I'm a quiet guy who loves local Illinois history,as my 2 sets on the I&M Canal will attest...insects are a big passion as well. I joined Flickr to meet like-minded people,and to marvel at the exquisite images by other photographers. I enjoy sharing any of my (admittingly little) knowledge of local history,bugs,and photography with anyone who asks! Since Flickr is somewhat of a social site,I comment on all contacts photos,even if it is one word...if you are a contact of mine,rest assured I will see your photos. For that reason,I keep my contacts at a reasonable quantity,and if you are looking to add me and have over 150 contacts,I probably will not add you. I find it hard to keep up with 100,how does one do it with 1000??? I use a D-SLR and P/S...and firmly believe that one's technique contributes far more to a great image than the brand or type of camera...i.e. a 5000.00 camera and lens does not guarantee a superior result...it is what YOU do with it and how it is used that is most important. After all,you wouldn't ask a famous writer which brand of typewriter/word processor/computer he/she used to write that prize winning book with,would you? I think not,but a lot of camera folks think that dropping 5 grand makes them a pro....I have seen stuff done with a P/S that blows away images done with cameras costing 20 times as much. The difference? Lighting and composition, 2 things cameras cannot do for you. So get out there,shoot images ,and don't worry about what you own...=-)

NEW!!! I have posted some images for sale at this address
www.muledriver.imagekind.com/ Take a look!
Find me on Facebook...jbalynas45@yahoo.com
Buy cool items made from my images at
www.cafepress.com/muledriver

Photos of muledriver (5)

  • Chicago's Historic and Beautiful Gold Coast Photowalk by Tommy6unz
  • Attention Ladies and Gents.. Mark those Calendars!!!!!!!!!!!! by Tommy6unz
  • Mark Your Calenders!!!!!!!!!!! by Tommy6unz
  • Happy New Year 2011 Toast by Tommy6unz
  • happy holidays! by iheartnewyork
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muledriver's favorite photos from other Flickr members (4,470)

  • morning surf by havecoffeewilltravel
  • sun by havecoffeewilltravel
  • The Chosen One on the Forest Floor by .Kristen.Elise.
  • View_7645 by deaMax
  • Fly in your face... by J.J. Kent (sub)
  • Under The Red Bridge by Duane Rapp
  • Buckingham Fountain in Sepia by d charvat
  • IMG_6692 by a_sullivan
  • spider3 by Languagefan1
  • What are you looking at? by Languagefan1
  • Tornado Siren #12 by Languagefan1
  • Bee on Rose Stamen by csuzanne
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Contacts (96)

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Groups (5050)

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Testimonials (22)

  • view profile

    jeanneg. says:

    "It is a pleasure to write a testimonial for Joe. He is one of my long-time contacts at flickr and it is because he not only takes wonderful photos of interesting and difficult subjects like dragonflies, images that show the character of the city and history of the area, but also because he is generous with his time, reliable with his comments, and an all-around nice guy. Cheers, Joe! I look forward to another year of your wonderful images that showcase your talent."

    30th December, 2010

  • view profile

    MystrSyko says:

    "Muledriver is one of the best photographers I've seen in the area. I've often photographed the same locations he has and often I wont see any photographic potential. His photos have inspired me to get back out there by showing me the beauty that I missed and the potential that exists in everything around us. I hope to meet him in person one day either as a friend or as a fellow photographer."

    24th December, 2010

  • view profile

    joeyjoe1 says:

    "Joe's macros are what drew me to his photostream in the begining but the variety of his stream will always keep me coming back to see what's next. His insect shots are simply amazing and his city shots are second to none. Joe's talent and friendship are both something that I respect very much and hope to be able to for a very long time to come."

    26th September, 2010

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    etherslife says:

    "No where is Joe's patience or mild nature more evident than in his amazing bug shots. I started out, years ago, marvelling at the pictures themselves, and in time came to marvel over the man behind them. The more inspired I felt to try to emulate his work, the more I came to understand the patience that quietly rests behind every one of these images that we look at. Obviously both content with and inspired by the world he inhabits, Joe is an exceptional photographer who does all that he can, in his own quiet way, to share that contentment and inspiration with anyone who gazes upon his images."

    10th August, 2010

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    -Siep-(on/off) says:

    "18 Testimonials Joe,you must be one of the recordholders on Flickr,and you deserve every one of them.
    A great support,always comments on my photos,a wonderful guy.It's a joy to have you as a contact."

    3rd March, 2010

  • view profile

    csuzanne says:

    "Joe is an amazing photographer -- his work is excellent in every way. I'm still totally amazed by his macro shots of insects -- I love his beautiful B&W photos and enjoy his I&M canal shots and history notes. But beyond that, Joe has a very kind and generous heart. He always comments on my photos and gives me great encouragment. When I read his profile, I learned a lot about him and feel very lucky that he found me in the world of Flickr. I was a new nature photographer and stumbled around a lot, but he helped me with his praise and kind comments. The day he added me to his list of contacts was a very lucky day for me!! I hope we are friends for years to come. He's a stand up guy."

    26th November, 2009

  • view profile

    sonnet schulz (been gone too long) says:

    "joe is my dear friend's brother-in-law. she told me about his amazing insect pics and he was my inspiration to join flickr!"

    9th September, 2009

  • view profile

    psychoticadvisor says:

    "MuleDriver is one of the first persons on flickr who had kind words of encouragement for me. He's one of the friendliest and most talented people I've ever encountered in an online environment and I'm proud to have made his acquaintance through the flickr community. His photography is stunning beyond description, and will leave you speechless at times. I always look forward to seeing what he comes up with next, because every shot is a treasure."

    10th August, 2009

  • view profile

    [[Creative Captures]] says:

    "I don't know him personally but he is a great Flickr friend! He always comments and faves his contact's work. Add him as a friend!"

    14th April, 2009

  • view profile

    ptcanon says:

    "I met muledriver not so long ago due to a common geographical location we both enjoy photographing. I quickly learned that this exceptional photographer was not only good behind the camera, but also very forthright in providing helpful feedback to others. I think anyone who takes their use of the social aspects of Flickr seriously would find friendship with this individual invaluable. I know I enjoy both giving and recieving feedback on the efforts we put into imagery. I consider muledriver a friend on Flickr."

    30th January, 2009

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    D. Rogers Photography says:

    "Joe is a very fun and knowlegeable man! He is a blast to go on photo shoots with and knows alot about history... especially I&M Canal ! He is a pro at macro insects...how does he get them to pose so nicely for him?! I also love his honest critiques and he is a great friend and photographer!"

    15th January, 2009

  • view profile

    Cathleen Daum says:

    "What can you say about someone you have never met, but through pictures. When I was introduced to muledriver, gosh it has been almost a year now through a friend, who I still have not met either, I took one look at his pictures of the I&M Canal, and read all his knowledge of it, I was hooked. Not only just the I&M, but his knowledge of insects as well. If I have a question about nature, or the I&M, he is right there with the answer. His macro work is unspeakable. True art, and he takes pride in it. You can just tell by his pictures, and the quality of them. It is a true pleasure to have him listed as my "friend" on flickr."

    24th September, 2008

  • view profile

    jen76me says:

    "I just wanted to say first of all muledriver's photostream is awesome! But what really motivated me to write this is that he is an active contact. I can always count on him to comment on my stuff! (No pressure muledriver) ;) He is also very informative when it comes to bugs. Very cool! I always look forward to seeing his bug collection grow!! Thanks muledriver for sharing with the rest of us!"

    21st August, 2008

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    ♥ MARIA ♥ says:

    "It is amazing to have met such a passionate photographer like you Joe, and I am truly honored to have you visit my page and comment when you do. I agre with everyone here, that your knowledge of so much brings me joy when I visit your photostream. I can't wait to finally make it to one of the I & M Canal meetups! You are an inspiration to me to continue venturing outdoors and try my hand at more photography. Although my miniscule amount of talent does not compare to yours, I know that you value what photos I have to offer, and that makes it such a treat to have you as a friend here. Thanks."

    27th July, 2008

  • view profile

    kris102008 says:

    "I've just got to add my compliments to Joe for his wonderful photographs. His diversity just amazes me....to be so talented from landscape to macro...wow! Also I have to give him props for using a film camera. I couldn't wait that long to see my pictures. Great job Joe...keep up the wonderful photography. Also, thank you for always commenting on my photos and giving me encouragement. I appreciate it!"

    9th July, 2008

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    Jοey says:

    "I think Joe's photostream speaks for itself, but if you haven't noticed he has some of the best and most diverse macros on Flickr! His comments are always on target, and his suggestions have helped me ID species. I only recently found his pics but I have a feeling we'll be good friends for a long time!"

    22nd June, 2008

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    Tom Gill (lapstrake) says:

    "Joe has a great eye for detail, especially historic detail. His knowledge of the Illinois and Michigan Canal is extensive and infectious! I caught the canal bug after his invitation to join the I & M Canal group. I now see the beauty and historical importance of the Illinois and Michigan Canal.

    Canal photo trips with him are like guided tours - but much more fun! I'm happy to have Joe as my tour guide, contact and friend."

    3rd April, 2008

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    iheartnewyork says:

    "Joe was one of the first people to make me feel welcome on Flickr. I love visiting his stream for a wonderful slice of Americana -- the grain elevators, railroad tracks and trains, canals, fading signs, old gas stations... And his nature macros are a sight to behold. Joe -- thanks for being a great Flickr friend. I appreciate your advice and support. And I look forward to seeing what else you're going to share with us!"

    1st April, 2008

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    Monachromatic says:

    "Joe is a very supporting Flickr contact! And he takes great pictures :)

    You rock Joe!
    Thank you for your comments and support!"

    17th December, 2007

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    grass.hopper says:

    "I just have to pipe up about Joe. He was my very first Flickr contact and now my very first testimonial. His nature shots are some of the best I have seen and he excels at producing wonderful, smooth bokeh. A great member of the Flickr community and friend to many. Look forward to seeing more great shots from Joe!"

    14th December, 2007

  • view profile

    Daisy Mai-ling says:

    "Joe has been my biggest supporter since I have joined flickr....his encouragement and kind comments have spurred me to explore other options open to me besides my passion for BUTTERFLIES...=-)
    I appreciate the friendship he has extended to me through this great website....

    thanks again, Joe"

    20th September, 2007

  • view profile

    zooeybat says:

    "My big brother & photography partner in crime. Our scheduled photo shoots always give me something to look forward to. He gets me to walk out onto shaky drawbridges on the South Side of Chicago. He pushes me to be a better photographer. His knowledge of local Ilinois history is staggering. Joe introduced me to the I&M canal and now I love it as much as him."

    19th September, 2007

Name:
Joe Balynas
Joined:
July 2007
Hometown:
Cicero,IL
Currently:
Lyons,IL, USA
I am:
Male and Taken
Occupation:
Logistics manager
Website:
http://www.muledriver.imagekind.com