05 Apr Only One Good Answer | April 2016
Only One Good Answer | April 2016
Cooper’s Hawk
Sometimes there’s only one good answer.
Here’s an example.
As I’m leaving a park, someone will notice my camera and say, “Take any good photos?”
Certainly, some days are better than other days.
For example, one day this was my best photo.
It’s okay: The eye is sharp. There’s some feather detail on the face. And you can tell it’s a Cooper’s Hawk.
Otherwise, the colors are soft and overall sharpness is poor. The photo would look better if light had been shining on the bird. But neither the bird nor the sun were willing to move.
So I’d rate it with one, maybe two stars (from my five star system).
Since I check my photos frequently (usually after every sequence) I know what I have. And on this day, I knew this was the best photo I had.
So what do I say when someone asks, “Take any good photos?”?
“Yes!”
Now why is “Yes!” the only one good answer?
Because any photo is better than no photo. And sometimes a really bad photo can be useful. It might serve as an example in one of my talks or (even) a blog post.
It’s also part of being kind to the person who asked. (Who wants to hear a negative reply to a friendly question?)
And it’s part of being kind to myself. (Because I’m always taking the best photos I can.)
Much success,
Steve Kaye
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This photo was taken at the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, in Claremont, CA
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Kathryn Grace
Posted at 13:03h, 05 AprilWhat a happy reminder, Steve. One of the things I so enjoy about your blog, apart from the stunning photos, is the kindness that shows through in your work and writing. Another is your attention to our stewardship of the environment and the ease with which you remind us to take care.
Steve Kaye
Posted at 13:57h, 05 AprilComments like this one are the reason I write these blogs. Thank you for your support.
Penny Schafer
Posted at 15:36h, 07 AprilI think it is a beautiful photo, sometimes that kind of thing is in the eye of the beholder. Love your positive attitude too… you should bottle that stuff, the world could use more of it!
Eileen Brownell
Posted at 16:21h, 07 AprilIt sure would give it 3-4 in my system. Good photo. Thanks for the gentle reminder about negativity. Good job!!!
Russell Dunlop
Posted at 21:57h, 08 AprilNice shot of the hawk, Steve. One of identical appearance has been around this place in Tustin. The deep purple in the eyes gives them a cruel beauty. And keep on taking those shots that nobody else is getting, you make us all richer for it.