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Dusk Has Begun...
The sun was setting over Heart Lake; the sun dipping below the distant horizon splintering into a thousand shards of broken light; cascading over the tree tops and blazing a trail across the landscape in a futile attempt to slow down the encroaching night.
Inevitably the darkness fell and extinguished the last lingering light of the common day... Only to rise again on the other side of night.
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© NICK MUNROE (MUNROE PHOTOGRAPHY)
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An old utility trailer wait futilely to be utilized once again.
A bit of selective colour in this monochrome. As passé as selective colour may be, I think it's the right thing here.
© Anvilcloud Photography
Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius)
My best photos are here: www.lacerta-bilineata.com/ticino-best-photos-of-southern-...
More TICINO/TESSIN Wildlife Photos (all taken in my garden in Monteggio/Ti, Switzerland): it.lacerta-bilineata.com/ramarro-occidentale-lacerta-bili...
If you're interested, you'll find a more detailed closeup here (it's the 8th photo from the top): www.lacerta-bilineata.com/western-green-lizard-lacerta-bi...
My latest ANIMAL VIDEO (it's very brief but pretty unusual: a tiny wall lizard attacks two young great tits): www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQqkSsyrm7E
THE STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: MY LONG AND ARDUOUS JOURNEY TO BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY
If you've set yourself the challenge of exclusively shooting the wildlife in your own back yard, you might find - as I did - that bird photography is really, really hard.
It's not that reptiles are easy to photograph either, mind - but at least the ones in my garden stay (for the most part) on the ground, and one can learn how to carefully approach them with a camera. They're also clearly egoists, which from a photographer's point of view is is a great character trait: if a lizard detects a human in its vicinity, it's only interested in saving its own skin, and it won't alarm its buddies.
But birds... oh man. Over the years, my feathered friends and I have developed a lovely routine that now defines our peaceful co-existence. As soon as I as much as open a window (let alone the door), I'm instantly greeted by an eruption of panicky fluttering and hysterical shouts from my garden: "SAVE YOUR WOMEN AND CHILDREN AND FLY FOR YOUR LIVES: THE HAIRLESS, PINK MONSTER IS COMING!!! (Yes, I speak bird, and I know that this is exactly what they are shouting 😉).
Needless to say, with the exception of the redstart I already showed here, all my efforts to get the kind of detailed shots I usually strive for with my nature photography ended in complete failure and utter disillusionment. I was ready to give up on stalking the winged misanthropes in my garden altogether, but then winter came - and changed everything.
One day this past January I observed my neighbor Signora P - a kind, elderly Italian lady - putting something on the low garden wall in front of my house. At first I thought she was just putting some treat there for her cat Romeo; the young tom patrols that wall constantly (it's his favorite spot in the garden, and during the warmer months he usually lurks in the thick foliage next to it to prey on lizards).
But once I detected a lot of movement on that wall through my window, I understood she had put a little pile of bread crumbs there; she was feeding the birds who soon arrived in flocks. This was certainly well-intended on my neighbor's part, but her noble action came with a catch, and I'm afraid quite literally.
When I took a stroll through my garden the next day I discovered a suspicious amount of feathers on the ground next to the wall. Romeo had apparently switched from his low-calorie summer diet (lizard) to more energy-rich meals consisting of "fowl" (it was winter after all, so from a nutritionist's point of view this made sense).
I would find fresh traces of Romeo's victims (mostly feathers, but also the odd wing) in my garden over the following days; so my first intuition that my neighbor was feeding her cat hadn't been that far off after all, as Romeo was now clearly being "served" fresh birds on a daily basis. And although the hungry visitors seemed to be aware of the danger and became slightly more prudent, they just couldn't resist the tasty snacks Signora P put on that wall - and neither could Romeo.
It was obvious that I had to act, but talking to my neighbor - who is as stubborn as she is kind - would have been futile, I knew that much. I pondered the matter long and hard - until a light bulb went off in my head. The idea was genius. If successful, what I had in mind would not only increase the birds' chances of surviving Romeo's appetite, but also greatly benefit my own photographic endeavors.
I started to enact my master plan the very next day by buying a giant bag of bird feed (consisting mainly of sunflower seeds) from the store. Then I dragged a huge piece of a tree trunk (approx. 120 cm in height) that we normally chop firewood on in the shed out into the garden and emptied almost half of the bag's content on top of it. Signora P's buffet for birds (and cats) was about to get some serious competition 😊.
My reasoning was as follows: not only would the birds be lured away from the fatally low garden wall to a place where they were safe from the cat - there was nothing around that tree trunk that provided cover for a predator, and the birds had a nice 360° view around it at all times - but I was also able to photograph them while hiding in the shed.
However, in order for my plan to work there was one little extra measure I had to take, and it was one that risked lowering my own life expectancy considerably once the owner of the property - my mom - discovered it. You see, our shed is completely windowless, so if I wanted to use it as a blind, I had no choice but to cut a hole into one of its wooden walls... which I promptly did (I figured all's fair in love - and photography 😉).
Granted, I have absolutely zero carpentering skills, and it showed. That hole was an ugly mess: the shed's wall seemed to have had an encounter with Jack Nicholson's ax-wielding lunatic character from the film 'The Shining'. Needless to say, I was incredibly proud of my work (I mean, come on: there now was a hole where before there wasn't a hole, and it was big enough for the lens of my camera to peek through, so it was mission accomplished as far as I was concerned).
Now all I had to do was wait for the birds to discover the tree trunk. In the meantime I started to mentally prepare myself for the inevitable confrontation with my mom and go through possible explanations for that splintering hole in the wall (it was either gonna be a rabid woodpecker attack or an emergency rescue mission with a feeding tube for a little kid that had accidentally locked himself inside the shed - both seemed valid options, though I slightly preferred the locked-in kid due to the involved drama and heroism 😉).
A whole day went by, and not a single bird visited the sunflower seeds. I had expected that it might take a few hours until the first of the ever curious great tits or blue tits would show up, but given how tiny my garden is, an entire day seemed excessive. Then another day came and went: the birds kept flocking to the bread crumbs on the wall, and my tree trunk kept collecting dust. To add injury to insult, a few fresh feathers on the ground were proof that Romeo was still feasting.
It was incredibly frustrating: I provided my winged guests with a much better view - plus a higher chance of surviving the cuisine - than Signora P's place; I risked (almost) certain death at the hands of my own mother (OK, the act of vandalism on the shed I had committed for my own benefit, but still), yet the birds kept ignoring me.
Then, after three days, just before sunset, I spotted a single blue tit on the tree trunk picking away at the sunflower seeds.
When I got up the next morning I immediately realized that the loud noise that accompanies each and every tit activity had shifted from the wall to the shed. At last the dam had broken: there was a flurry of movement around the tree trunk, and I counted at least 5 different species of birds feasting on the sunflower seeds.
From day 4 onward my plan worked beautifully: the birds now indeed mostly ignored Romeo's "snack wall" and kept to the tree trunk. And yes, I was able to play peeping tom from behind the shed's wall and photograph them!! 😊
Thus, dear readers, I finally managed to produce some acceptable bird photos, and I had even saved my feathered friends from a deadly foe in the process. All through winter and spring I took advantage of my new bird hide, and in late May I started mixing some cherries with the sunflower seeds. The idea was to attract a Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius), and as you can see, it worked!
It took me almost three weeks and more than a few tricks to capture that clever fella, but given how long I've been rambling here already, that's a story for another day. As for my mom, she still doesn't know about the hole in the wall, so please don't snitch! 😉.
I hope you like the photo and wish you all a wonderful weekend! Many greetings from Switzerland, and as always: let me know what you think in the comments 🙏 😊 ❤!
P.S. if anyone has their own funny tale about the obstacles we photographers are prepared to overcome for a desired photo, please write it in the comments: I love such stories 😊
I love breaking through the undergrowth to this place I call Sevonia in The Roaches. With it's moss covered gritstone boulders and very humid atmosphere there's normally total silence in there, save for the snap of a rotten twig under my boot. I find it a little creepy in there on my own as my eyes swivel around to make sure no black panther or carving knife armed lunatic is creeping up on me. The truth is, the ground is so broken, tangled and uneven that I know trying to escape would be difficult and my screams would be a futile waste of effort. The place oozes atmosphere in any light, not that there is much chance I will go in there as the day draws to a close. All the same I am expecting to be murdered soon!
Continuing the series of "ugly" pictures with the same comment:
Without any intention to offend anyone for the state of some houses, this series of ugly images is my desperate, probably futile attempt to save the architectural heritage that is already in such a state that her salvation is gone.
…I loved this majestic tree and just wish we’d plant more - these beauties not last forever! The power lines and poles look futile against them I thought….
For the interested I’m growing my Shutterstock catalogue regularly here, now sold 29 images :- www.shutterstock.com/g/Alan+Foster?rid=223484589&utm_...
©Alan Foster.
©Alan Foster. All rights reserved. Do not use without permission.……
Without any intention to offend anyone for the state of some houses, this series of ugly images is my desperate, probably futile attempt to save the architectural heritage that is already in such a state that her salvation is gone.
Using scientifically approved sock puppets Tra attempts to address the overpopulation of cats. Good Thing - Bad Thing; You Decide.
Scott warned Tra this would be futile.
The majority of cats leave in disgust.
Tralalas Diner @ Pine Lake
maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Pine%20Lake/30/54/28
A Post-Apocalyptic Photo-Op Sim
Stuff:
.Shi Arcane Headpiece
.Shi : Eirene
Demonic Hell Tattoo
[The Forge] Banshee Welding Goggles (Steel)
SUGAR City Cargo Shorts
Abramations Bento Sock Puppets
WL: Marauder's Trophy Belt
Remarkable Oblivion Last Stand Boots
DRD Nerd Goggles
KOSH Necklaces
DRD Brynhilda Shoulders
Blindspot Memory Cable Neckwrap
uK - Old Americana CarPort RARE
Battle Cats of Tralalas Diner
DC Watching Crows
Scott:
SI Aviator Hat with goggles on Top V.2 c.3 (add/wear)
L&B Swear "Aviator Vintage" FatPack Mens Leather Jacket
Meva Dale Pants Signature Box [Wear Me]
Meva Hakon Boots Signature Gianni
[SIGNATURE] Gianni - Mesh Body - v4.5
Catwa Head Daniel
Hair : *ARGRACE* HAYATE - Blacks
The sun pops above the layer of mist and cloud on a lovely sunrise at my local beach, every sunrise is different in so many ways. There was a lovely sunrise sky this morning the clouds were full of glorious colour so I took a few shots over a tree, resistance is futile . And who can resist a great song too ,
Continuing the series of "ugly" pictures with the same comment:
Without any intention to offend anyone for the state of some houses, this series of ugly images is my desperate, probably futile attempt to save the architectural heritage that is already in such a state that her salvation is gone.
A soft and unassuming sunrise in the gorge looking towards Mt. Hood
This was taken last year on one of my favorite all-time hikes. This year I decided to visit other nearby hikes which ended up being disappointing in comparison. Plus, and maybe I'm imagining it, it seems like the wildflowers are a couple weeks behind this year. Possibly due to the freakish snow we had in April? Anyways, my attempts to see similar open fields of colorful blooms has been futile this year. But, there's always next year! And will make it a point to revisit this gem for sure! :)
Follow me on Instagram @onegirlsplussizedadventure
Photo available for purchase here: gwendolynallsopphotography.zenfoliosite.com/home
Continuing the series of "ugly" pictures with the same comment:
Without any intention to offend anyone for the state of some houses, this series of ugly images is my desperate, probably futile attempt to save the architectural heritage that is already in such a state that her salvation is gone.
I recently was working on an old Power Amp that had a faulty pot (potentiometer) Flickr says the spelling is wrong but it aint. Basically a volume control knob.
So this them was perfect for me. Just was a little work getting in that close.
Happy Macro Mondays
"Now we're going to do the most human thing of all: attempt something futile with a ton of unearned confidence and fail spectacularly"
quote from a comedy series created by Michael Schur.
Raglan Castle is one of the last true castles to be built in Wales. Its construction began in the 1430s by Sir William ap Thomas, the Blue Knight of Gwent who fought at the Battle of Agincourt with King Henry V in 1415.
During the English Civil War in 1646, Raglan Castle was besieged by parliamentarian forces led by Sir Thomas Fairfax. The castle was surrounded and mortar batteries (short bell shaped cannons) were dug into place. Henry Somerset who attempted to defend the castle, knew his efforts were futile and surrendered to Fairfax. As a result of the siege, the castle was heavily damaged and thus began a period of disrepair.
This tree is hanging on to its green pigment for as long as possible, but the signs of change are starting to show as it slowly pulls back its resources for the winter months ahead. Taken in Hillock Woods, Princes Risborough.
Fortunate to witness an electric storm from our balcony. There is no sound and you are not able to predict when the next flash will come. Attempting to release the shutter when it comes is futile.
Continous shutter release is the only option.
"And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain."(1 Cor 15:14) . . . Paul further asserted "And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins."
Through the Resurrection of Jesus Christ the Lord has reached down to us with His hand of Grace. It is up to you to reach up with your hand of Faith.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDpEBMHRp4g
Behold this man on the road
The burden that he holds
He lost it all but still he carries on
The dead are left behind
On the road of pain and grief
Promises have been broken
Once again he's been deceived
Homeless man he is
A wanderer without a hope
Why this heavy burden?
What does he seek?
Homeless man he is
Searching for his dreams
Why this heavy burden?
Lost all his beliefs
Oh, the spirit roams
Oh, the spirit roams
Behold today the face of this man
He smiles now as he knows
His burden starts to slowly fade away
He laughs at himself
Now it's easy to let go, of futile and the needless
To let it lie, to let it go
Homeless man he is
A wanderer without a hope
Why this heavy burden?
What does he seek?
Homeless man he is
Searching for his dreams
Why this heavy burden?
Lost all his beliefs
Homeless man he is
A wanderer without a hope
Why this heavy burden?
What does he seek?
Homeless man he is
Searching for his dreams
Why this heavy burden?
Lost all his beliefs
Oh, the spirit roams
Oh, the spirit roams
Another futile attempt at trying to unclog Bangkok's road system. Mostly these flyovers just create a problem a bit further down the road
VIEW LARGE HERE
In a world of troubled times
Politics are redefined
Thoughts and actions are the way
That change the path we see today
Bombs and missiles miss their mark
A futile point we can't embark
Peace requires consciousness
Or fall beyond the great abyss
Predict the fate you want to see
Create the world reality
Lessons learned are somehow lost
Another major holocaust
Change requires discipline
A subtle point where we begin
Start with changing your own mind
And open it to see mankind
In times of hate, anguish and pain
A precise mind seems lost again
It isn't easy about to decide
What is wrong and what is right
The simple truths are all inside
Leave the past we left behind
War or peace is just a choice
Spread the word in your own voice
" War and Peace " - Solitary Experiments
HAPPY EARTH DAY FOLKS !
Like many people all around the world, including many ordinary Russians, I condemn Valimir Putin's unprovoked invasion of a democratic country, and the infliction of terror on it's people.
I know making a picture may seem like a futile response but it's all I can do for now. I had to register my anger, fear, and ultimately my support for the Ukrainian people.
My government in the UK are far from perfect but they are doing all they can to support Ukraine and it's fight against inflicted tyranny.
Many may argue that SL and Flickr are not the place for politics but I for one cannot look away.
Dictators will never win over Democracy.
www.flickr.com/groups/14779292@N24/
www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/world-europe-60517447
Edam
The most obvious association with the name 'Edam' is 'cheese'. For centuries the well-known round Edam cheeses have been sent from this litte town to all corners of the world.
The cheese market, once again restored to its place of honor, is enacted weekly during the summer months. And nearby cheese warehouses keep alive the memory of a colourful post. There are also the cheese farms in the area of Edam en Volendam. However, Edam is more than cheese.
Edam is a city with a rich history. It began in the 12th century, when farmers and fishermen settled along the little Ye river. With that 'Yedam' was a fact.
This primitive settlement developed into an increasingly prosperous town well into the 17th century. Shipbuilding played an important role in this growth.
Once Edam had a great number of ship yards building many famous ships. A good example is the 'Halve Maan' (Half Moon), the ship that the Englishman Henry Hudson sailed in 1609 when attempting to discover a northern route to the East Indies.
A futile attempt in fact, because he stranded on the island of Manhattan! Beside shipbuilding, commerce was a major contributor to the thriving development of Edam.
Together with Amsterdam, Hoorn and Enkhuizen, Edam was one of the most important commercial towns in Holland.
Today Edam is a town with authentic 17th century architecture, convincing proof of its rich past. When walking along the old streets and quiet canals, one can easily imagine how it must have been in a Dutch town centuries ago.
Mother nature gradually consumes a parked horse box.
Near Myrtle Farm on Forest Drove near Bickenhall, Somerset.
I was looking for utensils.
Yeah, he don't fool me at all. Resistance is futile as they used to say on Star Trek.
Happy Teddy Bear Tuesday
A shot with many difficulties. The wind was 7-8 Bft and it was very difficult to stabilize the tripod. The spray was intense so it was futile to hope that I would have a clean lens and filters.
- Explore! March 20, 2022
All my images are protected under international authors copyright laws and may not be downloaded, reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without my written explicit permission All rights reserved. Copyright 2022 © Mark Lee
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Last July we went for dinner at Mt. Adams near downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. I found this light illuminating the Holy Cross Immaculata Church. Bugs were performing a futile dance for us.
I processed a balanced HDR photo from a RAW exposure taken with my favorite 50mm prime lens.
-- © Peter Thoeny, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0, HDR, 1 RAW exposure, NEX-6, _DSC5244_hdr1bal1c
Continuing the series of "ugly" pictures with the same comment:
Without any intention to offend anyone for the state of some houses, this series of ugly images is my desperate, probably futile attempt to save the architectural heritage that is already in such a state that her salvation is gone.
Saliha, the sister of our Afghan mountain climber friend Mariam, can come to Germany!!!
She braved so many hurdles, worst of all futile days and nights at Kabul airport and then a dangerous trip across the border, and now even the German authorities succumbed to her charm 😊
We are so happy, and grateful to all of you who hoped and helped!