The Eagle Has Landed

I went to the local zoo this morning and took about 150 pics of the bald eagles. I learn something new every time I go out and shoot. This time, I learned that shots set up on a tripod with a remote shutter are much sharper than pressing the shutter yourself. Actually, I knew this already but it is especially true with wildlife that don't move very much. Already, I want to get back and try again. I think I can do better next time. There are literally thousands of great eagle photos out there, but I always wanted to take one for myself.

Gus This Morning

Playful and demanding of my full attention as usual. You may notice the black spot on his back. It seems that he lost some fur in that area for some reason. Normally I might be inclined to rush him to the vet for this, but he seems fine. His appetite is good and he's as wild as ever. I'll continue to monitor it.

Rocky raccoon checked into his room...

..only to find an empty feeder.

I had a serious raccoon problem a little while ago. It turns out that one of my neighbors was feeding them. This little guy ended up destroying two of my feeders. I tried every humane way to get rid of him, but nothing worked. He finally just quit coming around. This is why I never let Gus out on the deck at night.


NOTE: I corrected the heading on this post to reflect the correct lyrics from the Beatles song. jn

Not So Menacing

Unfortunately, you rarely have the opportunity to get very close to Herons in Michigan. It's not that hard in Florida. No wonder so many of the greatest bird photographers are based in Florida

Menacing

A little too close for comfort on this one.

Grand Canyon 2007

Saugatuck State Park

The pic here is from a few years back. It was taken on the West Michigan shore near Saugatuck. That's Sam, my step-grandson.

I just flipped my Terra Trike

I took a corner too sharp today and damaged the right front wheel. Fortunately I was still able to ride afterward. I was unhurt except a little gravel in the hand. I may have to replace the wheel this week.

Surfin' USA

Kauai 2006 -

On a few occasions, I would get up early and walk down to the shore near Poipu beach and watch the kids surf.

My Very First Photograph

This was taken in the fall of 1984. I had just traded my top loading Quasar VCR for a Mamiya MX1000 SLR and a slew of lenses, bag, etc. I grew to love this camera because of the exceptional results and the fact that it was 100% manual. Unfortunately the camera and equipment were stolen a couple of years later.

Young Gus