Monday, December 16, 2013

2013 Favorites Series


In keeping with a "tradition" I started last year, I decided to choose some of my favorite photos from 2013. One thing I noticed while going through the pics is that I didn't take as many photos this year as last.

Just like before, I didn't choose photos based on popularity, but ones that are extra special to me for whatever reason. I might do two or three posts of favorites, but I haven't decided yet.


I certainly didn't take nearly as many heron photos this year as in the past. Despite that, I was fortunate to get a few good shots. I like this one because the angle is different from what I'd typically get. I like the dual "cowlick" action and the fact that the fish is clearly visible between the heron's chopsticks. It almost looks like the fish is jumping in.




This is a photo I took early in the year at the same lake where I photograph herons. I liked how the grass blades and leaves were completely encased in transparent, temporary tombs. I got prone on my belly for this one.




This is probably my favorite Goldfinch photo ever. I happened to catch the little guy in a one wing mid-stretch. The feathers are fanned out nicely and you can just see the light in the right eye. He looks like a bird ninja with Ginsu blades for feathers.




This is a photo I took at my youngest brother's home back in the summer. They have a beautifully landscaped yard with a big variety of flowers. I'm not sure what caused the nice blue background, but I was pleased with the outcome. I like the contrast of yellow and blue and the fact the flowers aren't perfect.




This is definitely my favorite Downy Woodpecker photo. It was the perfect combination of location, angle, and falling snow. These guys aren't always easy to photograph away from feeders.




The fog was rather heavy on this particular morning and the sun was just visible as it rose above the trees. The lone tree on the right is really the one element that made the photo. It works nicely with the fence and road to show distance and it draws the eye.




25 comments:

Meggie said...

There is something to say about each one, for they are all truly beautiful....but, I'm really drawn to the last one. I always love that angle for a fence line.

Ramakrishnan said...

Wow these pics are a veritable feast for the eyes ! Captivating, fascinating,stunning & superb !

Joop Zand said...

Fantastic pictures Brian.....keep on with this good work.

Greetings, Joop

Christian Perrin said...

Beautiful photos but I especially like the Goldfinch one. The bird is in an awkward pose and the most of the 'intimate' details of its face are obscured - and yet I get a complete sense of a living, breathing animal.

Jan n Jer said...

Awesome shots Brian...you should teach photography classes.

Tanya Breese said...

oh these are just superb!

Tanya Breese said...

oh these are just superb!

Montanagirl said...

This is a wonderful set of "favorites", but that last one really takes the prize. I love the composition with tree and the fence. Superb photo! The leaf entombed in ice is a fab shot too!

Adrienne said...

Stunning collection. You really bring joy and insight with your photos! I kept thinking...this one's my fave...until I saw the next! The 'frozen' leaf is stunning. Crazy that nature manages to encase each blade of grass like that! I'm a total fan of the woodpecker in the snow. And the foggy landscape! Thanks so much for sharing your eye with all of us!

Gail Dixon said...

Oh, my. Marvelous shot, but the one with the GBH and the fish is astounding! I've been seeing them fish more around here and I'm getting plenty of shots of them with the fish, but getting that long beak AND the fish in focus together is quite a task. Timing and patience are much-needed. Awesome collection, Brian. I really enjoy your tradition of showcasing your favorites.

TexWisGirl said...

i remember some of these from previous posts, but i enjoy seeing them again with your narration as to what makes them special to YOU. and i am sad that you didn't get a chance to take as many photos this year as i enjoy everything you share through your lens and skill.

Grandma Barb's This and That said...

They are all lovely, Brian! Each one is special in it's own way. I will look forward to more of your favorites.

Lindsjö taxar said...

Fantastic!
Just love all of them....you are great, inspires a lot!!
THanks for sharing!
Majsan//

Carole M. said...

...these are each fabulous in their own right Brian, "picture perfect". Have you considered having your favourites put together to create a polished year book maybe? They'd even make a top gift.

theconstantwalker said...

They are wonderful images Brian... many thanks for sharing them.

eileeninmd said...

Brian, you are so talented. Great selection! I always enjoy seeing all of your photos. They are all wonderful to me. Have a happy week!

A Colorful World said...

My favorite of these, I think, is the heron! They are all wonderful. I can't wait to do some "experimenting" with my new camera and post some nature and bird shots.

Anonymous said...

These are fantastic picks, Brian. I love them all, but the icy leaf shot is really impressive.

Debbie said...

i would need 100 entries to posts my favorites of your as all your images are amazing!!

i feel compelled to pick a favorite but it's just too hard, i really love all of these!!

MTWaggin said...

Honestly I don't know how you can pick favorites because ALL of your shots are amazing! I adore the wildlife because of how hard it is to shoot but of these that ice shot is really cool - maybe because it seems so out of your box. I like the variety of shots you've shared with us this year! Keep up the great work!

Mari said...

This is my first time visiting here and I already fell in love with your beautiful blog and pictures! ♥
Had to start following ♥

Coloring Outside the Lines said...

I remember all of these but one- and they are all fantastic shots! You are a very talented photographer, Brian.

Pamela Gordon said...

These are all really beautiful images, Brian, and I can see why they are among your favourites this year. The last one would be my favourite as I love landscapes and fog. I hope you share more of your favourites.

Saun said...

Well done Brian they are gorgeous!

TheChieftess said...

FABULOUS shots Brian!!! Such wonderful captures...the heron...the leaf in the ice...the goldfinch...those daisies!!! Absolutely some of your best!!!