Tacoma Needs Love- Michael Johnson

Anyone who has Instagram or really any social media account will understand what I’m about to share....

About a month ago I went on Instagram, like any other hour of my day checking my notifications haha per usual I had a message notification and went to it... it was a comment on my story from someone who I’ve been following for awhile now, someone who I double tapped every photo posted, may have even commented on a few....haha So I did what any normal girl would do, screamed and jumped around!!!! I showed Anthony who has no social media accounts what so ever and had no clue what I was even showing him...haha he doesn’t get it.  

So...

I wrote back and I’m glad I did. Yet again the blog has opened doors or opportunities, ones I couldn’t even imagine a few months ago.  

Let me introduce to you local Tacoma Photographer Michael Johnson ... he has an eye for capturing beauty in anything he points and shoots at.   

1. Lets start off with why so much love for Tacoma?

Well I was born here and its just home to me. Tacoma gets a bad rap from our neighbors to the north. Oddly enough it is now them that are coming down here and buying all the locals out of housing options. Now they finally realize how cool Tacoma is and figure by gentrifying all of the neighborhoods then it will be a livable place for them. Aside from that some of the best people I know are from here, and Tacomas diversity is part of what molded them into awesome individuals. That also reflects in the art that is created here which often times reflects an adoration for the city. I love the fact that you can get lost in a forest, put your toes in some sand, and admire modest sky scrapers in one city.  

2. How did you get into photography?

Music lead to my interest in photography. I used to be in a band and always appreciated the cool pictures some of our friends would take of us, as well as other bands pictures I saw. Also getting my own place gave me some motivation to take some photos. When you get a place you naturally want to decorate it. IKEA and Burlington do have some nice pictures to hang on the wall but its all hotel art and has no connection to me. I wanted to take pictures that I could hang on our walls and know they have a meaning to us, as well as reflect my personality. 

3. What inspires you?

My family. And telling me I cant do something. I want my kids to experience all the cool things I got to experience as a kid and didn't appreciate until I was older. In 1st grade we hopped in our Vanagon and drove across the county. I want to do that with my family. Maybe sans vanagon because they are wild expensive but in some type of car. I wan't to create those memories with my family because beyond toys a kid never forgets adventures like that. That being said my parents took me to Disneyland when I was like 2 and I didn't remember shit... so that doesn't count.  

4. Favorite Tacoma location to shoot?...and photo!

I love hidden beach in Titlow. Great sunsets, beach, bridge, quiet, close! Easy to go there with the family and snap a few pictures. I don't think I have a favorite Tacoma photo but I do love the daytime long exposure I took from the Convention center of downtown Tacoma. and any pictures of or at the Murray Morgan Bridge

5. What do you want your viewers to take from your work?

How I see things around here and abroad. You can find a little personality in the way people edit their pictures... maybe some of that can leak through. 

6. Your dream place to photograph...?

Yellowknife

7. One question nobody has ever asked you about your photography?

Why do you do it?

If you know me, once I saw the answer to the last question I immediately wrote back asking why...

-I do it because it's peacful and provides an artistic outlet that I no longer get from music. There is an awesome feeling that comes from making a normal scene turn into something magical as well.-

Michael doesn’t just take photos of beautiful cities he also takes portrait photos go check out his work on his Instagram pages you will feel inspired and fall in love with cities you have or have not visited.

Michaelweldonphoto

Michaelweldonprotraits

Look Out For The Next Postcard From The PNW 

Brittney

Creativity Takes Courage- Henri Matisse

With over 30 stores opened across the United States, Artist and Craftsman Supply is a employee owned business that has brought color to Tacoma, Located on St Helens Ave. 

Staffed with knowledgeable, experienced local artists, or enthusiasts, who can guide you through this quirky, tie dyed art shop! 

This store caters to all, whether your a professional artist, crafter or kid. I walked in not knowing what to expect, with crafts for every type of art to trinkets and goodies. This shop is brightly colored and makes your imagination wander, with how much inventory they have I wouldn't be surprised when I go back if I see new things ever time.  

My faves...

Colored Changing Pencils 

Big Foot Air Freshener

Colored Pencils In Every Shade Imaginable 

A Beautiful Wall of Handmade Paper

So if your an artist, a DIYer, or looking for a funky shop to peruse. I definitely recommend Artist and Craftsman Supply 

Look out for the next Postcard From The PNW!

Brittney 

What's Growing On...

This weeks Around Tacoma Tuesday.  I bring you to Tacoma's Stadium District, more specifically Wrights Park where you will find The W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory. Opening in 1908, this glass domed, Victorian style conservatory holds plants from all over the world.  

The admission is free, but a suggested donation of 3.00 is appreciated. As you walk in you feel like you have been transformed to a different land.  Throughout you will find exotic tropical plants and seasonal flower displays.  Hidden within this secret garden is a pond filled with Koi Fish. Of course this was the highlight for Fallyn and I'm sure many other kids.  

 

On the way out make sure to stop at the gift shop! Occasionally they will have extra flowers for sale -exhibit quality- along with some unique yard ornaments.  The Conservatory will be going through structural upgrades as well as adding space, for more displays. I can't wait to check it out when it's all done! 

If you haven't yet, go check out The Botanical Conservatory!!!

Make sure to head over to Instagram: Brit_pnw tomorows the last day to enter the GIVEAWAY for a  Washington State Necklace!

Look out for the next Postcard From The PNW!!!

Brittney

Throwback Thursday: Westport, Bestport

Throwback Thursday: Westport 

A couple of months ago we decided to head out to the ocean. If you haven't been to a Washington beach before, they are not your average sunny day, hot weather beach adventure. Of course it was April, not beach weather yet but still an amazing day trip location.  

A two hour drive and one stop for coffee later, we arrived at Westport.  We pulled into Westhaven State Park where we like to park, they do require a Discovery Pass, or a small fee that you can pay with a card.  The parking lot was empty, not a soul in site.  Usually the lot is packed, you will see surfers carrying their boards down the paths, kids running with kites, smoke from campfires that are neighbored by sand castles.  Not the case today.  It was deserted. It was eerily beautiful.  

Of course this adventure we brought Gabby, fur friends are allowed.  She kept me company while Fallyn and Anthony braved the icy cold water of the Pacific Ocean. While they were in the water chasing the waves or running from them, haha. gabby and I sat on the beach and watched, this is the moment it hit me I need to start documenting our travels -hence this blog.  

As soon as the water became to cold for them, we decided to explore the beach. Fallyn has been to Westport with Anthony's mom -she wrote the book on adventuring- So she was excited to show us their favorite spots to explore.  One of them being The Grand Canyon of Westport.  

We built up an appetite exploring so we headed to get some food.  Across from the marina is a row of buildings in which you can find gift shops, ice cream shops, a candy store as well as restaurants. We did stop at Granny Hazel's Candy and Gifts Shop,  before we went to lunch.  They have a bulk candy area where Fallyn and I went nuts! Anthony kept telling us, not to much.  Haha yea right! If your a licorice fan like me, they have an amazing selection. The couple that own it are very sweet. If you ever go to Westport make sure to stop by and visit,  their wonderful to chat with.  

A couple of weeks before we went to Westport I read an article on must eat places in Washington. On it was Bennetts Fish Shack! Located across from the marina amongst the row of shops, I was beyond excited to try it.  It's a smaller restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. The menu is full of fresh caught items. Fallyn of course got the chicken strips.  Anthony and I split the fish -battered cod- and chips as well as a bowl of clam chowder. We were glad we shared they have huge portions, and probably the best French fries I have ever had.  The clam chowder was sooooooo good, we will definitely be going back to Bennetts Fish Shack for this, except next time I'm getting my own bowl. 

  If you haven't been to Westport yet add it to your PNW day trip list!!!

Make sure you head over to my Instagram to enter my Washington State Necklace Giveaway!!!

Instagram: Brit_pnw 

Look out for the next Postcard From The PNW 

Brittney

But First, Coffee

Hey!!! 

Guess what!!! It's around Tacoma Tuesday!!!

Today I bring you guys my favorite coffee shop just two blocks away from my house and dog friendly,  Cafe Brosseau! If your local and haven't been there yet or if your passing through T-Town you must check it out!!! 

Located in North Tacoma this coffee shop has a more casual laid back atmosphere -great for blogging. With a full coffee bar, pastries, a list of bistro items and some adult beverages you will feel right at home.

Not on the menu but equally great they have a small area for kids, and a shelf filled with an array of board games and books. On the walls you will see local artists work for sale, and from time to time they have live music and poetry readings - join their Facebook page to see upcoming events!

Cafe Brosseau Facebook Page 

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable on what to try... my suggestion

The Cafe Brosseau - chocolate and orange espresso drink delicious hot or on ice!

With an order of Avocado Toast - grilled torta bread with avocado, lemon juice, sea salt and pepper 

The best thing I have ever had!!!!!

If your ever in the North Tacoma area stop by and check them out!!!

Tomorrow Instagram GIVEAWAY!!!
Instagram: Brit_PNW

Look out for the next Postcard From The PNW 

Brittney