Recharging with a Drive: Franklin Parker Preserve & Barnegat Lighthouse

Sometimes, you just need to step back, disconnect from the noise, and recharge. That’s where I found myself yesterday—a drive down to clear my head and maybe stumble upon some inspiration.

A Flea Market That Didn’t Click

The day started at the Berlin Farmers Market. I'd heard about its flea market appeal, and while I could see the draw—the rows of eclectic vendors and shops tucked inside—I just couldn’t find a spark. Maybe it was my mood, maybe the light wasn’t right, or maybe it just wasn’t the right scene for me that day. I grabbed lunch and hit the road, letting my curiosity take over.

Franklin Parker Preserve

Driving aimlessly turned out to be the reset I needed. I ended up at Franklin Parker Preserve, a quiet and serene spot that felt miles away from everything. The reflections on the water caught my eye immediately—subtle ripples and an expanse of stillness. I grabbed my Nikon D200 paired with the 24-120mm f/4G lens, a camera I always turn to for its beautiful CCD sensor output. There’s something about the depth and color from this older sensor that I don’t always find in my newer gear.

The edge of the water with trees reflected perfectly on the glassy surface.

A wide shot of the icy water, stretching out to a distant tree line.

Chasing a Lighthouse

While browsing Google Maps, I noticed I wasn’t far from Barnegat Lighthouse. I’d heard about it before but had never made the drive. It felt right to see how the day might end there.

By the time I arrived, the prettiest colors of the sunset had already faded, but the lighthouse, illuminated against a soft blue sky, stood tall and timeless. I took my time, framing a shot that captured the quiet atmosphere. It wasn’t the most vibrant sky, but that didn’t matter—it was a photo I felt good about.

The Barnegat Lighthouse after sunset.

The Gear I Used

• Nikon D200 + Nikon 24-120mm f/4G lens: I love the D200 for moments like these. Its CCD sensor delivers a look that’s hard to replicate.

• Yashica D and Nikon F2: I also took some shots on film, but those rolls are yet to be developed. I’m curious to see how they’ll turn out—film always has its own surprises.

What started as an underwhelming trip turned into a day of discovery—quiet reflections, long drives, and a new lighthouse checked off my list. Sometimes, the best recharge is unplanned and slow, and yesterday was exactly that.