189/176 + 1

on the boardwalk, down my the sea

188/177 + 1

187/178 + 1

11/354 + 1

Yup, I am posting one more photo of Phriend. There are several reasons for this; I was really thrilled to have a model, I was really happy with the lighting in this shot, Phriend is just too darn cute and well honestly, I just didn’t have a POD.

9/356 + 1

One of my new year resolutions is to practice more portrait photography. Only problem is I have no one to practice on. Oh, sure B will play around but for only so long then I have to start promising to go to the sporting good shop while he looks for new lures and reels. That's too high a price for me to pay. So I was thrilled when Phriend offered to model for me yesterday. We were at a boardwalk we don't often frequent and the newness offered many awesome backdrops.

8/357 + 1

Phriend Noir ~

As the year was ending, Phriend and I discussed how pleased we both were with the process we had made through the year, how we were glad we had successful completed Project 365 and how we were thrilled to have participated but were glad it was done. Well, by the end of the first day of the new year, we had both decided to continue on with Project 365 +1.

It has been a very long time since we have had the chance to get out on a photo adventure. Today with the weather, once again feeling more like Spring than Winter, we traveled to a boardwalk at the southern end of the state. One we don’t often visit. One which would offer new photo opportunities.

This year I am hoping to learn more about and practice more portrait photography. Phriend was gracious enough to be my model while I practice several more “film noir” images.

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I have come to the realization that capturing a web worthy photo of a hummingbird is damn near impossible. I commended those of you who have achieved this.

I made asked B to come with me to an area which has become to be known as a mecca for ruby-throated hummingbirds, who come to feed before they migrate south on their long annual journey. I thought I would stand a better chance of capturing a good photograph if there were many subjects to practice on.

We chose to go to this garden at the beginning of their arrival.  The number in attendance was not as great as I had hoped. I learned, the hummers feed for approximately five minutes before needing to digest what they have taken in. They fly off to a nearby tree to rest and process their meal. This takes about fifteen minutes and this act only serves to frustrate this photographer.

A return visit may be in order.

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Another from yesterdays, walk along the boards ~

I softened (slight blur) this photograph and because I used a wide angle filter, which tends to produce a black circle around the edges, I used a vintage effect to lessen the noticeable of the outer dark circle.  

There was yet another storm rolling in and the clouds in the sky made for the perfect backdrop.

230/135

We have many ocean side boardwalks but only four (which I can think of) that house amusement rides. B and I frequent three, as they are in close proximity to our home. The fourth is a little over an hour drive and it has been years since I have walked those boards and B has never. Note, I said walk. I do not subject myself to being twisted, turned, shaken upside down, and/or swung in circles until I’m dizzy and my stomach has come through my nose. The rainy weather final broke, well for a few hours anyway. We thought some fresh sea salt air and the ocean’s song were in order for the day.