wild flowers – Page 5

April 11, 2010January 14, 2013

Spring has arrived

Early Spring Ducklings — A trio of duckling siblings swims quickly across open water to find a protected spot

New life is appearing all over the Bay Area as the winter rains are finally (reluctantly) subsiding. Birds are nesting, flowers are blooming, and we’ll likely get to enjoy the lush green of spring a little longer than normal this year. As captured in the image above, I’ve spent a few days following one of the first mallard families of the spring. Watching mom and dad protect their young hatch-lings from all the dangers of the world (including other ducks), has been a joy to watch. Hopefully I will follow up with some more photos in the coming weeks.

Mallard Drake With Duckling — A Mallard watches over his young duckling as he looks for a hiding place amongst the reeds

Below is one of the first lupine blooms of the spring in Edgewood Park and Preserve in San Mateo County. This lupine was photographed at first light on an eastern facing slope.

March 22, 2010January 14, 2013

Ocean Dawn (Photo of the week)

Winter and early spring is a great time to shoot sunrise out at the coast – there are fewer mornings of the dense fog common in the summer. It can be quite frustrating to get out of bed 1 to 1 1/2 hours before sunrise (it is best to be in place at least 30 minutes before sunrise), drive out to the coast, only to find a thick marine layer obscuring your view and all of the good light. However, those special mornings when everything seems to click make it all worth the effort.

Realistically, many people only shoot sunsets, and usually only serendipitously. It can be a great way to capture being in a special place at a special time. The next time you see a beautiful sunset, take a few moments to point your lens at your surroundings, especially if the western horizon is clear of clouds. Sometimes the most glorious (reflected) light will be directly behind you.

January 6, 2010January 14, 2013

Point Reyes Coastal Colors (Photo of the week)

Wildflowers and multi-colored coastal grasses adorn the hills of Point Reyes National Seashore

Late fall is a great time to visit Point Reyes National Seashore. Wildlife is active most of the day, and the coastal plants and grasses that adorn the seaside dunes start to turn their many colors in preparation for the winter. It is only an hour north of San Francisco, and features a historic light house, miles of protected beach, and opportunities for long hikes and overnight backpacking.