Field Journal - # - Stephen Bruno Photography

Client Proofs

PRIVATE CLIENTS: My private clients and their family and friends can access and review digital proofs online. After your photo session, and when your proofs are ready for viewing, you will receive an email from me with your password to see your gallery of images and order prints on-line. Please note that your final high-resolution images will have no copyright marks. On-line images are low-resolution proofs only. Final prints will be color-corrected and optimized for the highest possible quality. Not all monitors have the same specifications. The color in the images you see below may differ slightly from the actual prints you receive.

Your photos will be stored in a password-protected online gallery for 3 months. You can order a variety of prints and merchandise from your images. Your family, friends and anyone else who you share your password with can also order prints and merchandise from your images. I save your images in a back up file on my computer for 6 months. Locate your name and click on the Protected Gallery image. Then enter the password that I provided you and click on the Submit button. One of the common reasons why clients are unable to get their password to work is because of unnecessary spaces before or after the password that they enter. Please make sure that you are not adding a space because it does count as a character when they are entered.

COMMERCIAL CLIENTS: After my commercial assignment is complete, and when your proofs are ready for viewing, you will receive an email from me with your password to see your gallery of images. Please note that your final high-resolution images will have no copyright marks. On-line images are low-resolution proofs only. Final prints will be color-corrected and optimized for the highest possible quality. Not all monitors have the same specifications. The color in the images you see below may differ slightly from the actual prints you receive.

Your photos will be stored in a password-protected online gallery for 3 months. Locate your company name and click on the Protected Gallery image. Then enter the password that I provided you and click on the Submit button. you will see your digital proofs here with high resolution digital downloading capability. One of the common reasons why clients are unable to get their password to work is because of unnecessary spaces before or after the password that they enter. Please make sure that you are not adding a space because it does count as a character when they are entered.

As I became aware that all things have unique spatial and temporal qualities which visually define and relate them, I began to perceive the things I was photographing not as objects but as events. Working to develop my skills of perceiving and symbolizing these event qualities, I discovered the principle of opposites. When, for example, I photographed the smooth, luminous body of a woman behind a dirty cobwebbed window, I found that the qualities of each event were enhanced and the universal forces which they manifested were more powerfully evoked.
--Wynn Bullock

I provide this Field Journal for those of you who, like my own naturalist and historical inclinations, desire more information and stories about the subjects that you see in some images that I photograph and post in my galleries. I also understand that when purchasing a photographic print it is of benefit to know the history of the background or process.

For more information about the subjects in the photographs, please click on the links below the images. I update the images and links frequently. Please let me know if any of the links are broken. You can click on the slideshow button at the top of this page to sit back and enjoy the fine art show. Click on hide captions to see the images in the slideshow.

gallery pages: 1

BLACK OYSTERCATCHER
Whidbey Island, Washington

I photographed this female and male Black Oystercatcher on April 7, 2012 from the “Island Whaler” New Zealand designed jet drive catamaran with an open deck and a 360° unobstructed view.

Paired birds remain together year-round. Pairs remain together for years, perhaps for the lives of some birds.

I m always thrilled to see these birds and observe them locating mussels with valves separated and capturing it with quick jabs from its bill. The bird removes the soft parts of the prey with its bill tips. Oystercatchers chip small holes in the mussel shells to reach the prey's adductor muscle. They dislodge limpets and chitons from rocks with quick jabs of their bills aimed at a point where the edge of the shell meets a substrate.

Click the links below to learn more about these interesting birds:
http://audubon2.org/watchlist/viewSpecies.jsp?id=36 http://www.birdweb.org/birdweb/bird/black_oystercatcher

VIEW OF SAN JUAN ISLANDS, LARRABEE STATE PARK
Bellingham, Washington State

I took this photograph on June 30, 2011 on a cloudy afternoon at Clayton Beach while taking a day to photograph nature. This is a serene mystical and magical area where I enjoy writing and photographing. It is also wonderful for romance and solitude.

Click the links below to learn more about Larrabee State Park.

http://www.parks.wa.gov/parks/?selectedpark=Larrabee
http://www.stateparks.com/larrabee.html

GREAT BLUE HERON (ARDEA HERODIAS) WITH FISH
Bellingham, Washington State

I was taking photographs at the Port Of Bellingham when I saw this Great Blue Heron on the dock at the marina. From experience, I knew that if I waited patiently and long enough, the bird’s reward will be a fish. I took this photograph on June 24, 2011 of a fish about to be swallowed by the Great Blue Heron. Click on the links below to read more about the Great Blue Heron.

http://www.hww.ca/hww2.asp?cid=7&id=43
http://birdweb.org/birdweb/bird_details.aspx?id=41
http://www.chesapeakebay.net/Info/blue_heron.cfm
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/gbheron.html
http://www.bio.umass.edu/biology/conn.river/gbh.html
http://www.bear-tracker.com/heron.html
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sir/fwh/wld/atlas/species/blueheron.html

ONE OF MY SEVERAL PHOTOGRAPHS AROUND BELLINGHAM ON A LARGE BANNER
Washington State

On June 23, 2011 I photographed one of the many large banners produced by the Port of Bellingham that has one of my photographs printed on it and are displayed around town.

See the link below to learn more about the Port of Bellingham.

http://www.portofbellingham.com/

MOUNT BAKER
Washington State

On June 4, 2011, I took this photograph of the majestic mountain. It was a beautiful sunny and warm day with much snow still present. It was the first time I traveled up the mountain.

Click the links below to learn more about Mount Baker.

http://www.maplandia.com/united-states/washington/king-county/mount-baker/

http://www.gonorthwest.com/Washington/cascades/mt_baker.htm

HARBOR SEAL, FRIDAY HARBOR
San Juan Islands, Washington State

I photographed this very friendly Harbor Seal at the Port of Friday Harbor Marina on June 6, 2011. It was casually floating at the marina near a fish market. I wonder if it gained its weight by left over scraps from the market.

To learn more about Harbor Seals click the links below.

http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/sea/pugetsound/species/seal.html
http://www.palomar.edu/oceanography/harbor_seals/facts.htm

MALE INDIAN PEACOCK (PEAFOWL PAVO CRISTATUS)
West Coast Game Park Bandon, Oregon

On my way down the coast to photograph several seaside locations, on March 11, 2006, I stopped at the West Coast Game Park. As I walked through the park this Male Indian Peacock (peafowl Pavo cristatus) walked right up to me. It then spread its feathers and I took this photograph. Whenever I look at this photograph, it appears to me as a painting. If I had not taken the photograph myself, I would believe that it was. Click on the links to read more about the Male Indian Peacock (peafowl Pavo cristatus).

http://www.sandiegozoo.org/animalbytes/t-peafowl.html
http://www.solarnavigator.net/animal_kingdom/birds/peacock.htm
http://www.vetty.com/wpcd/wp/p/Peafowl.htm

1898 FERRY BUILDING & CLOCK TOWER
San Francisco, California

The Ferry Building is an impressive structure on the Embarcadero. There are wonderful farmer’s markets, restaurants, and shops for nearly everyone’s taste. I took this photograph on June 16, 2008 from the Larkspur Ferry as it was arriving at the Ferry Building. The links below will offer the rich history of the building.
http://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/
http://www.eastbayferry.com/where/ferrybuilding.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferry_Building
http://ferrybuildingmap.com/
http://www.sanfranshuttletours.com/ferry_building.htm

WESTERN SCREECH-OWL (MEGASCOPS KENNICOTTII)
Butler Playground, Lithia Park, Ashland, Oregon.

This Western Screech-Owl, sitting about 20 feet up in a tree(Megascops kennicottii), is near and dear to my heart. It was the first wild Owl that I saw and photographed.

This female Owl appeared to enjoy watching children. She would sit intensely in a hole in the tree and look down at the children in the playground.

Whenever I walked from the parking lot and heard the joyful sounds of children, I knew I could count on the owl being present.

Another day I watched how it stretched way out of the hole to watch an Eagle and then slowly shrank down its hole.

She became a well-known and beloved Ashland resident.

This is my first wildlife photograph that I took on October 17, 2005 that I sold at a one-person show in Ashland, Oregon. The same image hangs in the park office of Ashland Parks and Recreation Department.

Click on the links to read more about the Western Screech-Owl.
http://www.desertusa.com/mag05/nov/owl.html
http://www.peregrinefund.org/Explore_Raptors/owls/wscreech.html
http://www.owlpages.com/owls.php?genus=Megascops&species=kennicottii

WOMAN ON ROCKS, SOUTH YUBA RIVER STATE PARK
Near Nevada City, California.

I was on a bridge high above the rushing South Yuba River when I saw this woman carefully walking on the steep rocks. I admired her courage and skill in navigating the slippery rocks. A fall was certain to be critical. As she walked toward me, I took this photograph on August 30, 2006. Click on the links to learn more about the interesting South Yuba River State Park.

http://www.nccn.net/~syitrail/
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=496
http://www.nevadacitychamber.com/area_hike.htm

DE HAVILLAND CANADA DHC-2 BEAVER
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, San Luis Obispo, California.

The De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver, Short Take-Off and Landing utility transport, was sitting at the end of the tarmac when I was visiting the airport .

A reliable and beautiful single engine aircraft, I decided to take this photograph of the engine on July 28, 2007.

To see what the rest of the aircraft looks like and learn about it click on the links below to learn about this versatile aircraft.

http://www.nzwarbirds.org.nz/bvr.html
http://www.fiddlersgreen.net/AC/aircraft/DeHavilland-Beaver/Beaver.php

LOMBARD STREET "THE CROOKEDEST STREET IN THE WORLD"
Russian Hill, San Francisco, California

This is a very steep and crooked street with beautiful gardens. I took this photograph on July 1, 2008 from the bottom of the street. Click on the links below for more information.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lombard_Street_(San_Francisco)
http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/casfmenu/a/lombard.htm
http://www.viamagazine.com/top_stories/articles/lombard01.asp

SOLITARY STARBURST ANEMONE (ANTHOPLEURA SOLA)
McAbee Beach, Cannery Row, Monterey Bay, California.

I was searching the tide pool at low tide when I discovered this Solitary Starburst Anemone (Anthopleura sola). I looked at the textures, colors, and all of the sand and debris on it. This was the first Anemone that I photographed and the first one I have seen since I was a child. I took this photograph on February 3, 2006 as the tide was beginning to come in. The Anemone is fascinating to explore. To learn more about the Solitary Starburst Anemone, click on the links.

http://zipcodezoo.com/Animals/A/Anthopleura_sola.asp
http://www.californiaintertidal.com/
http://www.discoverlife.org/mp/20o?search=Anthopleura+sola

JUVENILE BACK-TAILED DEER
North Mountain Park, Ashland, Oregon

I was walking just outside the park when I watched this juvenile deer along with two adults and other juveniles for a while. It was very playful. The deer would hide behind a tree, then suddenly jump out, and stare at me. The mom would quickly give it a kick to the side and usher it behind the trees. Just as soon as she went back to her eating the juvenile would continue playing peek-a-boo resulting in another kick. I took this photograph on October 17, 2005 as the deer jumped in front of the tree. I decided to leave to spare the rambunctious deer more kicks.

http://www.answers.com/topic/black-tailed-deer?cat=technology

PIGEON POINT LIGHT STATION SHP
Pescadero, California

I moved as far away from the lighthouse, currently closed to the public, as I could to take this photograph on June 6, 2007. It was clear that the lighthouse could use repair and, a fence kept visitors from getting too close. I appreciate the lore of lighthouses and this one is no exception. See the link for additional information about the Pigeon Point Light Station SHP.

http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=533

RED SKIMMER (LIBELLULA SATURATA)
Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, Watsonville, California

I was hiking in the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve when I came to a small pond. This Red Skimmer (Libellula saturata) was flying around the pond but not landing. I followed it around the pond many times. Finally, it landed just as the breeze picked up, moving the Red Skimmer rapidly back and forth. I was nearly so mesmerized by the brilliant colors that I almost did not snap the picture just before it flew away. Well, almost. I took this photograph on June 21, 2007.Click on the link to read more about the Red Skimmer.

http://www.odonatacentral.org/index.php/FieldGuideAction.get/id/47122

COASTLINE NEAR MCWAY FALLS
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur, California

I drove from Monterey Bay to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park along the spectacular coast to visit the McWay Falls. I arrived when there was fog moving in.

One path that leads to an over-view above the falls also has a beautiful view of the Big Sur coastline. I enjoyed this view before taking this photograph on March 6, 2007.

I watched many people stand at the same spot and admire the coastline.

There is more about the park and the falls in the link.
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=578

BLACK OYSTERCATCHER (HAEMATOPUS BACHMANI)
Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California

When I first saw this wonderful bird with the bright orange beak, I was fascinated. Later, I learned that it was a Black Oystercatcher. I enjoyed watching it search for food during low tide. I have since had the pleasure of seeing them in several locations. I photographed this Black Oystercatcher on May 23, 2007. There is more information in the link below.

http://audubon2.org/webapp/watchlist/viewSpecies.jsp?id=36

MARY D. HUME
Gold Beach, Oregon

During a visit to Gold Beach, I noticed this prominent shipwreck along the highway and near the marina. Although it was a very windy day, I quickly got out of the vehicle and took this photograph on March 11, 2006. The story of the ship is well worth reading. Follow the link or additional information.

http://explorenorth.com/library/yafeatures/bl-whaling.htm

MORRO ROCK
Morro Bay, California

Morro Rock rises 576 feet above the entrance to Morro Bay. Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo named it during his voyage of discovery up the California coast in 1542. It is the last in a chain of long-extinct volcanoes and became a landfall for Spanish galleons sailing the coastal waters. It is the most prominent thing you see when you drive toward Morro Bay. I wanted to view the rock from a different location. I drove to Tidelands Park, at the end of Embarcadero furthest from Morro Rock. I took this photograph on September 11, 2007 while walking along the bay as the light hit the rock. Follow the links for more information about Morro Rock.

http://morro-bay.com/morro-rock/
http://www.morrobay.com/history/

BEAR, 5-YEAR-OLD PURE BRED CHOCOLATE LABRADOR RETRIEVER
South 'T' Pier, Morro Bay, California

While walking on the pier, I noticed a cinnamon purebred Chocolate Labrador sitting near a boat. I found out that, his name was “Bear” and that he was 5 years old. He had an injured paw and could not do his job of keeping the California Sea Lions off the boat. When too many seals are on a boat, it can sink. Bear’s job is a critical one in another way. When the owner was cruising around the Farallon Islands, California Sea Lions (Zalophus californianus) jumped on the boat. Then the Orcas (Orcinus orca), that were chasing the California Sea Lions began to attempt to lean on the boat to get to the seals. I took this photograph on August 9, 2007. Click on the links to learn more about Labrador Retrievers, the Orcas and the Farallon Islands.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labrador_Retriever
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Farallon_Islands
http://www.hsus.org/marine_mammals/a_closer_look_at_marine_mammals/orcas.html

OLD SCHOOLHOUSE IN THE VILLAGE OF SAN SIMEON WITH HEARST CASTLE HIGH ON THE HILL
Near Sebastian's General Store that was established in 1873, San Simeon, California

Perhaps more beautiful in spring when there are abundant bright flowers, I approached the schoolhouse as close as I could behind a fence. I imagined the Hearst Castle builder's children running to and from where I was standing to the one room schoolhouse to attend classes and return home or play on the nearby beach. Hearst Castle stands high on the hill above the schoolhouse. I took this photograph on September 18, 2007. Click the link to learn more about the schoolhouse.

http://www.sansimeonchamber.org/history.asp

1941- 1946 1-TON CHEVY WWII MAIL PANEL TRUCK
Monterey Bay, California

As I was walking along the wharf, exploring subjects to photograph, I found this 1941-1946 1-ton Chevy WWII panel truck used as a mail truck by the military. I just like the classic looks and history. I took this photograph on March 5, 2007 as I faced the bay. No links yet.

GREAT BLUE HERON (ARDEA HERODIAS) WITH FISH
Whaler's Cove, Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California

I was taking photographs at a cove where whalers used to haul whales on to the shore. I saw this Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) fishing a few yards away. I decided to walk quietly toward the Great Blue Heron and make myself comfortable near the rocks. From experience, I knew that if I waited patiently and long enough, the bird’s reward will be a fish. My own reward would be this photograph that I took on May 12, 2007. Click on the links to read more about the Great Blue Heron.

http://www.hww.ca/hww2.asp?cid=7&id=43
http://birdweb.org/birdweb/bird_details.aspx?id=41
http://www.chesapeakebay.net/Info/blue_heron.cfm
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/gbheron.html
http://www.bio.umass.edu/biology/conn.river/gbh.html
http://www.bear-tracker.com/heron.html
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sir/fwh/wld/atlas/species/blueheron.html

POINT PINOS LIGHTHOUSE
Pacific Grove, California

The Point Pinos Lighthouse has an interesting history and is a delightful sample of what life was for the lighthouse keepers. Beautifully restored, it almost takes you back to the days of old. I took several photographs of the interior. I took this photograph on March 8, 2007 near a sign warning that there are Mountain Lions seen in the area. Click the links and read the intriguing story about Emily Fish, who accompanied by a Chinese servant Que, became the keeper of the Point Piños Lighthouse as a widow at the age of fifty.

http://www.pgmuseum.org/Lighthouse.htm
http://www.lighthousefriends.com/light.asp?ID=30
http://www.answers.com/topic/point-pinos-lighthouse

SUMATRAN TIGER (PANTHERA TIGRIS SUMATRAE)
San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco, California

These incredibly beautiful tigers are a wonder to observe.

I photographed this tiger on March 27, 2009 yawning while at rest near a wall on a wam day.

Click on the link below for more information about the Sumatran Tiger.

http://www.tigerfdn.com/Tigerworld/W3A1.html

SLIDE ROCK STATE PARK
Sedona, Arizona

The day that I took this photograph on March 8, 2008, Oak Creek was flowing fast. Although it was cold mountain water, several people were enjoying the natural water slide. This park is very popular especially during the summer when the Arizona temperature can reach 115 degrees. I walked along a dirt path running parallel to the creek and occasionally climbed the red rock. Where the water runs over the rocks, it is extremely slippery. The area was very serene.

http://www.pr.state.az.us/Parks/parkhtml/sliderock.html

FIERY SKIPPER (HYLEPHILA PHYLEUS) NEXT TO GREEN LYNX SPIDER (PEUCETIA VIRIDANS) PREYING ON AMERICAN HOVER FLY (METASYRPHUS AMERICANA)
San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, San Luis Obispo, California

On my third trip to the garden, I was looking for insects, birds and reptiles to photograph. From a distance, I thought that this flower looked different than I remembered. Upon a closer inspection, I saw this Green Lynx Spider (Peucetia viridans). I photographed it and watch for a while. I noticed that the spider did not move and there was not a significant web present. I walked around the garden for a while and then returned to the spider. To my pleasure, I saw it holding on to its prey, an American Hover Fly (metasyrphus americana). I was fascinated watching the interaction and I took more photographs on October 14, 2007. Then, a Fiery Skipper (Hylephila phyleus) landed next to them and began taking in the flower’s nectar. The Fiery Skipper appeared to be calm and unperturbed by the spider and the fly and then flew away. I could have remained longer to learn more about what happens but it was time to leave.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_lynx_spider
http://www.britannica.com/ebc/article-9049531
http://www.enature.com/fieldguides/detail.asp?recnum=IS0068

JEROME GRAND HOTEL
Jerome, Arizona

This hotel has an interesting history including ghost haunting, hospital, asylum, and the Award Winning Asylum Restaurant. This Spanish Mission style building, constructed in 1926, started out as the United Verde Hospital, opening January 1927.

Many women perished during childbirth, and many men coughed their last gasping breaths within the walls. The building also served to care for the mentally unstable.

There are stories of strange noises coming from empty rooms; coughing, labored breathing, TV's turning on and off, unexplained smells of flowers, dust, cigarettes and whiskey, and even voices. Numerous visitors have observed two female apparitions in the hotel. The Husky did not appear to notice.

I took this photograph on January 26, 2008 after walking up to the top of a steep hill where the hotel is located. Click on the links for interesting stories about the Jerome Grand Hotel.

http://www.jeromegrandhotel.com/Hotel_History.htm
http://www.theasylum.biz/
http://www.sgha.net/az/jerome/jeromegrand2.html

GREAT HORNED OWL (BUBO VIRGINIANUS)
Rancho San Rafael Park, Reno, Nevada

Hidden in a thick grove of trees I found this Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) and a mate higher up a limb. The focused and curious look it gave made me wonder what it was thinking as I set up my tripod and 500mm telephoto lens. This was an interesting experience photographing the Owl. It was so high up in a tree that I had to lay down on my back on the dirt and aim the telephoto nearly straight up to take this photograph on May 8, 2006. My back hurt for days. Follow the links below to know more about these great Great Horned Owls.

http://www.owling.com/GHO_nh.htm
http://www.nhptv.org/natureworks/greathornedowl.htm
http://www.desertusa.com/mag00/jan/papr/ghowl.html http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Great_Horned_Owl.html

RUNNING WATERS
Galena Creek Park, Nevada

I was hiking along a beautiful mountain path when I came to the running waters of Galena Creek Park. I took this photograph on October 31, 2006. This was among my first tries at photographing water with different shutter speeds. It started me on photographing other water scenes with varied camera settings. Click on the link to see more about Galena Creek Park.

http://www.jour.unr.edu/outpost/specials/centerpiece/center.groach.galena.html

NORTHERN ELEPHANT SEAL (MIROUNGA ANGUSTIROSTRIS) PUP
Breakwater Cove Marina, Monterey, California

I was photographing at the marina when I saw this 2-month-old pup Northern Elephant Seal (Mirounga angustirostris) on the boat ramp. The pup looked tired and weak. Yes, and cute. Too young to be without its mother, it was clear that intervention was required. Someone had called the marine animal rescue unit that arrived a few minutes later. I took this photograph on March 22, 2007 before helping the rescue worker carry the pup into his vehicle for the drive to a rescue base, treated, and released with other Northern Elephant Seals. Check out the links below.

http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/jaap/elepseal.htm
http://www.nature.ca/notebooks/english/eleseal.htm

GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE
San Francisco, California

An avid WWII history buff, I recall seeing films and photographs of many military naval vessels sailing under this bridge.

I was fortunate that on this visit there was fog that obscured the bridge. I took this photograph on May 18, 2008 of the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge when I saw that I could incorporate the fog.

I have visited the Golden Gate Bridge during several key times in my life beginning when I was a southern California high school senior. The bridge remains significant in many ways for me and for many other people as well.

More than 1,218 people committed suicide by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. I think about this each time I photograph the bridge or drive on it.

Learn more about the Golden Gate Bridge in the link.

http://www.inetours.com/Pages/SFNbrhds/Golden_Gate_Bridge.html

OSPREY (PANDION HALIAETUS)
Spooner Lake, Nevada

This was my first in-flight bird that I photographed and with my first digital camera. I was walking along a winding path around Spooner Lake when I saw an Osprey flying over the lake. I watched the Osprey for a while as it hovered above different locations looking for fish. When I figured out the patterns, I went to cove and waited with my camera at the ready. I noticed that it always flew into the wind for greater lift so I positioned myself where I thought it would fly. The Osprey suddenly dived so fast it caught me off guard. I photographed it on September 9, 2004 flying away with a very large fish. I was hooked on Ospreys ever since. This photograph was sold to the owners of the Osprey Point RV Resort in Lakeside, Oregon. Click on the links below to read more about Ospreys.

http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Osprey.html
http://www.peregrinefund.org/Explore_Raptors/osprey/osprey.html
http://www.chesapeakebay.net/osprey.htm
http://www.hww.ca/hww2.asp?id=59

TREE STUMP
Stateline, Nevada

I saw this wonderful tree in winter while walking along the Nevada Beach near where I lived in Lake Tahoe. At the time, I had just purchased my first digital camera, which I used to take this photograph on July 13, 2005. I liked the tree limbs, trunk, colors, and textures. It seemed strong and majestic. This tree spurred me on to begin photographing trees. Click on the link to see more about Nevada Beach.

http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/ltbmu/recreation/camping/nvbeach.shtml

GRIZZLY BEAR (URSUS ARCTOS)
San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco, California

It was fun watching the two sisters play and swim in the pond until they took a much needed rest. Later, I watched them eat and save a red apple for their dessert. It is always amazing how fast they can run and how agile they are. Click on the links to learn more about the Grizzly Bears.

I took this photograph on March 27, 2009 as the female bear sat down after swimming in a pond and looked toward me.

http://www.edu.pe.ca/southernkings/grizzly.htm
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Ursus_arctos.html

P-51D "MUSTANG"
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, San Luis Obispo, California

I heard that the P-51D WWII fighter was going to land at a nearby airport. When I arrived, I saw it landing a ways down the runway and I took this photograph on July 28, 2007. The aircraft is as beautiful as I expected it to be. What I found out later was a very interesting story. In the rear seat was Marcia Beckman, age 84. This was the highlight of a large family reunion. Her husband, Ralph Beckman (deceased) was a B-29 bomber pilot. Her brother, Charles Harris, was a B-52 bomber pilot. The pilot was her nephew, Jeff Harris who is a Captain for American Airlines. He supervised the two-year restoration of the P51D that flew for the 15th Air Force in Italy. The owner is Jack Croul who is with Allied Fighters in Chino, California. Jack was a Captain and flew a B-17G bomber for the 96th Bomber Group from the Snetterton Heath Airfield in the UK. Jeff's brother, Dave, is a corporate pilot. Marcia is the last alive of her generation. Marcia said that they flew low over the cliffs at the coast and he even inverted the aircraft. She told me that the ride was a totally awesome and thrilling experience. Great information is available on the P-51D in the links.
http://home.att.net/~jbaugher1/p51_10.html
http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=2214

CANADA GOSLINGS (BRANTA CANADENSIS)
Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California

During a short hike along the cliffs at Point Lobos State Reserve, I was fortunate to see two Geese with several Goslings walking up a hill between the high cliffs and me. You had a sense that if you picked one up if would be soft and cuddly. I took several photographs on May 16, 2007 including this one as I watched the family out for a walk. The ooh’s and ah’s that came from other hikers a short time later echoed my own. More information is in the links below.

http://www.chass.utoronto.ca/~dresher/col9.html
http://domainhelp.search.com/reference/Canada_Goose?redir=1
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Branta_canadensis.html

RED DRAGON VENUS FLY TRAP (DIONAEA AKAI)
San Luis Obispo, California

I purchased this Red Dragon Venus Fly Trap for the pleasure of watching the ingenious nature of how it captures flies for meals. As a child, I ordered my first one and I loved watching it draw flies and capture them. I must admit that I still do. Consider getting one for your children and you too may enjoy watching the Red Dragon Venus Fly Trap. Setting the plant by a window, I used a small tripod to photograph it on September 9, 2007 with a recently purchased macro lens. Additional information is in the links below.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venus_fly_trap

MEERKAT (SURICATA SURICATTA)
Charles Paddock Zoo, City of Atascadero, California

I found that the behavior of the Meerkats reminded me of Meerkat Manor on Animal Planet, a favorite television show of both my wife and me. They were fascinating to watch as they interacted with each other and their environment. They each seem to have distinct individual personalities. I had to photograph through glass when I took this photograph on September 30, 2007, of one of the Meerkats stopping to look around. Go to the links below to learn a lot more about the captivating Meerkats.

http://www.meerkats.net/info.htm
http://www.animalplanet.co.uk/meerkat_manor/flash/index.shtml

HARFORD PIER
Port San Luis, Avila Beach, California

After walking along the wooden Harford Pier, I found a location at the parking lot to take this photograph on September 12, 2007 to show the pier and small boats. The pier is less crowded than the better-known tourist piers and the people were very friendly. Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina) were swimming near the pier and some were sleeping on the pier. Go to the links for additional information on the pier.

http://www.beachcalifornia.com/avila-beach-aerial-photos.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/01/09/AR2005041502514_pf.html

CALIFORNIA DESERT TORTOISE (GOPHERUS AGASSIZII)
Charles Paddock Zoo, City of Atascadero, California

This California Desert Tortoise was walking in a shallow pool of water. Apparently, not in a hurry, it had a sense of serenity and walked with grace. As it slowly looked up at me, I took this photograph on September 30, 2007. Interesting information about the California Desert Tortoise is found by clicking on the link below.

http://www.desertusa.com/june96/du_tort.html

NORTHERN ELEPHANT SEAL (MIROUNGA ANGUSTIROSTRIS)
Año Nuevo State Reserve, California

It was a very windy day along the Central California coast when I noticed a viewing area overlooking the cliffs. After parking, I saw that there were Northern Elephant Seals lying on the beach. I walked through the gate and under the barriers (along with every other visitor) and stopped close to the cliff edge. This is the first time I saw so many females and juveniles in one place. I photographed this one on September 18, 2007 stretched out on the sand asleep. Click the links to read some interesting facts about the Northern Elephant Seal.

http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/jaap/elepseal.htm
http://www.nature.ca/notebooks/english/eleseal.htm

CALIFORNIA GROUND SQUIRREL (SPERMOPHILUS BEECHEYI)
South Lake Tahoe, California

This female California Ground squirrel posed for me for an hour unlike most other squirrels that are rather camera shy. I even had to move back a bit to get the squirrel in the entire photograph on July 9, 2005. When I stopped taking her photograph, she walked away. The California Ground squirrel is very curious and this one was no exception. Learn more in the following links below.

http://www.enature.com/flashcard/show_flash_card.asp?recordNumber=MA0121
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Ground_Squirrel

U.S. COAST GUARD STATION
Morro Bay, California

I always enjoy watching the U.S. Coast Guard personnel around their boats, especially now that they are an integral part of Homeland Security. They do amazing work and I have a lot of respect for the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard. I photographed this boat and crew on September 30, 2007 as they returned to port after a harbor patrol. To see more about the U.S. Coast Guard Station in Morro Bay, click on the links below.

http://www.uscg.mil/d11/sectorlalb/MB/
http://a1130601.uscgaux.info/

SAINTS PETER AND PAUL CHURCH
San Francisco, California

As I was riding in an authentic motorized cable car near the Saints Peter and Paul Church, I had a brief moment to take this photograph on June 7, 2007. The architecture is inspiring. If I had the time, it would have been fun to visit the Saints Peter and Paul Church and take more photographs. Learn more about the church in the links below.

http://www.stspeterpaul.san-francisco.ca.us/church/index.html

BLUE AND GOLD MACAW (ARA ARARAUNA)
Monterey Bay, Monterey, California

I was photographing along the Old Fisherman’s Wharf when I noticed a man with several Macaws and Parrots. A crowd of visitors had gathered around him. He encouraged people to have the birds sit on their shoulders. I was impressed with the size and colors of these beautiful birds. I took this photograph on February 4, 2007 after the Macaw grabbed a feather. To learn more click on the links below.

http://www.birdcare.com.au/blue_and_gold_macaw.htm
http://www.oregonzoo.org/Cards/BirdsOfPrey/bluegoldmacaw.htm

SURFBIRD (APHRIZA VIRGATA)
U.S. Coast Guard Wharf, Monterey, California

Surfbirds (Aphriza virgata) are fun to watch as they search for food and fly from one spot to another. They are quick and unpredictable in their flight. I followed this one on a Wharf for a while. I took this photograph on April 6, 2007 just as the Surfbird lifted its wings in preparation to liftoff. Additional facts about the Surfbird are in the following links below.

http://www.answers.com/topic/surfbird
http://audubon2.org/webapp/watchlist/viewSpecies.jsp?id=198
http://identify.whatbird.com/obj/512/_/target.aspx

PYRAMID LAKE PAIUTE TRIBE RESERVATION
Nevada

I found Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Reservation a curious place. The day I visited the lake, a ranger told how a female Mountain Lion (Felis concolor) was found drown along the shore with a deer it attacked and killed. The ranger thought that the Mountain Lion had drowned in shallow water when it was unwilling to let go of the deer. I took this photograph on May 4, 2006 of the stark trees at the same area where they discovered the Mountain Lion. Read more about the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Reservation in the links below.

http://www.plpt.nsn.us/
http://www.nevadaweb.com/cnt/r-t/pyramid/

BUMBLE BEE (BOMBIDAE)
Spooner Lake, Nevada

This Bumble Bee was the first insect in-flight that I photographed on July 30, 2005. I was walking along the trail that followed the lake when I saw this Bumble Bee, followed it a while and quickly took this photographed. I found this type of photography challenging and therefore, exciting. It would be several years later when I purchased a dedicated macro lens. Nonetheless, this was my beginning interest in photographing insects. Learn new facts about the Bumble Bee in the links below.

http://www.everythingabout.net/articles/biology/animals/arthropods/insects/bees/bumble_bee/
http://hercules.users.netlink.co.uk/Bee.html

SUN RA
Breakwater Cove Marina, Monterey, California., Monterey, California

This boat was in dry dock for maintenance. I researched the interesting name SUN RA. The Sun Boat (or Sun Barque) is the great ship in which Ra (or Atum or other gods) and his companions sailed through the sky giving light to the world. It is also the ship in which the gods traveled from the heavens to earth and which Ra took, to go back to the sky when he became old, leaving Osiris in power. When the gods use it to travel between the worlds, it is called "The Boat of a Million Years." I wonder about the owners are who picked such an interesting name. I took this photograph on March 9, 2007 after looking at the boat stands that are able to hold up such a heavy boat. To get more information about boat stands, check out the links below.

http://www.brownellboat.com/safety.htm
http://www.brownellboat.com/howto.htm

RED-LEGGED FROG (RANA AURORA)
Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, Watsonville, California

On a brief visit to the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve I was fortunate to see several rare Red-legged Frogs. The camouflage was impressive. It happened that this day I brought my 500mm telephoto lens that I used to take this photograph on April 8, 2007. It was worth the extra weight. There is more to learn about the Red-legged Frog in the links below.

http://www.fws.gov/sacramento/es/animal_spp_acct/red_legged_frog.htm
http://www.amphibiaweb.org/cgi-bin/amphib_query?where-genus=Rana&where-species=aurora
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Rana_aurora.html

OCHRE SEA STAR (PISASTER OCHRACEUS)
U.S. Coast Guard Wharf, Monterey, California

I was taking a stroll along the 1700-foot breakwater guarding the north side of the harbor, on the U.S. Coast Guard Wharf when I saw these two Ochre Sea Stars (Pisaster ochraceus) next to each other and clinging to a rock at low tide. Since I was a child, I have looked forward to seeing sea stars. It is good to see that even today, children (and most adults) get a smile when they see the sea stars. They come in a variety of vivid colors and textures. It is very interesting reading about their life cycle and habits. I waited until the water receded and then took this photograph on April 6, 2007. Follow the link below for more information.

http://www.pacificwildlife.ca/ochreseastar/behaviour.htm

BEACH MORNING GLORY (CALYSTEGIA SOLDANELLA)
Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California

I have found that photographing flowers effectively is more challenging that it may look, especially if the insects on the flower are to be in focus. The usually present wind increases the technical requirements. I liked the delicate texture and subtle colors of this Beach Morning Glory that I photographed on April 27, 2007. Click on link below for more information.

http://waynesword.palomar.edu/ww0804.htm

THE COQUILLE RIVER LIGHTHOUSE
Bullard's Beach State Park, Bandon, Oregon

Not too many lighthouses are approachable up close. The Coquille River Lighthouse is still one where you can walk right up to the front door. When open, you can go inside. The location offers a both a view of the river and the pounding surface from the ocean. It has an interesting history. I photographed this lighthouse on March 11, 2006. More information available in the link below.

http://www.fiddlersgreen.net/buildings/lighthouses/coquille/info/info.htm

COMSTOCK CEMETERY
Virginia City, Nevada

It is a moving experience walking through the Comstock Cemetery. You can view most of the historic downtown from the cemetery. There are many old and interesting tombstones with diverse ethnic representation. Perhaps, because of so many untimely deaths, Virginia City is considered Nevada's most haunted city. Some people even consider it America's most haunted located in the basement of the Mark Twain Museum, where he wrote for the local newspaper. On a gloomy overcast day, which added to the mood, I took this photograph on August 11, 2005 that depicts the stark reality of the cemetery. Find interesting facts in the links below.

http://www.comstockcemeteryfoundation.com/org/fo/1.htm
http://www.scenicnevada.org/last/comstock.html

SEA OTTER (ENHYDRA LUTRIS)
U.S. Coast Guard Wharf, Monterey, California

Sea Otters (Enhydra lutris) have found a special place in my heart and in many others. Whenever I am photographing near the ocean people frequently ask me if I know where the Otters are. I share my favorite locations and wish them luck in seeing these enchanting critters. I never tire watching them eat, play, and sleep. It is especially enjoyable to watch the otters use a favorite rock to break the shells of crabs. I took this photograph on February 6, 2006 from a boat in the harbor as the Sea Otter raised its arms and paddled backward. I recommend checking out the links below to get more information about the Sea Otter.

http://www.seaotters.org/
http://www.yptenc.org.uk/docs/factsheets/animal_facts/sea_otter.html
http://www.otterproject.org/site/pp.asp?c=8pIKIYMIG&b=28098
http://www.adfg.state.ak.us/pubs/notebook/marine/seaotter.php

SARA ORANGE TIP (ANTHOCHARIS SARA)
Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California

I was enjoying a walk at Point Lobos State Reserve when this delicate Sara Orange tip flew gently past me. I followed it until it landed on a Bush Monkeyflower "Sticky Monkeyflower" (Mimulus aurantiacus) where I took this photograph on May 1, 2007. You have to be quick to follow and photograph these small and colorful insects. To read more about the Sara Orange Tip click on the links below.

http://butterfly.ucdavis.edu/butterfly/Anthocharis/sara_sara
http://www.desertmuseum.org/books/nhsd_butterflies.html
http://www.cbif.gc.ca/spp_pages/butterflies/species/PacificOrangetip_e.php

CANADA GOOSE (BRANTA CANADENSIS)
Bird Island Trail, Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California

I was at the top of a path near an island of birds when I saw this Canada Goose (Branta Canadensis) with a white egg when it stood up briefly. I took this photograph on April 27, 2007 before is sat down. This was my first time seeing a Goose in the wild with an egg. I noticed that several different species of birds were also with eggs. Visit the links below to read more about the Canada Goose.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada_goose
http://www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/Infocenter/i1720id.html
http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/wildlife/420-203/420-203.html
http://www.enature.com/fieldguides/detail.asp?recnum=bd0406
http://www.nhptv.org/natureworks/canadagoose.htm
http://www.ku.lt/nemo/branta.html
http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Canada_Goose.html

HARBOR SEAL (PHOCA VITULINA)
Whaler's Cove at Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California

I was exploring Whaler’s Cove at Point Lobos State Reserve when I saw this mother Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina) with a pup on the beach below the cliff where I stood. I heard that just a few days later a Bobcat (Lynx rufus) attacked and killed a pup in the same area. I took this photograph on April 25, 2007 of the mom and pup sleeping close to each other after a strenuous swim in the cove. Check out the links below to learn interesting facts about these wonderful Harbor Seals.

http://www.dfg.ca.gov/watchable/seals.html
http://www.vetpathology.org/cgi/content/full/43/1/58
http://www.saltspring.com/capewest/seal.htm
http://ladywildlife.com/animal/harborseal.html
http://www.bear-tracker.com/harborseal.html
http://virtual.yosemite.cc.ca.us/torokm/hs_info.htm
http://www.skullsunlimited.com/harbor_seal_skull.html
http://www.nps.gov/archive/glba/InDepth/learn/preserve/projects/seal/
http://www.mbayaq.org/efc/living_species/default.asp?hOri=1&inhab=205
http://www.macalester.edu/environmentalstudies/MacEnvReview/harbor_seal.htm
http://www.palomar.edu/oceanography/harbor_seals/facts.htm

GREAT BLUE HERON (ARDEA HERODIAS)
Mouth of the Siuslaw River, Florence, Oregon

Great Blue Herons (Ardea Herodias) have become one of my favorite ocean shore or small inland pond bird. It is enjoyable to watch it search for prey and its very graceful flight. I took this photograph on March 26, 2006 after waiting hours in a light rain just as it jumped from a piling into the water. Learn more about this beautiful and interesting bird in the links below.

http://www.hww.ca/hww2.asp?cid=7&id=43
http://birdweb.org/birdweb/bird_details.aspx?id=41
http://www.chesapeakebay.net/Info/blue_heron.cfm
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/gbheron.html
http://www.bio.umass.edu/biology/conn.river/gbh.html
http://www.bear-tracker.com/heron.html
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sir/fwh/wld/atlas/species/blueheron.html

LYNX
U.S. Coast Guard Wharf, Monterey, California

I was photographing along a pier when I saw an unusual sight. Just beyond the horizon the masts of a large sailing vessel was making its way toward the harbor. It was captivating to watch the ship appear to grow larger until I realized that it was a “Tall Ship.” This was my first experience seeing a “Tall Ship” in person and it was very exciting to imagine how this was a more common sight a hundred years ago. As it came closer, there were many people on the pier watching it along with me. I took this photograph on April 1, 2007 with great pleasure. Check out the links below to see where in the world it is today and to learn more about the Lynx.

http://www.privateerlynx.org/index.html
http://www.answers.com/topic/tall-ship
http://www.sailwx.info/shiptrack/shipposition.phtml?call=WDA9881

BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (NYCTICORAX NYCTICORAX)
Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California

I had a pleasant surprise when I spotted these two Black-Crowned Nigh-Herons on a steep ledge. This was my first experience seeing them in the wild. I took this photograph on April 27, 2007 when the male landed at the nest next to a female mate with two blue eggs. You will find interesting facts about the Black-Crowned Night-Heron in the following links below.

http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Black-crowned_Night-Heron_dtl.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nycticorax
http://www.enature.com/fieldguides/detail.asp?recnum=BD0117

BRANDT'S CORMORANT (PHALACROCORAX PENICILLATUS)
U.S. Coast Guard Wharf, Monterey, California

Brant’s Cormorants are very interesting to watch. I enjoy watching them dive for meals, and seeing how they display gregarious social behavior. I watched these two during the mating and nesting period. I took this photograph on April 21, 2007 when I spotted the egg. Later on, I watched as the egg hatched bringing a new Brant’s Cormorants into the world. Click on the links below and learn about how anglers around the world have trained the Brant’s Cormorants to fish for them.

http://www.birdnature.com/jun1901/cormorant.html
http://www.answers.com/topic/cormorant

BUSH MONKEYFLOWER "STICKY MONKEYFLOWER" (MIMULUS AURANTIACUS)
Cypress Gove Trail, Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel, California
The Bush Monkeyflower "Sticky Monkeyflower" (Mimulus aurantiacus)) is nearly all over the Point Lobos State Reserve. I enjoy recognizing and photographing the flowers whenever I see them. I took this photograph on April 27, 2007 along a path leading to high cliffs overlooking the ocean. See more information on the Bush Monkeyflower in the links below.

http://members.aol.com/skkato1/StickyM.html#Guides
http://www.amjbot.org/cgi/content/abstract/86/8/1130
http://www.anandaapothecary.com/fes-north-american-flower-essences/sticky-monkeyflower-flower-essence.html

OFFICER'S ROW
Fort Verde State Historic Park, Camp Verde, Arizona

I explored the Commanding Officer’s Quarters, Bachelors' Quarters and Doctor’s Quarters on Officer's row, all furnished in the 1880s period. I took this photograph on January 31, 2008 looking down the path on Officer's row. The parade ground is to the left. Click on the link below for more information.

http://www.pr.state.az.us/Parks/parkhtml/fortverde.html

USS PAMPANITO
Pier 45, San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, California

For a while I wanted to take the tour of the USS Pampanito. I recently did and took this photograph on June 30, 2008.

Click the link below to see a documentary about the American submarines in the pacific.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSjKT8JPQAc

See the links below for more information.
http://www.maritime.org/pamphome.htm http://www.maritime.org/tour/index.htm

CLASSIC CAR SHOW
Reno, Nevada

I photographed wonderful classic cars like this one on July 31, 2006.

The show was called, Hot August Nights Cruise Night & Show.

Click on the link below to learn more.
http://www.hotaugustnights.net/

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