Photo tour client responses

++ For images of Travel Images clients go to IT'S YOU!

++ My client images from the European Alps on Eleanor Culling's site

++ Read a client's TRAVEL COLUMN account which was written following a Travel Images photo trip

the leaders | photography goals | photo assistance | other comments

what would you tell a friend? | accommodations | meals | transport | detailed feedback

"John is a great leader and a character in the best spirit. We saw a lot and met a lot of Irish characters which enhanced the experience."	RICHARD + IRMA DAVIES, NEWTOWN, PA Ireland
"I thought you did fine in getting us to lots of photo ops!!! You were driving us pretty hard each day, but your motives were good - more photography! People there were all friendly which I am sure was partly because of your speaking the language and your outgoing ways."	BETH WISECUP, FREDERICK, MD Wales
"Hard to comment on this as you were the Boss! Seriously though, you had a good insight into where the good locations were. Jenne Farm with the rolling mist. The mist and the sun though the trees. Bennington, Wow what a sunset!"	BILL LEWIS, HARLOW, ESSEX, ENGLAND Vermont
"Your knowledge of places and appropriate times was excellent"	MARSHALL BALLENTINE, HENDERSONVILLE, NC Yellowstone and Tetons, Wyoming
"Excellent!! John obviously has had a lot of experience scouting out the places we went to beforehand, and so it was helpful to know how the sun situation was for each stop we made. I especially appreciate the out of the way villages that had the typical white steeple church to photograph. The covered bridges were great as well. I appreciate John's willingness to stop whenever anyone saw a place they wanted to photograph. I appreciate the way that John was helpful in offering suggestions at each stop to optimize the quality of the scene. One of the best moments of the trip was the slide show that we had the last evening, where pictures were shown that you had taken of us during the week. I am eager to get a DVD of them! I think that is a great keepsake for you to do, and everyone appreciates it!"	TODD JOHNS, SILVER SPRING, MD Vermont
"Excellent"	SCOTT ALLEN, LAS VEGAS, NV Pacific Northwest
"Couldn’t have been better"	ROMY YOUNG, PORTLAND, OR The Palouse
"The main reason that I've taken--not just one--but three trips with you is because you are always willing to do whatever is necessary for your participants to get the best photos in the best light. Thanks for getting us to Stonehenge for sunrise. I got several really good, colorful shots."	GRADY KIMBRELL, SANTA BARBARA, CA England
"125%"	BETSY BRIDGMAN, WEST HARTFORD, CT Scotland
"First class. Very good indeed for a first trip to Nova Scotia"	DAVID ORTON, TALSARNAU, WALES Nova Scotia
"The guide was wonderful. His considerate, helpful and humorous manner plus his choice of scenes to photograph made for a very memorable trip."	PAM + ARTHUR BENJAMIN, SARASOTA, FL Wales England
"Excellent. You got us to the right spots at the right time of day, with enough time to create photographs"	BOB + MARION BLAU, NOVATO, CA Big Bend National Park, Texas
"John was always ready and flexible and attentive to everyone’s needs and constantly tried to please. I always felt that something exciting was behind every corner and he was quick to meet any expectations or wants fairly to all. If someone wanted to shop he kept that in mind, someone else wanted see something not on the agenda he would try to accommodate that person as well . . . John knows all the good places to photograph and when to photograph it so each day was memorable."	MICHAEL CARLUCCI, JACKSONVILLE, FL Ireland
"Superior! It was a real pleasure to travel with John again"	FRANCES COWDEN, HOUSTON, TX Scotland
"The guide was excellent. John had good ideas for photos, and it seemed like we were traveling with old friends, which we were in the case of John. He was always cheerful and gave us choices."	LINDA MASON, INDIANAPOLIS, IN Customized Washington State trip
"Amazing concern for the needs of each individual. No favoritism shown"	JANICE RICE, SANTA PAULA, CA Scotland
"An excellent driver. Friendly, even tempered, always helpful with any special problems, and willing to stop the van for a special picture for any tour member"	FRANCES COWDEN, HOUSTON, TX Scotland
"First class. You were very attentive and helpful. It is easy to take for granted the benefits of being in the right place at the right time without having to do the research, planning or driving. What a luxury to drive with someone who is willing to stop for anything interesting and who is working harder than you to spot the wildlife! You coped well with additional requests when you were tired and could quite reasonably have declined to do more on top of full days. Top marks for patience!"	SUE CLEAVE, BOTLEY, OXFORDSHIRE, ENGLAND Canadian Rockies
"Very conscientious and affable"	ROLANDE + LILIAN FULDE, CHERRYHILL, NJ New Zealand
"John did a remarkable job shepherding (sic) their small flock through the wilds of New Zealand - kudos' to him. What can I say about New Zealand itself? Very beautiful country, nice people, unforgettable memories."	RON MACKLIN, LIVERMORE, CA New Zealand
"John has always been aware of the needs and desires of his people. He is always looking for ways to make each individual's trip successful and enjoyable. He has succeeded again!"	JOHN MASON, INDIANAPOLIS, IN Mendocino Coast, California
"John went everywhere we asked, and stayed as long as we wanted - most congenial"	JOHN + KAY RYCKMAN, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA Scotland
"Had a great time. Thanks to John for a wonderful photo tour. I love New Zealand and hope to return."	SUE + BILL ZUPKO, HUNTSVILLE, AL New Zealand
"I cannot think of how you could have been more helpful, more patient, and more caring to each and everyone of us - but this was no surprise to me at all"	JEAN KROLIK, DOVER, DE Pacific Northwest
"Well above average. You went out of your way to take us to spectacular places. It is a trip we will never forget."	BOB + ANNE RUST, UNION, MO Canadian Rockies
"Thanks John for everything. It was a great trip."	MARK KIMBRELL, KAILUA, HI England
"Great knowledge of ENGLAND - had us at the right spots at the right times - willing to chase [miniature] trains for a shot!"	LINDA SHUPING, CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA England
"Excellent. I was relieved to find a warm and friendly guide! At the same time, it is necessary for the guide to maintain control and not have 7 people trying to go off in 7 different directions to fulfill different preferences. Having a fairly detailed itinerary was useful in that sense because the guide could point out that people had come along to do that itinerary (within reason) and therefore he couldn't just throw things out if someone wanted to do something different. He was certainly very accommodating in trying to help people follow their preferences as long as it didn't interfere with the group's [photography] agenda. In evaluating the guide's interaction with group members, I was struck by his recognition [consciously or intuitively] that people had different psychological or emotional needs and his willingness to try to meet them as well as the more obvious photographic or physical needs."	JUDITH EWELL, WILLIAMSBURG, VA Ireland
"Great! A happy time too, with puns and jokes that fit the occasion"	ROMY YOUNG, PORTLAND, OR Nova Scotia
"I think the performance was very good. Since there were so many stops and I did learn a lot, and how to shoot well. Yes I would go again."	JEFF WYMORE, TUCSON, AZ Yellowstone and Tetons
"I again want to thank you for making my first trip to NOVA SCOTIA so wonderful. I am very pleased with my slides, and have plenty of material to put a very good program together"	DON PLOCHER, MONTGOMERY, IL Nova Scotia

"Yes, with loads to look though and hang on the wall!"	BILL LEWIS, HARLOW, ESSEX, ENGLAND Vermont
"My goal was to learn to photograph things and see New Zealand while doing it. Mission accomplished. However, I learned things not on my goal list. I love the ideas about perspective such as the fence, roads, and wires running off into the distance. I liked being able to model my behavior after yours. You are an expert and very agreeable to help me--I do ask a lot of questions."	SUE + BILL ZUPKO, HUNTSVILLE, AL
"Yes, you answered our questions and it was very helpful. You gave us attention when needed."	BOB + ANNE RUST, UNION, MO Canadian Rockies
"Oh yes! New Zealand exceeded my expectations and then I found my own amusement with the kind of kooky, creative photography that is my signature."	JEFF QUIGGLE, AURORA, CO New Zealand
"I enjoy the travel with you very much. John, this CD is the answer to your questionnaire . . . the trip was very good!"	MOTOH SHIMIZU, TOKYO, JAPAN Yellowstone and Tetons, Wyoming
"Yes, my interest was wildlife, and John's knowledge of the area helped in fulfilling that goal"	MICHAEL LOCICERO, HENDERSONVILLE, NC Yellowstone and Tetons
"Absolutely!"	JOAN LOEKEN, SEATTLE, WA Ireland
Although I have much to learn in terms of photography, my goals were to visit some memorable places and to get to the right spots at the right times. From this perspective, I reached my goals.	RADU DROSSU, SAN DIEGO Yellowstone and Tetons
"Yes."	BILL + KAREN RICHARDSON, BARRINGTON, IL Ireland
"I just purchased a new camera and was learning everything from the ground up...I came away with a new perspective on photography as well as the mechanics of my new camera. I will always remember John when I use my polarizer correctly!"	MICHAEL CARLUCCI, JACKSONVILLE, FL Ireland
"My photos that I took in Europe look pretty terrific. Better each time I look at them."	MARGERY BEAUMONT, NEW YORK, NY European Alps
"Yes."	SHIRLEY EVANS, COLUMBIA, MD Canadian Rockies
"I did. England offers a very diverse array of photo opportunities. From the NZ and Canada trips [with Travel Images], I printed about thirty of my best shots from each trip. From this England trip, I think I will at least double that."	GRADY KIMBRELL, SANTA BARBARA, CA England

"The photo assistance was excellent. Suggestions and ideas for better images were timely and accurate. The advice given was in the form of considerations and not dictates"	JOHN MASON, INDIANAPOLIS, IN Pacific Northwest
"Yes, and we were treated to inspiring [Visual Journeys] slide dissolve programs"	BOB + MARION BLAU, NOVATO, CA Big Bend National Park, Texas
"Always do what I am told to please the boss!" "Yes, you were always available"	DAVID ORTON, TALSARNAU, WALES Nova Scotia
"100%"	BETSY BRIDGMAN, WEST HARTFORD, CT Scotland
"Yes. I had just purchased a new digital SLR camera, and I was eager to learn to use it during the trip. John helped me in learning the functions of the camera, so that I could feel comfortable by the completion of the trip to use aperture priority, shutter priority, or manual, rather than just put the camera on automatic mode."	TODD JOHNS, SILVER SPRING, MD Vermont
"Yes, John had a lot of ideas for photos, several that I would not have thought of. The idea of bracketing really helped me."	LINDA MASON, INDIANAPOLIS, IN Customized Washington State trip
"Yes, definitely"	RHODA LEWIS, MILWAUKIE, OR The Palouse
"Great having Canon and Nikon help. I would have liked you to be in my face just a bit more with suggestions seeing as I am a novice. However, I loved having John say, "Let me see what you've got," and then say, "Try this." Bill liked that as well. It's a wonderful way for a novice (or not so novice) to learn new techniques. I'm definitely a hands-on learner and need to be taken by the hand several times to drive home a point."	SUE + BILL ZUPKO, HUNTSVILLE, AL New Zealand
"Yes John was very helpful. I found myself down on the ground in Maine [after the trip] trying to get the perfect picture!"	BARB CHILD, BOISE, ID Vermont
"Yes, especially in the area of composition"	MICHAEL LOCICERO, HENDERSONVILLE, NC Yellowstone and Tetons, Wyoming
"Yes, although I don't think I really required assistance. But I did note how helpful John was to the other members of the party who required assistance."	FRANK ALVARO, RUSE, NSW, AUSTRALIA Canadian Rockies
"It was a good time and I learned things about my digital camera and relearned some things about my SLR. As I have noted previously I have gotten lazy about letting my camera do all the work! I enjoyed meeting the other folks and seeing how they take pictures. Digital definitely has it's advantages. I need to do some homework before the next time I see you on another trip. (which I plan to do but just not sure when or which one!)."	IVY BROYLES, AURORA, CO England
"Your suggested compositions were helpful as was the inspiration of seeing your work [multi-image programs]"	MARSHALL BALLENTINE, HENDERSONVILLE, NC Yellowstone and Tetons, Wyoming
"Many thanks for all your patience and helpful suggestions"	HENRIETTA TINAY, WALNUT CREEK, CA Canadian Rockies
"I really enjoyed using the suggested zoom blur, and vertical blur suggested on day 1."	BILL + KAREN RICHARDSON, BARRINGTON, IL Ireland
"The workshop was helpful photographically in selecting a good composition from various possibilities, getting the right exposure and foreground to express the meaning of the scene to the photographer"	MARION SEVREN, CAMARILLO, CA The Palouse
"Yes, we both learned lot and especially how to take landscapes. Bracketing was especially helpful. We feel we received a lot of good advise and suggestions."	BOB + ANNE RUST, UNION, MO Canadian Rockies
"John was always there if we had questions, or needed assistance charging batteries, cleaning sensors, what setting was good for each subject. Each stop we made was a new lesson and I learned a great deal from him. He also made suggestions to help us view things in different and unique ways. I am pleased with all the help I got and no question was ever left unanswered."	MICHAEL CARLUCCI, JACKSONVILLE, FL Ireland

I most enjoyed the congeniality of the guide, John. He was always positive, un-slacking, dedicated, and exceedingly generous in every way. The pace was just right for me.	JEFF QUIGGLE, AURORA, CO New Zealand
"The diversity of photo opportunities in England, your well-researched locations, your fine organizational skills, and you ability to meld a divergent group of people with different personalities into a cohesive, close-knit, and fun group."	GRADY KIMBRELL, SANTA BARBARA, CA England
"Everything...It was refreshing and rejuvenating."	MIKE COOK, CINCINNATI, OH Yellowstone and Tetons, Wyoming
"Beth and I went to experience the culture and to photograph per our separate interests and skill level. John gave us opportunities for photography that we could do or skip but that was our choice. Not all leaders do that."	BILL + BETH WISECUP, FREDERICK, MD Wales
"Pictures, Pictures, Pictures.....I loved the small group....I loved the flexibility of our guides....I loved the places we went and saw.....I loved not having to think about anything but taking pictures....and the adventure just around the corner...I would recommend Johns tours to anyone interested in photography....and hope to go on another tour as soon as I can."	MICHAEL CARLUCCI, JACKSONVILLE, FL Ireland
"That Ireland is a wonderful country to visit and to photograph; that we had a great group of people; that John knew the country well and knew the best places to photograph."	JOAN LOEKEN, SEATTLE, WA Ireland
"That John runs a fabulous trip, but it's a lot of work not a vacation. It is a photo tour for photographers. It's not a sightseeing trip although you will see the sights. It is early mornings and late nights to GET THE SHOTS and have the opportunities. It is not for a rest but to photograph. However, if you want to sightsee or rest on your own, do it. You don't have to go take pictures with the group. It is reasonably priced and well worth it. We'd go again in a heartbeat."	SUE + BILL ZUPKO, HUNTSVILLE, AL New Zealand
"The gorgeous scenery everywhere in both England and Wales , the Cotswolds, the fields of lambs, the Lake District, the castles, the very friendly people we encountered, and of course, our wonderful host, John."	PAM + ARTHUR BENJAMIN, SARASOTA, FL Wales England
"The trip's comprehensiveness. A well thought out, solidly filled, working photographic experience. Very-full days where we maximized our time out shooting--and had a wide variety of subjects too keep us focused."	MICAH KAPLAN, SAN FRANCISCO, CA Yellowstone and Tetons, Wyoming
"All I can think about is how fast we can save up the money to take off with you again. From beginning to end it was the most fun we’ve ever had! I swear John Baker [Travel Images] travel is more addictive than any pill! This was our ‘dream of a lifetime’ and I was worried it would be anticlimactic after the years of imagining it. But you delivered up our dreams and I can’t find words adequate enough to tell you what it meant to us.”	ERIC + JUDY GIBERSON, HEMET, CA Red Rock country, Utah + Arizona
"The location, the logistical coordination, the meals, and the attempt to be fair to everyone's desired subject. The professional response to medical emergencies like my leg, even [though it was] before the official start of the tour. I think the price was excellent."	RON MACKLIN, LIVERMORE, CA New Zealand
"Your knowledge of the terrain and places to shoot. Great job John . . . thanks for the memories"	JAMES KARPAC, DUBLIN, OH Vermont
"That you drove us so expertly to so many photogenic places. You are an expert guide and we appreciated your stories and good humour - a great guy and a good friend. Hope we travel with you again."	JOHN + KAY RYCKMAN, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA Scotland
"The amazing variety of places that we saw and photographed. I will particularly remember the morning when we suddenly found ourselves looking at the sun casting shafts of light through the fog enshrouded trees. What a sight!! And my pictures turned out amazingly well. Also, I will always remember Jenne farm and the fog that was present while we quickly photographed the farm while we had the brief few moments of sunlight. I also enjoyed the several small villages of East Orange, Washington, Chelsea, Peacham, and, of course, Waits River."	TODD JOHNS, SILVER SPRING, MD Vermont
"Overall the best part of the trip is the photo opportunities. John keeps us working more than I am able to [sometimes], but I got some great landscapes, and that's what I went for."	RICHARD + IRMA DAVIES, NEWTOWN, PA Ireland
"I would recommend the trip!"	ED RYAN, GOODING, ID Vermont
"Superb scenery, great wildlife (hooray for the bears!), relaxed style, friendly, knowledgeable and a helpful leader prepared to put himself out to provide a really personalized service and to bail you out when you need it!"	SUE CLEAVE, BOTLEY, OXFORDSHIRE, ENGLAND Canadian Rockies
"Small intimate groups, a knowledgeable leader, informal settings"	JANA JIRAK, TRIADELPHIA, WV Wales England
"John knows photography and composition and will help you, if you indicate that you want help. He will do his best to get you the shot you want! He was willing to stop for a shot anytime if you indicated that you wanted him to. I wouldn't hesitate to travel with John again and I think this trip is well worth the money! John also has a wonderful sense of humor and a quick wit, and that made the trip even more enjoyable. I hope to travel with him to New Zealand, and perhaps Ireland sometime in the future."	CHUCK THOMPSON, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO England
"I would encourage them to go with you. It was a lot of fun."	BARB CHILD, BOISE, ID Vermont
"The camaraderie between us all. You and Radu were funny with the puns, and joking around keeps things light hearted. The knowledge you have about the parks and places."	JEFF WYMORE, TUCSON, AZ Yellowstone and Tetons, Wyoming
"I liked the opportunity to shoot so many different sites, and liked it that we covered all of Ireland. (well, much of Ireland.) I liked the fact that the whole tour was really a photo workshop, and not just a tour with a few hours to take shots. It was also good that people of different abilities and experience with photography could feel comfortable together, and in asking for help or giving advice. In fact, I just ran into a photographer at the Williamsburg Farmers' Market on Saturday and recommended the tour, adding that it is remarkably good value for the price."	JUDITH EWELL, WILLIAMSBURG, VA Ireland
"If I had friends I would tell them you are fun, organized, know your stuff backwards and forwards and can sure pick those cookies."	BONNIE LYNN, NEW YORK, NY New Zealand
"I went with John to England in the spring, and we had a wonderful time. John is an excellent guide, teacher and driver and has a terrific sense of humor. He has the patience of Job. You will like him a lot."	CARMEN SEWELL, HOUSTON, TX Ireland

"I truly enjoyed the Big Bend tour and your help, advice, and entertainment (?) <cough>. It was a terrific birthday present for me. I've never before had an opportunity to just concentrate on taking pics without having to also be concerned about time, daily travel to the next destination, accommodations etcetera." "Thanks so much for making this birthday a memorable one for Neal. He had a wonderful time. I did too."	NEAL + KATHY ARMSTRONG, LIBERTY HILL, TX Big Bend National Park, Texas
It was definitely a very nice trip. Thank you very much, John.	RADU DROSSU, SAN DIEGO Yellowstone and Tetons
"It was a fabulous experience and one that I'll always remember."	BILL WISECUP, FREDERICK, MD Wales
"After multiple photo tours I have found the same consistency. Well managed, well organized, well planned tours offering help when needed, and suggestions when desired [by the way which worked]. In general, excellent, professional, courteous tours and Leader."	JOHN MASON, INDIANAPOLIS, IN Mendocino Coast, California
"Your pre trip support was as good as any we have ever seen."	WALT + CARLIE JONES, CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND European Alps
"We enjoyed the last trip so much, we wanted to do another. Besides the small groups have us spoiled!"	BOB + ANNE RUST, UNION, MO Canadian Rockies
"As we 5 meet occasionally to reminisce on our travels together, we will remember how well you know Ireland, and all the back roads. How frequent u-turns were made to accommodate our wishes for a picture, the many frequent stops with some longer than others, the drives along less-traveled roads, and above all your unfailing good humour. All these things put you high on our list of photographer guide/drivers for our future trips, and for our other photo traveling friends"	MILDRED BARRIE, BRANTFORD, ONTARIO, CANADA DON + MADOLYN TAIT, WELLAND, ONTARIO, CANADA JOHN + KAY RYCKMAN, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA Ireland
"Well, once again John, words escape me to properly describe the fantastic job you did for us in England . . . THANK YOU."	PAUL SWINFORD, PLAINFIELD, IL England
"If I had it to do over again...I would in a heartbeat. John you were a pleasure to be with...Thank You!" "Thank you for a great time and a wonderful experience." "Great trip, great people, great tour leader, great experience."	MIKE COOK, CINCINNATI, OH Yellowstone and Tetons, Wyoming
"Thank you for the wonderful trip to Ireland. It is truly a beautiful place. Even though I am not a photographer you allowed me to travel along with my son, Michael. Thank you for making this 78 year old feel a part of everything going on. Not once did I feel like an "old person" because of the total acceptance by everyone participating. It was a joy getting to know everyone and especially my "special" friend John! I wish you many more successful tours. I feel very enriched just being able to have been on the tour with you."	LOUISE McCREIGHT, JACKSONVILLE, FL Ireland
"I can't imagine [how it could be improved]. Give me a few years and I'll think of something!"	LINDA MASON, INDIANAPOLIS, IN Canadian Rockies
"This is to let you both know what a great time Jeff and I had this last week in Vermont. The trip far surpassed our expectations and we so appreciate your taking us to out-of-the-way places to photograph. We learned so much on the trip from both of you, and we feel much more confident in composing more interesting pictures, not to mention the help you gave us in the basics of f-stop, ISO settings, and shutter speed and when to use the correct combination of all three to achieve the best possible result."	TODD JOHNS, SILVER SPRING, MD Vermont
"You have the gift of getting along with all types of people, and the patience to go with it"	LINDA SHUPING, CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA Scotland
"It is late but I didn't want to go to bed without telling you that I just won first place Pictorial slide of the year with an image that I took on our trip to England...the Mill at Lower Slaughter. Plus I got and honorable mention with a rain shot that I took Ireland. I was pretty surprise and extremely happy. Thanks for you guidance. Let's see what we can conjure up in Wyoming!" "Thank you for a lovely experience in England. I am very much impressed with your operation and I am sorry I am so late in finding you. You are an exceptional and winsome young man and I enjoy knowing you."	CARMEN SEWELL, HOUSTON, TX England
"Exceeded my expectations."	MICAH KAPLAN, SAN FRANCISCO, CA Yellowstone and Tetons, Wyoming
"Having reviewed many of my photos of my recent tour with you, I am pleased with the results. There are some great shots, and I am very glad I did this trip, as I learned a lot, and have received some very good feedback. Thank you!!"	SALLY OLIVER, SANTA ROSA, CA Canadian Rockies
"Thanks for a super trip! It's my first photo jaunt and would like to go with you in the future"	HELEN WILLIAMSON, WASHINGTON DC Yellowstone and Tetons
"We appreciated your enthusiasm and help with pictures, plus your expertise in the repair field"	ADRIENNE VAN DYKE, BERGENFIELD, NJ MARY O'CONNOR, FLUSHING, NY Yellowstone and Tetons
"It was a very memorable and enjoyable trip, and more than I had even hoped for. We appreciate the fact that you went ahead with the trip despite the small group size, and never acted cheap or careful about giving us our money’s worth. My intention is to do the New Zealand trip or something again in England within the next year or two."	PATRICK WAHLERS, DUNLAP, IL Scotland
"I enjoyed the workshop very much. You showed care, helpfulness and patience towards all the participants. Thanks very much for a good time which was quite educational"	MARION SEVREN, CAMARILLO, CA The Palouse
"Great tour. Pre-planned and well organized, the pace practical, and the photographic help suitable to the level of the participant"	JANICE RICE, SANTA PAULA, CA Scotland
"You do an excellent job. It seems you're working all the time. I'm glad that your trips are filling fast, and I think its partly due to your excellent organizational skills. Your superb Web site is a tremendous asset, too."	GRADY KIMBRELL, SANTA BARBARA, CA England
"I have never been on a photography tour before. From what I understand from my friend Rob who has been on many, you did a FANTASTIC job. He's been on many in Africa and said what you did for us in unusual and wonderful. Many just drive you to the spot and you're on your own. Thanks for making our first tour wonderful."	SUE + BILL ZUPKO, HUNTSVILLE, AL New Zealand
"Thanks too for special photographic help and ideas. Besides all that, I cherish your friendship. I had a marvelous time, enjoyed your wit, your ready smile and excellent leadership"	MABEL BOULET, BLACK MOUNTAIN, NC Wales
"Thanks to John! I don’t know how you do it...making everyone happy all the time but you do it well...leaving no one out and treating everyone fairly....Thanks for your attention to detail, your caring for each and every passenger, your constant care and concern for everyone to receive all that they expected to receive on your tour and seeing that it happened with laughs and good will to all...I enjoyed the trip so very much and will cherish the time and new friends that I made on this trip and you made it all possible....I had such a great time and would do it again in minute...It was a trip to remember and you made it happen...you did well...I give you an “A”.....you are so very “Special”!"	MICHAEL CARLUCCI, JACKSONVILLE, FL Ireland
"Thank you for a memorable trip! "	ALLAN and AUDREY ENGLISH, ANNAPOLIS, MD New Zealand
"Wanted to let you know how pleased we are with the trip. Your special Knowledge and interest in Wales provided me with a Welsh experience I couldn't have duplicated, and because of the emphasis on Photography I had to focus on details that I wouldn't have done if I wasn't taking pictures. I know how hard you worked with us for the two weeks, and I thank you for this care and concerns. Also the contact with Llandudno and the house added a special touch. We have had a letter from them and have responded so contact may be developing. The photography was good overall. The travel notes were particularly helpful. As I said before, these are unique to Travel Images, and I know how much time these took."	RICHARD + IRMA DAVIES, NEWTOWN, PA Wales
"I just wanted to tell you that the trip was great. I've received many compliments on my digital pictures as well as three rolls that I have developed."	CAROL HESSE, MAHWAH, NJ Ireland
"It was particularly good to have the benefit of your expertise. Thanks particularly for taking the time to look at my images. Your critique was very welcome and will help me to do better next time! One of the main things I brought away with me from meeting you was how seemingly effortless and fun you make photography. I passionately want to take better and better images but worry about it quite a bit. Although you obviously put a lot of effort into your work, you still manage to make it appear a casual, carefree, fun affair. Quite a gift on your part, I'd say."	MARIAPIA BALFOUR, HORSFORTH, ENGLAND Scotland
"Once again Thank YOU!!!!! so much for a great trip. You make a great guide and your sense of humor is great! You are so flexible and you managed to keep your humor through it all! I wish we have had more [good weather] sunrises, but that's okay, we did at least have some sunsets. "	IVY BROYLES, AURORA, CO England
"John, your good humor, diplomacy and good planning and management are most appreciated. The [Visual Journeys] slide shows are delightful"	RHODA LEWIS, MILWAUKIE, OR The Palouse

"All of the accommodations were quite satisfactory. The Inn keepers were friendly and responsive."	RICHARD + IRMA DAVIES, NEWTOWN, PA Ireland
"Satisfactory to excellent"	JACK KALBERER, POTOMAC, MD Pacific Northwest
"Actually, you did a great job with the accommodations and it was great to have a little time off to relax. For this particular trip, we don't know how it could have been much better."	BOB + ANNE RUST, UNION, MO Canadian Rockies
"Very satisfactory"	MARSHALL BALLENTINE, HENDERSONVILLE, NC Utah east, Colorado west
"Overall, very good. I liked the location of most"	LINDA SHUPING, BUNN, NC Scotland
"I thought the accommodations were excellent. I enjoy B & B's so much more than hotels. The rooms were clean and comfortable."	JOAN LOEKEN, SEATTLE, WA Ireland
"Comfortable and clean. Locations were within short driving distances to photo opportunities"	MICHAEL LOCICERO, HENDERSONVILLE, NC Utah east, Colorado west
"Convenient and comfortable. Too quiet for a New Yorker, you spoiled me! I loved that millhouse with beautiful garden, wished we could have stayed longer."	BONNIE LYNN, NEW YORK, NY New Zealand
"Very good"	JOANNE PRICE, VIENNA, OH The Palouse

"Much better than I expected. I had always heard that food in the UK was rather bland. I was pleasantly surprised. It was great to eat in the Pubs. That's where "the people" are and when you love people and photographing them, it is the place to be."	BETH WISECUP, FREDERICK, MD Wales
"Good. We were grateful that we were not required to take 2 to 3 hours over dinner" (When the light is usually at it’s best)	OTIS + PENNY WOLFE, SUN LAKES, AZ Pacific Northwest
"Good, especially your salads"	ED GOODFELLOW, WINDSOR, ONTARIO CANADA Yellowstone and Tetons
"I liked every meal I had and they were all very good...the presentation of the meals was a plus and there was a well rounded type of fare...I got to sample a lot of different things on the trip and there was a lot of choice on the menus as well."	MICHAEL CARLUCCI, JACKSONVILLE, FL Ireland
"Great. "I really like Haggis!"	JEAN HAVEN, CAMARILLO, CA Scotland

"Excellent! I'm glad that we had a small group to travel with. I enjoyed the screen in the front where we could display our images after a day of shooting."	TODD JOHNS, SILVER SPRING, MD Vermont
"Great, glad you drove those roundabouts!"	JANICE RICE, SANTA PAULA, CA Scotland
"First of all I want to acknowledge John's driving - I felt very safe and secure with him at the wheel. The van was adequate although some of the seats didn't allow for my "wiggle room".	JOAN LOEKEN, SEATTLE, WA Ireland
"Very comfortable. Just right for 6 people"	FRANCES COWDEN, HOUSTON, TX Ireland
"Excellent van and driver"	ROLANDE + LILIAN FULDE, CHERRYHILL, NJ New Zealand
"The only thing missing was surround sound! The tissues, handy-wipes, hand cleaners, knee-pads etcetera were very thoughtful in considering the welfare of the clients"	MICHAEL LOCICERO, HENDERSONVILLE, NC Utah east, Colorado west
"Probably the best way to get around the country, even narrow country roads--and you are the best van driver I've ever seen!"	GRADY KIMBRELL, SANTA BARBARA, CA England Canadian Rockies New Zealand

When potential new clients ask present clients a question . . .

QUESTION

Hi David,

I do apologize for the intrusion but John Baker [of Travel Images] gave me your name. We are thinking of taking John's tour to England next May and I wonder if you would share with us your thoughts on the tour you took? Was it what you expected? Best and worst parts of it? Anything you wish had been different?

I shoot with a D70 Nikon SLR digital camera. I'd be interested to know what people generally were shooting with. I'm already wondering what storage to use.

We haven't traveled out of the country and are pretty jazzed at the thought of this tour. I hope you don't mind letting us pick your brain. John says to tell you "Hi"!

Best wishes,

JUDY GIBERSON, HEMET, CA
England

ANSWER

Hi Judy, happy to help.

Bottom line is that I will seriously consider doing other trip(s) with John.

He got us to the right places at the right time and with the right light (albeit he could not control the last critical factor).

John was extremely well organized. On his maps he had used a magic marker to highlight the spots where he intended to visit and he was sophisticated enough to know whether morning or evening light was best for any particular valley.

One thing that took some getting used to was John's wit. He was a bon mot a minute. He was never without a funny (or really corny) comment. At first I found it a bit tiresome (remembering the similar style of my father who used to wear me out), but as the trip progressed, I grew to like his running commentary. In a way his style forced to overall attitude of the participants to remain light and carefree and focused solely on picture taking. The last thing I want on such a trip is a focus group on politics or religion or whatever. I was there to enjoy the sights, the experience and the photography. And I did!

Unlike your experience I have traveled overseas considerably. My records show that I had been to Great Britain more than 50 times - though almost exclusively in the London area (and on business for most of the visits). This was my first time to the English countryside and it was a delightful experience.

Turning to the shooting styles. I am currently a "hybrid" shooter. I use a Canon EOS-1V and shoot slide film. After the review and culling on the light box I then use a dedicated film scanner to scan my best images. I then do my own printing on an Epson 2200 printer.

Other members of the group covered the entire spectrum of photography styles. One person shot slides exclusively - He told me that he had exposed 64 rolls of 36 shot Fuji Velvia. Another person (who was more of a painter than a photographer) shot print film. Finally, one member shot with a digital Canon 10D. John tended to use a Canon 10D also. However, he was equally adept at film and digital.

Allow me to circle back to your initial questions.

The trip was everything that I had hoped for. (I must say that we were extremely fortunate with the weather.) I have commented above on the photography. John was ready to go out early ( don't forget that the sun rises mighty early at such latitudes in May) We would go out (those who wanted to get up) to shoot on mornings when the light was decent and would shoot for, say, 1 1/2 hours before returning for breakfast at 8. Many evenings we would be out until 8:30 as the sun was setting. Photography was the focus.

Despite the photography focus I was extremely happy with the Bed & Breakfast accommodations. The rooms were all pleasantly clean and cheerful. Though since for most of the places the rooms for the B&Bs were carved out of more grand houses from earlier eras, the rooms tended to be on the small scale. Suited me just fine, but attitudes do vary. The landlords were fabulous. I really enjoyed the breakfast routines as the innkeepers did a great job. They served a great spread for breakfast and were considerable fun.

Though I had been to England many times, the real surprise for me was the quality of pub food. John would see a pub or a tea room and we would stop for lunch and dinner. It was really a very pleasant experience for me. Really informal and we were eating at many times in little villages with all of the locals.

The only challenge on the trip was communications. None of the B&B's have phones in the rooms and you have no access to a phone (except in an emergency). It is necessary to search out a nearby phone booth. This normally worked, but prepaid phone cards tended to be a bit problematic. This certainly does not bode well for someone who needs to be in constant touch via email. We did hit a couple of larger cities where a Wi-Fi connection at Starbucks was possible - but it certainly was not easy. I would suggest have a GSM cell phone with you if this issue is important. I was able to get in touch with my wife every couple of days via the phone booths and this was adequate for my needs.

I had a great time on a well conceived and well implemented trip.

DAVID MATHIES, NORWALK, CT
England