The Florida Camera Club Council (F3C) 2010 Convention "The Nature of Photography" held in Naples, Florida, this past week was long anticipated.
Arthur Morris above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
As of this writing, F3C is affiliated with 36 camera clubs from across the state of Florida.
I had heard months ago that renowned bird photographer, Artie Morris would be in attendance and was compelled to go if possible.
Arthur Morris above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
I regret that because I didn't register in advance, I relied on the F3C website to provide me information that I found less than helpful in knowing exactly how the convention would unfold.
Upon registering at the door I was given literature that I should have immediately read, but did not.
The Photography Naples representatives above were photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
Artie's seminars had begun prior to my finding him and the convention schedule would be a form of contention for him and guests that relied on two different timetables provided.
While there were eight other seminars taking place, I spent the entire morning with Artie, soaking up his four programs which ultimately ran nearly an hour long.
The Midwest Photo Exchange representatives above were photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
Artie's programs included choosing the correct lens, composition, understanding histograms and exposure, and how to get close to wild birds.
His slide show was entertaining as he captivated everyone's attention in the standing room only classroom throughout.
The photo enthusiasts above were photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
While I wish I was more knowledgeable about Photoshop processing and the use of histograms which Artie seemed to rush through, I would have gotten much more from the programs if I had read his "Digital Basics" beforehand.
I was particularly entertained by an image Artie showed that was evidently one that might be chosen for a magazine cover which he noted left room for the magazine's name.
The Luau themed lunch above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
It reminded me of my Burrowing Owl images submitted for the 2nd Annual Audubon Magazine "Birds in Focus," that I regret I have not heard anything about from Nature's Best Photography which is judging the 2010 submissions.
It's gotten very late for any hopes of consideration, but have not received the rejection notice yet either.
Clyde Butcher above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
Artie made note of the new feature in CS5 that overlays a grid when cropping an image which could help composition.
I've found that this feature is not available when opening an JPEG image in Camera Raw and cropping there.
Panel Discussion moderator Larry Richardson above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
There is a potential problem in CS5's Review Mode for those in a hurry which may result in the manual deletion of images which may simply be slow to focus on your monitor.
I was also intrigued of Artie's mention of his techniques of feeding birds and luring them with birdsong to get a good shot.
Clyde Butcher above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
He noted that if using audio attraction to be sure to turn off the birdsong once the desired subject enters the area and emphasized disclosures in images he captures.
While these seem a questionable approach to wildlife photography or observation, they do appear to be quite affective.
Carmen Schettino above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
Artie was impressively confident in his recollection of what camera and lens was used for for images presented considering the arsenal of gear at his disposal.
He also commented that his use of flash is intermittent while using it or not for extended periods of time.
Jane Ziser above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
Artie also made numerous other recommendations for the creation of an appealing photograph and ultimately an enhanced image of bird life.
He also strongly encouraged investigation of Jim Neiger and James Shadle's “Best of Florida” photography workshops.
Arthur Morris above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.
Renowned black and white landscape photographer, Clyde Butcher gave the convention's Keynote Address where he highlighted his career in photography.
He noted that he believed early on that a photograph alone had little value and made clocks with his images which he found profitable.
The Blue Jay above was photographed at Eagle Lakes Community Park in November 2010.
Clyde also emphasized that he was inspired by Ansel Adams among others and noted to make sure that if you are going to attempt to emulate someone, be sure you are copying the best.
Clyde also spent a few minutes showing a typical manipulation of his digital photography in Photoshop after noting that his film exposures (using wooden Deardorff cameras from the 1940s and '50s) in excess of 10 minutes can be made similarly with digital cameras in a minute's time.
The White Pelican above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
Clyde has a blog that can be viewed here and in case you missed Artie's November 9, 2010 comments about his conference experience at his blog, they can be seen here.
Following Mr. Butcher's address, there was a Panel Discussion moderated by U.S Fish and Wildlife biologist and nature photographer, Larry Richarson.
The White Pelican above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
Clyde Butcher, Carmen Schettino, Jane Ziser, and Artie Morris discussed photo manipulation.
Artie made the point of his following all the rules when entering a photography contest.
The Sanderling above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
Following the convention, there was about an hour of good sunlight which allowed a quick stop at Eagle Lakes Community Park in Naples where mostly wading birds were seen.
Two birding trips this week were made to Bunche Beach Preserve in Fort Myers as well.
The White Pelican above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
The San Carlos Bay venue was particularly exciting as I observed a very large flock of White Pelican that was present for a couple of hours.
I encountered wildlife observer Joy MacIntyre who told me she devotes a lot of her observation time to Magee Marsh Wildlife Area in Ohio.
Joy MacIntyre above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
Joy had commented that she thought the White Pelicans had come from Ding Darling NWR which was possible as I first saw them fly from that direction.
The White Pelicans were most impressive when seen in the sky as an entire flock.
The Osprey above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
The birds broke into two V-formations at one point and then into two entirely distinct groups that would not be observed to come together again.
I had several attempts to get a good image of Osprey hunting behavior although the bird never came up with a fish at close range.
The Killdeer above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
The weather forecast called for a high of 80 degrees and calm winds so I thought nothing of being waist deep in the chilly water for a few hours until the wind picked up and I was shivering uncontrollably.
I was in fact concerned for a sharp image focus during my last hour's observation as my core body temperature dropped.
The Willet above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
The minority Sanderling merely a couple of weeks ago was now the dominant shorebird in numbers.
A tussle between a pair of Sanderling was a very brief highlight in my observations the first day.
The Sanderling above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
Little Blue Heron were seen in greater numbers than I'd yet to see anywhere.
It was also a rare treat to see a juvenile Reddish Egret up close.
The Reddish Egret juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
Bottlenose Dolphins made a pass of me and were actively feeding and playing loudly on the first visit to Bunche Beach Preserve this week.
A follow up visit to Bunche Beach Preserve this week was made where I again saw the massive White Pelican riding the thermals over the bay.
The Little Blue Heron with juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
Wood Stork were seen in greater numbers than I have observed at this venue before (at the west channel).
A scuffle between an adult and juvenile Reddish Egret was observed in the very early morning light.
The Reddish Egret with juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
Black Skimmers were, of course, again very abundant in the company of Sandwich Terns, Laughing Gulls and small shorebirds.
Belted Kingfisher were active with a pair involved in an areal dance while another attempted to consume a fish in flight numerous times as it flew to the north along the channel.
The Black Skimmer above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
A walk into the much smaller channel that enters the mangrove forest as far west along Bunche Beach I've yet to travel offered an opportunity to experiment with somewhat long exposures that were no more than six seconds while thinking of Clyde Butcher.
I had forgotten how hazardous this place can be if you are not paying attention to where you are walking as the silt may be very soft and there are large holes in spots.
The image above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
Leaving this channel, I was startled by a number of Turkey Vultures that had settled on the ground in the mangroves near the entrance to the beach.
Back at the west channel I was observing the animated Reddish Egret and Tricolored Heron in particular when the tufts of the Little Blue Heron in the area stood tall while a flock of foraging Least Sandpipers took flight inexplicably.
The Reddish Egret above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
A moment later I observed the cause of the disturbance which was an overflight of the very rarely seen Peregrine Falcon.
The bird was nearly overhead when first seen and I remain very intrigued with how observant shore birds are in the presence of such a predator with the beach cleared of virtually every small bird seen a moment earlier.
The Peregrine Falcon above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
I was reluctant to leave this beautiful place with by far the highlight of the day a foraging juvenile Black-crowned Night-Heron seen at close range.
The bird was captured under extreme exposure control without the use of the camera's histogram while relying on past experience alone.
The Black-crowned Night-Heron juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
The rotation of images when required has had much written with regards to the use of Photoshop.
An accidental discovery when processing the image immediately below with a concern for minimizing barrel distortion or a bird moving up or downhill, as Artie described the situation, is the easiest I've found.
The Reddish Egret above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
The rotation technique is used extremely easily in CS5 by cropping the image while in Photoshop Adobe Bridge Camera Raw (JPEG image imported).
When the desired crop is seen, the release of the left mouse button is then immediately re-held with the cursor outside the cropped image while moving the cursor up or down to the desired positioning of the image.
The Black-crowned Night-Heron juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
If clicked within the image, the crop may be moved up or down or left or right.
I have not had the time to experiment or research if this option works as readily in any other version or aspect of Adobe's Creative Suite software programs while it's certainly an improvement over the Elements versions I've been using for years.
The image above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
I'm thrilled not to have to draw that line again along with those potentially extra steps in the editing process.
A Piping Plover with numerous bands on its legs was reminiscent of the same bird seen at Bunche Beach Preserve a few months ago.
The Piping Plover above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
They are most likely unique plovers seen as the most recently observed had a deformity in its right foot with the toes missing.
I couldn't resist taking a few candid shots at the beach on the way back to the car.
The photographer above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
I met local birding enthusiast Jose Pidilla at Six Mile Cypress this past weekend telling him of the FC3 conference as he told me he was on his way to a cemetery that he noted should offer interesting photographs.
Jose mentioned trips to photograph wildlife in Puerto Rico (his home country) and Cuba which he highly recommended while noting the greatest benefit of communism offering a lack of growth at the latter.
The Belted Kingfisher above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.
In a flashback to Artie's comments about attracting wildlife to him through audio, I was intrigued of a mention by my internet computer mentor, Kim Komando, offering a link to bird song which should be useful for wildlife documentation in the future.
Arthur Morris above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.As of this writing, F3C is affiliated with 36 camera clubs from across the state of Florida.
I had heard months ago that renowned bird photographer, Artie Morris would be in attendance and was compelled to go if possible.
Arthur Morris above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.I regret that because I didn't register in advance, I relied on the F3C website to provide me information that I found less than helpful in knowing exactly how the convention would unfold.
Upon registering at the door I was given literature that I should have immediately read, but did not.
The Photography Naples representatives above were photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.Artie's seminars had begun prior to my finding him and the convention schedule would be a form of contention for him and guests that relied on two different timetables provided.
While there were eight other seminars taking place, I spent the entire morning with Artie, soaking up his four programs which ultimately ran nearly an hour long.
The Midwest Photo Exchange representatives above were photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.Artie's programs included choosing the correct lens, composition, understanding histograms and exposure, and how to get close to wild birds.
His slide show was entertaining as he captivated everyone's attention in the standing room only classroom throughout.
The photo enthusiasts above were photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.While I wish I was more knowledgeable about Photoshop processing and the use of histograms which Artie seemed to rush through, I would have gotten much more from the programs if I had read his "Digital Basics" beforehand.
I was particularly entertained by an image Artie showed that was evidently one that might be chosen for a magazine cover which he noted left room for the magazine's name.
The Luau themed lunch above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.It reminded me of my Burrowing Owl images submitted for the 2nd Annual Audubon Magazine "Birds in Focus," that I regret I have not heard anything about from Nature's Best Photography which is judging the 2010 submissions.
It's gotten very late for any hopes of consideration, but have not received the rejection notice yet either.
Clyde Butcher above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.Artie made note of the new feature in CS5 that overlays a grid when cropping an image which could help composition.
I've found that this feature is not available when opening an JPEG image in Camera Raw and cropping there.
Panel Discussion moderator Larry Richardson above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.There is a potential problem in CS5's Review Mode for those in a hurry which may result in the manual deletion of images which may simply be slow to focus on your monitor.
I was also intrigued of Artie's mention of his techniques of feeding birds and luring them with birdsong to get a good shot.
Clyde Butcher above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.He noted that if using audio attraction to be sure to turn off the birdsong once the desired subject enters the area and emphasized disclosures in images he captures.
While these seem a questionable approach to wildlife photography or observation, they do appear to be quite affective.
Carmen Schettino above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.Artie was impressively confident in his recollection of what camera and lens was used for for images presented considering the arsenal of gear at his disposal.
He also commented that his use of flash is intermittent while using it or not for extended periods of time.
Jane Ziser above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.Artie also made numerous other recommendations for the creation of an appealing photograph and ultimately an enhanced image of bird life.
He also strongly encouraged investigation of Jim Neiger and James Shadle's “Best of Florida” photography workshops.
Arthur Morris above was photographed at the F3C 2010 "The Nature of Photography" Convention in November 2010.Renowned black and white landscape photographer, Clyde Butcher gave the convention's Keynote Address where he highlighted his career in photography.
He noted that he believed early on that a photograph alone had little value and made clocks with his images which he found profitable.
The Blue Jay above was photographed at Eagle Lakes Community Park in November 2010.Clyde also emphasized that he was inspired by Ansel Adams among others and noted to make sure that if you are going to attempt to emulate someone, be sure you are copying the best.
Clyde also spent a few minutes showing a typical manipulation of his digital photography in Photoshop after noting that his film exposures (using wooden Deardorff cameras from the 1940s and '50s) in excess of 10 minutes can be made similarly with digital cameras in a minute's time.
The White Pelican above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.Clyde has a blog that can be viewed here and in case you missed Artie's November 9, 2010 comments about his conference experience at his blog, they can be seen here.
Following Mr. Butcher's address, there was a Panel Discussion moderated by U.S Fish and Wildlife biologist and nature photographer, Larry Richarson.
The White Pelican above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.Clyde Butcher, Carmen Schettino, Jane Ziser, and Artie Morris discussed photo manipulation.
Artie made the point of his following all the rules when entering a photography contest.
The Sanderling above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.Following the convention, there was about an hour of good sunlight which allowed a quick stop at Eagle Lakes Community Park in Naples where mostly wading birds were seen.
Two birding trips this week were made to Bunche Beach Preserve in Fort Myers as well.
The White Pelican above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.The San Carlos Bay venue was particularly exciting as I observed a very large flock of White Pelican that was present for a couple of hours.
I encountered wildlife observer Joy MacIntyre who told me she devotes a lot of her observation time to Magee Marsh Wildlife Area in Ohio.
Joy MacIntyre above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.Joy had commented that she thought the White Pelicans had come from Ding Darling NWR which was possible as I first saw them fly from that direction.
The White Pelicans were most impressive when seen in the sky as an entire flock.
The Osprey above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.The birds broke into two V-formations at one point and then into two entirely distinct groups that would not be observed to come together again.
I had several attempts to get a good image of Osprey hunting behavior although the bird never came up with a fish at close range.
The Killdeer above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.The weather forecast called for a high of 80 degrees and calm winds so I thought nothing of being waist deep in the chilly water for a few hours until the wind picked up and I was shivering uncontrollably.
I was in fact concerned for a sharp image focus during my last hour's observation as my core body temperature dropped.
The Willet above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.The minority Sanderling merely a couple of weeks ago was now the dominant shorebird in numbers.
A tussle between a pair of Sanderling was a very brief highlight in my observations the first day.
The Sanderling above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.Little Blue Heron were seen in greater numbers than I'd yet to see anywhere.
It was also a rare treat to see a juvenile Reddish Egret up close.
The Reddish Egret juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.Bottlenose Dolphins made a pass of me and were actively feeding and playing loudly on the first visit to Bunche Beach Preserve this week.
A follow up visit to Bunche Beach Preserve this week was made where I again saw the massive White Pelican riding the thermals over the bay.
The Little Blue Heron with juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.Wood Stork were seen in greater numbers than I have observed at this venue before (at the west channel).
A scuffle between an adult and juvenile Reddish Egret was observed in the very early morning light.
The Reddish Egret with juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.Black Skimmers were, of course, again very abundant in the company of Sandwich Terns, Laughing Gulls and small shorebirds.
Belted Kingfisher were active with a pair involved in an areal dance while another attempted to consume a fish in flight numerous times as it flew to the north along the channel.
The Black Skimmer above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.A walk into the much smaller channel that enters the mangrove forest as far west along Bunche Beach I've yet to travel offered an opportunity to experiment with somewhat long exposures that were no more than six seconds while thinking of Clyde Butcher.
I had forgotten how hazardous this place can be if you are not paying attention to where you are walking as the silt may be very soft and there are large holes in spots.
The image above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.Leaving this channel, I was startled by a number of Turkey Vultures that had settled on the ground in the mangroves near the entrance to the beach.
Back at the west channel I was observing the animated Reddish Egret and Tricolored Heron in particular when the tufts of the Little Blue Heron in the area stood tall while a flock of foraging Least Sandpipers took flight inexplicably.
The Reddish Egret above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.A moment later I observed the cause of the disturbance which was an overflight of the very rarely seen Peregrine Falcon.
The bird was nearly overhead when first seen and I remain very intrigued with how observant shore birds are in the presence of such a predator with the beach cleared of virtually every small bird seen a moment earlier.
The Peregrine Falcon above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.I was reluctant to leave this beautiful place with by far the highlight of the day a foraging juvenile Black-crowned Night-Heron seen at close range.
The bird was captured under extreme exposure control without the use of the camera's histogram while relying on past experience alone.
The Black-crowned Night-Heron juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.The rotation of images when required has had much written with regards to the use of Photoshop.
An accidental discovery when processing the image immediately below with a concern for minimizing barrel distortion or a bird moving up or downhill, as Artie described the situation, is the easiest I've found.
The Reddish Egret above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.The rotation technique is used extremely easily in CS5 by cropping the image while in Photoshop Adobe Bridge Camera Raw (JPEG image imported).
When the desired crop is seen, the release of the left mouse button is then immediately re-held with the cursor outside the cropped image while moving the cursor up or down to the desired positioning of the image.
The Black-crowned Night-Heron juvenile above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.If clicked within the image, the crop may be moved up or down or left or right.
I have not had the time to experiment or research if this option works as readily in any other version or aspect of Adobe's Creative Suite software programs while it's certainly an improvement over the Elements versions I've been using for years.
The image above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.I'm thrilled not to have to draw that line again along with those potentially extra steps in the editing process.
A Piping Plover with numerous bands on its legs was reminiscent of the same bird seen at Bunche Beach Preserve a few months ago.
The Piping Plover above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.They are most likely unique plovers seen as the most recently observed had a deformity in its right foot with the toes missing.
I couldn't resist taking a few candid shots at the beach on the way back to the car.
The photographer above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.I met local birding enthusiast Jose Pidilla at Six Mile Cypress this past weekend telling him of the FC3 conference as he told me he was on his way to a cemetery that he noted should offer interesting photographs.
Jose mentioned trips to photograph wildlife in Puerto Rico (his home country) and Cuba which he highly recommended while noting the greatest benefit of communism offering a lack of growth at the latter.
The Belted Kingfisher above was photographed at San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve in November 2010.In a flashback to Artie's comments about attracting wildlife to him through audio, I was intrigued of a mention by my internet computer mentor, Kim Komando, offering a link to bird song which should be useful for wildlife documentation in the future.