Why Did God Make Frogs?

I really don't do frogs, lizards, snakes, bugs, or anything that creeps or crawls upon the face of the earth. These things freak me out a bit, and I'm not really sure why. I get near a lizard or frog and my heart palpitates wildly and shrieks tend to erupt out of my mouth, scaring everyone half to death who might be within earshot.

And yet, as a photographer, I feel compelled to capture these critters on film (or digital, as it may be). So last night, when I let my dogs out for a bit, I saw BOTH a lizard and a tree frog calmly sitting on the leg of our patio canopy...and guess what? I HAD to get my camera. Of course, the lizard just darted away, but the little frog seemed interested in hanging around. I braved up, telling myself NOT to jump and drop my camera if the frog decided to become impulsive, and got my lens as close as I dared to capture the shot.

Gratefully, Mr. Frog cooperated and I managed to land a decent shot of his green little body and beady little eye...and then got out of there as fast as I could!!

Canon EOS 40D, EF 28-135mm lens, focal length: 135mm, f/5.7, Spot metering mode, manual mode, manual white balance, on-board Canon 580EX II flash set to ETTL and +2/3 exposure

Taking a Moment

I love to see my flowers in bloom. This year I planted Mexican Petunias. They were only supposed to reach a maximum height of 3 feet, but they've grown upwards of 4 feet! They bloom every day with profuse color, beautiful to behold, and they cheer my heart.

Here's a solitary bloom to capture their essence:


And here are two in full glory:


And, here is a rose just to top things off:


Happy day!

The One That Got Away

Missed a great opportunity as I was traveling early this morning. A doe was standing very near the interstate I was driving, calmly chewing a mouthful of something. She faced away from me, and in the early morning misty haze, her dark body was a stark contrast to all the grayness before me.

I slowed down and reached for my camera, preparing to pull off the road to capture the moment. Darn! Camera wasn't there! I had left too quickly and had forgotten it...and the moment was gone forever except in my memory.

Lesson learned...don't leave home without it!

Getting Started

Up and running today, and a big welcome to those of you who have happened by my new space! I hope this will be an adventure for all of us, as I post photos of my work and write about things I dream about for the future. Take time to comment on what you see (but please be kind) and help take me to the next level. I appreciate constructive criticism as it helps me get better and better!

Do you like stock photography? What are your ideas, tips and "go-to's" for getting your stock accepted? Let me know, let others out there know!

Thought for today is that I'm alive, breathing, and moving forward with life no matter what. It's gonna be alright.