Minnesota's Version of Street Life

[dkippen]

I haven't been out taking pictures for quite a while and I think it shows. Seems I've forgotten everything about taking pics. C/C appreciated.

Anyway - this is what MN does in the winter. Build a house on frozen lakes and go fishing.

[coffee]

Wonderful series Deb. I don't know anything about ice fishing, I tend to hibernate in the winter, but what's up with that first shot. Is that a 2 story ice house?

[dkippen]

Thank you Joseph. These were taken on Medicine Lake in Plymouth. And yes, that is a 2-story house.

[jerryph]

I like the 2 story one... kind of like a little ice fishing condo... lol

The second one is nice, I like how the sun comes from behind it.

A better angle (maybe 30-45 degrees) of #3-4 may have made the pics more interesting, but then also taken away from some nice details of these houses.

I don't think you lost all that much from lack of practice, they look good. If anything, I would have tried to wait till it was just a little darker and seen if I could get some of that gorgeous setting sky into a few pics as well.

[dkippen]

Jerry - Thank you. Would you consider the second one backlit?

I would have stayed longer, but the wind was picking and getting colder. Yes, I was a pansy. Still looking for gloves that will keep the fingers warm. With your suggestions, I may go back and try again.

[trulight]

Debbie - so what happens after the season? Do the houses collapse for re-use? Are they close enought to be like a little village?

I really like the glow of the second one. Lighting from the inside when it is a little darker outside, might be interesting?!

[dkippen]

tru - Across most of state, the "permanent" houses have to be off the lakes the end of February. In Northern MN, however, they have until mid-late March to get the houses off. As far as getting inside, unless there is someone fishing in the house - you can't get in as they are locked. We also have "portable" houses that do collapse for easy transport - my hubby has one of those. And yes, in some cases the houses are close enough together that they look little villages.

Many of the lakes will have "roads" plowed and even have pizza delivery. Yes - we live in a crazy state.

[laura]

Ice houses and villages...wow
It is a little crazy but what a cool idea (pun not intended).
It must be very thick ice on those lakes!
I really like the second pic, lighting is really effective.

[dkippen]

Laura - Thank you.

For these houses to be on the ice in this number, ice is about 24"-30" thick. And while it may be crazy, it is a Minnesota tradition.

[laura]

For these houses to be on the ice in this number, ice is about 24"-30" thick. And while it may be crazy, it is a Minnesota tradition.

Its good to see traditions upheld. You must have a great sense of community in Minnesota.:)

[ladyups]

Interesting....I'm going to have to make my way north and see this sometime. I sure hope they get things off BEFORE the lake starts to thaw....wouldn't want anyone to lose their house.

I don't believe you've lost your shooting ability. These are all nice and clear and sharp and since it had to be freezing, you did great! I have gloves that have the tips of the fingers cut out. I use them at work to operate my diad and have started using them when I'm outdoors in the winter time with my camera. I just can't press the shutter button down with regular gloves on.

Every village needs a castle....even this one! :cool:

[dkippen]

Mary - every year, there are one or two "idiots" that forget or just don't get their houses off the lake in time. Of course, on the other hand, some people just can't wait to get on the ice and can't wait until the lakes freeze. Either way - houses end up in the lake and have to be fished out.

[martha]

Amazing pictures and an interesting thread to follow. We learn something new each day.

cheers Martha