Summary

Bruce Coulter shares a curated collection of his favorite photographs from 2022, capturing a variety of subjects and moments, from nature and wildlife to historical sites and personal experiences.

Abstract

In a reflective year-in-review, photographer Bruce Coulter presents a selection of his most cherished images from 2022. These photographs span a range of themes, including the serene beauty of nature at the Doyle Conservation Area and the White Mountain National Forest, the vibrant history at Gettysburg National Military Park, and the simple, candid moments like feeding ducks at a local restaurant. Coulter's work also includes poignant scenes from a marine's funeral and the Amish country, showcasing his ability to capture the essence of diverse cultures and solemn events. The collection is a testament to his photographic journey throughout the year, often accompanied by his daughter, and each image holds a special place in his heart, reflecting both personal and professional growth.

Opinions

Bruce Coulter values the emotional connection to his photographs, especially those taken with his daughter.
He believes in the power of photography to capture and convey the depth of human experiences, as seen in his sensitive coverage of the marine's funeral.
Coulter appreciates the beauty of nature and the importance of preserving natural landscapes, as evidenced by his images from national parks and conservation areas.
He is intrigued by history and its tangible presence in modern life, which is reflected in his photos from historical sites like Gettysburg.
Coulter enjoys experimenting with different photography equipment, such as the Canon RF 85mm macro lens and the Canon RF 100–400mm f5.6–8 lens, to achieve diverse visual effects.
He holds a deep respect for the Amish way of life, as indicated by his visit to Lancaster, PA, and the resulting photographs.
Coulter sees photography as a means to give back to the community, as demonstrated by his request for tips to support Dining for Hunger, a non-profit organization fighting food insecurity.

YEAR IN REVIEW

My Favorite Photos of 2022

It’s not a large collection, but I like it

Motif Number 1, in Rockport, MA, is a replica of a former fishing shack and is often called “the most often-painted building in America.”The original shack was built in 1840 and destroyed in the Blizzard of 1978, but a replica was built that same year. © Bruce Coulter Photography

It’s been almost 365 days since I shot my first photo of 2022. Most of my photos have come with my daughter along for the ride. Because of that, these photos mean a lot more to me. Except for the first photo, they are in no particular order. So, let’s get to it.

In January, I trekked through the snow at the Doyle Conservation Area, a 157-acre public recreation area with woodland, trails, meadows, formal gardens, and parkland. I have not explored all 157 acres, but I enjoyed my strolls through the area. It’s a beautiful site year-round.

The Doyle Estate in Leominster, Mass. © Bruce Coulter Photography

I purchased a Canon RF 85mm macro lens earlier this year and gave it a test at The Butterfly Place in Westford. The macro image of this butterfly quickly became one of my favorite photos.

A macro image of a Swallowtail Butterfly. © Bruce Coulter Photography

In April, I was privileged to photograph the funeral of Marine Capt. Ross A. Reynolds. I spent three days photographing public events, such as his arrival home, the wake at City Hall, and a candlelight vigil. At the family’s request, I was the only photographer allowed inside the church, with the proviso that the photos never be published. They haven’t and won’t — certainly not without their permission. But one of my favorite photos was taken outside the church as the procession prepared to head to the Massachusetts Veterans Cemetery in Winchendon. The photo below demonstrates the Corps’ commitment to care for their marines from day one of their enlistment to the last.

Taking a marine to his final resting place. © Bruce Coulter Photography

Briana and I traveled to Amish Country in Lancaster, PA, for Memorial Day weekend. When we got close to Lancaster, Amish buggies appeared on local roads.

100 Random Thoughts in a Row

Jason, this is your fault

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Oddly enough, I didn’t have to travel far for two of my favorite photos in Lancaster. I went no further than the parking lot in front of my hotel. Sometimes, luck is with me.

The photo on the left was taken outside my hotel room. I walked across the street for the photo at right. I didn’t like it at first. But it’s grown on me since. This is the first time I’ve published it. © Bruce Coulter Photography

We also took a day trip to Gettysburg. I’m a history buff, so this was a must-see when I planned our trip. Gettysburg National Cemetery was poignant, and nearly 160 years later, still heartbreaking to take note of all the deaths not just in Gettysburg but during the Civil War, as well.

However, a trip to the Gettysburg National Military Park shows the scope of the battles that took place from July 1 to July 3, 1863. The size of the battlefields, the numerous canons, and the soldiers on both sides is awe-inspiring — and frightening. Imagine being a soldier, marching into nearly non-stop gunshot and cannon fire. The photo below, of just one of the many battlefields, shows the scope of the lives lost as soldiers marched toward each other.

The size of this battlefield in Gettysburg is incredible. © Bruce Coulter Photography

A weekend trip to Maine brought us to Perkins Cove in Ogunquit. It was summer, and there were numerous sailboats in the water. I was testing a Canon RF 100–400mm f5.6–8 lens. It’s not a top-of-the-line lens, but it’s about two pounds lighter than my Canon 70–200mm f2.8 lens. Not having the extra weight in my backpack makes a difference.

It was a great day for fishing or sailing in Maine. © Bruce Coulter Photography

Briana and I visit Maine often — not for the seafood, blueberries, and sights to see — instead, it gives us a chance to spend time together. We stopped a few miles down the road in York to visit Nubble Lighthouse. During the ride, we’ll nudge each other’s elbow with our own. It’s our way of saying I love you — something I say to my other daughters every time I speak with them. These are memories I hope they’ll treasure and pass on to their children.

While the boat pictured here appears to be abandoned, that’s far from the truth. Nubble is home to a SCUBA class, and the instructors use the rowboat.

A lonely boat on the rocks in Maine. © Bruce Coulter Photography

We also ventured north to the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. Our favorite place is the Kancamagus Highway, which runs 34 miles from Conway to Lincoln, N.H. The second would be the Flume Gorge, a 2-mile trail that can be challenging if you’re not in the best shape. Still, the trip and hike up and down the trail are worth your time.

At left, one of the many small streams that run through Flume Gorge. At right, the Swift River, which runs through the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. © Bruce Coulter Photography

A bit closer to home is Old Sturbridge Village, a working 18th-century living museum. OSV holds several events throughout the year, and I try to attend as many as possible. Below is a profile photograph of a woman in costume attending Redcoats and Rebels, OSV’s annual re-creation of mock battles between British troops and American rebels. In October, the museum held Phantoms by Firelight. According to their website, the event explores the myths and folklore of Halloween.

At left, Fire jugglers warmed up the crowd. At right is a profile of a costumed interpreter at Old Sturbridge Village. © Bruce Coulter Photography

My final favorite photo is just ducky — literally. I was feeding the birds at a local restaurant one day, and Mallard duck wanted to be first in line for some corn. How could I say no to that face?

Look at that face. © Bruce Coulter Photography

I hope readers have enjoyed my 2022 trip down memory lane. If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading and supporting a fellow creator. Have a safe and Happy New Year’s weekend and a blessed 2023.

I accept tips, which go directly to Dining for Hunger, a recognized 501(c)(3) organization that looks to end food insecurity. If you can spare a dollar or two, I’d be grateful.