Life On The 45th Parallel - Leelanau Area Photography by Jeff Rabidoux

The 45th Parallel is a line which designates the longitudinal halfway point between the earth's equator and the North Pole. In North America, this line passes through some of the most beautiful parts of our country; including Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and Saint Croix Island in Maine. Here in Michigan, it passes through scenic Leelanau and Grand Traverse counties.

The implication of the parallel as being halfway to somewhere couldn't be less true to the people who visit this area, or better yet, are lucky enough to live here...you are not "halfway" to anywhere...rather, you are already "there". Thousands of years ago, glaciers carved this land, creating breathtaking sand dunes that tower hundreds of feet above the beautiful blue waters of Lake Michigan.

Wildflowers bloom along the edges of streams and rivers and abundant wildlife flourish throughout the hardwood forests. Leelanau County is home to the quaint fishing village of Leland, the unique town of Glen Arbor, and seemingly endless landscapes of cherry and apple orchards, as well as award-winning vineyards. The sugar sand shoreline of Lake Michigan provides the perfect venue for sunset spectators; while steep bluffs, such as Pyramid Point, provide breathtaking views of the Manitou Islands and the occasional passing freighter.

One of my favorite sayings is "A memory is a photograph taken by the heart." I seek to capture life as it is here along the 45th Parallel. I hope that my photographs foster a memory that you have of this area...a time that you spent alone, with a friend or spouse, or with your family. Thank you for viewing this portfolio and I hope that enjoy viewing it as much as I have enjoyed capturing it.

Jeff Rabidoux