Cayman Today

Crossing Still Waters

2012-01-04T22:16:00.001-05:00

Crossing Still Waters, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Yesterday the Sea was angry. It has settled since and a cruise ship make it's way north by northwest.

Cold Front

2012-01-04T11:36:00.001-05:00

Cold Front, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Temperatures plummeted below 80 degrees today as a cold front and high winds batter the coast.

Shoe Tree

2012-01-03T09:20:00.001-05:00

Shoe Tree, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

A Cayman Shoe Tree. I have seen a couple of these around the island. I used to think they were collected from the surf and nailed there, but I find too many pairs. Perhaps they represent those who have had to say goodbye and return home. I'll have to look into it.

Cayman celebrates 1-1-2012

2012-01-02T17:09:00.001-05:00

Cayman celebrates 1-1-2012, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Cayman Farewell

2011-05-25T18:34:00.001-05:00

Cayman Farewell, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Tomorrow morning I too will be leaving the island. I will miss my hammock, my incredible view, and the gorgeous weather But most of all, the people I've met and the new friends I have made.
On the other hand I can hardly wait to set foot on U.S. soil and be home.

Up-Rooted

2011-05-18T20:01:00.001-05:00

Up-Rooted, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Old Tress along the mangroves have root systems above and below ground and make for some very gnarly designs.

Come a Little Closer

2011-05-16T12:48:00.001-05:00

Come a Little Closer, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Sea Anemone come in various colors. I find blue, purple, yellow, and pink in these waters. They are actually carnivorous invertebrates. If you get too close they will apply suction wich feels kinda cool. Thankfully, they are not too big or powerful!

Having Seen Better Days

2011-05-15T11:45:00.002-05:00

Having Seen Better Days, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Hurricane Ivan ravaged Grand Cayman in 2004. Although the island has recovered well, remnants of the destruction it wrought can still be found.

Working Stiff

2011-05-11T23:17:00.000-05:00

Working Stiff, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Cayman is short on rustic charm, but it can always be found in old boats.

Quiet Time

2011-05-11T07:22:00.002-05:00

Quiet Time, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

I was at the wrong place at the right time until I left and found this place at this time.

Rainbow Around the Sun

2011-05-10T17:08:00.001-05:00

Rainbow Around the Sun, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

This rainbow encircled the sun this afternoon for almost 2hrs. It was quite impressive.

5 o'clock somewhere

2011-05-09T21:48:00.002-05:00

5 o'clock somewhere, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

The east end of Grand Cayman is always on island time.

All I need now is my Hopiegirl. And a margarita wouldn't hurt either.

Inspriration

2011-05-09T11:24:00.001-05:00

Inspriration, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

A flower gives praise.

Longing for the Water

2011-05-08T08:39:00.002-05:00

Longing for the Water, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

5-5-11

Happy Mothers Day to all the wonderful moms in the world!

Maybe today these boats will take someone out into the sound and catch a few fish. That's what they were made for.

Big Blue

2011-05-06T20:50:00.001-05:00

Big Blue, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

I spent the day at the Botanical Gardens where the rare blue iguana can still be found. How do like that expression? Kinda says love ya, doesn't it?

Serious Rigging

2011-05-06T08:35:00.001-05:00

Serious Rigging, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

I don't think they are interested in the sport.

Star of the Sea

2011-05-05T09:33:00.001-05:00

Star of the Sea, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Approximately 10 inches in diameter these starfish are common around the island.

Easing into Evening

2011-05-03T18:05:00.002-05:00

Easing into Evening, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

I give credit to my wife Hope for this one, it is simple and elegant.

Office Furniture

2011-04-29T22:29:00.002-05:00

Office Furniture, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

"The Office is Closed" A lot of work is done from the comfort of my Hammock. The day is done so Happy Hour will start shortly, and the office will become a place to reflect on the days events.

Out my Front Door

2011-04-29T13:46:00.002-05:00

Out my Front Door, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

The waters been rough lately with crashing waves and salty spray at the doorstep.

Evening Tide

2011-04-27T21:32:00.002-05:00

Evening Tide, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

I liked the drama of the ocean against the jagged rocks in contrast to the gentle calm of the sky.

First Catch

2011-04-13T07:09:00.002-05:00

First Catch, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Cayman Today 4-13-11 He had caught 6 snapper by the time the sun peeked out from the clouds. He rode his bike to get there early. When I spoke to him and admired his catch he said, "I wish I had a boat, I'd be out there and catching a tuna."

Cayman Today

2011-04-12T09:04:00.004-05:00

Cayman Today 4-12-11

Up before the sun, I found this empty lot with a view that I felt had interesting image possibilities. But, as I waited for the light I was approached by a disgruntled woman walking her German Shepherds and told I was trespassing. Oh well, they're everywhere. I suppose she had the right, she definitely had the dogs.

Sunfisher

2011-04-11T17:17:00.002-05:00

Sunfisher, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Cayman Today 4-11-11 It is the simple life, catching fish on a quiet evening.

Cayman Today

2011-04-11T11:31:00.002-05:00

Tire...d Cayman Today 4/11/11

Iguana's are prevalent all over the island, but I never saw one relaxing on a car tire.

Cyman Today

2011-04-09T08:38:00.001-05:00

Taking a Peek, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Taking a Peek 4-8-11

These squid seemed as interested in me as I was in them. They changed colors as I hovered near and then inked me and swam off.

An Evening Stroll

2011-04-08T10:39:00.001-05:00

An Evening Stroll, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Cayman Today 4-7-11 Paddle boards have become very popular in recent years. Although I haven't had the chance to try it, I think I'll add it to the list.

Rising up to the Setting Sun

2011-04-07T16:43:00.001-05:00

Rising up to the Setting Sun, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Rising up to the Setting Sun

Where the ironshore meets the sea on the eastern side of the island there are beautiful displays of crashing waves. I left quickly after this exposure as I didn't want to negotiate the sharp rocks in the waning light.

Michael Orhelein's photostream

2011-04-07T16:39:00.001-05:00

Michael Orhelein's photostream on Flickr.

Cayman Today

2011-04-05T09:43:00.001-05:00

Won't be going out Today

Cayman Today 4/5/11

This traditional Cayman vessel is called a cat boat. As with many sail boats, the outboard has taken the task of power. Still, it is wise to stay at dock when the wind howls.

Cayman Today

2011-04-04T09:17:00.002-05:00

A Perfect Ending, a photo by Michael Orhelein on Flickr.

Cayman Today 4-3-11
A Perfect Ending

As the sun sets over the pier at Rum Pt. another beautiful day makes way for the next one.

Cayman Today

2011-04-03T11:50:00.002-05:00

Cayman Today 3/3/11

Early morning is a prime foraging time for these water fowl. I went home and made eggs a little later.

Cayman Today

2011-04-02T10:14:00.003-05:00

Cayman Today 4-2-1

Barcadere Light House

So often you find one thing when you're looking for something else. I took a wrong turn this morning and now have a lighthouse in my repertoire.

Cayman Today

2011-03-31T21:59:00.003-05:00

Cayman Today 3/31/11
Early Comes the Sun

It seems to me that these boats are anxiously awaiting their next voyage. Maybe it's just my perspective.

Cayman Today

2011-03-31T10:53:00.002-05:00

Cayman Today 3/31/11

Macabuca Sunset

With the sun on my back and a cold beer in hand I almost missed the day slipping away. The soft focus could have been the result of one too many, but my intent was to make this a very soft image with only a portion of the palms in focus.

Cayman Today

2011-03-30T09:30:00.004-05:00

Cayman Today - 3/30/11

Morning Light on wooden Row Boats

Another morning that didn't work out the way I'd planned. I love boats, I always have. Having had a few, I agree with the definition. "A hole in the water, surrounded by wood, into which you pour money." Regardless, I still love boats.

Cayman Today

2011-03-29T13:48:00.004-05:00

Cayman Today 3-29-11
Smith Cove is quite picturesque, made for postcards. But it's not a particularly good place for sunrises as the treeline hides the sun untill it's rather high and bright. Looking in the opposite direction though the light is very nice on the iron shore and water.

Cayman Today

2011-03-27T20:58:00.002-05:00

Cayman Today 3/27/11 The USA Womens Volley Ball Team took gold in this 3 day island tournament.

This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

Cayman Today

2011-03-27T08:18:00.005-05:00

Cayman Today 3/26/2011 Good morning, Michael Orhelein, “The Portrait Artist”, here. It’s another beautiful day in Grand Cayman. This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

Ever Changing Moment

Working out on this rock can be very painful, if not fatal. But this is the perspective I had in mind and in conclusion I'm glad I did it.

Cayman Today

2011-03-26T14:16:00.002-05:00

Cayman Today 3/26/2011

These Blue Tang are beautiful fish and common in Cayman. Sometimes they school in the thousands and sometimes only 3 or 4.

Cayman Today

2011-03-25T20:02:00.002-05:00

Cayman Today 3/25/2011 "Lip Service" It must have been a challenge to paint this. I could swear shw blinked at me. This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels.

Fishing for a Rainbow

2011-03-24T16:24:00.002-05:00

Cayman Today 3-24-2011 Hello, Michael Orhelein, “The Portrait Artist”, here. It’s NOT another beautiful day in Grand Cayman. Very overcast and a light rain, but that could mean a rainbow! I have learned that if you take the time to see, you will always find something of interest. This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. I am fascinated with the world around me.

Cayman Today

2011-02-19T22:26:00.000-05:00

Cayman Today 2/20/2011
"The Crooked Man" by:
Michael Orhelein,
“The Portrait Artist”.

It is with affection and admiration that this photograph is titled "The Crooked Man". Before I got to know him I noticed how he fished and the dexterity and balance he possessed out on the treacherous iron shore. It was more amazing as he stood for hours bent arm and crooked back and seemingly very content. His name is Clinton. He is an old Cayman native, still fishing the way of old Cayman. He is old, missing teeth and very happy to catch a few fish every day for his dinner.

I have learned that if you take the time to see, you will always find something of interest. This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

Cayman Today

2011-02-15T22:05:00.006-05:00

Cayman Today 2/15/2011
Michael Orhelein, “The Portrait Artist”

I have learned that if you take the time to see, you will always find something of interest. This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

"The wisdom of the Owl"
I didn't know that the Barn Owl was a rock dweller. My guide TJ knew just where to find this bird, and I doubt that anyone else could. The hike to get to this location reminded my of the climbing I did in my mid twenties.

2009-04-28T18:09:00.001-05:00

Cayman Today 2/14/2011

Happy St. Valentines Day
From: Michael Orhelein, “The Portrait Artist”

I have learned that if you take the time to see, you will always find something of interest. This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

“3 days on the Brac”

Cayman Brac is one of the 3 Cayman Islands, about 80 miles from the largest island of Grand Cayman and only about 11 miles from the smallest island, Little Cayman. I took a short vacation there last week and felt I just had to share my experiences with the rest of the world.

My main purpose in going was to explore the possibilities of doing some great photography and therefore, it was for me, a working vacation. I did not expect, however to have enjoyed the island so much.

The airport is as you may have guessed is on the small side and quite a nice change from the hassle of the big city airports. While waiting for a cab to the Hotel Alexander I met a man from Cuba and for the short time spent in conversation I was taken with the friendliness of a complete stranger, just minutes before. Should the U.S. ever amend their policies on visiting Cuba, I’ll have a friend there to show me around.

Friendliness is a good word to describe my experience with everyone I met on the Brac.

The people at The Hotel Alexander were no exception. The cheerful and lovely manager Karen is involved in all aspects of the hotel and seems to be everywhere. She is genuinely interested in providing her guests with an excellent experience in their travels.

Chef Errol is incredible in every aspect of food preparation, great taste being the most important. I’ve never really enjoyed a wrap until I had one from his kitchen. I had to have another and yet another. The Friday seafood buffet was also incredible! Stone crab claws, shrimp penne pasta with big shrimp, the most incredible red conch chowder, the best lobster thermidor I’ve ever had, and so much more. The desserts looked wonderful, but I was too full from second helpings of chowder and lobster. Matthew the bartender makes a magnificent rum drink that is all his own. I wonder why, I can’t seem to remember what he called it. He’s another one of the friendly staff so I’m sure he’ll make one or two for you as well. While visiting the bar I engaged a local in some good conversation. He told me about the island and some of the great places I should see. We had a few drinks and swapped a few stories. I’m sure you’ll meet Cleveland, he owns the hotel. The restaurant hostess, Dannette was also wonderful. She kept an attentive eye on all her diners and never left you feeling abandoned as can sometimes happen in the restaurant business. Even the housekeeping staffs were cheerful! It is safe to say I will return and indeed look forward to staying there again.

Apparently the 3 islands differ greatly from each other. The Brac is somewhat rugged and thanks to my guide TJ Seveck, I experienced more of it than I could possibly have hoped for when I landed there. TJ has lived on the Brac all his life and knows the landscape intimately. We met early in the morning and proceeded to the eastern bluff. There I was able to photograph the sun rising above the jagged iron shore. Iron shore is a very sharp and jagged rock which surrounds much of the island. Being the strong rugged type myself, I hiked paths and climbed the cliffs to get some great photographs. I have to tell the truth though, TJ was quick to carry much of my gear and I even had to grab his arm to steady myself at times. He knew where the owls and the boobie birds nested. He knew where to find a fluffy white boobie chick, and he knew the islands caves like the back of his hand. I could never have created the photographs I did with out his assistance. For all his time he only charged $35, but I’d appreciate it if you’d tip him ten extra.

I was totally worn out after my time spent exploring with TJ. I never got the chance to dive the beautiful reefs, maybe next trip. Speaking of diving, TJ free dives, going as deep as 90 feet on a breath of air.

Some contact information:

The Hotel Alexander – 345-948-8222

TJ – 345-927-4835

Cayman Today

2009-04-24T12:29:00.013-05:00

Cayman Today 4/24/09

Hello, Michael Orhelein, “The Portrait Artist”, here. It’s another beautiful day in Grand Cayman.

Kids seem to like the same things everywhere. What I see as annoying speed bump, they see as an opportunity.
Sharing with you, people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels.

Grand Cayman Today:
Kids at play1: Image 102-8983
Technical info: Camera-Canon 5D Lens: 70-200 IS
Focal length: 200mm Exposure:1/800@ F3.2

I photograph beautiful people. If you're one of them, click here.

Cayman Today

2009-04-23T10:59:00.008-05:00

Cayman Today 4/23/09

It's quite cloudy and a bit windy today. http://weather.noaa.gov/weather/current/MWCR.html But it's nothing to complain about for sure. It’s another beautiful day in Grand Cayman.

Rum point offers a beautiful beach with many palm trees providing shade for those not wanting too much sun. The water is clear and pretty shallow. For about 200 yards you can stand on a sandy bottom, it is only 4-5 feet. It is especially nice for the timid or beginner snorkeler.
Like many beaches it is less crowded on the weekends. Try the banana or chocolate smoothie.

Grand Cayman Today 4/23/09

Keegan & I: Image 102-1267
Technical info: Camera: Canon 5D Lens: 70-200 IS L

Check out the links provided top right.

This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

Cayman Today

2009-04-21T17:31:00.010-05:00

Cayman Today 4/21/09

It’s another beautiful day in Grand Cayman. Take the time to see and you will always find something of interest. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

Grand Cayman Today:
Cleaning Catch: Image 102-1402B

This local gentleman is cleaning a barracuda he caught this morning, while birds swoop for an easy meal. Many locals catch their dinner as they know the sea well. Barracuda is said to be poisonous, although I've talked to a lot of Caymanians who love it and say it has never given them any problems. The smaller ones are generally the safest. An old wives tale says that if you put a small piece of the fish on an ant mound and the ants don't eat it, then neither should you. Now that sounds like good advice!
Technical info: Camera: Canon 5D Lens: 70-200 IS L
Focal length: 200mm Exposure: 1/125@F/18

This blog is meant to share with you photographs and stories of those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels.

Cayman Today

2009-04-16T21:30:00.010-05:00

Cayman Today 4/17/09

Dolphin Discovery

One of the newest attractions on Grand Cayman is Dolphin Discovery at Boatswains Beach in West Bay.

http://www.dolphindiscovery.com/

For all 3 of my children it was a big hit.

To achieve the best photographs for the 3:00pm swim, take up a position on the ocean side of the tank (aka pool). The sun will be behind you as you face toward the center area where the dolphin will meet with each participant for a short ride. Use a fast shutter speed to insure against blur because the dolphins tend to move fast.

There have been some critics of the attraction objecting the domestication of wild animals. I suppose every point of view has two sides, maybe more if you could ask the dolphin. I don't see any harm in it. I feel the opportunity to interact with these wonderful animals benefits all with a better understanding of the world around us.

Technical info:

Camera: Canon 5D

Lens: 70-200 IS L

Focal length: 200mm

ISO 400

Exposure: 1/10000@F/7.1

To view my portrait collection, visit www.caymanislandportraits.com

This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

Cayman Today

2009-04-12T09:18:00.009-05:00

Cayman Today 4/12/09

The Son Rises.
Happy Easter.

Hello, Michael Orhelein, “The Portrait Artist”. Blessings to you and your family, Happy Easter.

Sharing with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the beauty in the world around me.

Technical info: Photograph by my associate and friend Natasha Wight.

Cayman Today

2009-04-08T08:33:00.003-05:00

Cayman Today 4/8/09

Hello, Michael Orhelein, “The Portrait Artist”, here. It’s another beautiful day in Grand Cayman.

Grand Cayman Today:
Easy Cruising: Image 105-0937

The Cayman Islands are perfect for all kinds of water sports. They have it all here. Diving, snorkeling, fishing, jet skis, wind surfing, sailing, I can go on and on. I intend throughout my blog to cover as many water related activities as I possibly can and bring those experiences to you.

Here are 2 links that may interest you.

http://www.captainmarvins.com/

http://www.redsailcayman.com/en/index.html

Technical info: Camera: Canon 5D Lens: 70-200 IS L
Focal length: 200mm Exposure: 1/500@F/4.5

I have learned that if you take the time to see, you will always find something of interest. This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.
This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

Never stop being amazed and always be thankful,

Michael Orhelein

Cayman Today

2009-04-07T10:15:00.005-05:00

Bougainvillea

It’s hard to miss these vibrant flowers all over the Grand Cayman. They are truly stunning. Named for Admiral Louis de Bougainvillea, an admiral in the French Navy who discovered the plant in Brazil in 1768. It was a botanical highlight of the voyage. Through the ensuing years, this Brazilian beauty has assumed its rightful place as one of the most popular, spectacular and beautiful tropical plants.

The blooms as we know them are not true flowers, but are 3 large papery bracts that encircle small, white, tubular inconspicuous flowers much like the poinsettia. They have names for the many varieties that are colorful as well. Golden yellow 'California Gold', and its gold and green leaved variegated 'Vickie'. The dark pink flowers of 'Juanita Hatten'. 'Barbara Karst'. Bright red to bluish crimson in shade. 'Sundown' Apricot color. 'Jamaica White' white, veined with green. 'Texas Dawn' smaller pink flowers, in huge clusters. 'Double Pink' clear pink. 'Surprise' large, clear pink-white bi-color flowers.

Cayman Today

2009-04-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

Cayman Today 4/6/09

Grand Cayman Today:
Turtleback: Image 102-1267

At the turtle farm in Boatswains Bay a bird decides the best place to settle down is on this turtles back. It didn't make sense to me as there were plenty of less precarious places to relax. Maybe it's an in your face move. Haha, I can fly and you can't.
When I was a young boy I often made pets of Box Turtles. They are slow, cumbersome and hard shelled. These sea turtles glide gracefully and feel soft and leathery. I enjoyed the turtle farm. I think you will also.
Technical info: Camera: Canon 5D Lens: 70-200 IS L
Focal length: 200mm Exposure: 1/50@F/18

This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

To view my portrait collection, visit www.caymanislandportraits.com

2009-04-05T10:30:00.000-05:00

Cayman Today 4/5/09

Hello, Michael Orhelein, “The Portrait Artist”, here. It’s another beautiful day in Grand Cayman.

I have learned that if you take the time to see, you will always find something of interest. This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

Grand Cayman Today:
Jaws: Image 101-1323

I am not sure what kind of fish this is. It resembles a needlefish or gar. Anyone out there know for sure? It is not that rare to see one here as they usually swim very near the surface and often close to the shoreline. This one is a unique sight however; because in it’s jaws it has its lunch. So, you think you’re having a bad day?!

Technical info:
Camera: Canon 5D
Lens: 70-200 IS L
Focal length: 200mm
Exposure: 1/320@F/7.1

To view my portrait collection, visit www.caymanislandportraits.com

Cayman Today

2009-04-04T12:48:00.000-05:00

Cayman Today 4/4/09

Hello, Michael Orhelein, “The Portrait Artist”, here. It’s another beautiful day in Grand Cayman.

I have learned that if you take the time to see, you will always find something of interest. This blog is meant to share with you those people, places, and things that I have found in my daily travels. Although portrait photography is my passion I am fascinated with the world around me.

Grand Cayman Today:

The Joy of Dance. Image 100-1634

Joy is evident in dance. The joy this little girl must have felt was expressed in her jumping and spinning. I watched for several minutes, and it made me smile to see such uninhibited happiness. This all took place outside my condo in Bodden Town. I saw her from my balcony and grabbed my camera. She didn’t seem to mind my presence as she danced.

Technical info:

Camera: Canon 5D

Lens: 70-200 IS L

Focal length: 85mm

Exposure: 1/400@F/7.1

To view my portrait collection, visit www.caymanislandportraits.com