Despite the assuming title here, I’m not any kind of photographer–but I sure do like taking pictures! There’s nothing like getting out there in nature early in the morning, when my camera and I are both fully charged. However, if you’ve ever snapped a few yourself, you know about the disappointments and failures of the endeavor. Here are four examples of things that make me go grrr when taking wildlife pics:

The subjects won’t cooperate. No matter how hard you try to get a group of anything to conform to the shot, there’s always that one screwing it up at the last second.

Animal butts. I swear that three-quarters of my wildlife photos are of their back ends as they flee. In their defense, some butts are almost cute, or at least interesting like this mama lynx’s. It looks somewhat like a lions–who’s she trying to kid?

Too damn ugly! Some creatures, like these vultures, just aren’t picturesque no matter what filters or settings I use. People don’t like to look at them.

Out of focus. There’s nothing worse than when you think you’ve captured a great moment in nature only to get home and find that your photo is useless garbage.

In truth, these are all minor annoyances for the most part, and are nothing compared to the joy and peace of mind I get by just being out in the woods with my camera.

–Photos by me

It was so sunny and warm yesterday, I had to take a little stroll in the woods with the camera. It’s a little frustrating right now though, because the wildlife is still quite limited, as are the roads and trails. But I’ll share what I have.

The deer are doing well after a mild winter. They’re pouring out of the woods now for the grass alongside the roads; unfortunately, there’s a price to pay. Their coats seem to be browning up a bit.

It’s so hard to get a clear shot of a ruffed grouse as compared to the sharptails in the open fields. These guys are smart and they always make sure there is something between us. I wonder if she knows her bloomers are showing.

No walk would be complete without a bald eagle or two showing up. When I was a young boy, it was a rare treat to catch sight of one; now they seem to be everywhere. What a comeback!

Finally, the sun got so low it looked like a campfire in the woods, so I headed for home. It was a wonderful day, but I’m really looking forward to great summer shots of all kinds of wildlife! Happy Easter!!

–Photos by me