Headed out this morning looking for new subjects. I first tried the turkey’s to see how they were doing at dawn. Turns out it was too cold for them even to show off their testosterone to impress the chicks. Headed on down the island to see what else was around. Every spot I hit I felt I was missing opportunities. Ever work against the rising sun desperate to find a subject? Yeah, that’s what it felt like. Then I finally found some northern shoveler’s and mute swans hanging out. I decided to test my winter boots waterproofness and hop into the partially frozen pond. I was all set up and enjoying blending into the landscape until some parks dept. pain in the asses walk all over the scene making all sorts of noise walking right near me. It’s a common issue unfortunately, but I will never understand their ignorance.

To describe how I felt getting up early this morning I will sum it up in one photograph:

It was just one of those; am I really up and out this early? kinda days.

My first generous subjects. As long as I didn’t move they began to trust me and worked their way closer and closer. I personally was fascinated watching them feed. Due to their rather spoon like bill (very unique) and the addition of lamellae (comb-like teeth on their tongue) they are able to sift through muddy waters unlike other waterfowl. Even at times you may notice cooperative feeding techniques as they spin head to head in a circular pattern. Using the cooperative stirring of the water and creation of currents to help raise possible food to the surface and share.

The light was definitely high contrast this morning. It was crucial to try and get enough light where I wanted it to make the photograph. Thankfully enough caught his eye. This isn’t to say I don’t have lots of unwanted lit shots. I just deleted a lot of mistakes Riding the shutter can do that.

This however was the bad boy I came to see! Believe it or not I have no images of Great Blue Heron’s in my inventory…until now! It seems everyone and their brothers cousin has images of them. Today through EXTREME patience and waiting I was fortunate to share the moment with him. By hiding behind my tripod and staying as still as possible making little and no sudden movements he came real close. I’m talking 10ft. He didn’t just land there either. He started 50ft or so away and then he slowly made his way down the ponds shoreline.

Wandering through the reeds just to say hello.

Hoping for a big catch, but only ended up with this minnow. I made the image ‘zoomify’ so you can zoom in and see for yourself. Go ahead; click it! My only complaint is I wish I had a horizontal version, but it leaves room for text

My last visitor of the day. I blended so well apparently by patience I was rewarded with this ring-billed gull swimming just by my side. I know they can be common in many places, but they don’t just swim by humans too much as your standing in the pond with them.

Lesson for the day: In our fast paced world we forget nature always moves at its own pace. Bring yourself up to their level and we just may be rewarded.