Still growing...
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Thread Starter
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: behind the viewfinder...
Posts: 6,278
Still growing...
The story behind my new avatar.
I've been separated from my AH for over 5 years, divorced for over 3. I have spent almost 15 years in the same job, which has become tedious and unfulfilling in the past several years. The therapist I saw during and after my marriage ended was adamant that I needed to find a hobby--more accurately a passion--not only to get over my need to fix my husband, but to have a fulfilling life.
I struggled for a long time trying to find it. I tried many things, but nothing sparked me. I started to think I would never find "it."
Then, in 2009, I did something totally out of character, and made an impulse buy with my tax return money. I had been telling myself for a couple of years that when my digital camera broke, I would buy myself a DSLR. Well, my camera was still working fine, and I bought a new one anyway.
The learning curve was steeper than I expected. I wondered what I had gotten myself into. But, I couldn't seem to stop myself from trying. So, here it is, two years later. I have learned a lot and even taken some classes in photography and photoshop. I have been happily enjoying photographing landscapes (bridges, mountains, the ocean, waterfalls) and even done a few macros. (My last avatar of the rose, for example) I've even sold some, not for big bucks, but actually sold them nonetheless.
In the last few weeks, I got the urge to try something new. I knew that there are many eagles that winter at a wildlife refuge near here--about 70 miles away. I always had an interest in them, but never really thought too much about it. So, I posted on a photography forum that I frequent asking for tips on how to photograph wildlife, since I had never done it before.
The responses I got were less than helpful, to say the least. Mostly discouraging. Wildlife photographers have hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of equipment, they sit in blinds for days waiting for the right shot, they have decades of experience. What made me think I could shoot wildlife with my measly equipment, total lack of experience, and much less, do it in a day trip?
In the old days, I might have taken all that to heart and just given up the idea. But, the new me is determined! So, I went out there anyway. What a rush! Seeing those majestic creatures was enough to get my heart racing, much less photographing them! Wow!
Anyway, my photos are not worthy of National Geographic, but I will go back and do it again. And again, and again until someday I do get photos that will knock your socks off. I'm still growing. Even at the age of 48.
L
I've been separated from my AH for over 5 years, divorced for over 3. I have spent almost 15 years in the same job, which has become tedious and unfulfilling in the past several years. The therapist I saw during and after my marriage ended was adamant that I needed to find a hobby--more accurately a passion--not only to get over my need to fix my husband, but to have a fulfilling life.
I struggled for a long time trying to find it. I tried many things, but nothing sparked me. I started to think I would never find "it."
Then, in 2009, I did something totally out of character, and made an impulse buy with my tax return money. I had been telling myself for a couple of years that when my digital camera broke, I would buy myself a DSLR. Well, my camera was still working fine, and I bought a new one anyway.
The learning curve was steeper than I expected. I wondered what I had gotten myself into. But, I couldn't seem to stop myself from trying. So, here it is, two years later. I have learned a lot and even taken some classes in photography and photoshop. I have been happily enjoying photographing landscapes (bridges, mountains, the ocean, waterfalls) and even done a few macros. (My last avatar of the rose, for example) I've even sold some, not for big bucks, but actually sold them nonetheless.
In the last few weeks, I got the urge to try something new. I knew that there are many eagles that winter at a wildlife refuge near here--about 70 miles away. I always had an interest in them, but never really thought too much about it. So, I posted on a photography forum that I frequent asking for tips on how to photograph wildlife, since I had never done it before.
The responses I got were less than helpful, to say the least. Mostly discouraging. Wildlife photographers have hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of equipment, they sit in blinds for days waiting for the right shot, they have decades of experience. What made me think I could shoot wildlife with my measly equipment, total lack of experience, and much less, do it in a day trip?
In the old days, I might have taken all that to heart and just given up the idea. But, the new me is determined! So, I went out there anyway. What a rush! Seeing those majestic creatures was enough to get my heart racing, much less photographing them! Wow!
Anyway, my photos are not worthy of National Geographic, but I will go back and do it again. And again, and again until someday I do get photos that will knock your socks off. I'm still growing. Even at the age of 48.
L
Member
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Alaska
Posts: 2,913
I love the photo, LaTeeDa; it's beautiful. This past summer there were 7 eagles hanging out in there area at my sister's in-laws fish camp. What a wonderful way to start the day, a cup of coffee while watching the eagles circling high over head, a light mist/fog over the river.
I've lately been trying to find a hobby, also at the suggestion of my counselor. No serious idea yet..... You're inspiring!
I've lately been trying to find a hobby, also at the suggestion of my counselor. No serious idea yet..... You're inspiring!
Occasional poor taste poster
Join Date: Jul 2005
Posts: 2,542
That's an awesome shot LTD! And a great passion to have at that. You know I've seen a manual for one of those cameras and to me it defined the phrase RTFM.
It's hard to believe living only 20 minutes south of Washington DC I'm only a few miles from Mason Neck Wildlife Refuge where the Bald Eagle has staged an amazing come back. They nest along the Potomac River and we see them on a regular when boating.
Anyway, I have a couple promising dive trips planned for this year so I'll try to get some good videos of sharks and turtles!
It's hard to believe living only 20 minutes south of Washington DC I'm only a few miles from Mason Neck Wildlife Refuge where the Bald Eagle has staged an amazing come back. They nest along the Potomac River and we see them on a regular when boating.
Anyway, I have a couple promising dive trips planned for this year so I'll try to get some good videos of sharks and turtles!
To thine own self be true.
Join Date: May 2009
Location: U.S.A.
Posts: 5,924
LTD, I think the fact that you took that picture of that eagle is AMAZING! And yes, to me, your pic looks like a National Geographic picture. Here is a link to a website you might enjoy. I found it while trying to figure out what this grey bird was that kept hopping around my front yard. Turns out he was a catbird but the process of looking for the bird pic on this website was so satisfying because of all the beautiful bird pics. I think Charlie Lentz also started out as a hobby photographer. As far as I can tell, he does come to his website and answer posts occasionally if you want to post a question or two. Birds in Maryland Photo Gallery by Charlie Lentz at pbase.com
Member
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: PA
Posts: 985
I admire your response to the determination mirrored by your therapist to find your passion. It is an inspiration and culmination of your healing. Congrats! Keep it going, love the picture too. I think of photographs as capturing "snipets " of the beauty and simplicity offered in life that is often not seen nor appreciated. You my dear are doing just that.
Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: Waterford MI
Posts: 4,202
LTD,
What a beautiful shot of such a majestic bird! I love raptors.
The story behind it makes the photo even more special.
I tried photography when I was married to my ex husband, but he took the fun out of it by trying to micromanage my hobby. Sigh....
One thing I do remember from my classes and reading, always have the camera with you, that perfect shot could be right there.
Thank you for sharing this,
Beth
What a beautiful shot of such a majestic bird! I love raptors.
The story behind it makes the photo even more special.
I tried photography when I was married to my ex husband, but he took the fun out of it by trying to micromanage my hobby. Sigh....
One thing I do remember from my classes and reading, always have the camera with you, that perfect shot could be right there.
Thank you for sharing this,
Beth
peaceful seabird
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: floating
Posts: 4,822
Well put a feather in your cap! Awesome!
I noticed your new avatar last night, and it took my breath away. I can see the eagles head slightly tilted toward you. You were being observed!
Sending you encouragement as you continue to grow!
Thank you for sharing your passion with us.
I noticed your new avatar last night, and it took my breath away. I can see the eagles head slightly tilted toward you. You were being observed!
Sending you encouragement as you continue to grow!
Thank you for sharing your passion with us.
Today is a New Day
Join Date: Dec 2010
Posts: 1,766
It's a gorgeous photograph!
It may not be National Geographic, but it's just as good, I love it! *Grins*
You and your new camera are amazing! Especially considering it's "just a hobby."
(Now I am dreaming about rescuing my National Geographic collection from my parents' house.)
It may not be National Geographic, but it's just as good, I love it! *Grins*
You and your new camera are amazing! Especially considering it's "just a hobby."
(Now I am dreaming about rescuing my National Geographic collection from my parents' house.)
Member
Join Date: Nov 2010
Posts: 2,052
This is awesome...
...what a great thing you are doing!
I wish my wife would find a hobby--more accurately a passion--not only to get over her need to isolate socially with her husband and daughter, but to have a fulfilling life.
Cyranoak
I wish my wife would find a hobby--more accurately a passion--not only to get over her need to isolate socially with her husband and daughter, but to have a fulfilling life.
Cyranoak
Member
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: rural west
Posts: 1,375
Inspiring, as always.
I would encourage you, if you haven't been, to visit Alaska. Denali, Kenai Peninsula,the various places the grizzlies go to eat salmon, etc. Incredible wildlife.
Avocation is SO WONDERFUL to bring joy and focus to life!
Kudos!
I would encourage you, if you haven't been, to visit Alaska. Denali, Kenai Peninsula,the various places the grizzlies go to eat salmon, etc. Incredible wildlife.
Avocation is SO WONDERFUL to bring joy and focus to life!
Kudos!
Member
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Baghdad
Posts: 2,822
http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...ad-pt-2-a.html
Post some up there.
Have had some people post up some great pictures there, but for whatever reason, the thread has more or less died as you will notice from the dates.
Photobucket.
Post some up there.
Have had some people post up some great pictures there, but for whatever reason, the thread has more or less died as you will notice from the dates.
Photobucket.
Member
Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 1,888
I'm no art critic, but I know what I like.
I can stroll through an entire museum of water colors, photography, sculpture, you name it, and find myself stopping at maybe one or two pieces the entire way through because something about it caught my eye.
9 times out of 10 someone I'm with will tell me why the piece isn't worthy, but to me it's got that something special.
I have copies of such pieces I've taken a liking to and have found that behind each is a story of the artist. Something about them, the time in their life when they took the picture or painted that bowl of fruit, that spoke to me through their art. I do believe that it's those stories that captured me.
If it weren't for the internet, I probably would never have heard the tales behind the pieces, but that would not have diminished how they speak to me. I just wouldn't know why, I guess.
You keep taking those beautiful pictures, LTD, because your life will come through them whether you realize it or not and while it may just be an amateur photo of a bird to you, to someone else, it will sing.
Salute the shutterbugs!!
Alice
I can stroll through an entire museum of water colors, photography, sculpture, you name it, and find myself stopping at maybe one or two pieces the entire way through because something about it caught my eye.
9 times out of 10 someone I'm with will tell me why the piece isn't worthy, but to me it's got that something special.
I have copies of such pieces I've taken a liking to and have found that behind each is a story of the artist. Something about them, the time in their life when they took the picture or painted that bowl of fruit, that spoke to me through their art. I do believe that it's those stories that captured me.
If it weren't for the internet, I probably would never have heard the tales behind the pieces, but that would not have diminished how they speak to me. I just wouldn't know why, I guess.
You keep taking those beautiful pictures, LTD, because your life will come through them whether you realize it or not and while it may just be an amateur photo of a bird to you, to someone else, it will sing.
Salute the shutterbugs!!
Alice
Member
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Alaska
Posts: 2,913
Originally Posted by FindingPeace1 
I would encourage you, if you haven't been, to visit Alaska. Denali, Kenai Peninsula,the various places the grizzlies go to eat salmon, etc. Incredible wildlife.
Or if you'd rather not trust my somewhat shaky camping skills (or if you camp like my Mom-by ordering room service), I know of a few day-trips.
Or there are always the Kenai Fjords boat tours where you might see puffins, ravens, eagles, bears on the shore, sealions, porpins, orcas or, if you time it right, belugas. It's been years since I went on one, but it was so cool!Oh! One of my dear friends in Oregon is an 'amateur' photographer, too. She started printing cards with her photos on them and has been able to sell them to small tourist shops.
If you can't tell, I'm really excited for you, LaTeeDa. BIG hug!
Member
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Somewhere in the big ole' world....
Posts: 545
Amazing picture, LTD. I am blessed to be living where I can see the eagles soaring over me. There's something so liberating to see them soaring off into the sky.
Think of your new avitar as you soaring away from your old life into something exhilarating, exciting, wonderful and all yours.
I feel the same way about sunsets and sunrises - I have a front row seat to see some magnificent ones from my front window and many pictures (taken on my DSLR) of the same scene, each with subtle differences and I never, ever tire of looking at them.
Think of your new avitar as you soaring away from your old life into something exhilarating, exciting, wonderful and all yours.
I feel the same way about sunsets and sunrises - I have a front row seat to see some magnificent ones from my front window and many pictures (taken on my DSLR) of the same scene, each with subtle differences and I never, ever tire of looking at them.
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: behind the viewfinder...
Posts: 6,278
Aw. You all are too kind. (And much better for the ego than the photographer forum, where they critique me, lol.)
Jazz - do share your videos. I know that your passion is diving and always love your videos.
L2L - thanks for the link. I loved perusing those bird photos, too. This guy's work inspires me. Robert OToole Photography - Nature Photography (Yes, he's from Alaska!)
Kassie - beauty and simplicity, ah yes. Since I started photography, I see things I never noticed before. I pay more attention to the world around me. So, in many ways, it helps me stay in the present moment.
Beth - I love raptors, too. I got some red tail hawks while I was out there as well.
Pelican - Of course the eagle was lookin at me! If you saw some crazy woman, half hanging out the rolled down window of her truck, trying to precariously balance herself while attempting to point her camera at the sky, you'd probably look, too, lol. In fact, that eagle was probably laughing!:rotfxko
Starcat - funny you should mention that. I let my subscription lapse several years ago and have been considering subscribing again. I remember looking forward to the magazine every month. And I would read it cover to cover when it arrived.
FP and UC - I would love to visit Alaska. In fact, I also accquired an RV last year and dream of taking the AlCan highway all the way up there someday. But, I still have one child in school and a full-time job. It will be 2-3 years before I can retire and travel as much as I want. But, Alaska is definitely on my list.
John - I would love to come play with all of you on the photography thread, but at this point, I'm trying to cut down the amount of time I spend on the internet, not increase it.
You're right though, there are some awesome photos there.
Alice - I believe you are right. I have antiques also that seem to have their own energy. I think it's because they carry some of the passion and life of the person who made them. Have you ever read any Thomas Moore? He writes about that kind of stuff.
Link - I love sunrises and sunsets, too. They can be tricky to photograph well. Good for you.
And, in order to get a few more ego strokes, here is a larger version of the eagle.
Well, I thought it would be bigger than that. Hmmmm. Oh well.
L
Jazz - do share your videos. I know that your passion is diving and always love your videos.
L2L - thanks for the link. I loved perusing those bird photos, too. This guy's work inspires me. Robert OToole Photography - Nature Photography (Yes, he's from Alaska!)
Kassie - beauty and simplicity, ah yes. Since I started photography, I see things I never noticed before. I pay more attention to the world around me. So, in many ways, it helps me stay in the present moment.
Beth - I love raptors, too. I got some red tail hawks while I was out there as well.
Pelican - Of course the eagle was lookin at me! If you saw some crazy woman, half hanging out the rolled down window of her truck, trying to precariously balance herself while attempting to point her camera at the sky, you'd probably look, too, lol. In fact, that eagle was probably laughing!:rotfxko
Starcat - funny you should mention that. I let my subscription lapse several years ago and have been considering subscribing again. I remember looking forward to the magazine every month. And I would read it cover to cover when it arrived.
FP and UC - I would love to visit Alaska. In fact, I also accquired an RV last year and dream of taking the AlCan highway all the way up there someday. But, I still have one child in school and a full-time job. It will be 2-3 years before I can retire and travel as much as I want. But, Alaska is definitely on my list.
John - I would love to come play with all of you on the photography thread, but at this point, I'm trying to cut down the amount of time I spend on the internet, not increase it.
You're right though, there are some awesome photos there.Alice - I believe you are right. I have antiques also that seem to have their own energy. I think it's because they carry some of the passion and life of the person who made them. Have you ever read any Thomas Moore? He writes about that kind of stuff.
Link - I love sunrises and sunsets, too. They can be tricky to photograph well. Good for you.
And, in order to get a few more ego strokes, here is a larger version of the eagle.
Well, I thought it would be bigger than that. Hmmmm. Oh well.
L
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