I have been working on cataloging some more images and came across a few shorebird pictures that I liked but had not posted them yet on my site. . It got me thinking about some of the challenges in photographing these little guys. In particular, I remember getting some sand in the focusing ring of my lens and cursing a lot. . Of course you always have to be on the lookout for the rogue wave if you are also near the waterline. . I was trying to create some compositions using the waterline as a leading graphical element through the image. . It took quite a bit of waiting for the bird and shadow to come into the same frame like I wanted.
It also brought to mind one of the biggest mysteries. Why is it in some places shorebirds will walk within a foot of your toes when you don’t have a camera, but as soon as you go to photograph them, they won’t come near you?. . Patience helps. . I think if they know you are willing to wait, soon enough they come a bit closer.
Also related to shorebirds.. the recent issue of National Wildlife Magazine has an interesting article on bar-tailed godwits. . Known to be the bird with the longest non-stop flight, 7,300 km from Alaska across the Pacific to New Zealand!. Amazing. It also points to how development in Asia might be affecting these shorebirds and many others. The article is online without the pictures and graphics here.
I know I will probably be accused of being mean again with all this beach talk. . I should be writing and posting images of freezing gusts of snow and frostbitten fingers. But think about the journey these small birds endure – and the weather doesn’t seem so bad. 
More shorebird photos in my gallery.
Of yourse you are –
– I love these little critters very much and I can relate to you saying about having the camera or not – as usual – Murphy’s law. I cannot count any more how often I was swearing and how often I also swore to always take the camera with me but then…
The second photo is really something unearthy! The most interesting thing here is that you cannot say what the dimensions are – it could be taken from far above from an airplane or down, a tiny crop only, standing on a rock or whatever. This kind of mystery I am always fascinated about and never get tired of….
Yeah, always something interesting to find at the beach – when the birds weren’t around, I was looking at the sand. I know a lot of photography teachings want you to include some other familiar object for the exact purpose of sense of scale. But I often find images interesting without it because it makes you wonder…
These are both such wonderful images, but the sand image is very special. The layers of color and diagonal lines are so well used.
That is so true with all animals. Bust out the camera and they are gone!
I really like the sandscape.
Ron
exquisite images as always! Nice to see ‘warm’ images, I’ve certainly seen enough snow/cold to last a LONG time already this season.
Happy holidays to you and yours my friend.
The bottom photo is mesmerizing. The texture is stunning. I want to run my hand over it and feel the “hand” of it. One moment, the sand has been transformed into a smooth material (silk or satin), next it appears to be plush (deep velvet). It appears fabric-like because it is “pleated” and attached to something like a waistband. The lighting is miraculous. One of my favorites ever from your files. The images are beautiful enough to win you forgiveness for torturing everyone with beach scenes and tropical waters.
Thanks Paul, Ron.
Cindy – thanks also, the cold is really starting to get to me early this year also!
Anita – you are too kind.
I have seen many wonderful images coming from your way, … but the second image shown here I believe to be one of your best ever. Pure and simple!
Michael
If you’ve never seen the movie “Winged Migration,” you must. I miss shore birds. Unfortunately here in ever-sinking S. Louisiana, we have no “shore” to speak of (which grows worse every day.)
Mark, I followed the link to your bird images. Ended up going through about 40 of them… my-oh-my, you have MANY gorgeous shots of your feathered friends. One day, I will sit down and go through your entire portfolio (would this take me a day??!). In the meantime, I want to wish you a very HAPPY NEW YEAR. May it be a prosperous and healthy one for you and your loved ones.
Sorry folks, I know I am late in replying to you, but trying to catch up now…
Michael – thanks man as always. Certainly a big compliment. I am glad so many liked that particular shot, I do as well.
Lana – I have seen Winged Migration – amazing piece of film making.
Diane – no need to spend a day, just keep visiting is all I can ask for.
Thanks much, and happy new year as well.