveries I normally miss. Some of my favorite images have come through my spontaneous photo walks. And as my friend Paul Kraay says, ‘walkarounds require no planning, no real travel, and cost nothing’. I highly encourage you to grab your camera and head out the door to a world of new discoveries and photo opportunities. By the way, here’s an image I took along the bike path not far from the Belleville Metrolink Station while out on a photo walk.        

Mar 30, 2025 - Recently, I did a walkabout in my hometown, Belleville, Illinois, to capture some of its unique architecture. It was one of those days when the midday sun created really challenging, high-contrasty shadows. While I was out shooting, I stumbled upon the Cathedral of Saint Peter, which is located near the city center. It’s an amazing building with so many unique and rich architextural characteristics. I took this image of a side entrance and love the way the light filtered through its archways and illuminated the side wall of the building. It was truly remarkable, a moment of unexpected beauty during my walk. 

Mar 28, 2025 - Today is the official launch of Architexturefotos. I will be sharing the new site on my social media and with all of who have helped to support my photography over the years. I’m really excited about this project and the possibilities it will bring. Architexturefotos gives me an outlet to share my photographic passion and serves as a visual intersection with others who also enjoy architectural photography. I have big plans to grow the site and add more images that feature the intersection of architecture and textures. Here’s to the new site focused on building stories, one frame at a time!