In her infinite wisdom, Mother Nature has given creatures the ability to adapt to varying seasons. Here is the Midwest we have examples of this all around us. I am fortunate as a photographer to witness a great many of these adaptations. One of the most simple, yet most vital is with birds. Take for example this American Goldfinch. A …
Creatures big and small
Walking through the woods is by far one of my favorite things to do, especially in the fall. Looking for the color changes is of course the main objective, but if you just stop, look and listen you will be amazed at what might show up and what you will see. While walking, taking care to watch our steps, this …
Fun with Shorebirds
Walking on the beach or just along a secluded waterway, one thing that you will always find are shorebirds. These unique species rely on the water for their every need. Whether it be feeding, raising their young or mating, shorebirds offer a great photographic opportunity. This juvenile sanderling paused long enough to allow me to get a shot or two …
You can always do better
Birding is one of those things that once you get the bug, you are always looking to get different species to the feeders. As a wildlife photographer, being able to get glass on these species is an ongoing quest. Here in the Midwest, I have two species, the Rose Breasted Grosbeak and the Baltimore Oriole that I have seen in …
Flash and Wildlife
Given the current state of the times, with everyone staying home, more folks have been experimenting with backyard photography and I could not be more excited about that. With more people taking photographs of the species coming to their backyards, more questions are coming in. One in particular is about the use of flash. I have done many posts on …
Backyard Birding Boom
Lately, my inbox has been filling up with a repeating question and I thought it was post worthy for an answer. With all the downtime that photographers have, and not just photographers, but people in general, the question has been rolling in “How do I get started in backyard bird photography?”. Great question and I could not be happier to …
Eye Contact – Subtle but important
As photographers, we are taught that the eyes on the subject have to be sharp. No argument here as that can make or break a portrait whether shooting people or wildlife. Having the eye contact with the subject helps connect the viewer to the subject. This got me thinking while shooting in my backyard the other day. What type of …
I said no pictures ….
Critters are great and and knowing biology helps when photographing them. This squirrel folding its arms as if to say “You cannot be serious about taking my picture again, can you?” helps to tell the story and bring a somewhat human quality to her. Great fun to shoot when the birds are not feeding or cooperating.
Winter feeder fun without snow
Our winter has been very up and down here in the Midwest. One day we have -30 below wind chill temps and the next it will be in the 50’s. Given that, there has not been much snow on the ground even though we are in the middle of winter. Despite the weird temps, birds still go on with there …
They have returned
Winter is tough for birds. They have to scavenge for food, water and the basic necessity of shelter. Quite remarkable when one has to think about what they endure during the cold season. In my backyard studio, I try to have help them out as best I can. I have 7 feeders with various seeds and two heated bird baths …