This photo was taken during one of my favorite experiences in Switzerland. It was significant for a number of reasons. First and foremost, I’m terrified of heights and was at the top of a 7,000 foot mountain, having rode the world’s steepest train to get there. Secondly, it was the most breathtaking view I’ve ever seen. What I saw was painstakingly beautiful. I felt like I could see the entire world from where I was standing. The bird in this image was swooping around me the entire time I was on the mountain. The sound of his wings was the only noise to be heard. Up, down and around. Up, down and around. It was like he was waiting for me. Maybe he was.
On the train ride back down the mountain, a few people expressed to me “It’s a shame it was cloudy today.” I must say I preferred it that way. I’ve seen enough blue skies in my day. Who doesn’t want to spend some time in the clouds?
I wish I could tell a story about every photo I took in Switzerland, but that would probably be a bit excessive. With that said, I would like to talk about a few of my images, starting with this one. Upon my arrival back to the states, I’ve had a few people ask me what Switzerland was like. This photo shows why I have had trouble finding the words to give them an answer. I took this photo in Zurich during my first day in the country.
I’ve been talking about going to Switzerland for some time now and this photo is the only proof I currently have that I’m finally here. The photo was taken by a Swiss coworker. I am unable to edit any of my photos because the files from my 5D are not compatible with CS3 (the program installed on my laptop). Until I arrive home and spend some time editing with CS4 on my iMac, this picture will have to do.
With that said, this place is amazing. I arrived on Sunday morning at 7 a.m. I hit the pillow for a few hours and then was off to visit the city of Zurich. Chicago, New York, LA, etc…you have been put to absolute shame. I would like to find the words to describe it all, but it’s not possible. There is an undeniable character about the city and its people.
Monday, I spent some time in the office learning my way around and meeting people. Later that evening, we went out to dinner at a restaurant called “Stars & Stripes” in the middle of the country side. The decor and menu was a mockery of all things American. It was humorous to everyone at the dinner—this includes Germans, Swiss, Brazilians, Malaysians, and Singaporians.
Today, I visited the city of Lucerne (Luzern in German). Once again, beautiful. I took a 30-minute ride on the world’s steepest train to the top of Mount Pilatus. It’s an entirely different world 7,000 feet up. For dinner, I ate antelope steak under an old russian airliner in a restaurant called Highway 34. So far, everything has been more than I could have ever imagined. We’ll see what the rest of the trip holds.
I photographed a family last week and this image of their dog greeting me in the front yard upon my arrival ended up being one of my favorites.
