Not that much. I had a collection of musical instruments and the one I played the most was my unique double-stringed hand-made Appalachian dulcimer - it was very relaxing. One time I accompanied a folk due at a university concert with it. The first guitar I owned was a Gibson 6-string (can't remember the exact model), it was much easier for me to play than my Martin. Here I am back in Toronto with my dulcimer (Gibson B45-12 beside me).
Correction. The Gibson was the first "steel-stringed" guitar I owned. The first guitar I owned was a Spanish classical guitar that I bought in Spain, brought back home and it wasn't long before it cracked all to hell due, I guess, to less humidity.
Not much going on this week. I got the new aquarium light risers that my sister fabricated on her 3D printer.
The new TV came so I got that hooked up with a Philips Hue Sync Box and the gradient light strip. I don't know about you guys, but I think it's a work of art. LOL! Don't pay any attention to the movie playing - check out the lights on the wall around the TV.
Thanks RW. The new tank needs lots of growth and maybe a few more of those teeny tiny catfish to be great. Tried to get CO2 hooked up last night, but couldn't get the line to stop dripping water, so I put it all back were it was until Saturday. I am seeing new growth in some of the plants, but I have to be careful not to start growing algae too.
Thanks Dig. The Hue Sync thing came out a couple of years ago, but didn't get good until this last year when it allowed 4K pass through and they put out the new gradient light strip made just for TVs.
It amount of time spent on aquariums depends. For me I keep the front glass clean and replace half the water every weekend in each tank. I trim plants as needed, but tend to like the overgrown look anyway. Once a month I clean the canister filter in tank water. I know people with big, high tech tanks and lots of fish that fuss about their stuff daily. IMO the best tank to start with is a 29 gallon or 40 gallon breeder tank. They have enough water to not fluctuate quickly and are big enough to put a nice aquascape in, but not so big you have to beef up your flooring for the weight.
I am trying to rehome a bunch of platties if you are interested!
Thanks you, Buzz. I'm very glad you like it. The framing took a bit to get the results I wanted. To match the boldness of the image, yet, not overpower it.
Awesome photos Buzz. I can only imagine the feel of being there in person. It reminds me of some of the very old Catholic and Orthodox churches I have seen. The number of large, bright and very ornate images, and the related items surrounding their area is truly mesmerizing.
While I am not a religious person, I do appreciate their artwork.
Mourning Doves are easy to spook. I've had a hard time getting shots of them, but here's one.
Gray Squirrel.
Northern Flicker.
Brown-headed Cowbird. Common in summer, but a surprise to see in winter.
Brown Creeper.
Northern Mockingbird. I never see them at the feeders, but they apparently like deer feed blocks.
I haven't been able to identify this one yet. Does anyone know?
Today's setting sun, about to disappear behind a hill in the woods.
A recent front yard sunrise.
Here's a couple shots of an unseasonably green vining plant that I noticed today. It doesn't seem to care that it's still winter, and looks so out of place. Any guesses as to what it might be? I don't have a clue.
My parents had euonymus vines growing on the side of their home in Ontario, green all year round. I once came home during winter and found a deer eating them - the home was on the edge of a forest. Here are a couple of pictures of euonymus leaves from the internet:
Those are all really great shots, Dig. The ones of the birds are truly awesome. Their coloring, and the detail of their feathers, are even more beautiful due to the extra closeness of the shot.
That little squirrel is a real hoot. Reminds me of the ones that used to hang out in my front and backyard trees when I lived in No Virginia several years ago. And they do like to flip that tail.
Thanks, RW. Isn't that flicker beautiful? A single side shot really doesn't do it justice.
That little squirrel is a real hoot.
I have some recent raw video of gray squirrels doing funny gymnastics on a hanging birdfeeder. One shot clearly shows how they can turn their hind ankles around 180° and go from sitting upright to hanging upside down without moving their feet at all. It's kind of freaky. I haven't processed the videos into anything worth watching yet, though.
Also want to get a shot of this big fox squirrel that comes around sometimes. He's big enough that he was actually hauling whole apples off to the woods last summer. He'd bite into one and take off running, and the forward weight would lift his rear off the ground so that it looked like he was just running on his front legs. It was hilarious. I didn't have enough zoom before to get any video of it, but I might this year if it happens again.
Those little furry critters really are fun to watch. There were two of them who took a claim of territorial rights, one in the front yard tree, and one in the backyard. The sides of the yard were like a no mans land.
I had a standing bird feeder that was about 6 ft tall with a hook like hanger that I hung the bird feeder on. The backyard squirrel tried his best to climb the pole to get to the feeder, and I was able to get a video of him in action. The antics he would go through in his failed efforts to get to the bird feeder were hilarious.
I put out squirrel corn and peanuts out for both of them, and watching them trying to find a hiding place for their goodies where the Blue Jays, who sat in the tree and watched where the goodies were hidden, would not find them and steal them. A practice that always failed, as the Jays would go along behind the squirrel and steal the goodies. Then the squirrel would start to try and chase them away which also always failed.
The both of them were hilarious to watch. I sure do miss them. There are no squirrels here where I live now, just a very large group of crows. But, they are fun to watch as well.
Many years ago saw in person the sunsets from Kona on the Big Island, and although not from Ocala, but similar ones from Orlando and Sarasota. Nice to see them again.
Both are really beautiful photos, Kavika. I have never been to Hawaii, but, I have been FL and the sunsets are truly soo beautiful. And when sitting on the beach, with the sunset reflecting on the water, it is even more beautiful. And the reflection of the sunset on the lake in the complex where you live reminds me of the sunsets by the beach.
The Stone Creek image is a perfect example of what 19th Century American, Hudson River School painter, art historians referred to as "Romantic Realism" … which. just so happens to be my number one favorite genre of all time!
I haven't been able to get a shot of one, but I like those little buggers. They're a little bundle of energy, flitting around constantly, with that tail often sticking straight up like a chicken's. I also like how they sing year-round. It's always nice to hear loud wren song in the middle of winter. I have a 20 second video of one singing from back in December. Just a shot of some trees (couldn't find the bird), but it recorded the sound of him singing loud and clear.
NOTE: From time-to-time, I like to tell photographers that certain of their photographs … are better than they realize, but, do not show their potential for the need of "editing"!
In the age of digital photography, most photographs are shot in what is called, "jpeg" format; this format compresses images before recording them to a memory card in order to save memory, or space, on the card. This frequently comes at the expense of some of the information in the original image as shot based on "decisions" made by digital cameras' processors.
The short version, "what you see through the camera's viewfinder, IS NOT NECESSARILY WHAT YOU GET in the recorded image. Consequently, being an adept digital photographer often requires being an adept digital photo editor -- stated another way -- A DIGITAL DARKROOM FREQUENTER.
So, why am I telling everyone this?
Go back to my NOTE above. There are time when I am tempted to ask permission to "edit certain posted photos" so as to show just how good they really are, given a dose of the editing digital photography sometimes requires. Not to say this applies to every image, nor to imply, that every image can benefit from editing.
BOTTOM LINE: Any member of our GROUP who gives me permission to "edit" (not radically transform) an image for basics (brightness, contrast, color correction, composition) and post the edited version, this, with the understanding that NOT ALL IMAGES CAN BENEFIT FROM EDITING, feel free to do so.
BIG CAVEAT: I DO NOT WISH TO APPEAR TO JUDGE, CRITICIZE or HURT ANYONE'S FEELINGS. If I do not act on a request, please know in advance, I TRASH WAY MORE OF MY OWN IMAGES THAN I PUBLISH … WAAAAAAY MORE! The beauty of digital photography is in being able to toss images without wasting film or paying a service bureau to develop/process ones imagery.
No response necessary to this post … but I will respond to any I deem requires one.
You can mess around with anything I post, Mac. If you want to, that is. You don't even need to ask. Feel free.
I compress them to make the file sizes smaller before posting, though, so if you ever want to edit one and would rather have the full-size file, just let me know and I'll post a copy in the gallery on my user page and you can grab it from there.
Now that is a total transformation of the photo, Mac, and gives it a very mystical feel as well. The red 'halo' around what is now the bright moon rising through the trees is truly awesome. I am in awe of your artistic talents.
On occasion I've done the same, but often-times when the subject virtually fills the frame, there is no room to edit When there is space to spare, then composition becomes possible, enabling the rules, such as the rule of thirds in order to place the subject within a context.
Thanks Dig. The Butterflies lingering around the Dream Catcher are to bring the thoughts of Spring and warmer weather. Something I thought most here could relate to as the wickedly cold weather keeps rolling in.
Thank you Buzz. What types of Butterflies do you have in your area of China? I have seen several types depicted in the various Chinese artwork, pottery and tapestries.
Those Butterflies in the top two photos are truly beautiful. Unfortunately, the ones encased and/or mounted in some manner are not easily seen in their detail.
Thank you for sharing them with us. I am sure that like here in America, the Butterflies in the different areas of the country may differ. The ones we have here in So Cal are different from the ones I saw when I lived in No Virginia, and those differed from those I saw in Ft Meyers FL. So I guess that applies to the variation of Butterflies in China.
When I had first posted that top picture a while ago A.Mac told me it was a Swallowtail so I assume it is not uncommon in the USA. For me, as I grew up and lived most of my life in Ontario, the Monarch was the most popular butterfly, and the only one I really remember from back then.
I posted the Mount Emei booth photo only to show you that there are many species here - I had not taken any closeup shots of it.
I thought that is why you posted the photo of the booth. Given the vast area that comprises China, it is a given that there is more than one or two species.
When I lived in No Virginia I waked out the door of my apt and saw a huge bright yellow Butterfly on the wall next to the outside door. It had its wings spread out flat and must have been more than 6 inches wide from wing tip to wing top, and about 5 inches top to bottom. It did not fly away when I walked up to it, and lightly fluttered its wings a bit when I talked softly to it. I was not sure why it was there, so I decided to leave it alone and go about my business. When I came home later it was gone. I have never seen a Butterfly that large before. Compared to most Butterflies it would be considered a giant. And its bright, buttery yellow color, with no markings at all, just a solid yellow, was truly beautiful. I have never seen another like it, and have no idea what kind of Butterfly it was.
You did very well, G. A well matched color with just enough contrast to enhance the photo, yet, set itself apart from it. I would like to see more of your framing.
Damn it. My vision and/or my mind are really deteriorating. I just noticed what I wrote. I meant to say "It (the frame), added to, enhanced, and did not subtract from, the image. I didn't add anything.
Thanks, Dig. For this one I think there was just one shot. I do have quite a few other sunset photos where I take multiple shots as the sunset colors or cloud formations change, or to get a better composition.
I really love the beautifully varied effects the colors of the sunsets and sunrises have on the cloud formations at the various stages of the setting and rising sun. The different seasons of the year also play a part in colors of the sunsets and sunrises, and the varied cloud shapes and sizes. They are each a beautiful work of art in themselves using Mother Nature's pallet of awesome colors.
The image is very crowded....a combination of many images of various colors, so finding a background for it was rather difficult. The one I chose provides an addition of various colors that are compatible with the image, but, does not overpower it, just enhances it.
Those are all very awesome photos, Kavika. Sunsets and sunrises are my favorites. The variation of colors they create on the clouds and bodies of water of all sizes are breathtaking.
I saw some robins today. It's weird because they eat bugs and worms and don't usually come back until spring. Climate change, I guess. I hope they survive the sub-zero Polar Vortex that's currently sweeping down across the Midwest and will be here where I am in the coming week.
Here's a pic for Saturday, and a little movie I made out of some video clips.
How well did the video play for you? It's buffering like crazy for me. I don't know why this site's video player has to be like that. I even rendered it at a low resolution to keep the file size small before I uploaded it. I can watch video all over the internet, and stream TV, but I can almost never watch videos here without buffering. It's so aggravating.
I encountered the buffering as well, although it did not take too long to watch the whole video. However, watching it took me WAY back in time to when I was a very little kid, and I believe the Robins were the first birds I ever saw and watched back then. What concerns me is the fact that if global warming is causing them to remain in the north and due to the frozen ground unable to find bugs for their diet, it could be an early sign that we may start losing that species, as we have been losing the Monarch butterfly due to insufficient milkweed diet for them.
I posted this a while ago. It is an eagle far up at the top of our back hill. Eagles don't come into the populated parts of L.A. too often, although we did have one in a tree in front of our house a few years ago. Unfortunately, I did not have a camera with me then.
I posted this one previously, also. It was taken in England.
I remember seeing the Eagle in the tree top, still a great shot. But, what kind of float or boat is that with what looks like antlers sitting in the water along with the ducks and swan? Is it a duck blind or similar?
I don't have too many bird photos, so I'm repeating here. I think the thing with antlers may actually be metal. Maybe it's a sculpture? I'm not really sure.
Thank you so much Dig. As I want my artwork to represent the many Native American Tribes, I try to create artwork that is a reflection of the various Tribes culture, traditions, beliefs and their native artwork. While these are somewhat similar among many Tribes, they are also unique to each individual Tribe. That is what makes their artwork speak of each Tribes own history and heritage.
It is these varied similarities, yet, differences, among the many Native American Tribes that I try to share with my artwork. I hope that through my artwork I am able to enlighten and somewhat educate others who would like to learn about the 'First People' of America.
A really beautiful image, Hal. That is a truly awesome combination of both a gradient purple background and well matched tree in the lighter center of the gradient. Added a finishing touch is the perfectly color matched frame.
Thank you Mac. I am experimenting with the framing to add a a different aspect to the primary subject. This to not only challenge myself, but, to also add a variation in the type of framing so counter boredom.
There was a Canadian artist named Paul Fouirnier who was dubbed an "exotic modernist" - my brother owned one of his paintings. Your works reminded me of it. He was described in this way:
"Fournier began studies in 1959 at the Ontario College of Art and Design. He soon became known for his use of bright fauvist colours for which he was dubbed an "exotic modernist" by New York art critic Donald Kuspit. Fauvism was a post-impressionist movement in France characterized by the "wild' use of colour."
The technique appears to be different - I think he must have used a brush.
I don’t use brushes but I certainly see some similarities with the Fauvist painters although not by intention.
I’m actually trying to slur the “details” in my paintings, to soften the transitions from broad area to broad area, to more continuous tone while, almost oxymoronically, bumping up details within individual broad areas. I’m not able to put it adequately into words, but I’ll know I’m there if I actually get there.
A very interesting mixture of colors and patterns, Mac. The simplicity of the black frame actually enhances the interwoven bright red and turquoise colors. A splendid abstract artwork.
Wow! that one gives me a Lord of the Rings vibe. It's reminiscent of the Eye of Sauron looking out across a barren and partially molten Mordor; or maybe more like the eye of the dragon Smaug.
Is that the Kukulcan pyramid temple from Chichen Itza I see?
If it's in a .jpg format, I can possibly modify the framing in conjunction to what you describe … not a guarantee on meeting your expectations, but, willing to try if you wish.
Thank you Mac. It is in a .png format. If I save it in the .jpg format, would it still work for you? I would really appreciate getting rid of the postage stamp look.
I can copy it from here and likely convert it to .jpeg; assuming the posted image is not the full size original, whatever cropping or changes will be the same approximate physical size minus the removed portion. Do you want anything other than the center area, or shall I create a different frame?
The primary image is a Mayan symbol of the Holy Eye of the Great Seer who sees all that dwells upon the Earth and in the Heavens.
The secondary image in front leading up to the Holy Eye of the primary image is an ancient Mayan Temple where various ceremonies take place.
The third image is a Mayan Temple Protector standing guard at the pathway leading to the Temple.
The background is the vast cavern that surrounds the Holy Eye of the Great Seer.
Thank you for your time. I sincerely appreciate your assistance with this artwork. Please take your time, it has been this way for more than a year, so a little longer won't hurt.
Thank you so very much, Mac. It is now a beautiful image that is not distracted by the 'postage stamp' effect. I truly appreciate your help with taming the framing and let the image take the spotlight.
I'd also like to add...that if you see any of my artwork that you have a different idea of, please feel free to let your artistic talents show us a different concept of it as you see it. I am here to learn as well as share my artwork, and I can think of no better 'Teacher' to help me expand my artistic views, and to challenge imagination. I like to do layering, and adding 'conversation' items to my primary image to make it more unique, as well as interesting, such as I did in this creation.
And learning newer ideas will help me open my mind to new levels of improvement, while still keeping with the primary purpose of my artwork, which is to help others better understand the history, traditions and ways of life of the Native Americans and other Indigenous People in all areas of the Americas and the many contributions they have made over the thousands of years they have been in existence. Thus, I want my artwork to be more than just a nice looking image. But, I want the learning process to be fun and interesting as well.
So whenever you see something of mine that tweaks your interest to experiment with, be my guest. I look forward to it.
I appreciate your confidence, but I would never be so presumptuous as to initiate the editing of, or, to adversely critique anyone’s work, especially not with regard to a quality artist like yourself, nor, of any member of our Group.
But anyone who first asks, or, laments some aspect of something they’ve created, should feel free to ask me to comment or edit.
Restorations are different; if someone posts an image with clear damage or aging, I may restore it if possible and send it to them in PN and let them decide if they want to post the restored image.
They are named "mock-orange" in reference to their flowers, which in wild species look somewhat similar to those of oranges and lemons ( Citrus ) at first glance, and smell of orange flowers and jasmine ( Jasminum ).
**From Wikipedia ^^ and YES! That's what I smelled!
And it looks like it's Native to most of North America, so I'm assuming I could get one to grow.
Looks like they survived thanks giving..not quite a bird but a koala in Adelaide caused a 6 car pile up y'day. Was on the highway and everyone took evasive action. A lady managed to catch him and stuffed him in her car and waited for koala rescue. They relocated him back in the bush. 🐨🐨🐨🐨
Yes....I was in the mood to do some experimenting that day and wanted to try something very different. So I first created the shape I wanted, then 'filled' it with the image I created separately. The shape is to represent the time past and the future, the bottom right side pointing to the past, and the top left side pointing to the future. The primary image is a Shaman who sees both.
I hope that helps to understand the meaning of the artwork.
Those are beautiful photos, steve. I have visited Phoenix several times over the years, at different times of the year, and the skies there are indeed beautiful all year round. Perhaps it has to do with the desert surroundings.
Driving across the desert on an off the fwy hwy at night the sky is almost surreal. With a bright moon that looks like it is rising right out of the earth and bathes the desert in a glow that seems right out of a Sci-Fi movie, and surrounded by an ocean in the sky of stars. I have driven across AZ and NM several times at night to beat the high heat, and it is truly awesome.
IMHO, Tuscan is nice, but, it can't compare with Phoenix.
Thank you for the compliment on my pictures Raven, Yes we do have some really pretty sunrises and sunsets here.
When we have cloud cover I try to look to see if we have anything real cool at the time, Sometimes I'll grab the phone and shape a pic of one that catches my eye.
But with no clouds the sunrises and sunsets are no real big deal here either, they happen every day...lol
Very lovely, Buzz. The grained framing is a great match for the varied colors in the artwork. The 'ghosting' of the edges of the artwork gives the interesting illusion that it is sinking into the all white background. The Lotus blossoms are truly beautiful, and the overall artwork presents a very impressive image.
Post what you've got!
A great close-up of the Mourning Dove, Mac. They really are a beautiful bird.
I ain't got no mourning doves, but here's a dove.
That is a beautiful guitar.
It's a Dove guitar. I had a Martin D28 and a Gibson B45-12 that I gave to my son when I moved to China.
Did you play them much? I have an old Gibson, also. It has a very beautiful sound.
Not that much. I had a collection of musical instruments and the one I played the most was my unique double-stringed hand-made Appalachian dulcimer - it was very relaxing. One time I accompanied a folk due at a university concert with it. The first guitar I owned was a Gibson 6-string (can't remember the exact model), it was much easier for me to play than my Martin. Here I am back in Toronto with my dulcimer (Gibson B45-12 beside me).
Correction. The Gibson was the first "steel-stringed" guitar I owned. The first guitar I owned was a Spanish classical guitar that I bought in Spain, brought back home and it wasn't long before it cracked all to hell due, I guess, to less humidity.
Not much going on this week. I got the new aquarium light risers that my sister fabricated on her 3D printer.
The new TV came so I got that hooked up with a Philips Hue Sync Box and the gradient light strip. I don't know about you guys, but I think it's a work of art. LOL! Don't pay any attention to the movie playing - check out the lights on the wall around the TV.
The aquariums truly are a work of art, EG, and very well done. Your fishies are really luck to have such great habitats to live in.
And that TV looks like it would be very easy on the eyes. (grin)
Thanks RW. The new tank needs lots of growth and maybe a few more of those teeny tiny catfish to be great. Tried to get CO2 hooked up last night, but couldn't get the line to stop dripping water, so I put it all back were it was until Saturday. I am seeing new growth in some of the plants, but I have to be careful not to start growing algae too.
That Hue Sync thing is awesome. I didn't even know it existed. Pretty darn cool.
So are the aquariums...erm...aquaria. Are they a lot of work to take care of? Cleaning and all?
Thanks Dig. The Hue Sync thing came out a couple of years ago, but didn't get good until this last year when it allowed 4K pass through and they put out the new gradient light strip made just for TVs.
It amount of time spent on aquariums depends. For me I keep the front glass clean and replace half the water every weekend in each tank. I trim plants as needed, but tend to like the overgrown look anyway. Once a month I clean the canister filter in tank water. I know people with big, high tech tanks and lots of fish that fuss about their stuff daily. IMO the best tank to start with is a 29 gallon or 40 gallon breeder tank. They have enough water to not fluctuate quickly and are big enough to put a nice aquascape in, but not so big you have to beef up your flooring for the weight.
I am trying to rehome a bunch of platties if you are interested!
I don't know anything about aquarium fish, but it looks like they'd be fun to watch.
Pretty cool.
A very nice pair of aquariums. How do you spell the plural of aquarium in Latin? aquarii? aquariae? Never mind. FISH TANKS.
Yes, it's interesting to see how the surrounding wall takes on the main hue of the screen.
Too bad 3D printers can't produce vaccine.
"aquaria"
I really enjoy the aquaria updates.
Interesting, powerful image Raven Wing.
Thanks G. The image is of a Shape Shifter, a legendary mystical human who can change into animals or mythical creatures.
Shape Shifters are part of the legends of most, if not all, Native American Tribes.
Thanks for the explanation, Raven Wing. I was wondering about the symbolism.
Herculean, and perfectly depicted by being B&W with a frame that both matches and accentuates.
Thanks you, Buzz. I'm very glad you like it. The framing took a bit to get the results I wanted. To match the boldness of the image, yet, not overpower it.
Street scene, Kyoto
Great photo, G. Makes me feel like I am right there with them.
Thanks!
Damn good street scene, especially during rain.
Thank you
At a Taoist temple in Sichuan Province:
.
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“The wise man is one who, knows, what he does not know.”
― Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching
"Knowing others is intelligence, knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength, mastering yourself is true power." - Lao Tzu.
A truly beautiful Lotus blossom. The varied coloring accentuates the blossoms beauty.
Awesome photos Buzz. I can only imagine the feel of being there in person. It reminds me of some of the very old Catholic and Orthodox churches I have seen. The number of large, bright and very ornate images, and the related items surrounding their area is truly mesmerizing.
While I am not a religious person, I do appreciate their artwork.
Mourning Doves are easy to spook. I've had a hard time getting shots of them, but here's one.
Gray Squirrel.
Northern Flicker.
Brown-headed Cowbird. Common in summer, but a surprise to see in winter.
Brown Creeper.
Northern Mockingbird. I never see them at the feeders, but they apparently like deer feed blocks.
I haven't been able to identify this one yet. Does anyone know?
Today's setting sun, about to disappear behind a hill in the woods.
A recent front yard sunrise.
Here's a couple shots of an unseasonably green vining plant that I noticed today. It doesn't seem to care that it's still winter, and looks so out of place. Any guesses as to what it might be? I don't have a clue.
The unidentified bird is a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (a woodpecker).
Thanks. I suspected that, but wasn't sure because I thought they were supposed to have red on their heads and throat.
It also looks like a Downey Woodpecker.
My parents had euonymus vines growing on the side of their home in Ontario, green all year round. I once came home during winter and found a deer eating them - the home was on the edge of a forest. Here are a couple of pictures of euonymus leaves from the internet:
That does look pretty similar. I'll keep an eye on it to see if it flowers like that in the spring.
Thanks, Buzz.
Great photos, Dig.
Thanks.
Those are all really great shots, Dig. The ones of the birds are truly awesome. Their coloring, and the detail of their feathers, are even more beautiful due to the extra closeness of the shot.
That little squirrel is a real hoot. Reminds me of the ones that used to hang out in my front and backyard trees when I lived in No Virginia several years ago. And they do like to flip that tail.
Thanks, RW. Isn't that flicker beautiful? A single side shot really doesn't do it justice.
I have some recent raw video of gray squirrels doing funny gymnastics on a hanging birdfeeder. One shot clearly shows how they can turn their hind ankles around 180° and go from sitting upright to hanging upside down without moving their feet at all. It's kind of freaky. I haven't processed the videos into anything worth watching yet, though.
Also want to get a shot of this big fox squirrel that comes around sometimes. He's big enough that he was actually hauling whole apples off to the woods last summer. He'd bite into one and take off running, and the forward weight would lift his rear off the ground so that it looked like he was just running on his front legs. It was hilarious. I didn't have enough zoom before to get any video of it, but I might this year if it happens again.
Those little furry critters really are fun to watch. There were two of them who took a claim of territorial rights, one in the front yard tree, and one in the backyard. The sides of the yard were like a no mans land.
I had a standing bird feeder that was about 6 ft tall with a hook like hanger that I hung the bird feeder on. The backyard squirrel tried his best to climb the pole to get to the feeder, and I was able to get a video of him in action. The antics he would go through in his failed efforts to get to the bird feeder were hilarious.
I put out squirrel corn and peanuts out for both of them, and watching them trying to find a hiding place for their goodies where the Blue Jays, who sat in the tree and watched where the goodies were hidden, would not find them and steal them. A practice that always failed, as the Jays would go along behind the squirrel and steal the goodies. Then the squirrel would start to try and chase them away which also always failed.
The both of them were hilarious to watch. I sure do miss them. There are no squirrels here where I live now, just a very large group of crows. But, they are fun to watch as well.
Evening, Kona Hawaii. (Big Island)
Evening, Stone Creek, Ocala FL.
Wow! I love colored sky shots.
Many years ago saw in person the sunsets from Kona on the Big Island, and although not from Ocala, but similar ones from Orlando and Sarasota. Nice to see them again.
Beautiful photos, Kavika.
Both are really beautiful photos, Kavika. I have never been to Hawaii, but, I have been FL and the sunsets are truly soo beautiful. And when sitting on the beach, with the sunset reflecting on the water, it is even more beautiful. And the reflection of the sunset on the lake in the complex where you live reminds me of the sunsets by the beach.
The Stone Creek image is a perfect example of what 19th Century American, Hudson River School painter, art historians referred to as "Romantic Realism" … which. just so happens to be my number one favorite genre of all time!
A Carolina Wren for Friday
© A. Mac/A.G.
That's a cute little birdie. Love the colors of its feathers.
I haven't been able to get a shot of one, but I like those little buggers. They're a little bundle of energy, flitting around constantly, with that tail often sticking straight up like a chicken's. I also like how they sing year-round. It's always nice to hear loud wren song in the middle of winter. I have a 20 second video of one singing from back in December. Just a shot of some trees (couldn't find the bird), but it recorded the sound of him singing loud and clear.
Peek-a-boo, I see you!
Beautiful marking on this bird, and the coloring of its feathers. Great shot.
Cool. Is it a Canada Jay?
I would say, Shrike, a carnivorous passerine bird.
Can it play baseball?
Doubtful. Not blue enough, as jays go.
NOTE: From time-to-time, I like to tell photographers that certain of their photographs … are better than they realize, but, do not show their potential for the need of "editing"!
In the age of digital photography, most photographs are shot in what is called, "jpeg" format; this format compresses images before recording them to a memory card in order to save memory, or space, on the card. This frequently comes at the expense of some of the information in the original image as shot based on "decisions" made by digital cameras' processors.
The short version, "what you see through the camera's viewfinder, IS NOT NECESSARILY WHAT YOU GET in the recorded image. Consequently, being an adept digital photographer often requires being an adept digital photo editor -- stated another way -- A DIGITAL DARKROOM FREQUENTER.
So, why am I telling everyone this?
Go back to my NOTE above. There are time when I am tempted to ask permission to "edit certain posted photos" so as to show just how good they really are, given a dose of the editing digital photography sometimes requires. Not to say this applies to every image, nor to imply, that every image can benefit from editing.
BOTTOM LINE: Any member of our GROUP who gives me permission to "edit" (not radically transform) an image for basics (brightness, contrast, color correction, composition) and post the edited version, this, with the understanding that NOT ALL IMAGES CAN BENEFIT FROM EDITING, feel free to do so.
BIG CAVEAT: I DO NOT WISH TO APPEAR TO JUDGE, CRITICIZE or HURT ANYONE'S FEELINGS. If I do not act on a request, please know in advance, I TRASH WAY MORE OF MY OWN IMAGES THAN I PUBLISH … WAAAAAAY MORE! The beauty of digital photography is in being able to toss images without wasting film or paying a service bureau to develop/process ones imagery.
No response necessary to this post … but I will respond to any I deem requires one.
Thanks Mac. Very interesting and enlightening.
You can mess around with anything I post, Mac. If you want to, that is. You don't even need to ask. Feel free.
I compress them to make the file sizes smaller before posting, though, so if you ever want to edit one and would rather have the full-size file, just let me know and I'll post a copy in the gallery on my user page and you can grab it from there.
I can work with images posted herein which would likely be best since I would post the edited images and explain the edits’ purposes,
Holy cow! That's a bigger difference than I was expecting. That's amazing.
Did you force sky that was already there to come out, or did you change it completely with a sky from some other shot?
I'm impressed. I have software that might be able to do things like that, but I still don't know how to use it.
You have skills, Mac!
That is indeed an awesome change, Mac. Other than the placement of the sun it does not look like the same photo. A real touch of artistic magic.
Skies that are featureless in the original are the easiest to transform … same shot … starry night with a flair!
Like most endeavors, desire and patience often win out with time (and lots of mistakes on the way).
You'll get there.
Now that is a total transformation of the photo, Mac, and gives it a very mystical feel as well. The red 'halo' around what is now the bright moon rising through the trees is truly awesome. I am in awe of your artistic talents.
Very well done!
On occasion I've done the same, but often-times when the subject virtually fills the frame, there is no room to edit When there is space to spare, then composition becomes possible, enabling the rules, such as the rule of thirds in order to place the subject within a context.
Friday is here at last......the day for new creations.
That is absolutely fantastic! It is one of my favorites of all of your work I have seen. VERY beautiful.
Thank you so much for your very kind words, G. I am so glad that you really like it.
I REALLY like it!
Nice! The butterflies are very summery, and I have a cold spell blowing in this week.
Thanks Dig. The Butterflies lingering around the Dream Catcher are to bring the thoughts of Spring and warmer weather. Something I thought most here could relate to as the wickedly cold weather keeps rolling in.
One word says all - EXCELLENT.
Thank you Buzz. What types of Butterflies do you have in your area of China? I have seen several types depicted in the various Chinese artwork, pottery and tapestries.
Here are a couple I've encountered and photographed:
.
But this booth was on our way down the sacred Buddhist Mount Emei, and indicates that there are many species.
Those Butterflies in the top two photos are truly beautiful. Unfortunately, the ones encased and/or mounted in some manner are not easily seen in their detail.
Thank you for sharing them with us. I am sure that like here in America, the Butterflies in the different areas of the country may differ. The ones we have here in So Cal are different from the ones I saw when I lived in No Virginia, and those differed from those I saw in Ft Meyers FL. So I guess that applies to the variation of Butterflies in China.
When I had first posted that top picture a while ago A.Mac told me it was a Swallowtail so I assume it is not uncommon in the USA. For me, as I grew up and lived most of my life in Ontario, the Monarch was the most popular butterfly, and the only one I really remember from back then.
I posted the Mount Emei booth photo only to show you that there are many species here - I had not taken any closeup shots of it.
I thought that is why you posted the photo of the booth. Given the vast area that comprises China, it is a given that there is more than one or two species.
When I lived in No Virginia I waked out the door of my apt and saw a huge bright yellow Butterfly on the wall next to the outside door. It had its wings spread out flat and must have been more than 6 inches wide from wing tip to wing top, and about 5 inches top to bottom. It did not fly away when I walked up to it, and lightly fluttered its wings a bit when I talked softly to it. I was not sure why it was there, so I decided to leave it alone and go about my business. When I came home later it was gone. I have never seen a Butterfly that large before. Compared to most Butterflies it would be considered a giant. And its bright, buttery yellow color, with no markings at all, just a solid yellow, was truly beautiful. I have never seen another like it, and have no idea what kind of Butterfly it was.
Stunning
Thank you , Kavika.
Sunset clouds
Oh wow! That is beautiful, G. A varied pink and blue combination and a matching frame. Great shot!
Thanks, Raven Wing. I'm very glad you like it. This is my first attempt at framing.
You did very well, G. A well matched color with just enough contrast to enhance the photo, yet, set itself apart from it. I would like to see more of your framing.
Good job. I added to, enhanced, and did not subtract from, the image.
Damn it. My vision and/or my mind are really deteriorating. I just noticed what I wrote. I meant to say "It (the frame), added to, enhanced, and did not subtract from, the image. I didn't add anything.
You really had me wondering. I kept looking and trying to figure out what you added, but I didn't see anything. I'm glad that's cleared up.
Good one! Did you find yourself taking a bunch of shots? I'm a sucker for sky color, and I always take wayyyy too many shots of it whenever I see it.
Thanks, Dig. For this one I think there was just one shot. I do have quite a few other sunset photos where I take multiple shots as the sunset colors or cloud formations change, or to get a better composition.
I really love the beautifully varied effects the colors of the sunsets and sunrises have on the cloud formations at the various stages of the setting and rising sun. The different seasons of the year also play a part in colors of the sunsets and sunrises, and the varied cloud shapes and sizes. They are each a beautiful work of art in themselves using Mother Nature's pallet of awesome colors.
I agree with you completely, Raven Wing.
Some images can benefit significantly from a complete sky replacement, but not every such image can have its sky successfully replaced.
Where the need and the logistics to replace a sky both exist, I have become pretty good at doing so.
If requested, I will say up front if I think a given image is a viable candidate.
That would be very interesting, Mac. That I would like to see.
Stay tuned, RW. It will likely be requested eventually.
Will do. I am really looking forward to what you find.
Well...Friday is almost gone...and now to move into Saturday....
Now THAT is what I call colour co-ordination.
The image is very crowded....a combination of many images of various colors, so finding a background for it was rather difficult. The one I chose provides an addition of various colors that are compatible with the image, but, does not overpower it, just enhances it.
Been Saturday for a while here, so could this be a "sign of the times"?
That is a very interesting sign board. Lots of info to be found there for sure.
It's quite fitting to be located on the campus of the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute.
Sunset at St. Pete Beach, FL. 2020
Sunset, Table Rock Lake, MO.
Sunset, Lake of the Woods, Canada
A spiritual trifecta!
A perfect description, Mac.
Beautiful! Those are top notch.
Sunsets as magnificent as those are rarely seen where I am.
Those are all very awesome photos, Kavika. Sunsets and sunrises are my favorites. The variation of colors they create on the clouds and bodies of water of all sizes are breathtaking.
Beautiful.
I saw some robins today. It's weird because they eat bugs and worms and don't usually come back until spring. Climate change, I guess. I hope they survive the sub-zero Polar Vortex that's currently sweeping down across the Midwest and will be here where I am in the coming week.
Here's a pic for Saturday, and a little movie I made out of some video clips.
A great photo of the Robin, and an awesome video, Dig.
Thanks, RW. I was surprised to see them.
How well did the video play for you? It's buffering like crazy for me. I don't know why this site's video player has to be like that. I even rendered it at a low resolution to keep the file size small before I uploaded it. I can watch video all over the internet, and stream TV, but I can almost never watch videos here without buffering. It's so aggravating.
I encountered the buffering as well, although it did not take too long to watch the whole video. However, watching it took me WAY back in time to when I was a very little kid, and I believe the Robins were the first birds I ever saw and watched back then. What concerns me is the fact that if global warming is causing them to remain in the north and due to the frozen ground unable to find bugs for their diet, it could be an early sign that we may start losing that species, as we have been losing the Monarch butterfly due to insufficient milkweed diet for them.
It played just fine for me all the way through, Dig. No interruptions of any kind. A great video.
Note the black heads; they’re all males, which come north en masse prior to the females (which have grayish heads),
Hey, I didn't know that. Thanks for the info.
And speaking of birds......
Beautiful!
One of your very best, RW!
Thank you very much, Mac. I am very glad that you like it.
Excellent, what else could we expect?
Thanks Buzz.
If we're onto birds today, here is a most unusual one - had no fear of my approaching it to take this photo.
A Whip-poor-will.
I have never seen one in person. Love the colors and pattern of their feathers.
That's a really cool photo, Buzz.
I posted this a while ago. It is an eagle far up at the top of our back hill. Eagles don't come into the populated parts of L.A. too often, although we did have one in a tree in front of our house a few years ago. Unfortunately, I did not have a camera with me then.
I posted this one previously, also. It was taken in England.
Nice. Everybody seems to have an eagle shot but me.
Love the swan, too.
Not so, I've never seen an eagle, unless I've seen one way back in the past in a zoo/aviary.
Thanks, Dig.
I remember seeing the Eagle in the tree top, still a great shot. But, what kind of float or boat is that with what looks like antlers sitting in the water along with the ducks and swan? Is it a duck blind or similar?
I don't have too many bird photos, so I'm repeating here. I think the thing with antlers may actually be metal. Maybe it's a sculpture? I'm not really sure.
Ahh.....OK...thanks G. It very well could be metal. It is rather strange looking.
Saturday, almost Sunday and we are still looking good; a THANK YOU to everyone.
Something quiet before bedtime.
© A. Mac/A.G.
And what a serene and refreshing river venue.
Another kind of serenity...
A very peaceful scene and very well matched frame. Well done!
And we're off the Sunday...with a Hopi Kachina Doll to lead us....
May I follow, as long as I am wearing my jacket with this emble m on the back...?
Absolutely, Buzz, even without the jacket. But, the jacket makes for a great following companion.
Great job. You're so productive, and at a such high level of quality, too.
I had to go read about Kachinas.
I keep learning things in this group. I kind of like it.
Thank you so much Dig. As I want my artwork to represent the many Native American Tribes, I try to create artwork that is a reflection of the various Tribes culture, traditions, beliefs and their native artwork. While these are somewhat similar among many Tribes, they are also unique to each individual Tribe. That is what makes their artwork speak of each Tribes own history and heritage.
It is these varied similarities, yet, differences, among the many Native American Tribes that I try to share with my artwork. I hope that through my artwork I am able to enlighten and somewhat educate others who would like to learn about the 'First People' of America.
Isn't that great? I like it, too.
Are the branches covered in ice or snow?
It’s snow from a few days ago. This morning I woke up to a new coat of even prettier snow.
A very beautiful snow-laden tree, Hal.
A really beautiful image, Hal. That is a truly awesome combination of both a gradient purple background and well matched tree in the lighter center of the gradient. Added a finishing touch is the perfectly color matched frame.
Very nicely done.
Sunday is here once again...
Very interesting juxtaposition of a "jagged-edged" frame surrounding a beautifully-swirling image. Also, very effective!
Thank you Mac. I am experimenting with the framing to add a a different aspect to the primary subject. This to not only challenge myself, but, to also add a variation in the type of framing so counter boredom.
I am very glad you like it.
New painting.
© A. Mac/A.G.
There was a Canadian artist named Paul Fouirnier who was dubbed an "exotic modernist" - my brother owned one of his paintings. Your works reminded me of it. He was described in this way:
The technique appears to be different - I think he must have used a brush.
.
.
The top one reminds a me a little of Matisse.
I don’t use brushes but I certainly see some similarities with the Fauvist painters although not by intention.
I’m actually trying to slur the “details” in my paintings, to soften the transitions from broad area to broad area, to more continuous tone while, almost oxymoronically, bumping up details within individual broad areas. I’m not able to put it adequately into words, but I’ll know I’m there if I actually get there.
One of the most important parts of creating artwork of any kind, is the journey, and all the twists and turns along the way.
And knowing when it's finished.
Absolutely.
A very interesting mixture of colors and patterns, Mac. The simplicity of the black frame actually enhances the interwoven bright red and turquoise colors. A splendid abstract artwork.
And Monday is here again....it seems to come around every week!
Wow! that one gives me a Lord of the Rings vibe. It's reminiscent of the Eye of Sauron looking out across a barren and partially molten Mordor; or maybe more like the eye of the dragon Smaug.
Is that the Kukulcan pyramid temple from Chichen Itza I see?
Yes. It is a tribute to Ixchel, the Mayan Moon Goddess of Fertility.
Yeah, Monday usually does happen. Why do I think of that fascinating image as a very creative postage stamp?
To be honest...because I goofed up the framing and could not undo it.
But, I didn't want to waste the work I put into the artwork, so I just said it was good and kept it.
If it's in a .jpg format, I can possibly modify the framing in conjunction to what you describe … not a guarantee on meeting your expectations, but, willing to try if you wish.
Thank you Mac. It is in a .png format. If I save it in the .jpg format, would it still work for you? I would really appreciate getting rid of the postage stamp look.
I can copy it from here and likely convert it to .jpeg; assuming the posted image is not the full size original, whatever cropping or changes will be the same approximate physical size minus the removed portion. Do you want anything other than the center area, or shall I create a different frame?
You are the expert, Mac. I will leave it all to your great artistic talent. I look forward to seeing the results.
It might be helpful to tell me something about the subject inside the stamp and the figure at the right.
I will work on it tomorrow.
The primary image is a Mayan symbol of the Holy Eye of the Great Seer who sees all that dwells upon the Earth and in the Heavens.
The secondary image in front leading up to the Holy Eye of the primary image is an ancient Mayan Temple where various ceremonies take place.
The third image is a Mayan Temple Protector standing guard at the pathway leading to the Temple.
The background is the vast cavern that surrounds the Holy Eye of the Great Seer.
Thank you for your time. I sincerely appreciate your assistance with this artwork. Please take your time, it has been this way for more than a year, so a little longer won't hurt.
The Temple Protector looks like he is floating on a path of flames.
It's just the bright red color of the interior of the cavern.
RW: The framing now does not compete with and overwhelm the image. Let me know if it is acceptable.
Thank you so very much, Mac. It is now a beautiful image that is not distracted by the 'postage stamp' effect. I truly appreciate your help with taming the framing and let the image take the spotlight.
Very well done!
I'd also like to add...that if you see any of my artwork that you have a different idea of, please feel free to let your artistic talents show us a different concept of it as you see it. I am here to learn as well as share my artwork, and I can think of no better 'Teacher' to help me expand my artistic views, and to challenge imagination. I like to do layering, and adding 'conversation' items to my primary image to make it more unique, as well as interesting, such as I did in this creation.
And learning newer ideas will help me open my mind to new levels of improvement, while still keeping with the primary purpose of my artwork, which is to help others better understand the history, traditions and ways of life of the Native Americans and other Indigenous People in all areas of the Americas and the many contributions they have made over the thousands of years they have been in existence. Thus, I want my artwork to be more than just a nice looking image. But, I want the learning process to be fun and interesting as well.
So whenever you see something of mine that tweaks your interest to experiment with, be my guest. I look forward to it.
I appreciate your confidence, but I would never be so presumptuous as to initiate the editing of, or, to adversely critique anyone’s work, especially not with regard to a quality artist like yourself, nor, of any member of our Group.
But anyone who first asks, or, laments some aspect of something they’ve created, should feel free to ask me to comment or edit.
Restorations are different; if someone posts an image with clear damage or aging, I may restore it if possible and send it to them in PN and let them decide if they want to post the restored image.
I truly appreciate your kinds words, and sincerely understand your feelings. Thank you. (smile)
I'm not sure if I ever shared the photos I took while overseas, so if not, here they are for the first time... if I have, here they are again.
Some of my favorites from Linköping Sweden 2016:
Very good - you choose interesting things to photograph, and make use of aspects of composition, such as leading lines.
Some of my favorites from Amsterdam 4/20 /2016
(overnight layover coming from Linköping back home):
4/21/2016
Best breakfast I've ever had! Yogurt with granola and chocolate, OJ, Espresso, and various meats, cheeses, and breads... mmmmmmmmmmmm!
It was tulip festival.
The hotel we stayed in.
I just ate breakfast and you made me hungry again.
I loved the food in Romania and Amsterdam.
We actually had some time to sight see because we got there earlier than the previous trip.
Timişoara Romania May 2017:
If anyone knows the type of bush this is, please tell me! It was SO fragrant and wonderful!
One of many "squares" in Timişoara; they were working on the building on the left.
On the way walking to the office:
Best darn dessert that I've ever eaten! I LOVED the food. Just sayin.
At the airport on our way out of Romania... I wished I had the money for this, because it's just awesome.
Very good phony essay!
Morning ms. The shrub you were asking about is what we call here a Mock Orange. Has a gorgeous perfume as you said.
Thank you!!
Most welcome. I would think you would be able to get one over there as I have seen them in many countries.
I planted mine near the front door so the perfume came into the house. They grow quite large so need a bit of space.
**From Wikipedia ^^ and YES! That's what I smelled!
And it looks like it's Native to most of North America, so I'm assuming I could get one to grow.
Prune juice under lock and key?
Prune liquor.
Speaking of birds our resident Wild Turkey (s) decided to block the bike path today.
Looks like they survived thanks giving..not quite a bird but a koala in Adelaide caused a 6 car pile up y'day. Was on the highway and everyone took evasive action. A lady managed to catch him and stuffed him in her car and waited for koala rescue. They relocated him back in the bush. 🐨🐨🐨🐨
No one around here would dare harm one of this group.
I read that article about the koala and there was video of him in the car investigating the interior.
Those guys look big enough and bad enough to do most anything they want to and any where they want to.
They know that to protect themselves that birds of a feather flock together. But do they know to make themselves scarce just before Thenksgiving?
They are very good at disappearing before Thanksgiving.
Very fart smellers...eh.....em.....smart fellers.
Wednesday is here ......my 2nd favorite day of the week.
Being completely retired, every day is the same for me. Your image is quite hexagonic.
Yes....I was in the mood to do some experimenting that day and wanted to try something very different. So I first created the shape I wanted, then 'filled' it with the image I created separately. The shape is to represent the time past and the future, the bottom right side pointing to the past, and the top left side pointing to the future. The primary image is a Shaman who sees both.
I hope that helps to understand the meaning of the artwork.
Phoenix Skys
Those are beautiful photos, steve. I have visited Phoenix several times over the years, at different times of the year, and the skies there are indeed beautiful all year round. Perhaps it has to do with the desert surroundings.
Driving across the desert on an off the fwy hwy at night the sky is almost surreal. With a bright moon that looks like it is rising right out of the earth and bathes the desert in a glow that seems right out of a Sci-Fi movie, and surrounded by an ocean in the sky of stars. I have driven across AZ and NM several times at night to beat the high heat, and it is truly awesome.
IMHO, Tuscan is nice, but, it can't compare with Phoenix.
Thank you for the compliment on my pictures Raven, Yes we do have some really pretty sunrises and sunsets here.
When we have cloud cover I try to look to see if we have anything real cool at the time, Sometimes I'll grab the phone and shape a pic of one that catches my eye.
But with no clouds the sunrises and sunsets are no real big deal here either, they happen every day...lol
Phoenix Skys - did they rise from ashes?
Everything rises from the ashes here, It's HOT as Hell.
lol
Very lovely, Buzz. The grained framing is a great match for the varied colors in the artwork. The 'ghosting' of the edges of the artwork gives the interesting illusion that it is sinking into the all white background. The Lotus blossoms are truly beautiful, and the overall artwork presents a very impressive image.
Thanks, but actually water lillies.
Thank you for the clarification of the flowers.