Ellis, Author at Ellis Boettger Photography

Nashville, TN on Film

Traveling to Nashville? Here’s what we did for a long weekend:

Nashville’s charm is undeniable, and a long weekend with friends is the perfect way to experience it. We packed a lot into our trip and made it even more memorable by using point and shoot film cameras. Here’s a snapshot of our adventure:

After landing, we dropped off our bags and headed directly to Broadway Street, soaking in the live music and thousands of people. The disposable cameras captured our excitement and the vibrant neon lights perfectly. Later, we enjoyed an awesome Billy Strings concert at the Bridgestone Arena, but the real highlight was Daddy’s Dogs in Printers Alley. The night shots here turned out fantastic, full of our laughter and the lively food truck ambiance.

Our second day was a mix of activities. We took a trip to Two Rivers park where we then played some disc golf, enjoyed the warm weather, and generally frolicked. Later we took a long walk along the river and ended up at a former airfield turned park.

In the evening, we took a bike bar tour around the city. The cameras caught our fun on the pedal-powered bar, enjoying drinks and the Nashville vibe. After our tour concluded, we were not done riding around. We immediately rented scooters and went zooming around all of downtown Nashville.

Fun Fact: Did you know scooter apps close at 11:00pm. We found that out the hard way.

We spent our last day zipping around on rental scooters yet again, discovering new spots and enjoying the city’s sights. We explored the Parthenon replica at Bicentennial Park, which, in my opinion, the cameras captured beautifully.

All said, for a quick trip to Nashville we did it right. We explored Broadway, saw a concert, bar hopped, rented scooters, had delicious food, and got a big taste of what Nashville has to offer. We look to return soon!

August 6, 2024

Hometown Throwdown: Photographing a Latte Art Competition

Last Thursday, I had the pleasure of attending the Latte Art Competition hosted by Hometown Coffee Roasters in Manchester, NH. As a coffee enthusiast and photographer, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to capture the excitement and artistry of the event through my lens.

The competition brought together a diverse array of baristas from some of the finest coffee shops in New Hampshire, as well as talented independent baristas eager to showcase their skills. From intricate hearts and tulips to more original pieces, each participant brought their unique flair to the table, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

As I moved around the venue, camera in hand, I was struck by the passion and dedication of the competitors. Every pour was executed with precision and care, a testament to the craftmanship that goes into making the perfect cup of coffee.

Here are just a few highlights from the event:

I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the owner of Hometown Coffee Roasters for graciously allowing me to capture these moments. It was a privilege to witness such talent and creativity firsthand.

Finally, I’d like to recognize all the coffee shops that participated in the competition:

Hometown Coffee Roasters

Revelstoke

Brothers Cortado

The Juicery

Your presence added to the vibrancy of the event, and I look forward to visiting each of your establishments to experience your coffee firsthand.

In conclusion, the Hometown Throwdown Latte Art Competition was a celebration of coffee culture, community, and creativity. It was an honor to document this event, and I hope my photos convey even a fraction of the magic that was in the air that day.

Until next time, may your coffee be strong and your pours be flawless

February 28, 2024

Skiing and Photographing Vail, CO

Denver International: The Gateway to Adventure

After touching down in Denver, CO, it’s hard to feel any sense of individuality as you pass skier after skier retrieving their bags from the overside baggage return. However, despite the realization that I’ll soon be fighting the very same people for the same turns the next few days, my anticipation for the following days only grew.

A Mountain of Possibilities

Vail is one of those mountains that never ceases to amaze me. With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, including seven legendary Back Bowls, Vail offers a playground for skiers and snowboarders alike. From gentle groomers to steep chutes and gladed tree runs, there’s something here for everyone, no matter your skill level.

Snow! Finally

Before our arrival, Vail, and the rest of Colorado was in a snow drought. The snow totals and accumulation was low. In the days leading up to my trip, it had snowed seven inched with more predicted during my stay. That seven inches set the following storms up with a perfect base layer that covered most, but not all, rocks and stumps.

Shangri La: Powder in the Back Bowls

Throughout the week, I found that the trail “Shangri La” was one of, if not my favorite runs to do with our small group. It offered a relaxing off-piste experience with wide open sections of powder. It was on this trail, we stopped and took many of the photo that populate this post.

See You Soon

Overall, skiing at Vail is a world-class experience that combines breathtaking scenery, diverse terrain, exceptional snow conditions, and top-notch amenities. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an expert seeking challenging terrain, Vail offers an unforgettable skiing adventure for all levels of skiers. We found runs for our entire group to enjoy. I can’t wait to return.

February 22, 2024

Photographing Strength: A New Hampshire Powerlifting Meet

As I stepped into the gym and out of the cold, I looked around and saw many of the regulars that frequent that place on a daily basis. For many of them, today was about giving it their all. They were going to put their bodies to their limits in a fight against gravity. And while it’s referred to as a competition, the comraraderrie I felt walking in that day told another story.

For the uninformed, powerlifting is a sport with three specific lifts: Squat, Bench, and Deadlift. Lifters try and lift as much as they can in any or all three. Winners are broken down by gender, age, and any type of assistance they might use, such as lifting suits or straps. Some were so suited up, they coyld barley walk on their own, while others showed up in just the minimum required singlet and t-shirt.

It felt wierd, walking in there with regular clothes. Typically, my normal dress for such a place, would be a pair of 15 year old basketball shorts and a dri-fit shirt that is a little more snug that it needs to be. However, today, I was a spectator, I went to support my girlfriend as she competed.

Of course, I was not going anywhere without bringing my trusty camera. Armed with my Sony A3000 and a Canon 24-70 I took my spot in the second row. This competition already had a photographer, who was nice enough to let me sit beside him at times to get my shot. Therefore, I focused my efforts on my girlfriend and her friends. Needless to say, I was impressed by their efforts. The looks on their faces say it all. They gave it everything they had. As did all of the other lifters.

I left that day wanting more. Next year, it will be me up on the platform along side many others. Hopefully someone else can bring the camera.

Interested in reading more? Find my other blog posts here

December 27, 2023

Celebrating A Year Together

Recently, I had the pleasure of conducting a photo session along the iconic Kancamagus Highway in the White Mountains.

The Kancamagus Highway, renowned for its picturesque views and winding roads, provided an exceptional setting. Towering trees, vibrant with seasonal colors, and the rugged terrain served as an ideal canvas for our photography.

The couple’s chemistry was evident, and it was a pleasure to document their interactions amidst such a scenic locale. From casual strolls against the backdrop of mountainous vistas to candid shots framed by the winding river, each photo encapsulated a slice of their connection.

The soft, natural lighting filtering through the forest canopy added an artistic touch to the frames, enhancing the overall aesthetic. It was a harmonious blend of human emotion against the backdrop of untamed nature.

As the session progressed and the light evolved, we captured various moods and expressions, culminating in a series of photographs that truly reflected the beauty of the moment. Against the backdrop of the setting sun, the session drew to a close, leaving us with a collection of images that perfectly encapsulated the essence of the day.

The Kancamagus Highway, with its timeless beauty, provided a fitting stage for this photoshoot. It’s moments like these that remind me of the power of photography to document not just scenes but also the interplay between people and the landscapes they inhabit.

December 10, 2023

Exploring True’s Ledges: A Long Exposure Journey

Nestled in a world of natural wonders, True’s Ledges is more than just a summer hotspot. Its refreshing waters and rugged landscapes have always beckoned me for a cool dip on scorching days. But recently, on a cloudy August evening, as daylight waned and the sun prepared its descent, I embarked on a mission to capture the brook’s beauty like never before. Armed with my camera, I opted for a 10-second long exposure technique and monochrome tones to freeze the mesmerizing dance between water and rocks.

Embracing the Moment

The sun remained behind the clouds, casting soft light on True’s Ledges, a tranquil hush replaced the usual sounds of summer. Sensing a rare opportunity, I ventured down into the steep banks of True’s Ledges for some long exposure photography. This technique can transform everyday scenes into dreamlike visions, making it perfect for the serene brook before me.

Long Exposure Unveiled

A Long Exposure is a photographic technique that allows the photographer to capture the passage of time in a single frame. With a 10-second exposure, fast-flowing water turns into a graceful mist, while the rocks gain an ethereal presence amidst the gentle flow.

A Glimpse Into the Geographic Past

As the sun dipped below the horizon, I felt a connection with the space I was in. Beyond the visuals, my lens captured its essence—the peace that envelops it when the world pauses, the stories etched into its rocks, and the unceasing passage of time it witnesses. For thousands of years, water has rushed through the rocks, slowly carving its own passageway. It was art all on its own andI was standing in the middle of it, alone.

More to be Seen

Although I may have captured some of True’s Ledges, I know some spots remain untouched. As daylight faded, I knew I needed to return, to uncover those hidden corners, and to further document the passage of time.

My experiments with long exposures at True’s Ledges was a journey of connection and discovery. It revealed the untold poetry of water and rocks, freezing moments of calm in an otherwise wild brook. True’s Ledges showcases nature’s perfect blend of water and stone, each one slowly forming the other. As this chapter ends, the anticipation of revisiting this sanctuary lingers, much like the brook’s gentle ripples.

View the full gallery down below…

August 25, 2023

Now Accepting Elopements

Diving into elopement photography is an exciting step for me. Elopements are all about genuine, intimate moments, and I’m thrilled to capture these heartfelt connections. With a keen eye for emotions and a knack for highlighting the beauty in simplicity, I’m ready to join couples on their unique journey. Elopements allow for a personal and unscripted story to unfold, and I’m committed to creating images that mirror the authenticity and significance of these special moments.

Anywhere in New England

I’m excited to travel across New England to capture your elopement, wherever it takes us. From the heights of the White Mountains to the shores of Cape Cod, I’m ready for the adventure. Your elopement is a significant part of your story, and I’m here to document it in photos that reflect your journey and love, whether in rugged landscapes or serene beaches.

$ 600

00

3 Hours of Photography includes:
Ceremony Photos
Couples Photos
Family and Guests

August 21, 2023

Photographing the Beauty of Sweetland Farm’s Pollinators

What is a CSA?

As summer days stretch towards autumn, there’s something undeniably magical about visiting a local farm. If you have not done so yet, I would highly recommend finding a farm near you that offers a Community Supported Agriculture program. A CSA is a way for people to purchase seasonal produce directly from local farms. It helps out the farms and depending on the type of program you decide to join, you get a weekly mix of fresh veggies grown nearby. What’s not to like?

A Change of Pace

Recently, I visited Sweetland Farm for my CSA share, and amidst the bounty of vegetables, I stumbled upon a unique way to appreciate nature’s beauty. Sweetland Farm not only provides members with a variety of freshly harvested vegetables, pick your own hot peppers and herbs, but also the chance to create their own unique flower bouquets. The farm’s flower beds are a vibrant display of colors and scents. Instead of gathering flowers as I normally would, this time, I decided to embrace a different approach.

A View of a Different World

With my camera in hand, I slowly walked up and down the colorful rows of flowers. Almost immediately, I heard the sound of buzzing all around me. Bees and pollinators of all types were flying all around, leaving no flower untouched. As I watched, I set up my camera and began to take photos of this important process. The bees did not notice, or seem to care that I was present. They were in their own little world, and I was in mine. It was a marvelous, almost symbiotic relationship. I am grateful for each photo I was able to take. Capturing their quick movements and delicate flight required a mix of patience and skill.

Telling a Story

This subject and style diverged from my usual preferences of event photography, known for its swift pace and constant shutter clicks. It required me to slow down and patiently await the opportune moment. Focusing on tiny, active subjects like bees proved especially challenging, as they rarely paused. Once I achieved focus, they swiftly buzzed away to the next bloom. This endeavor was a delicate balance of timing and technique, demanding precision and patience with each button press.

During my hour or so at the farm, I was not just capturing what was going on around me, I was creating art. I was trying my best to tell a story. These pollinators often go unrecognized for the jobs they do. Often, many of them are miss-categorized as pests. The end results from my time at the farm are beautiful shots that both depict bees’ essential role in our ecosystem as well as the simplistic beauty of a world smaller than ours.

As you collect your CSA share, consider venturing beyond the routine. Whether through a camera lens or appreciative eyes, you’ll uncover a world of wonder amidst the vegetables and blooms. Who knows, you might find yourself captivated by the fascinating pollinator realm, just as I was on that summer day at Sweetland Farm.

Be sure to check out a CSA program near you. If you’re ever close to Norwich, VT. Be sure to check out Sweetland Farm as well.