The Shot Not Taken

Sometimes the best photo shot of the day is the one not taken, but shared. Yesterday in a wildlife park I saw a Sandhill Crane with her new chick. Being spring, I was also treated to a scene of a mother deer and fawn. Further on, near the great Myakka River, there was an amazing sight: an osprey not 30 feet above, carrying a large fish toward his nest in the trees. It glittered silver in the morning sun. But, sadly, I didn't have time to set up the shot. Nearby was a young blond boy walking with his grandparents. I shouted to him, "Look, do you see that?" It seemed important to share. His eyes looked up quickly with wonder at the awesome scene. He looked at me solemnly, and replied, "I saw it". I had the feeling the image would remain with him for many years.

So, this spring day of photography turned out to be all about the young: the newly born animals, their parents nurturing them, and sharing a special moment with a boy. And most of all, that the best shot of the day may be the one never even taken.

Done