Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Portfolio Update 2008

Get a great portfolio, keep it up to date, and never let it gather dust. - Neil Turner

Another year has flown by and once again it's time for my annual portfolio update. As Aerial Photographer for the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), a recurring theme dominated the types of assignments I covered: alternatives.

An alternative form of energy and Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski stole the spotlight at the site dedication for the nation's first Solar Highway Demonstration Project in Portland. This configuration of over 250 solar panels is expected to capture enough electricity to power all the highway lights and signs in the vicinity of the experiment.


Alternative methods of construction highlighted two major ODOT bridge projects in 2008--at Spencer Creek on the Oregon coast and at Sauvie Island on the Willamette River. The aerial photo shows the 6 separate segments that were hauled in and lifted into place and then "chemically" bonded (using the internal rebar and a process called cad welding) to form the 3 arch spans that will support the deck. Conversely, the Sauvie Island arch was fully constructed off site and transported down river using a barge and tug boats and then carefully fitted into place between its approaches. In both instances, logistical concerns as well as cost and time effectiveness considerations necessitated these unique procedures.

Alternative modes of transportation have become fashionable if not compulsory in this era of energy conservation. With a booming population of cyclists and a recent spike in bike/truck accidents, ODOT instituted a No-Zone advertising campaign to help curb more such incidents in the future. The Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) tram shuttles passengers from the main campus/hospital down a steep grade across the Portland skyline to a satellite campus saving commuters a traveling distance of several miles.

As my blog enters its third year of publication, an exciting change has occurred: my photojournalism course, Newsphotography:Exposed, is now being offered at Chemeketa Community College in Salem, OR. More information can be found here:
As always, thanks for your interest and support--your comments and questions are encouraged and welcome!
Spend as much time looking at other people's work as you do fretting about your own. -Neil Turner