Peacock showing off!
Growing up in Southern California, I had the pleasure to be near The Arboretum in Arcadia. It is not unusual to see Peacocks strutting through the neighborhoods surrounding the Arboretum. It was a treat on a recent visit to catch a male showing off for a nearby hen. For the record, she did not seem to be impressed…although it could have been the audience–maybe she was shy.
Here are a view shots of him showing off!
Colors are so vivid
Eye to eye
Side view
Is that the best you can do?
Another part of his show is the rattling of his feathers…do not remember hearing that before…was quite loud!
Rear view...
Posing
A Train of feathers
One last view…
Full view!
Lensbaby Alley and Rust
Bunch of river rocks
One of the most amazing things about enjoying time with my camera– for me, it doesn’t have to be a significant amount of time spent. Can happily visit one location and shoot some photos even justfor 20 minutes. Feel connected and happy.
Have been spending time with my Lensbaby Composer–viewing the world in a more abstract way and loving it!
Some shots from an alley…
Partial cover
Different focus point
Brick View
Rusty River
USPS delivery spot
Pull here to open
Rusty Pipe
Solitude
Little bits of nature–citified
Abandoned Home
Also have learned–when you see something you’d like to shoot–DO IT!
That is going to be one of my goals–not missing opportunities:)
Ridges
- Barbs a Plenty
Riley Graduates!
- At least there is no graduation gown!
How long do I have to wear this?
- Don’t tell her dog, she’s lovin’ on Riley!
Shared this pic and the last one in a previous blog of his, but seems appropriate to revisit!
- Will sit for treats–FINALLY!
Yes, I did get in here by myself!
- Certain there will be more tales to tell and share:)
Sandhill Cranes Scenery and Such
Finally found them!
After four attempts to find and photograph the lovely Sandhill Cranes –I did find them! Although this is late in their migration season–there were still a few to be seen and enjoyed!
In Flight
Lift off
Some of you may remember that I went to a workshop recently on my Nikon D300s…it was fabulous. Learned much about using my camera more effectively. Part of the changes I made were to set Auto ISO and give a range–at the instructors urging. Seemed good to me. Really wish I would have thought about the consequences of this action–setting the ISO range from 200-3200. Realized late in this shoot that my ISO was shooting up to ISO 32o0. Was I checking pics for focus–yes. Did I look at histograms–yes! Am I shooting in RAW and jpg–yes!
The good news–is I now have my camera ISO under my control and not in Auto anything! Some lessons only take one time to learn:)
Amazing Grace
What a wingspan!
- So many birds!
There were so many birds to view and enjoy. Amazing how they seem to have their own little sections of this pond.
Not sure who is watching whom
This was a crazy weather weekend–and I was able to enjoy amazing natural shows of beauty while waiting for dusk and hoping more Sandhill Cranes would arrive.
Into the field of Gold
Slice of the field of gold
Wispy Clouds
- Hint of sunset
Into the Light
Just Snowy Egrets
Piggyback ride?
These shots were taken from two locations in the San Francisco Bay Area–Marin County. A treat for me to see Snowy Egrets close enough to photograph.
Hunkered Down
What I most enjoy about these beauties are the various poses they make…hunting for food–a bit of a wind-blown look–could probably shoot their antics all day!
At the Ready!
Serious Concentration
Searching for a snack
Tall and proud
Enjoying the view
Birding in the Bay Area
Soaring Along
Searching for a snack!
How do they do this?
A bit hidden...can you see me now?
Posing
Just diving for a snack!
- Just hanging out!
Am looking forward to spring and more visits when the sun is shining!
Also must confess, am really enjoying learning more about birds! Am equally thrilled that the Black Phoebes are back in their nest from last year–so will have posts of them in the near future!
Bird Stretches in the Sun
Working it!
Had the pleasure to visit the Bay Area last weekend and captured some feathered friends exercising. Thinking we are all ready for spring!
And Bend
Make it Burn!
As I watched these lovely Canada Geese, I could hear the “Aerobics” Instructor in my head…hold it! Stretch, give it all you got!
The Female Mallard also got into the act, while her beau was too busy preening to appreciate her antics!
Preening and Stretching Pair
No interest whatsoever
The White Pelicans also shared their talents of wing movement!
Made it!
Ready to Relax!
May you be able to stretch in the sunshine shortly!
American River and Folsom State Recreation Area
Looking in the mirror
On Martin Luther King Junior’s Day of honor, I was able to catch a few reflections and a bit of solitary peace.
Have learned that even when I am stressed, a few moments with my camera redirects me and I am immediately much better.
Nature + Beauty = Wonder
Enjoy your weekend!
- Crystal clear water
Nice to see something green!
All alone
A heart for you
A fun jigsaw puzzle, perhaps?
City Wild Turkeys
Going my way?
Met up with an unusual sight on the way home a few weeks ago…a flock of Wild Turkeys in the road. Mind you–this is not out in the country, suburban area of Sacramento!
Of course, I had to pull over, park, and grab my camera–just happened to have it in the front seat. (Always rides “shotgun!”)
Enjoyed watching the play over an apple. Not sure whether I was more entertained–or they were?
An apple a day...
The "5 second rule" was applied
Cars don't bother them at all!
See, got it back after dropping it! 5 second rule applies to turkeys too! The rule for some folks…if a food item drops on the floor and there less than 5 seconds–still good! Can’t really recommend–depends what it is and where you dropped it!
We are taking over!
Unusual coloring
One last shot of a “Jay-walking” Turkey–or, is it “Turkey-Walking?”
Turkey Crossing
It was a fun encounter!
Lensbaby Goes Ice Skating!
Great Balls of Fire!
Although the traditional holiday season is over–there are still a few options with wonderful lights to be caught!
Sacramento has a seasonal outdoor holiday Ice Rink open from November through January 17th this year. The last day corresponds to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday this year. I am still hoping to get in one more visit:)
This visit–limited to the Lensbaby Composer and what a tremendous match for holiday lights and sparkling ice!
Setting the stage
Amazing how one shift of view can change the results!
Self Portrait by Default
The joys of photography are abundant everywhere you look!
Says it all!
Anyone who is willing to jump through puddles for a “photo op”…brilliant!
Fleeting Foot
After puddle stomping!
Trace of Splash
The advantage of this seasonal locale is the proximity to the Light Rail Track…
Going my way?
Little bit of Ice Skating View…
Shadow
What is ice skating without the biting lines cut deep into the ice…and a little blur!
Cutting through
The Ice Rink is next to an outdoor mall…where a Popcorn Kiosk was screaming for a Lensbaby opportunity!
Seeing double
Closes for the year on Monday…still hoping for one last visit!
Wings on Wednesday
Had some visitors outside my window last week. Just happened to have my camera at the ready:)
American Robin enjoying a little snack!
Almost got it!
Hungry!
Just a Pose!
Have a fabulous Wednesday!
Puppy Pics, finally!
Will I look like you when I grow up?
Riley joined us 3 weeks ago, he is a Miniature Schnauzer with black and silver coloring. Born on September 20th, just about 3 and a half months now. The picture above was when he first met, Benji–an adult version of what Riley will become.
I must confess it has been a long time since I have dealt with a puppy and he is curious about everything. Of course, as I type this–by some miracle he is in my lap curled up. Yes, ready for a nap after chewing on the cat scratcher, pulling on my computer cord, and bothering 2 sleeping cats. By the way–cats NOT impressed!
As much work–there is much more joy that comes with watching a new little one enter the family of 3 cats and 1 Cairn Terrier, Roxie. I apologize profusely to folks with puppies that I bugged incessantly to post more puppy pictures! Sorry @Akanaphoto!
What I now know is that a puppy is fast moving and rarely holds still…add to the fact he has black around his eyes and dark eyes–not easy to capture. Finally have resorted to using the flash to get more detail…
Hi there!
Here are a few from the holidays–originally posted on Twitpic…
I love this place!
Decorations inside the house are very minimal due to the many critters–no Christmas Tree. Seems we always have a young animal that makes that a ridiculous concept. So–we have tons of holiday toys for both dogs and cats. They come out once a year from Thanksgiving – New Years and then, the regular toys come back out! Riley must have thought he hit the toy jackpot! Perhaps it is his small size–or just to torture the cats, his favorite toys seem to be cat toys. This is how he won over Mr. Moto…
That is MY toy!
Moto can play for hours with that toy–liked the fact he could watch it move! For the record, this toy is longer on the floor–due to puppy interest. Moto still gets to enjoy it when the puppy is in his “Safe Place!” Crate training literature states we should not call it “jail”, but refer to it as his “Safe Place”. Thank you to the inventor of crates!!
Roxie is enjoying the puppy. Riley bothers her non-stop. She has been very patient and tolerant. Do think in time, he will be bigger than she is. His legs are almost as tall as hers.
No animals were hurt during this photo shoot!
What else can I get into?
The good news is that, Puppy Classes start today via Petsmart. I already know who is really getting the training–and it is not the puppy! Roxie and I will watch from the sidelines–and I plan on bringing my Nikon!
MUST UPDATE…as I was cleaning downstairs, I found out how un “Puppy Proof” the stairwell really is…of course, my camera was handy!!
I want the cat toys!
Someone put me here–I swear!
Thanks much for your support and comments–thinking there will be more Riley stories to tell!
Lake Berryessa & Napa Valley
Weather forecast...rain, we lucked out!
It is hard to predict exactly what the weather may bring…happened upon a rainy day with spurts of showers and sunshine. Perfect for enjoying the Napa Valley and the journey there!
Will revisit when the water is running!
I see this as simply an opportunity to scope out another visit. This concrete formation pulls water in from the lake and has no noise–due to the engineering–the sound travels straight up, according to a source who has visited it before in it’s glory! You can see how much higher the water in the lake needs to be in order to cover the “Glory Hole” .
We drove from Davis to Napa via backroads and had the pleasure to catch some wet beauties along the way!
Patch of lace
Stepped out into a huge puddle of mud getting out at this location…turns out it was worth it!
For the barn shots–started to absolutely pour rain. Thank goodness my D300s is hearty!
A bit traditional...fence and a barn
- Another glimpse
- Little blur
- No blur just reflection
Advantageous to look where you are about to step…found this “under foot”.
- Hint of color
The fun of being with another photographer is twofold–you both see the same opportunities along the road and want to stop! Then, when you get there–you “see” and “create” different images! These next 3 shots were taken in the same location–pretty certain it was the vast amount of yellow flowers that caught our eye!
In a field of beauty
A vine amidst yellow
The yellow called out to be photographed!
- Reflections Plenty
When on a photo journey and not the driver–my camera is usually in my lap. Was able to get a couple decent shots right out of the window:)
Think this is one of my favorites–what a great ending to a wonderful day!
Caught in a glow
Wings on Wednesday
Soaring with storm
A pleasure to have some “wings” to share and time to post–decadent! Recent trip to The American River at Sunrise Blvd, Fair Oaks.
Happy Wings on Wednesday!
May the start of the new year be a joyous one for you!
A pose for you!
Extreme River Surfing
Time to change lens!
There was a brief lull in the rain this week and of course…I had to check out the American River, so once again I headed to William Pond Park. I sat down and looked up to see a glimpse of orange on the river, the water flow was rapid where I was sitting and it looked like the kayaker was headed in my direction. Did what any person would do with a SLR camera–went for a longer lens as he came closer to me!
Balance is important!
I sat and shot numerous frames of this talented young man. My first thought was that it didn’t seem like a very safe activity. Frigid and rapid flowing water–even with life jacket and wet suit. Figured I could call 911 if he went under…continued to watch and shoot madly!
Soon learned as more spectators gathered–he was “surfing” the rapids. Went for the same location each time and worked swiftly to maintain balance and keep from tipping over.
More surfing!
The good news is that he had a “spotter” on the shore–also with camera that monitored his progress. As I enjoyed his antics–he must have had 4-5 “rides”. On one of his trips past me, I couldn’t help but ask him–how long have you been doing this? “He said, 3-4 years.”
Additional action shots…
Intense concentration!
Down the rapids
Maintaining balance
Riding the wave!
This just reinforced my passion for photography–not my normal subjects of landscape and nature–but seriously fun to shoot! Always willing to try new subjects and learn. These shots were taken with my 70-200mm and hand-held. Truth be told–couldn’t figure out how to attach my new lens to the tripod at the time. Was just too engrossed in the action and the “quick release plate” was attached to my camera…thanks to Josh at Ritz who set me right. Duh! Do love learning and am frequently humbled by how simple things are! Will order an additional plate, to keep handy:) Still laughing at my self–which is a good thing!
Day in Davis, CA
Clear creek, perfect for upside down image!
It’s always fun to explore a new area. Last month had the pleasure to do just that. Davis is a college town that sits just outside of Sacramento. The campus has an Arboretum that stretches alongside a creek through Redwood trees and is just lovely.
We lucked out on the weather–a rain shower passed by quickly and we had a day of clouds and sun.
Perfect weather for shooting!
Some flowers along the way…second shot is with my Lensbaby Composer!
A touch of color
Same subject different perspective
Also with Lensbaby Composer
Love the colors reflected in the water!
A Bird Sanctuary is also located in Davis–just as you are entering the area. One would not think that a sanctuary for birds would lie next to a major freeway–but this one does.
Couple of shots to share the habitat as viewed through my Lensbaby…
Ground view
Worth getting a bit muddy!
I shared more bird images on a previous post, but here are a few I couldn’t resist sharing again. Simply because I do not see these birds often on my river trips, so it was especially nice to catch them in flight and enjoying the beautiful sanctuary.
Wings in the light
Hunkered down from the wind
In flight
I look forward to exploring Davis again!
Walk Around the Block
Sycamore Tree
Some trees still have traces and blasts of color hanging on. Today, I took a quick stroll trough my neighborhood with my new 70-200 lens.
Another “holdout” with golden leaves only left on the bottom half of the tree.
Just the bottom half!
Also, noticed the moon was out quite early–hand-held. Lens is too new to let go!!
"Mr. Moon, Mr. Moon, you're out too soon, the sun is still in the sky..."
The advantage I am looking forward to with the leaves falling is learning more about which birds are really here!
Some friends I found today…this bird is in the front yard. Fondly call him, “Walker Bird” because he walks up and down the Pine Tree snacking and searching for food. Believe he is a woodpecker of some sort–think I will have to get my bird book out. As always, correct names are more than welcome!! Gotta love learning…thanks to @BirdGalalcatraz, AKA Jann Dorothy for proper name…Red-Breasted Nuthatch.
Just a quick pose!
Another feathered friend, a White-Crowned Sparrow–now able to be seen, since the leaves are all gone, where he is perched! Thanks again Jann for ID!!
I can see you--no leaves to hide behind!
And the sun setting in the distance…
Sun going down...
Hope your week is filled with much joy:)
Phoenix Lake Marin County, CA
Caught the moment!
Back in October, I had the pleasure to visit the Bay Area, in particular–Phoenix Lake which is in Marin County. Never would have found this hidden treasure on my own. Special thanks to @BirdGalAlcatraz for sharing this spot with me:)
This lake is a reservoir–no swimming allowed, but you can fish. Odd concept to me–but seems to work for this beautiful area with minimal impact by human kind.
The day was rainy and overcast–we were fortunate to catch a break in the clouds and enjoy some dry moments. The trees dripping in moss certainly are not something we have in Sacramento! We are much too dry for that.
Dripping in Moss
This little stairway caught my eye with the way it twisted through the hillside…don’t know where it goes, except up!
- One aspect I appreciate much with photography is the difference a little perspective can make…
Just a bit
Broader View
One step closer
A bit more green
A few more views from the day…
A bit damp
From side to side
A lack of focus
One thing I know is that I’d love to revisit this spot in the spring and see what wonders are present then:)
Yosemite Park Day Trip Part 2
Fall Reflection
Reflections are glorious everywhere you look!
Closer View
More fall views from different perspectives…
Majestic Moment
One thing to note is about the polite manners of everyone you meet. We are all smiling and patiently waiting to set up your shot and get the image you want. Of course, everyone with their cameras tended to flock to the same common picture points that are so familiar to us all from years of Yosemite pictures. I look forward to another visit with more time–so I can get away from the iconic photos and appreciate the depth of beauty and wonder here.
The advantage of a Meetup–is there are numerous views from the same day…sometimes similar and sometimes not taken by other photographers. For superb views from this fabulous day trip visit
Little different plus light
- Every angle is amazing!
Last view of the Valley. Half Dome is actually in the center of the photo and hidden behind clouds–weather can vary greatly within the park, due to various levels of elevation.
Waiting patiently
Can not believe it’s taken me so long to visit Yosemite. Would have been longer for certain without the Meetup Trip. Thankful I went–as crazy as the idea seemed–was well worth the lack of sleep:) Too excited before hand and totally amped when I got home after midnight reviewing images!
Wings on Wednesday
Chatting Away
Thought I’d celebrate Wings on Wednesday, since I ran into a few feathered friends yesterday!
Enjoying the sun
These ducks were on the UC Davis campus–never knew there was an Arboretum and it was full of ducks. Couldn’t resist this shot–think they know something we don’t?
We are not coming up for air, until she is gone!
Also visited a Bird Sanctuary that runs next to Interstate 80 and the Yolo Bypass. Amazed by the amount of land and birds! I had just got my 70-300mm lens on when we spotted this Great Blue Heron and he took flight. The advantage of being with a photographer is they know how to duck out of the way and have the window down even when it is WAY chilly–all for a photo op, thanks Andy! This was taken through driver’s open window. You may view Andy’s talent at www.blueturban.net worth a visit!
In flight!
I did crop this shot, so the huge electrical tower would not spoil the view of the Great Blue!
Another favorite that I do not see often is the Great Egret–there were more than a dozen. A few images that caught my eye!
Among the grass
Hunkered down from the wind
Wings in the light
Sleek
Always nice when there are just a few traces of clouds in the sky…
Among the clouds
Heading out!
Hope your Thanksgiving holiday is filled with love from family and friends! Am thankful for the connections that Twitter, Facebook, and blogging have brought into my life. Best wishes to you and yours!
Lensbaby Love
Took advantage of a break in our stormy day and raced to The American River in Fair Oaks at Sunrise Blvd. One of my favorite spots to connect and enjoy nature.
I have been working with my Lensbaby Composer and shot these pics with my D40x. (Will admit to having two cameras with me and shooting like I was trying to beat a storm. Fabulous fun!!)
- Blurry
One of the advantages for me shooting with my Lensbaby are the various options you have with any scene. Fun to take more than one version of the same subject…in my humble opinion!
Lensbaby Blur
Red by the river
Mellow Yellow
- A little blustery
The following shoots were from Boeger Vineyards located in the Apple Hill area above Placerville, CA. Quite popular this time of year and rich with colors.
In Grape Crush Mulch
A little bit of color
- Care for a rest?
Yosemite Park Day Trip Part 1
- A glimpse of snow!
These pictures are only here due to a Meetup opportunity. When I started exploring photography, fell upon various local Meetup groups. A wonderful way to meet people with common interests and visit places you wouldn’t go on your own. Thankful I clicked “yes” and the adventure began! 80% chance of rain…not so bad, when it brings snow on passes–a great photo opportunity!
A Touch of Snow
- Trace of Snow
First snow visit for me in 2010 and very welcome!
Next, we came upon an area lost to fire. My first thought was that it was rich in fall colors…then I saw the devastation of land wrought by heat and fire. Still a bit of beauty left and hope future generations will enjoy.
- Some Beauty Still Evident
The first “lookout” took my breath away! Mind you, I was here about 20 years ago, but appreciate so much more with camera in hand! There were multiple languages spoken in a small area and I believe we were all speaking the same–taking in the beauty and splendor of a majestic view!
Hidden Treasure
- Visible Glory
Decided to break this post into two parts…the second will feature the Yosemite Valley and waterfalls. One thing I know for certain, will not let that much time pass before returning. Fortunate to be within a 4-hour drive–might be 3 and 1/2 hours–depends upon the driver!! At anyrate, will revisit much sooner rather than later!
An Old Boat…in it’s Glory
A Bit Tattered
So, where do old boats go for glory? This one is shipwrecked in Marin County, California– near the small town of Inverness. Can not imagine how many photographers this boat has lured in…count me in!
This day started off with a cloudy sunrise session at the base of The Golden Gate Bridge and kept getting better and better! A windy drive for about one and a half hours brought me here. Yes–did get turned around and had to also ask for directions. So thankful I had not done this the night before in the dark! But–I did find it!!
Was surprised to find cell service along this coastal inway and excitedly snapped a picture of the boat reflection with my Droid and tweeted it. Was feeling quite smug–being able to send shots of a cool reflection and sharing with my twitter friends at the same time. Later in the day, when I had cell service once again–was surprised by a tweet…”But, it’s upside down…” Yep–sure as heck…this is what I posted…
Thankful for Reflections
Let’s try this view…
With my Nikon this time!
Humor is important!!
There are advantages to routes from one place to another. We stopped here at 9:00 a.m. when it was overcast and then swung back in the late afternoon…to find blue skies that lit up the boat again!
Beloved Vessel
Off to the side
- Imagine the tales to be told!
One thing I do know–I will be back and hope to capture this historic treasure again.
Golden Gate Sunrise
- Minding the Gate
Thought I’d share a sunrise from the Golden Gate Bridge. These images were taken on October 19th from Cavallo Point Lodge–below the Coast Guard station. The location is why I so appreciate staying there. It rained on and off on Sunday. On Monday, I got up at 5:30a.m. raced outside to check the weather and saw some stars…45 minutes later I was set up and ready for a fabulous show of lights reflecting from the glory of The Golden Gate Bridge.
Almost Dawn
Tall and Proud
SF Morning Awaits
Golden Moment
Life is funny. Got up the next day excitedly awaiting another wonderful sunrise experience. The fog was so thick couldn’t see 2 feet in front of me! So, for now…I have the memory and will certainly need to return again:)
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