Just Beyond

Over Labor Day Weekend, I made a trek back to the Eastern Sierra region of California.  I was just there 6 weeks prior, but couldn’t believe the rich gold and yellow colors surrounding Mono Lake.  Time passes differently in nature, doesn’t it!

Here are a few ready to share…

Afternoon Delight

A few clouds...

Another view, but this time with my Lensbaby Sweet 35 Optic.  I am now thankful to have 2 cameras at the ready–one with Lensbaby and one without.  So much easier to gain access to the moments I want to capture and share!

A touch of blur...

We waited around for sunset and it actually wasn’t as impressive color-wise as my July visit. Just being able to enjoy the seas of goldenrod still made it worth it!

Stolen Moment

There will be more to come from this trip:)

During a recent trip to the Eastern Sierra I took a trip on the “June Lake Loop”.  Expected to find June Lake, but enjoyed so many other sights as well.  One in particular was Silver Lake.

First image processed using Photoshop!

I was in the area to attend a workshop on Photoshop for Photographers with Moose Peterson.  Was a wonderful class, although must admit  a bit over my head at the time!  Have since then spent countless hours in Photoshop and also have ventured in Lightroom with much success.  Thanks to Doug Sahlin and Knapp Hudson am able to process my RAW images now and post from Lightroom!!  Special thanks to Andy Brooks for helping me with my class homework via “Go to Meeting” and advising me to create the image above.  (Yes, I did say I had help with my homework!  Seriously, as an educator had to admit did not do without help!  I did the work, but with guidance.)

Back to the loop…

View in the distance

I could find no access to the wonderful falls above, so chose my 70-200mm for a closer view.

One of my Lensbaby optics that doesn’t get much use is my Fisheye.  Enjoyed the majestic views with a twist.  So still and calm, figured the Fisheye could help me show the fullness of beauty.  This is June Lake and the richness of colors matches my experience with Sand Harbor, located in the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe.  A must visit, if in the area!!

Some Lensbaby fun!

Part of the splendor of the Highway 395 corridor for me was there were so many breath-taking views.  Took me 11 and a half hours to get from 395 back to Davis, CA to show my easy ADHD–or just the ability to pull over and enjoy visions of grandeur!

Just one little patch of fence left!

I especially enjoyed views that are not the norm down in the “flatlands” I enjoy and call home!

Leading the way to beauty!

I would love to just follow this road all day and just enjoy where it might lead!  For now, I will let my imagination fill that trip until I return one day and can really go where this road leads.

I did pass wildflowers alongside the road during much of my trip–a pleasure to behold and catch with my camera.  These so struck my fancy as they are surrounded by weeds and surviving on their own!  Will have a dedicated blog to the flowers that caused part of my wonderful lengthy return to the Sacramento area!  Spent much of that time with my macro lens!

Wildflowers

One last view of June Lake…and yes, I do in fact have a “rock fettish”  Love the way you can see the wear and tear on this one rock.  Wonder how many years it has endured harsh weather and the fabulous view of June Lake!

Crystal Clear

I learned on this trip to enjoy the unexpected!  I went on my way to Mammoth with no reservations for a Thursday evening in the middle of July.  I figured–with this economy…I could get a room for one night.  Mind you, I have never gone anywhere without a reservation…I would strongly recommend you plan ahead and reserve a room in Lee Vining.  It is the “portal” to Yosemite via Tioga Pass and does fill up.  However–if I didn’t have to drive another 10 plus miles down the road, I wouldn’t have enjoyed this sunset view across June Lake from my very economical hotel room!!

The end of the day...

I so look forward to more visits along this golden span of California!

Tufa View in Rough Water

Recently, I had the pleasure to visit the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range in California.  Highway 395 rolls along at elevations over 7000 feet, even in summer there are snow-capped mountains.  The vistas are stunning and just breath-taking.

Mono Lake is a State Natural Preserve located outside of the town of Lee Vining, CA.  Lee Vining is one of the portals to Yosemite National Park via Tioga Pass.  The preserve is home to millions of migrating birds, in particular huge colonies of Gulls.  Wilson’s Phalarope’s are also native to Mono Lake and feed on the Brine Flies which are abundant in the lake environment.

Class Act of Balance!

Mono Lake, known mostly by the odd mineral formations, called Tufa Towers is a vast wilderness covering about 65-70 square miles.  The Tufa Towers are made of Calcium-Carbonate.  One of the reasons this lake is so different, is that there is “no outlet”.  Water run off from the surrounding streams enter the lake and then the fresh water evaporates generating a significantly high count of salt and alkalinity. (More than twice the salt in the sea.)

Tufa Formation almost Dusk

Depending upon your whereabouts decades ago, you may know the controversy that surrounded Mono Lake…water was diverted to Southern California by the LA Department of Water and Power for over 50 years.  This significant loss of water caused the lake level to drop a vertical 45 feet at it’s lowest point.  The animals, vegetation, and ecosystems were greatly effected. In 1994, a settlement was reached with the agreement of a minimum water level for Mono Lake of 6392 feet above sea level.

Today, we see Mono Lake in the news and this time the ecosystem may be fine–only not viewed by the public.  This historic gem, believed to be over one million years of age is going to be closed as a California State Park, due to our devastating budget crisis.  No specifics about how the park will be closed or which access points will close has been shared publicly.  The time listed on the State Park website states October as a closing date for numerous parks, but no concrete plan is published.  I for one–will make another trip there before the sun sets on my access to this treasure.

Location/Directions
Highway 395, 13 miles east of Yosemite National Park, near the town of Lee Vining, California.

Resources:

Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Preserve:                        http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=514
Mono Lake.org                                                               http://www.monolake.org/about/

Last week at this time I was enjoying the Eastern Sierras of California on my way to a Photoshop Class in Mammoth.  Along the way, I got to visit such majestic places as Bodie, Mono Lake, June Lake, Mammoth Lakes, and Yosemite.  There will be numerous blogs that share the images from this trip. My original intent was to share them chronologically, but a magic moment in Yosemite has caused me to rethink that and share nature’s magic first!

One of my most memorable highlights was in Yosemite, just inside the Tioga Pass entrance.  I pulled over to photograph the amazing snow-capped mountains and still lake along side a meadow.

Glory abounds

Another view framed by trees as I approached the edge of the lake.

Closer view

This actually was my second trip to Yosemite in less than 24 hours.  The previous day, one of my classmates from our Photoshop for Photographers Class headed up Tioga Pass and down to Tuolumne Meadow.  I reviewed my images that night and they stank.  I had been so caught up the beauty and wonders everywhere I looked, I got lazy and didn’t use a tripod…this trip, I was a “Tripod Queen” and vowed to only really take pictures that were well thought out.

It could have been the tripod that scared this female Mallard out of her spot in the bushes.  I am still not sure which one of us was startled more.  (Probably me!) Once my heart rate got closer to normal, I began to shoot her photo.  She never got far from the shore and I soon realized there was a reason for this!  I had unknowingly flushed her off her nest…

Well hidden in the shrubs

Once I knew what had happened, I moved out of the area and changed to my 70-200mm lens.  The nest image was at 200mm from a safe distance.

Think Mama had been on her nest for quite some time.  Not a single other duck visible to me the entire trek through upper Yosemite.  She soon began to stretch on top of a rock along the shore.

Stretch

...and hold it...

When she was done, she still stood guard.

She kept me in eyesight

I waited for quite some time for her to return to her nest.  I kept my distance as I certainly did not want to flush her off her nest again!  I did not crop this image–as I wanted to share how well hidden she and her eggs really are.

Nest is located between the two trees--look for a lighter spot

This was such a magical moment and think even more so–because it was just me and Mama Mallard.  Will revisit this area again next time I can visit the park.  Really found I preferred the outskirts of the popular areas–where it was really isolated and no one else around!

Mono Lake is also located in the Eastern Sierras, about 1 hour north of Mammoth Lakes–look for a future posting dedicated to the history with numerous views of the Tufas (formations) in this grand salt lake.  For now, a few bird images.

The lake is known for the vast Gull habitat it is.  Here is one on top of a rock–to view other gulls and the tourists!

From a distance--cropped or closer view

One thing I so appreciate about birders (and photographers too)–is the willingness to share knowledge.  I was sitting on the shore trying hard to photograph little birds that kept swimming in circles and going into the shadows from the Tufas on the lake.

A young man and a group of three friends joined me in watching…I noticed his binoculars hanging from his neck and asked if he was a birder? Yes, and he identified the birds and explained their antics.  Wonderful!  They are Wilson’s Phalaropes and a (Lifer for me)–they swim in circles to stir up the food in the water and then snack away.  Took numerous pictures and with the fading light didn’t have much luck–but still loved every minute!

Shadows of a Bird

A little better view–backside, but at least in the light!

In fading light

More trip highlights to come!

Hope your day is wonderful:)

One of the benefits of living in the Sacramento Area is visiting Old Town.  Old Town has Cobblestone roads, wooden plank sidewalks, and horse and buggy carriages–quite quaint and takes you back in time for a moment!  Equally enjoyable are the Railroad Museum, numerous shops–a bit touristy and some great restaurants.

This also makes a perfect outing for the Lensbaby to enjoy a little blur–up close!

Heavy Metal

Special thanks to Tim Voss–I posted this on Facebook and his comment was “Heavy Metal,” had to borrow his comment!

Out or In?

At your own risk...

One of the lovely restaurants–snuck in for a quick photo opportunity as we went by:)

Elegant Dining

This next image is taken from the entrance to the State Capital building at night.  Pretty certain I would not be allowed to lie down in the entrance during the day!

It's Your Move!

A view from the Capital Building shooting back to Old Town…

Did you know buildings could smile?

Another favorite photo option for me is looking at flowers via my Composer Pro with the Sweet 35 Optic.  Does wonders for flowers, and even weeds!

Beauty in Nature

Bright and Sunny

I wish for World Peace

Up Close

A Rock and A Hard Place

Center Stage

A gate to the garden…

Enter

Have a wonderful week!

Two weeks ago I got a little time to visit the Petapalooza in Citrus Heights (near Sacramento).  This event was free to the public and welcomed dogs, birds, horses (pony ride…) bunnies (for adoption) and people.

There is something about getting animal lovers together.  Here are just a few views of the “dog watching” that I did…

Two by Two...

Not all dogs had to walk–some health reasons, but love involved no matter what–IMHO!

Going for a ride

Clearly gives new meaning to the term, “Wanna go for a ride?”

Papoose

Think I am cool!

One of my favorite events were the “Splash Dogs” having attended last year, I knew where the pool was and took off as soon as we entered the park.  I learned that The Splash Dogs were actually competing in Reno, NV.  So, the Citrus Heights Canine Unit was showing their leaps and bounds and the general public could pay $30 for their dog to leap off and into the water.

This first dog was a star and absolutely fearless–into the air…got ball…and found own exit out of the pool–no interest in using the ramp that was available.

In the air!

Mine!

Don't need the ramp!

Am not certain what the refund policy was or what fundraiser the dollars were going to…but some dogs were NOT going in.  No matter how much persuading or taunting with the beloved ball

No, thanks--YOU go in!

Here's your ball...

An important part of taking your dog to events is making certain they are well cared for and have lots of water.

The Hydration Station was popular…

Smiling Goldie

When out of the water…dogs do what they do…shake!

Goldie at Hydration Station

A favorite moment we have recreated at home is the kiddie pool–full of ice.  Got to see the dogs love it at the event, so have done it at home to help get through 105 degree days.

Waiting for the ice...patiently!

Another awesome event was watching The Relay Races–these dogs were so focused, I couldn’t believe it.  The noise from the crowds was loud–but they were on a mission.  Run down, jump over the hurdles–get the ball and come on back doing the same thing.  One thing that surprised me was that there was a larger dog that was able to compete and did well!

Up and...

Not just for Terriers!

Release and Off!

With ball in mouth

A few other events I was able to enjoy in addition to the many pet friendly vendors and food.  Another view coming soon:)

First Stop for Photos!

Have been fortunate to visit the local Sacramento Zoo a few times since January.  My staff gave me a year pass to visit and I intend to enjoy every visit and meeting of these amazing animals!

The first exhibit I wanted to capture with my new camera and tripod was the orangutan’s. Main reason being I knew there is no fence or glass between us, so it’d be easy to shoot.  Had to laugh, my friend overheard someone say, “They are so human like!”  Well, yes that is true!

Momma always said, "Don't show your food!"

Resting in the sun, far away from the observation area…

Afternoon Relaxation

The friend above is a Bongo Antelope–never heard of that before.  Native of Africa.

My previous visit, I did not have a long lens with me–so it was wonderful to use my 70-200 when viewing the Flamingos…

Looking at you!

What fascinated me the most about being able to view them up close–is the way they were eating their food in the water.  Their beaks are submerged and upside down as they scoop up morsels.

Wonder if they get a headache if they eat/drink too fast?

Another wonder of the zoo is visiting the large cats.  A head shot of a Lion…

What nice fur you have!

The trick in shooting the lion images were to focus on the animal far away and not on the large fence that separated us from one another.  This was with my new camera and if I wasn’t careful in auto-focus, I got this instead of the majestic lion.  Happy to share my Non-examples to help anyone else learn.  Good thing to be humbled by my camera–makes me want to learn more!

Wrong focal point! Lion in the far background.

The Giraffes were a bit reluctant to come out for their moment of fame.

Just checking out what is outside my "home."

Another view…

Portrait View

A moment of posing for a non-zoo resident!

Relaxed and Ready to move!

Check out Andy’s work at http://www.blueturban.net

"Let sleeping cats...lie."

A bit of flowers as well to enjoy our very late blooms of spring.

Just one bloom

Pink and white blooms, finally!

You are entering The Dixon May Fair

Back in May, I had the chance to visit a small local fair.  The Dixon May Fair is held in Dixon, CA, not far from my new locale, Davis.

I was sporting a new camera, the Nikon D7000 with the kit lens.  Need to be a little lighter lately, due to a back injury–so this works well:)

There is always something so humbling for me with new technology, or should I just say, new to me.  The D7000 is my fourth Nikon DSLR and I was feeling quite smug…not reviewing the manual and thinking I could just “wing it”.  One of my favorite lens, is my Lensbaby.  I liked this shot, because it reminds me I have much to learn–plus it has a trace of the Lensbaby Blur I so enjoy.  This image was created by operator error!

Operator Error

I did do a bit better navigating settings on my camera and had a super time on our maiden voyage.

Do calories really count from the fair?

The best part of the fair–aside from the food, is being there at night to shoot The Midway.  So, here we go!

Let the fun begin!

Sometimes, life just seems to pass by in a blur and time moves quickly.

Just a Trace

What goes up...must come down!

For me, some of my favorite shots are longer exposures and the blend of lights.

Swinging Around

Fun Games

And of course, the favorite…the Ferris Wheel!

Colors are plenty!

Also took a moment to enjoy the reflection on the windows of a nearby trailor.

Midway Lines

I am really excited for the California State Fair which starts on July 14th.  Will look forward to sharing more fair images in July!

Feels Science Fiction!

A few weekends ago, took a short jaunt to a neighboring town that seems like hundreds of miles removed from the city and suburbia of Sacramento.  Rio Vista–on the way there is a source of alternate energy–windmills.  These windmills are HUGE!  Not only was I shocked at the size–the most amazing thing was they are quiet.  Not a whisper of sound as you stand near by and take pictures!  Reminded me of the scene of a Sci-Fi movie.

The weather was also a perfect day for shooting.  Stormy clouds and then beautiful Cumulus clouds in blue sky.

Spring Flowers in Front Lensbaby

Same view…but not with my Lensbaby Sweet 35 Optic…

Spring Flowers

Another stop with a bit of  a view…

Leading Pathway

Also something I do not see every day are grazing beauties.  Horses and cattle enjoying the grass and hanging out.  Yes, these are “California Cows”  for folks who have heard the Milk advertisements!

Looking at you!

Got my eyes on you

All in all the animals, were very interested in us–might have been close to feeding time.  I prefer to think they know I meant them no harm:)

Not quite certain

Another fun view for us city folk is the resident truck and tractor in the middle of the field…

Parked

With a Pasture View

The most exceptional sight were these shoes in the middle of the fence–clearly, they have been here for a long time!

Kudos to Andy for his sight…and quick pullover.

Size 8?

All by myself!

Lensbaby Loves Boot

A bit of spring with a flower shot…

Blow and share your dreams!

One thing I know for certain…is I will be back!

See ya later!

Looking forward to some day trips this summer and more “car shooting” so nice to not carry gear and just change lens in the car and go shoot!

Water Rushing

Last Month, got to enjoy a short trip to Lake Lagunitas, located in Marin County.  Fortunate, to have a day without rain!

The waterfall above was actually at the end of a spillway–but still beautiful to enjoy!

No swimming for people

One of the most unusual things–is visiting a lake that doesn’t allow swimming for people.  Fishing is OK, though.

Shady Steps

The views are wonderful on this very short trail.

View to the water's edge

Surrounding Views

One of the benefits of our vast rainfall this year is the lush grass.  This won’t be a benefit once fire season sets in…and the grasses are tall and dead.  So–just enjoying while I can and hoping for an uneventful fire season.

Caught in the Rays

Patch of Clouds

Another wonder of this area are the tall Redwood Trees.  Felt so small standing there taking this shot.  Quite humbling.

How tall am I?

Looking forward to just spending time outdoors and watching our spring pass and summer set in!