PPSO member Eric Hatch has just gotten back from a memorable photo safari through South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana and North Dakota.

"I needed to clean out my soul," he says, "and boy did this trip help."

In all he covered 6,080 miles between 8/15 and 9/06. "This trip was about gravel roads and friendly people," says Eric. "I spend too much time at the computer, so I needed to get outside and meet people. I had an absolute ball, and it was amazing how folks found ways to be helpful and to suggest good photo subjects."

Keys to the trip: avoiding interstates, even paved roads; being flexible; and letting curiosity run the agenda.

Eric has posted a variety of shots from the trip at http://ekhphoto.smugmug.com .

In addition, he sent along a shot or two for the Focus. Enjoy!