Real Salt Lake visited Los Angeles during the regular season to maintain their standings for the MLs Playoffs. This was a cool time of year because of breast cancer awareness, which garnished many players with colors of pink. This is a really good cause, but I believe it should not just be awareness of breast cancer, but awareness of cancer in general. Well back to the game, where Real Salt Lake wasn’t able to handle the Los Angeles Galaxy and lost 2-1. Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10) attempts a shot.

Los Angeles Galaxy goalkeeper Josh Saunders (12) blocks a shot during the first half against the Real Salt Lake.

Real Salt Lake defender Chris Schuler (28) blocks a pass intended for Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Paolo Cardozo (30).

Los Angeles Galaxy defender Todd Dunivant (2) jumps over Real Salt Lake midfielder Ned Grabavoy (20) after a move down the field.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Robbie Keane (14) cannot handle the through pass defended by Real Salt Lake defender Jamison Olave (4).

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham (23) reacts after a foul called.

Real Salt Lake defender Chris Schuler (28) and Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10) collide while battling for the ball.

Real Salt Lake midfielder Javier Morales (11) keeps the ball away from Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham (23).

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10) attempts to head the ball on a corner kick which results in an own goal by Real Salt Lake defender Nat Borchers (6).

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10) attempts to keep the ball away from an unidentified Real Salt Lake player

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham (23) wears pink shoes to support breast cancer awareness month.

Real Salt Lake forward Fabian Espindola (7) battles for the ball with Los Angeles Galaxy forward Adam Cristman (17) and Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10).

Melody and I have had a pretty crazy transition between our three years together. It started off with an internship at Air Products in Los Angeles, which turned into a two year long distance relationship. I was fortunate enough to be accepted to the University of Southern California to close that gap between us. I think the whole journey has help strengthen our bond and really appreciate each other. Our three year anniversary was this magnificent trip to the Anacapa Island at the Channel Islands National Park. I had been to Santa Cruz, but I didn’t know how vastly different each island was. As we get ready to set sail, Melody poses with Bruce prior to our departure.

The goods for our trip, everything we had was going on our backs. Water was needed also, since the island had no fresh water streams available.

As our boat approached the island, the iconic views of Anacapa Island. Next time we will have to rent kayaks to explore the waters around the islands, as well as the biodiversity of the protected waters.

Although the island looks barren, flowers do bloom in the Spring time. We were visiting in an off season so the camp grounds were ours for the taking. Here is a view of our camp site.

We soon took an island tour to learn the history of the island, as well as visit the many different views off the sharp cliffs. Here you can see the Kelp forest during a low tide, and if you look really closely seals resting in the cave in the bottom left.

Our trip next time, kayaking the island.

These non-native species of plants have been affecting the ecosystem in the island. Crystalline iceplant holds salts in the form of crystals that create an imbalance in the soil, reducing the nutrients as well as species of plants that can thrive there.

This is another subspecies of iceplant, sans crystalline. But both plants keep the same surname.

Later that day, we discovered the old lighthouse head that was in operations prior to the current lighthouse.

The lenses that covered the bulbs were really interesting in shape.

Melody and I hiked the whole island plenty of times, it was roughly a mile and a half across so we decided to make it a little relaxing getaway. Here is Melody as we wait for sunset at the lighthouse.

And during sunset, I attempted to get a photo of the chain of islands at the edge, connecting Anacapa and Santa Cruz islands. But I got this cool silhouette of the other campers that night.

I also woke up the next morning to catch the sunrise, the soft light allowed for more detail. We were also able to get wonderful soft colors for the background.

The sun peaking over with the lighthouse in the distance.

Another sunrise shot of the lighthouse on the cliff.

And the rays catching the island chain.

Also, a view of the lighthouse up close.

So long Anacapa, hope to see you next time.

USC has won many games that came down to the final minutes of play during this past season, another example is with the Arizona Wildcats visited USC for a Pac-12 showdown. The game was offensively driven, with a lack of defense that resulted in USC winning 48-41. Here are a few photos I liked from the game, enjoy. Southern California Trojans run onto the field prior to the game against the Arizona Wildcat.

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Marqise Lee (9) catches a pass and is tackled by Arizona Wildcats cornerback Shaquille Richardson (5).

Arizona Wildcat wide receiver Austin Hill (29) attempts to catch a diving pass defended by Southern California Trojans cornerback Nickell Robey (21).

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Brandon Carswell (80) attempts to catch a pass defended by Arizona Wildcats cornerback Shaquille Richardson (5).

Arizona Wildcats kicker Alex Zendejas (14) scores an extra point attempt.

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Robert Woods (2) runs the ball after a catch.

Southern California Trojans tight end Xavier Grimble (86) celebrates with Southern California Trojans running back Marc Tyler (26) after a touchdown.

Arizona Wildcats running back Ka’Deem Carey (25) celebrates after a touchdown.

Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Austin Hill (29) attempts to run the ball after a catch defended by Southern California Trojans cornerback Anthony Brown (16).

Arizona Wildcats running back Ka’Deem Carey (25) jumps for a touchdown.

Southern California Trojans head coach Lane Kiffin during the game against the Arizona Wildcats.

Arizona Wildcats running back Taimi Tutogi (31) defended by Southern California Trojans cornerback Anthony Brown (16).

Arizona Wildcats quarterback Nick Foles (8) throws the ball.

Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Gino Crump (21) attempts to run the ball defended by Southern California Trojans cornerback Anthony Brown (16).

Southern California Trojans quarterback Matt Barkley (7) throws the ball.

Arizona Wildcats head coach Mike Stoops talks to his team.

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Robert Woods (2) runs the ball after a catch.

Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Juron Criner (82) runs the ball after a catch defended by Southern California Trojans linebacker Hayes Pullard (10).

Arizona Wildcats running back Ka’Deem Carey (25) dives for a touchdown.

Arizona Wildcats running back Ka’Deem Carey (25) celebrates with Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Dan Buckner (15) after a touchdown.

While the Angels were still in the race for the division, there was more attention and media coverage wanting to track their route to a potential playoff push. I was able to cover the whole Oakland A’s series against the Angels, where they showed their second wind. It was evident, that this past year was a year of upsets, especially for the Red Sox and the eventual World Series winner’s, the St. Louis Cardinals. Oakland Athletics designated hitter Hideki Matsui (55) and Oakland Athletics shortstop Erik Sogard (36) get tangled while going for the fly ball.

Los Angeles Angels shortstop Erick Aybar (2) forces out Oakland Athletics left fielder Josh Willingham (16) during a double play .

Oakland Athletics center fielder Coco Crisp (4) steals second base on Los Angeles Angels shortstop Erick Aybar (2).

Oakland Athletics catcher Kurt Suzuki (8) deflects the ball onto his leg.

Los Angeles Angels shortstop Erick Aybar (2) and Los Angeles Angels second baseman Howie Kendrick (47) miss a ground ball.

Oakland Athletics second baseman Jemile Weeks (19) misses a ground ball.

Los Angeles Angels pitcher Joel Pineiro (35) pitches.

Oakland Athletics pitcher Rich Harden (18) pitches.

Oakland Athletics center fielder Coco Crisp (4) is unable to leap for the ball.

Oakland Athletics shortstop Erik Sogard (36) fields the ball.

Los Angeles Angels shortstop Erick Aybar (2) makes a play on the ball.

Los Angeles Angels left fielder Vernon Wells (10) runs the bases after he hits a home run.

Oakland Athletics short stop Adam Rosales (7) tags out Los Angeles Angels center fielder Peter Bourjos (25).

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Ever since being admitted to USC, I have been wanted to go shoot a football game. The rein of the programs had been cut due to sanctions on the program, but this team was hungrier than ever. Although they had a recent loss to another Pac-12 school, the blood still lingered and gave them motivation to play harder. I was able to shoot the Syracuse at USC game and came out with decent results. Check out the photos below. Southern California Trojans run onto the field prior to the game against the Syracus Orange .

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Brandon Carswell (80) scores a touchdown during the first quarter.

Syracuse Orange cornerback Kevyn Scott (26) blocks a pass intended for Southern California Trojans wide receiver Robert Woods (2) and is called for pass interference.

Syracuse Orange running back Antwon Bailey (29) runs the ball against the Southern California Trojans.

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Robert Woods (2) and Syracuse Orange cornerback Keon Lyn (8) go for the ball.

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Marqise Lee (9) runs the ball defended by Syracuse Orange cornerback Keon Lyn (8).

Southern California Trojans tight end Randall Telfer (82) and Southern California Trojans wide receiver Brice Butler (19) celebrate after a touchdown.

Southern California Trojans students cheer during the game between the Southern California Trojans and Syracus Orange.

Southern California Trojans tight end Rhett Ellison (40) is tackled by Syracuse Orange linebacker Marquis Spruill (11).

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Robert Woods (2) scores a touchdown after being hit by Syracus Orange cornerback Keon Lyn (8).

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Robert Woods (2) loses his helmet during a play.

Syracus Orange running back Greg Tobias (28) is tackled by Southern California Trojans linebacker Shane Horton (23) during a kick off.

Southern California Trojans tight end Xavier Grimble (86) scores a touchdown while being tackled by Syracus Orange linebacker Dan Vaughan (33).

Syracuse Orange quarterback Ryan Nassib (12) is sacked by the Southern California Trojans.

Southern California Trojans quarterback Matt Barkley (7) hands off the foot ball to Southern California Trojans tailback Dillon Baxter (28).

Syracuse Orange running back Antwon Bailey (29) runs the ball during the first quarter defended by Southern California Trojans cornerback Nickell Robey (21)

Syracuse Orange strong safety Shamarko Thomas (21) blocks a pass intended for Southern California Trojans wide receiver De’Von Flournoy (10).

Syracuse Orange running back Antwon Bailey (29) is tacked by Southern California Trojans linebacker Chris Galippo (54) and Southern California Trojans defensive end Nick Perry (8).

Syracus Orange quarterback Ryan Nassib (12) is sacked by Southern California Trojans outside linebacker Dion Bailey (18).

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The Pittsburgh Pirates were visiting a slumping club, the Los Angeles Dodgers. But, this series proved that the Dodgers could not be disregarded. They destroyed the Pirates during both games I covered. Here are a fe photos I liked from the two days. Los Angeles Dodgers catcher A.J. Ellis breaks his bat while at bat.

USA; Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Jamey Carroll (14) hits a ground out, but still cool photo.

Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Jerry Sands (47) watches the ball after hitting a double.

Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Matt Kemp (27) jumps up for a catch during the fifth inning after a hit by Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Andrew McCutchen (not pictured).

I also attempted some multiple exposure shots, which came out neat with the pitchers. Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Hong-Chih Kuo (56) pitches.

And failed shot of the day, which would have been great due to the lighting.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher John Ely (48) pitches.

Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Dee Gordon (9) forces Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Pedro Alvarez (24) out.

Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Matt Kemp (27) hits a single RBI

Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Dee Gordon (9) completes a double play.

Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Dee Gordon (9) breaks his bat hitting a single.

Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Matt Kemp (27) drops a catch.

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I was pretty excited to be asked to cover the New York Yankees when they visited Los Angeles, but I was more excited by the timing of it. This was during the September 11th reunion. The Yankees have been giving hope to a state, and a country through their perseverance. It also gave hope to a state and nation devastated by the September 11th tragedy. Here are a few photos I liked, I hope you enjoy. Fans remember the events of September 11, 2001 during its 10 year anniversary prior to the game between the Los Angeles Angels and New York Yankees.

The American Flag is place out in the outfield of the Angel Stadium of Anaheim prior to the game between the Los Angeles Angels and New York Yankees.

I decided to also get another angle, symmetry isn’t always the best shot.

I also took a close up shot of the flag holders, one of my favorite because of the simplicity of it.

Los Angeles Angels warm up prior to the game.

New York Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia (52) pitches.

Los Angeles Angels first baseman Mark Trumbo (44) forces out New York Yankees short stop Derek Jeter (2).

Los Angeles Angels right fielder Mike Trout (27) is forced out at home by New York Yankees catcher Jorge Posada (20).

New York Yankees catcher Jorge Posada (20) reacts after a strike.

Los Angeles Angels pitcher Dan Haren (24) celebrates after finishing the game against the New York Yankees

Los Angeles Angels pitcher Ervin Santana (54) pitches.

New York Yankees pitcher Freddy Garcia (36) pitches.

Los Angeles Angels second baseman Howie Kendrick (47) tags out New York Yankees left fielder Brett Gardner (11).

New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter (2) throws to first to force an out.

Los Angeles Angels shortstop Erick Aybar (2) steals second base on New York Yankees second baseman Eduardo Nunez (26).

Los Angeles Angels third baseman Alberto Callaspo (6) fields the ball.

New York Yankees center fielder Curtis Granderson (14) hits a fly out, but still great stock photo.

New York Yankees pitcher Mariano Rivera (42) pitches against the Los Angeles Angels.

New York Yankees pitcher Mariano Rivera (42) celebrates with New York Yankees catcher Jesus Montero (63).

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During the regular season, the Colorado Rapids visited Carson for an MLS matchup. The game wasn’t as top notched as previous games, with a little less action than usual but I do like to cover soccer. The Los Angeles Galaxy ended up winning with a final score of 1-0. Here are a few photos I liked from the game. Los Angeles Galaxy forward Bryan Jordan (27) and Colorado Rapids forward Caleb Folan (21) battle for the ball.

Colorado Rapids forward Caleb Folan (21) attempts a shot.

Colorado Rapids midfielder Pablo Mastroeni (25) attempts to kick the ball away from Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Juninho (19).

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Bryan Jordan (27) and Colorado Rapids goalkeeper Ian Joyce (17) battle for the ball.

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Paolo Cardozo (30) attempts to pass the ball defended by Colorado Rapids defenseman Kosuke Kimura (27).

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10) moves the ball defended by Colorado Rapids defenseman Kosuke Kimura (27).

Colorado Rapids defenseman Tyrone Marshall (34) attempts to push away Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Paolo Cardozo (30).

Los Angeles Galaxy defenseman Sean Franklin (5) and Colorado Rapids defenseman Danny Earls (2) go up for the header.

Los Angeles Galaxy defenseman Sean Franklin (5) and Colorado Rapids forward Caleb Folan (21) go up for the header.

The Los Angeles Galaxy fans cheer for the team after the game against the Colorado Rapids.

I’ve been dying to visit more places around California, especially the National Parks. The diversity of land around the state is fascinating, with deserts, mountains, and the ocean. I was completely amazed Mono Lake, and the images that people have taken while visiting there so I decided to plan a last minute trip down to Mono Lake during the Labor Day weekend. Well, that was a good and bad idea. The weather was perfect for photographs, but little did I know there would be hundres of people there, literally. But we will talk about that later, here is a little info about Mono Lake, the lake that almost dried up.

Located in California’s spectacular Eastern Sierra, Mono Lake is an oasis in the dry Great Basin and a vital habitat for millions of migratory and nesting birds. For 30 years the Mono Lake Committee has been working to protect Mono Lake from destruction, to heal the damage done in the Mono Basin, and to educate the public about the natural environment and water use.

When Melody and I arrived at Mono Lake, it was around eleven o’clock. We were actually trying to backpack to the Dusy Basin; unfortunately the permits were all passed out by the time we arrived at 9am. Well, good thing I am always equip with a backup plan. So we arrived early, and wanted to discover what was around. I decided to drive to a few places, as well as attempt to walk down to the lake far from the usual south Tufas. We found this weird tufa cave on our hike down.

I thought this area would be arid and dead, but it was surprisingly in bloom. There were white wild flowers as well as bunches of yellow flowers blooming.

The lake bed has receded in the past due to over usage for major cities like Los Angeles, so the bed is frail and boardwalks are put in place to limit the disturbance.

It was weird to see a lot of seagulls in this area bathing, there was little to no other animals around other than these birds.

More wild flowers.

After our hike down to the lake bed, I wanted to scout out the location for my shoots later in the day as well as sunrise. It was gorgeous when we arrived at the south Tufas area, with a burst of wild flowers blooming. Here is Melody with the yellow wild flowers.

After my scouting trip was done, I wanted to get an overview of the lake from the top of Panum Crater. I was going to take sunrise photos from up here if I got good shots during sunset, but there were just too many people that I wasn’t satisfied.

Right before sunrise I took Melody out for some BBQ at a local restaurant to get out of the sun and rest. Also we needed to wait for perfect light. But afterwards we rushed over to catch a wonderful sunset. There were people in the Tufas to the left, inside the water. There were not only disturbing the water by moving around every few seconds but also I had this site set for photos, when they didn’t even realize and walked straight in. Well, I guess I need to find other places with less people. Maybe somewhere people can’t drive to next time.

The next morning I caught a great sunrise as well. The sky was full of clouds so I was ready for a dramatic view. Melody and I weren’t disappointed, and we had an hour head start – in front of the sun.

Melody trying to act awake, she really was cold and sleepy haha.

Some places I looked at the day before, I was trying to rush to fully utilize the light.

Same view from the sunset before, but notice how the rocks on the right were silhouetted instead. I really love the sunset photo, but settled for this one because there were less people. This is why I usually like sunrises over sunsets. People usually aren’t up for getting up that early.

Example of the people in the water, which was really frustrating.

I also walked around as the sun was just hitting the Sierras and got this wonderful photo.

The golden hour.

Hope you enjoyed!

The Los Angeles Dodgers had a rough year, dealing with more than the woes of a losing season, but also the distractions of ownership and payroll. It is tough to watch this organization deteriorate from the inside due to leadership. But I’m sure the franchise will bounce back, with its history and tradition guiding the way. I shot the Colorado Rockies visiting the Los Angeles Dodgers, which was surprisingly close. The Rockies were able to edge out with a final score of 7-6. Here are a few shots from the game, and a summation of what their season has been like. Well, lets start off with Don Mattingly, the first year manager. I love the way sunglasses are lit in the dugout, you get great reflections off the lenses. os Angeles Dodgers manager Don Mattingly watched the field prior to the game.

TV celebrity Judge Judy celebrates after pitching the first pitch prior to the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Colorado Rockies.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Nathan Eovaldi (50) pitches in the first inning.

Colorado Rockies center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) steals second base on Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Justin Sellers (12).

Colorado Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki (2) hits a single.

Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Trent Oeltjen (49) misses a fly ball.

Colorado Rockies pitcher Jhoulys Chancin (45) pitches during the first inning.

Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman James Lonely (7) runs to first base after a single .

Colorado Rockies center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) steals second base on Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Justin Sellers (12).

Colorado Rockies right fielder Carlos Gonzalez (5) dives for a catch.

Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Matt Kemp (27) celebrates after scoring, but as you can see there is no excitement. Hopefully this year is different.

Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Aaron Miles (6) scores against Colorado Rockies catcher Eliezer Alfonzo (55).

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