This website illuminates my life and adventures. My longing for freedom has led me to over 2600 of the world’s 3978 provinces, to every country on earth and to the summit of the highest peak on each continent (thank heaven for good weather!). In my travels, I learned to respect the intelligence and ingenuity of people of all races and callings both past and present. Come see the world as I see it: as a peaceful place, full of nature and beauty. With the right spirit and intent, we can make our world a virtual Garden of Eden.
DISTINCTIONS: BBC 2017 Travel Pioneer • Journal Articles • Explorer’s Club Flag Expeditions
World Parks Project • Walk Across South America • Jeff Shea Travel Map
Cambodia, Prey Veaeng Prov, Goddess
Azerbaijan, Masalli Prov, Fruit Stand
UK, Gwynedd Prov, Castle
Iran, Occupied American Embassy Anti West Slogans, 1984 - In 1984, the American Embassy in Tehran was occupied by The Ayatollah Khomeini's Islamic Guards. The walls were painted with the following slogans: "America is Worse than Britain, Britain is Worse than America. Russia is Worse than Both of Them. And Each One Is Worse and Uglier than the Other." After I took this photograph, one of the Islamic Guards ran out of the Embassy toting a hand gun. He waved me inside. Frightened, I raised my voice, yelling in English. A crowd gathered around. One man offered to translate. I lied, saying I had not taken any photographs. The man said the guard now would accept simply giving him the camera. I refused again. Somewhat miraculously, I was finally able to convince the guard that I had not taken any photographs, and I was allowed to leave with my camera and film intact.
Slovenia, Medvode Prov, Boats
Romania, Generations, 1997 - A few months before I took this photograph I had driven through Romania. I fell in love with Transylvania, with it rolling fields. It seems so suitable for walking, and I yearned to get out of the car. Shortly after I planned a walk. I purchased a used Rolleiflex in Munich. Carrying all my gear in a minimal pack, and toting the camera and a small tripod, I set off on foot from Cluj Napoca and walked by compass point to Brasov. On the way, I stopped to take this photograph of children and their grandmothers, generations apart.
Walking in Transylvania was spectacular. I walked through fields, forests, across streams, always following my compass. The people were friendly.
(6 cm format)
Myanmar, Kachin Prov, Detail Hut Scene
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, Camel Salesman, 2000 - A cross between the old world, a camel salesman, and the new, a cell phone.
Thailand, Chanthaburi Prov, Pigs
Slovenia, Nova Gorica Prov, Old Women