Anybody from SF Bay Area (East bay) for a shoot sometime?

[Cubix Rube]

My wife recently took a new job, at which she works Sundays, and sometimes Saturdays as well. This leaves me with a bunch of free time to shoot pictures, but I hate going out by myself, and thought it might be enjoyable to find another photographer or more, to go out and shoot with.

Any takers? I'm in Livermore, and while there is a lot of open spaces, and vineyards, wineries and such, I get very frustrated trying to find a shot, from ANY angle anywhere, in which there are no power lines or towers. Maybe some of you guys know some better locations. I'd love to discover some place new in the area to shoot.

[PhatPhoto]

I live in the south bay, I would be willing to hang out in places and take pictures. I am a complete novice and dont have anything special. The Santa Cruz Mountains would have all kinds of places to check out.
Anything to make me better. Let me know.
Thanks,

[pitslave]

I live in American Canyon. But I like going out to Monterey/Carmel to take pictures. I lived in Fremont most my life. Have you ever gone out to Coyote Hills in Fremont? You can mountain bike out there and get some nice pictures.

[Wsman2]

I live in Sunnyvale. There are some vineyards around Saratoga.

[KirkHMB]

Might be interested, I'm on the peninsula. Supposedly some nice parks behind hayward or fremont where things get fairly wild. I'm trying to get my act together to co-ordinate a trip to the crystal springs watershed off 280 at 92

http://sfwater.org/Files/Other/Ridge_trail_brochure080103.pdf

[4x4rock]

Check out this forum for places to shoot around the Bay Area

http://www.soocool.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=5

[Wsman2]

Might be interested, I'm on the peninsula. Supposedly some nice parks behind hayward or fremont where things get fairly wild. I'm trying to get my act together to co-ordinate a trip to the crystal springs watershed off 280 at 92

http://sfwater.org/Files/Other/Ridge_trail_brochure080103.pdf

One place I haven't been to is Filoli (http://www.filoli.org).

[Cubix Rube]

Wow...GREAT stuff here, guys! Wsman2, I've never even heard of Fioli. Now I want to go check it out.
Just joined the soocool site, too 4X4!
Thanks!

[PhatPhoto]

That place looks really cool to check out.
How much is it to get in to do shelf guided tours. Maybe I will call later.
Anyone want to check this place out ?

[TwistedGray]

You wanna shoot some motorcycles? I know a perfect spot for you and it is nearby

[ayotnoms]

Just popped over from the "Who's from California?" thread where there has been some initial rumblings (me and 2 others; 00silverGT and pitslave) about a "Friday night photography" meet up in downtown SF.

You've been officially informed/invited! Target date TBD but probably sometime in September.

[Cubix Rube]

Just popped over from the "Who's from California?" thread where there has been some initial rumblings (me and 2 others; 00silverGT and pitslave) about a "Friday night photography" meet up in downtown SF.

You've been officially informed/invited! Target date TBD but probably sometime in September.

I work in San Leandro, so I'm only about 30 minutes out from downtown SF. I'd think later in September, or early October might be best for night photography, as we won't have to wait so long for it to start getting dark.

[michaelbehlen]

I'm down to meet up, I'm from Central cal but would love a refreshing drive.

[PhatPhoto]

Not real crazy about SF, but I would be willing to meet and hang out and learn.
I am in San Jose, I do want to go to downtown San Jose and shoot the new City Hall building it looks really cool.

[greg20d]

I am in Stockton I could run over sometime also ...race schedule permitting

[Cybnew]

Im at SFSU...(basically Daly City) and I am up for a potn meet anytime :)

[TwistedGray]

Head to Monterey and you'll pass me :)

[Killjoy]

I work in San Leandro, so I'm only about 30 minutes out from downtown SF. I'd think later in September, or early October might be best for night photography, as we won't have to wait so long for it to start getting dark.


I'd love to join you guys for the shoot. Just so long as it's not Friday the 28th. My wife would kill me as it's our tenth wedding anniversary :lol:

I live in Clayton, which is nestled right up against Mt Diablo, near Concord and Walnut Creek.

Thanks,
Alan

[PhatPhoto]

Well I am good for pretty much any weekend except for the Oct. 4 -7 th weekend when it is my 10th wedding anniversary.
Also Alan Happy 10th wedding anniversary, it's a long freakin time.
Heheheheheh

[Killjoy]

Well I am good for pretty much any weekend except for the Oct. 4 -7 th weekend when it is my 10th wedding anniversary.
Also Alan Happy 10th wedding anniversary, it's a long freakin time.
Heheheheheh

Yes, it IS a long time. Thanks, and Happy Anniversary to you too! :)

[Bignerd]

It has been a while since anyone has posted here. I am looking for partners for a shoot. Also looking into the outdoor photography seminar in San Jose Nov 10-11. Anyone have any knowledge about that group and their seminars?

This Sunday I am at a niners game, but Saturday is open. Any takers?

[Killjoy]

Sorry Larry, but this Saturday my daughter has a Soccer game at noon and my wife and I are then attending a wedding reception. So Saturday is booked this week.
As for Sundays, I am usually in Silicon Valley anyway, as I work there and have an odd schedule.
Perhaps another weekend?

Alan

[Bignerd]

Sorry Larry, but this Saturday my daughter has a Soccer game at noon and my wife and I are then attending a wedding reception. So Saturday is booked this week.
As for Sundays, I am usually in Silicon Valley anyway, as I work there and have an odd schedule.
Perhaps another weekend?

Alan

No worries. There will be plenty of opportunities. Perhaps we can use the forum to create an itinerary and generate interest from others and turn it into something significant.

Some primary choices I could suggest -

Monterey/Carmel/Point Lobos
Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Preserve
Point Reyes area
Half Moon Bay area
Skyline/LaHonda/Pescadaro
Fall Foliage where and when it occursAnyone else have suggestions?

[pitslave]

No worries. There will be plenty of opportunities. Perhaps we can use the forum to create an itinerary and generate interest from others and turn it into something significant.

Some primary choices I could suggest -
Monterey/Carmel/Point Lobos
Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Preserve
Point Reyes area
Half Moon Bay area
Skyline/LaHonda/Pescadaro
Fall Foliage where and when it occursAnyone else have suggestions?

I would mind Choice #1,#3 or #4

[PhatPhoto]

Hey bignerd,
Can you post more information about the seminar.
I would like to check that out.
About going out for some shooting, I am available anytime after Oct. 10th.
Let try to put something in stone for all of us out here.

[Bignerd]

here is what I know about the seminar:

http://www.opseminar.com/

It was recommended to me by a friend who is also going, and the price seems well worth the risk.

I will start putting together a basic schedule for a local outing, and we will see how we progress in implementing it.

[Kraig C]

Check this out. http://www.montereybaybirding.org/ starts in "Pajaro-valley" AKA Bird Valley. We get humming birds year round, cedar waxwings occassionally on migration, cormerants, ospray's, ducks, doves, killdeer, gulls, boobies, RW, herons, egrets, kestrels, red tails, buzards, coops or sharpies, rarely california condors on their way to check out the rocks between here and the coast on the san lorenzo water shed, also get 10's of thousands of wood swallows on a cycle that lasts between 9-10 years, they showed up last year, they will come back every year for about 6 years and then poof, won't show up for another 6-7 years... It's strange... I've also seen a few scissor tails, some white-kites, and some other funny looking birds, not to mention the over grown population of Euro-starlings.

There's a bird sanctuary/center up in the hills somewhere; its WAY up there... There's a large population of rock pidgeons... bunch of turtles, bunch of garter snakes, more gopher snakes, and very few rattle snakes "rare in the valley but still a real concern"

Anyway, the event ended a couple days ago :( but nothing stopping you from tracing their foot steps... This is after-all what the trails are there for :P

[Bignerd]

Check this out. http://www.montereybaybirding.org/ starts in "Pajaro-valley" AKA Bird Valley. We get humming birds year round, cedar waxwings occassionally on migration, cormerants, ospray's, ducks, doves, killdeer, gulls, boobies, RW, herons, egrets, kestrels, red tails, buzards, coops or sharpies, rarely california condors on their way to check out the rocks between here and the coast on the san lorenzo water shed, also get 10's of thousands of wood swallows on a cycle that lasts between 9-10 years, they showed up last year, they will come back every year for about 6 years and then poof, won't show up for another 6-7 years... It's strange... I've also seen a few scissor tails, some white-kites, and some other funny looking birds, not to mention the over grown population of Euro-starlings.

There's a bird sanctuary/center up in the hills somewhere; its WAY up there... There's a large population of rock pidgeons... bunch of turtles, bunch of garter snakes, more gopher snakes, and very few rattle snakes "rare in the valley but still a real concern"

Anyway, the event ended a couple days ago :( but nothing stopping you from tracing their foot steps... This is after-all what the trails are there for :P


This is great information and links in with the Elkhorn Slough nature preserve on my list:
http://www.elkhornslough.org/

I think it is telling us there are opportunities to see stuff and possibly even photograph stuff this time of year.

[Bignerd]

I did a scouting trip to Elkhorn Slough / Moss Landing this weekend to see what there is to see. I think morning hours are the best hours to shoot with the sun low to the east. Lots of birds, lots of Otters, lots of water.

Here are a couple of shots:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1072/1466080881_bac9a2053b_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1078/1466071899_effaf7b7ac_o.jpg

I am thinking a Saturday morning Oct 13. 8 am meeting up at Moss Landing, Drive to Elkhorn Slough - Kirby Park. The Elkhorn Slough Nature Preserve opens at 9 am. I didnt go in there on my scouting trip. After the Nature Preserve, a return to Moss Landing to see what there is to see. There is a decent Mexican Restaurant where we can end the trip with lunch.

Anybody interested?

[4x4rock]

There's a photowalk to Marin Headlands on 10/9 from the photowalk.org folks.

I went on a recent Stanford University walk and it was pretty fun. All levels, all cameras are welcome

More info
http://upcoming.yahoo.com/event/282292/

And also one in Oakland shooting graffiti
http://upcoming.yahoo.com/event/271990/

[PhatPhoto]

I would be up for Oct. 13th, I might be able to bring a couple of more people.
Let me know if we are going to do it.
I am going to Monterey and Carmel this weekend for our 10 year anniversary. So I plan on taking a lot of pictures.

[Wsman2]

You're probably aware that it is Fleet Week (http://fleetweek.us/fleetweek) in San Francisco. The Blue Angels are in town.

There's also the "Hot Rods at the Beach (http://www.hotrodsatthebeach.com/index.html)" event in Santa Cruz.

[Bignerd]

I would be up for Oct. 13th, I might be able to bring a couple of more people.
Let me know if we are going to do it.
I am going to Monterey and Carmel this weekend for our 10 year anniversary. So I plan on taking a lot of pictures.

Lets call it a go for Saturday, October 13. I suggest an 8:30 meeting time at Moss Landing Road turnoff from rte 1 right after the bridge over the elkhorn slough. From there we can proceed to the Elkhorn Slough nature preserve (opens at 9 am)http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2332/1525248978_33f799b985_o.jpg
All who wish to join in the trip please email me or message me so I can coordinate contact information. It is also worthwhile to organize carpools to save a dinosaur or two for later consumption. I hope we get a significant response

[PhatPhoto]

I should be good to go. I am also trying to get a couple of my friends to go.
How long would you want to stay there?
Also BigNerd where are you at in SV?

[Bignerd]

I should be good to go. I am also trying to get a couple of my friends to go.
How long would you want to stay there?
Also BigNerd where are you at in SV?

3-4 hours should be the max depending on lighting. If the sun gets harsh, then we can end the day with a lunch break. If the marine layer stays around, then we can probably extend the shooting.
I typically go after more of the animal life, and their activity starts relatively late in the cooler weather. Sunrise is after 7 am. If landscape is the goal, earlier would be the better lighting. I am flexible to all ideas. We have so many potential spots in this area to go after that we should define what it is we are trying to go after. I was thinking in terms of repeating more or less what I scouted out a couple of weeks ago, adding on the nature preserve (opens at 9). Again, I am open to all suggestions.


I am in Cupertino.

[pitslave]

I'm going to have to pass on this one. October is a busy month for me. I'll try for the next gathering when it comes around again. Have fun guys.

[avwh]

bignerd: you have a pm

[Bignerd]

bignerd: you have a pm

received and replied to

[Bignerd]

I'm going to have to pass on this one. October is a busy month for me. I'll try for the next gathering when it comes around again. Have fun guys.

I look forward to seeing you next time :)

[avwh]

What's the forecast for tomorrow? Is this a "rain or shine" outing?

[Bignerd]

What's the forecast for tomorrow? Is this a "rain or shine" outing?

The forcast for tomorrow is sun after morning fog. The effect of morning fog here should be quite nice (unless it is pea soup). I am going to be at the meeting spot at 8:30 am. I hope to see a few of you there with me. I plan on sending out confirming emails tonight to those who have expressed interest. I have some phone numbers, and will include my contact information in the email in case we are hit with a surprise typhoon tomorrow morning.

http://www.weather.com/outlook/recreation/outdoors/weekend/16979:21

All who are interested, pm me or email me with your contact information so I can be sure to send maps and the like later today.

[Bignerd]

This Saturday I met with two members of the forum, John and Allen, for a joint outing to the Elkhorn Slough area. Our trip focused on the marina area of the slough, an inland portion of the slough that was exploding with birds, and the Elkhorn Slough Reserve (http://www.elkhornslough.org/)

The nature reserve was very nice, but opens relatively late at 9 am. Further into the winter this might be ok, but for now, this was a little late in terms of the light and the activity of the animals. The opportunity for landscapes is great.

Pictures will follow, but very much follow the nature of the pictures I posted earlier. John found an area in the marina with a tremendous number of sea otters. The birding opportunities include sea gulls, pelicans, egrets, blue herons, and a number of smaller species. I got a great view of a Cooper's Hawk, but from too far away to get a decent picture. I also got a pic of a raptor in flight, but too back lit to qualify as a decent picture. More skilled photographers than I could probably do a decent session on raptors.

In all, I thought it was an excellent get together, although small. I will begin planning the next outing, although I dont know what I will suggest. For that purpose - lets hear some suggestions for a follow up get together.

[avwh]

Thanks, Larry for organizing/planning. I was shooting with a Canon G7 and a TC, so my reach was limited with the bird shooting. However, it was still great fun. Here's my gallery from the day:

http://allenh.zenfolio.com/p296533848

And these were a couple of my favorites:

otter in Moss Landing harbor:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p715184978.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p715184978-0.jpg)
duck in Moss Landing:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p887703091.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p887703091-0.jpg)


Elkhorn flock in flight:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p805250253.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p805250253-0.jpg)

[PhatPhoto]

Here are some of my pictures from the trip, sorry have not finished them all yet. Still working on them.
http://www.flickr.com/gp/10788047@N02/M3T69J
Here are a couple from the set:


Also can someone point me to how to post pictures that I have from the Flickr sets I have?
Thanks,

[Kraig C]

Phat, I noticed the title of your otter raft as "seals" might wanna change it to sea otters. We usually launch the boat there; I get a couple of long exposures in the AM before sun-up and sunrise seascapes from the boat. There's usually an otter raft right at the jetty by the "island" they are there for the clams, barnicles and the calm water. This shot is from last year. There's a big anual birding get together that tours the sloughs. Thinking about going next year.

[PhatPhoto]

It is a new breed called Hairy Seals ???
JK, Thanks I am going to change that ASAP.

[Bignerd]

Hi Guys,
I havent posted anything for a while. I just wanted to see who I will be meeting up with at the outdoor photography seminar this weekend in San Jose.

http://www.opseminar.com/

Right now I am juggling between seminar, 49er games, and Thanksgiving, but I am interested in organizing another outing in November (weather willing). How does the Half Moon Bay area sound?

Suggest a date and time frame, and make additional suggestions, and we can coordinate another outing if folks are interested.

[avwh]

Larry-

I'll be at the seminar both days, and I'd be up for a Half Moon Bay shoot. (I now have my 40D and a 300 lens & 1.4 extender, but still am grappling with getting the right tripod, quick release plates, etc.)

There have been harriers, redtail hawks & kites hunting voles off Poplar St. beach in Half Moon Bay for the past several weeks, and I still haven't gotten there for a shoot. Don't know how much longer they'll be there (I suspect the first winter storm will drown their prey, and they'll move on).

[Bignerd]

Larry-

I'll be at the seminar both days, and I'd be up for a Half Moon Bay shoot. (I now have my 40D and a 300 lens & 1.4 extender, but still am grappling with getting the right tripod, quick release plates, etc.)

There have been harriers, redtail hawks & kites hunting voles off Poplar St. beach in Half Moon Bay for the past several weeks, and I still haven't gotten there for a shoot. Don't know how much longer they'll be there (I suspect the first winter storm will drown their prey, and they'll move on).


How do you like your 40D? What 300mm lens did you get? I am holding out a bit more. The 40D raw format is not compatable with Photoshop CS2, so upgrading to 40D will require an additional purchase. I am also struggling with the question of what tripod/head to move to. One of the features of the seminar will be tipods and the like on display.

What you are saying is the Half Moon Bay trip should be upped in urgency. Play hookey from work one day this week? Anybody else have some input?

[avwh]

I am giving seminars tonight and Wed., and have a business trip Thursday, so I could probably take time off from work Fri for a photo shoot day (sounds like the light is better in the afternoon than the morning, from those who've been there).

I got a used 300 f/4L IS. Really happy with the little bit of shooting I've done so far (easy targets like swimming ducks & geese, so far), but I know I need a tripod eventually, if not very soon. And I still have to work on BIF and AI Servo technique with the new, bigger body & lens setup.

RAW has been a bit of an adventure for me, but I'm starting to figure out a workflow (and it sounds like we may get some tips on that Sunday at the seminar, too).

[Bignerd]

I am giving seminars tonight and Wed., and have a business trip Thursday, so I could probably take time off from work Fri for a photo shoot day (sounds like the light is better in the afternoon than the morning, from those who've been there).

I got a used 300 f/4L IS. Really happy with the little bit of shooting I've done so far (easy targets like swimming ducks & geese, so far), but I know I need a tripod eventually, if not very soon. And I still have to work on BIF and AI Servo technique with the new, bigger body & lens setup.

RAW has been a bit of an adventure for me, but I'm starting to figure out a workflow (and it sounds like we may get some tips on that Sunday at the seminar, too).

Checking the weather forecast, there is a 10% chance of rain on Friday. I think those are good odds. We should aim for a 2pm meet.
My only concern is something might turn up at work that requires I be there. Lets make this a tentative for now, and see who else wishes to join in. We can confirm tomorrow. Pick the spot where we should meet.

All others in the bay area, feel free to join in.

[avwh]

That sounds fine. Saturday & Monday, the forecast is for rain, so Friday should beat the weather.

We're going to lose light almost completely by 4:30-4:45 (based on my backyard shooting yesterday), so I'm thinking of getting there closer to 1pm but we can meet at a specific spot at 2pm if that's the best your schedule allows.

[Killjoy]

Okay guys, please keep us updated as to times and specific locations. Are you going to be trudging though the sand, or are you sticking to the blacktop, and hardened trails?
If you are staying on the high ground (so to speak) I can join in the shooting fun.
Due to a foot injury, I am unable to go out on the softer stuff for a while.
However, don't let this adjust your plans. If you are heading onto the beach, don't change just for my sake.

Thanks,
Alan

[Cybnew]

Guh...i would be up for a HMB shoot...but im taking my rooommate up to marin to go camping and coming back (we leave around 2) :(

[Bignerd]

That sounds fine. Saturday & Monday, the forecast is for rain, so Friday should beat the weather.

We're going to lose light almost completely by 4:30-4:45 (based on my backyard shooting yesterday), so I'm thinking of getting there closer to 1pm but we can meet at a specific spot at 2pm if that's the best your schedule allows.


Lets aim for 1pm then. Please provide a location for the meet, and if you are aware of the area, is it solid ground, walking over a sandy area? What do you know of in HMB besides the raptors?

There is always the marina, and I am sure we can find a few other choice spots.

[avwh]

There's also Pillar Point Marsh/Mavericks Beach (just a couple miles away for pelicans, grebes & other shorebirds), besides the raptors off Poplar Street (this is supposed to be in an area called Bluff Top Coastal Park).

I don't know the area to know what surfaces we'll be walking on. I'll have to do more map/location research in the morning to post a meeting spot that will be easy to find.

[avwh]

There's a parking lot at the end of Poplar Street - let's meet there. Larry, I have your cellphone # from our Elkhorn Slough outing.

Anyone else who plans to join, please PM with your cellphone # so we can be in touch/connect.

Alan - it looks like there's a paved path you can see the raptors and shoot from, based on the website:
"Blufftop Coastal Park features lots of free parking at the southern terminus of the trail.
Start on either the dirt or paved path heading north (the dirt trail is mostly used by equestrians and is lumpy). The empty field on the right is prime hunting territory for raptors; on my walk I saw a Cooper's hawk and 5 northern harriers looking for lunch."

[Bignerd]

There's a parking lot at the end of Poplar Street - let's meet there. Larry, I have your cellphone # from our Elkhorn Slough outing.

Anyone else who plans to join, please PM with your cellphone # so we can be in touch/connect.

Alan - it looks like there's a paved path you can see the raptors and shoot from, based on the website:
"Blufftop Coastal Park features lots of free parking at the southern terminus of the trail.
Start on either the dirt or paved path heading north (the dirt trail is mostly used by equestrians and is lumpy). The empty field on the right is prime hunting territory for raptors; on my walk I saw a Cooper's hawk and 5 northern harriers looking for lunch."

Here is the website for all to visit. It includes a map of the area

http://www.bahiker.com/southbayhikes/halfmoon.html

Look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow at 1 pm weather willing :)

[Killjoy]

Thanks for the link Larry. However, my Niece called me in a panic last night. Cal threatened to shut off her wireless access since her laptop didn't have the latest security updates in Windows. So I told her I would help.
It's turning into quite the project. I still have her laptop, and am in the process now of creating the thirteen recovery discs so I can reformat her laptop.

It looks like I'm going to be here a while.
I hope I can make the next one.

Alan

[Bignerd]

We had a great outing today in Half Moon Bay. There wasnt a feeding frenzy, but there was enough activity to come away with some good shots.

Here are a couple, more will follow, probably on the birds forum


Harrier having a brief snack
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2362/1941153078_fe593bad1e_o.jpg


Kite in flight
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2293/1941153048_63253fd721_o.jpg

Other pictures are uploaded to my flickr site

[KirkHMB]

We had a great outing today in Half Moon Bay.


OK, I'm the village idiot. I haven't had time to check the activities thread in forever, and see some of ya'll were in my backyard, or threatening to be. I'm up by the harbor at pillar point. Couldn't have made it last friday due to several conflicts, but maybe next time.

[Kraig C]

Subscribed to this thread! Those places are in my backyard too... There's a couple raptors/hawks flying around by the hwy1 129/mainstreet exit.. Today was cool cause the seagulls and the buzzards were riding updrafts near where I live, watched them circle around for a while with the binoculars..

[avwh]

My next outing: Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge, for the snow geese. They're in full migration south over the next 2-3 weeks, and usually stop en masse (and sometimes fly off in huge flocks) at the refuge between Willows and Maxwell.

Story here:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/11/15/SPMDTBMTB.DTL&type=sports

Anyone up for a dawn shoot (getting a clear-ish morning may be the biggest trick) or an afternoon?

[GaryK]

I drove from the East Bay to Oregon last Friday, I went through the wildlife refuge area just after dawn and it was totally fogged in - visibility down below 300 feet in some areas. I wish you good luck if you try it.

[Kraig C]

It's been foggy once and a while; The forcaster on the weather channel say's due to the jetstream and different air currents; The fog's really going to push in to Sac to SF-Bay area, but they also said it shouldn't last long.. Keep an eye on the forcaster; you should have a pretty good morning if you find somewhere to camp or hike in before sun-up; should see lots of steam on the water this time of year :) If the steelhead fishings any good I might be able to hitchike with a fisherman and get dropped off near this place.

That's a cool article,
Except this part:
"""You are forbidden to leave your car except at two viewing areas, where raised decks and platforms provide excellent sightings. The birds seem to have adapted to the vehicles, but not the sight of people getting out of their cars. In my trips there, I've found that you are best off driving as slowly as possible, stopping at all the viewing aisles, and to expect the unexpected. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope that you can mount on your car window.""

This must look like a school of chovies:
"Blackbird surprise: At dawn, you can sometimes see amazing sights as the marshes come to life. At times, a single flock of 10,000 to 20,000 redwing blackbird wills swoop, rise, and dip as if connected as a single entity by a telekinetic force."

[wtaccord]

I just came across this thread. Looks like you guys have gotten together a couple times. I'd like to join you all one of these times if that's OK. I work some crazy hours in IT but should be able to set aside some time. It sounds like I might have to head up to Sacramento real soon. I'm headed up to Grass Valley Thursday night to have dinner with my Grandma so maybe I'll just make a day of it. I'll report back if the findings are good.

[VictorValencia]

Hi Everyone,

I live in the SF Bay Area (Santa Clara) and would be interested in getting together
for local shoots. So far I have been to:

1) Ed Levin Park in Milpitas foothills. It was my first morning shoot but it was
not a very exciting area. Part of the problem is that it was my first shoot
ever. It was cold, windy, I dropped my 24-105 on the cement and I almost
got a parking ticket :)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/15756162@N06/sets/72157602614863596/

2) Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge in Alviso. This was an evening shoot and there
are many opportunities for interesting shots. Bring your creative composition
hat though.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/15756162@N06/sets/72157603004822463/

3) Villa Montalvo. The Villa itself is pretty but not terribly exciting. There
are trails into redwoods behind it though that are quite nice.

http://VictorValencia.smugmug.com/photos/222754444-L.jpg

4) Sonoma is a great place for the fall colors.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/15756162@N06/sets/72157602941490765/

I am usually available on weekends give or take. I would be interested in
going to:

* John Muir Redwoods
* The hills above the north end of the Golden Gate at Sunset
* Big Basin State Park
* Pinnacles National Monument (near Soledad)
* Just about anywhere that sounds interesting.

If anyone wants company let me know...

Victor

[Bignerd]

Hi Everyone,

I live in the SF Bay Area (Santa Clara) and would be interested in getting together
for local shoots. So far I have been to:

1) Ed Levin Park in Milpitas foothills. It was my first morning shoot but it was
not a very exciting area. Part of the problem is that it was my first shoot
ever. It was cold, windy, I dropped my 24-105 on the cement and I almost
got a parking ticket :)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/15756162@N06/sets/72157602614863596/

2) Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge in Alviso. This was an evening shoot and there
are many opportunities for interesting shots. Bring your creative composition
hat though.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/15756162@N06/sets/72157603004822463/

3) Villa Montalvo. The Villa itself is pretty but not terribly exciting. There
are trails into redwoods behind it though that are quite nice.

http://VictorValencia.smugmug.com/photos/222754444-L.jpg

4) Sonoma is a great place for the fall colors.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/15756162@N06/sets/72157602941490765/

I am usually available on weekends give or take. I would be interested in
going to:

* John Muir Redwoods
* The hills above the north end of the Golden Gate at Sunset
* Big Basin State Park
* Pinnacles National Monument (near Soledad)
* Just about anywhere that sounds interesting.

If anyone wants company let me know...

Victor


Hi Victor,
Keep your eyes peeled here. Allen and I have had a couple of succesfull outings together, and we are looking forward to tomorrows adventure.

We try to post when we have something planned, and always invite as many people as possible. The more we are the more we can learn from each other.

Larry

[Bignerd]

I just came across this thread. Looks like you guys have gotten together a couple times. I'd like to join you all one of these times if that's OK. I work some crazy hours in IT but should be able to set aside some time. It sounds like I might have to head up to Sacramento real soon. I'm headed up to Grass Valley Thursday night to have dinner with my Grandma so maybe I'll just make a day of it. I'll report back if the findings are good.

As I have said, keep your eyes peeled here. We try to post when we have something planned, and always invite as many people as possible. The more we are the more we can learn from each other. If you run into something worth taking a look at, let us know.

Larry

[Bignerd]

Allen, Eitan, and I drove up to the Sacramento NWR yesterday and we had a tremendous shoot opportunity. The quantity and variety of wildlife to photograph was amazing. I highly recommend this reserve to any of the members here interested in photographing birds and nature.

I am sure Allen will add some of his results, but for now, here are a few of mine. I will post many more in the Bird forum. All the images are available for public view on my flickr site

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2399/2081462305_a03041c4ac_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2044/2081474365_3b85f9934d_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2145/2081474357_66165df64f_o.jpg

[wtaccord]

Nice shots! I'm going to try to get up there next weekend. I was planning on going Thanksgiving but it was too far out of the way from Grass Valley where I was headed. One thing I was reading on the website for the reserve is that you can't get out of your car. Is that true?

[avwh]

Quite the photo opps at the Sacramento NWR:

Flock of snow geese look like a cloud:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p748147426-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p748147426-0.jpg)

Sea of snow geese against a farm in background:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1028166266-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1028166266-0.jpg)

Snow geese in flight formation:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p981784730-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p981784730-0.jpg)


One flap up, one flap down:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p901243534-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p901243534-0.jpg)

Raptor with meat in beak:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p621368278-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p621368278-0.jpg)

Red-winged blackbirds:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1016734832-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1016734832-0.jpg)

Turkey vulture in flight (my 2nd memory card, not yet downloaded, is mostly turkey vultures):
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p886265771-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p886265771-0.jpg)

We were unsure whether at least one of the hawks we saw was actually a hawk or an immature bald eagle (since we were told there were bald eagles hunting at the NWR).

[avwh]

Nice shots! I'm going to try to get up there next weekend. I was planning on going Thanksgiving but it was too far out of the way from Grass Valley where I was headed. One thing I was reading on the website for the reserve is that you can't get out of your car. Is that true?

No - there are two places within the refuge where you can view the birds outside your car: one is a viewing deck, the other is a wide turnaround.

There are also footpaths near the entrance/exit. We ran out of time, so we didn't explore the footpaths that far (we ended up seeing dozens of vultures in the trees by the entrance, so we photographed there quite awhile instead).

You're supposed to use your car as a blind elsewhere, which worked very well. I think at least 3 of these 7 shots I posted were taken from the car.

[pitslave]

Very nice pictures guys. Thanks for sharing.

[Bignerd]

Quite the photo opps at the Sacramento NWR:

Flock of snow geese look like a cloud:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p748147426-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p748147426-0.jpg)

Sea of snow geese against a farm in background:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1028166266-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1028166266-0.jpg)

Snow geese in flight formation:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p981784730-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p981784730-0.jpg)


One flap up, one flap down:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p901243534-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p901243534-0.jpg)

Raptor with meat in beak:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p621368278-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p621368278-0.jpg)

Red-winged blackbirds:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1016734832-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1016734832-0.jpg)

Turkey vulture in flight (my 2nd memory card, not yet downloaded, is mostly turkey vultures):
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p886265771-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p886265771-0.jpg)

We were unsure whether at least one of the hawks we saw was actually a hawk or an immature bald eagle (since we were told there were bald eagles hunting at the NWR).

Allen,
Great job on these, and excellent timing with the hungry hawk. I would suggest you straighten the horizon on the second image. On the sky shots you have a fair amount of noise. I would suggest a tool like neat image would help. I dont know if you did any sharpening on the pair of geese (which you framed wonderfully). There appears to be a bit of a halo around the lead gooses wing. If it is over sharpened, then maybe you want to reprocess a bit. Also, the whites look a bit blown on that one.

I am really pleased with the capture of the red winged blackbirds in flight. Unfortunately I was shooting with the 2x, and none of those shots came out worth anything. I am tempted to call in sick and go back up there tomorrow to try some retakes!!!!

For all those out there reading this forum. If you have any interest in photographing birds, go there. Personally, when I wasnt shooting, I was lifting my jaw up from the ground I was so awestruck.

[RudyN]

Those are some great shots of birds. I will try and get out sometime with you also. I live in San Jose and just started digital Photography after having film cameras for a Long time.

[Bignerd]

Those are some great shots of birds. I will try and get out sometime with you also. I live in San Jose and just started digital Photography after having film cameras for a Long time.

Rudy,
Pay attention to this forum. We are always looking for places to go and things to shoot. Allen and I have invited the forum to three separate spots, and we have different people joining in. The more the merrier.

[RudyN]

I will keep an eye out on this thread. I also subscribed so that when something happens I will be notified. Thanks

[avwh]

The two shots Larry commented on I've re-processed (thanks for the c&c, BTW, Larry), so they disappeared from the earlier posts.

Pair of snow geese, one with flaps up, one with flaps down:

http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p77075575-5.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p77075575-0.jpg)

Sea of snow geese (horizon straightened):

http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p430615708-4.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p430615708-0.jpg)

[chubri777]

Ok, I just read this entire thread and have a couple of places you guys might be interested in. Grey Lodge refuge out of Live Oak has more varied habitats than Sac NWR and you can get out of the car there. It's another place that you'll be picking your jaw up off the ground.
Closer to you guys are Staten Island and the Isenburgh(sp?) Sandhill Crane Preserve outside of Lodi. Staten is best in the morning light and the other in evening. Midday on a trip to this area you could also take in the Consumnes River Preserve further up I-5.
If you guys research these sites and decide it's something you might want to do, post up and I just might have to meet up with you.
Also there is one of the best wintering raptor sites around in between Rio Vista and Dixon that might lend itself to some birding/photography.
If you guys have any questions on any of these sites, post up on this thread and I'll check in and see if I can help.
Thanks and looking foward to getting out and shooting some pics with you guys.

[Bignerd]

Ok, I just read this entire thread and have a couple of places you guys might be interested in. Grey Lodge refuge out of Live Oak has more varied habitats than Sac NWR and you can get out of the car there. It's another place that you'll be picking your jaw up off the ground.
Closer to you guys are Staten Island and the Isenburgh(sp?) Sandhill Crane Preserve outside of Lodi. Staten is best in the morning light and the other in evening. Midday on a trip to this area you could also take in the Consumnes River Preserve further up I-5.
If you guys research these sites and decide it's something you might want to do, post up and I just might have to meet up with you.
Also there is one of the best wintering raptor sites around in between Rio Vista and Dixon that might lend itself to some birding/photography.
If you guys have any questions on any of these sites, post up on this thread and I'll check in and see if I can help.
Thanks and looking foward to getting out and shooting some pics with you guys.


Great inputs. I will look into this, and will post some tentative dates.

[Bignerd]

Does anybody have any knowledge of the status of Monarch Butterflies in Santa Cruz? Is there a big accumulation this year?

[avwh]

Does anybody have any knowledge of the status of Monarch Butterflies in Santa Cruz? Is there a big accumulation this year?

FM-NorCal mailing list had some discussion about Monarchs in San Leandro a little while ago - IIRC, they were disappointing in quantity/quality this year, but maybe that wasn't supposed to be peak season?

[KirkHMB]

Does anybody have any knowledge of the status of Monarch Butterflies in Santa Cruz? Is there a big accumulation this year?

http://www.santacruzlive.com/blogs/video/2007/10/26/sentinel-video-monarch-butterflies-return-to-santa-cruz/

Doesn't look like it was orange trees a 1.5 months ago, but respectable. Driven by 3x since 11/10, and never had time to stop and check it out.

[Kraig C]

They're here, but you have to look for them. Yesterday's winds may have blown them all into next week though.. There has been quite a bit of hawk action, lots of birds out hunting rodents. I watched a few over the last week or so, didn't take any photo's though.

[Bignerd]

Santa Cruz -
We took a ride out. Went to the park but there werent too many. We went early, and it was a cold morning. This guy was from that location

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2171/2096640582_4bf18a809d_o.jpg

We then tried the cluster of trees accross the road from the surfer sculpture, and there were plenty. It was warmer already. Here is a sample from that location.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2163/2096639614_f5a99f477b_o.jpg

[Kraig C]

Nice little gathering.. that is typical of the area; They like to hang out from just south of the boardwalk, to just north of "natural bridges"

There's a netted box on display at the natural bridges vissitor area with some monarchs in various stages, larve/pupae/adult etc.. monarch butterfly tourist thing..

Some gather as far south as statepark drive; all the way up to wilder ranch, that's as far as I've been to see where they are; but Santacruz tends to capitalize on the "tourist attraction" so they like to say natural bridges is the "BEST" and in some cases that area is the best; because they love to gather on the euc's and obviously junipers and cypress. They also go up to the hills along hwy1 to lay eggs on milkweed... but if you didn't notice, there are fewer and fewer tree's to gather on; larger area's of developed land, where the milkweed used to be; in open fields etc.. is now the old wriggly's plant, and many other industrial type developments... I hear They gather by the millions in Mexico! That would truely be amazing to see...

What's going on in the background in your photo it looks really strange, almost like photoshop canvas tool :P

[Kraig C]

Also; in the same general area, from Aptos, south to the Pajaro river I saw that the robins are flocking in to gobble up winter berries; along with a small handfull of cedar waxwings that I could hear and occassionally see their light coloring and yellow tips.

I also saw what I thought were a flock of robins, but they didn't sound like robins, and they had very bright red breast coloring, almost tropical looking... Not sure what they were; it could have just been the evening sun adding to their orange color..

[Bignerd]

What's going on in the background in your photo it looks really strange, almost like photoshop canvas tool :P

This is a lens I just purchased and I have noticed the striations too. It is the Sigma 50-500mm. I have no idea what it is from and what makes it visible.

[wtaccord]

This is a lens I just purchased and I have noticed the striations too. It is the Sigma 50-500mm. I have no idea what it is from and what makes it visible.

It's the lack of a red stripe at the end of the lens. ;-)

[Kraig C]

Going anywhere this weekend?

[avwh]

Not exactly an East Bay or Bay Area shoot, but Larry (Bignerd) and I went to Gray Lodge the other day.

Cold & foggy, it didn't have anything like the "target-rich" environment we had at Elkhorn or Half Moon Bay, or Sacramento NWR (nor the weather). OTOH, we didn't come away empty-handed, either (thanks to hawks, vultures, & ducks).

Some of my shots from the day are in this bird thread:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=423443

Whole gallery is here:
http://allenh.zenfolio.com/p972861672/

Thanks for looking.

[Bignerd]

Anybody have any updated information about the status of the Mavericks?

[avwh]

I saw when they were on "ready alert"....then nothing. Has it come and gone already?

[atomick]

Yup, Mavericks is over already. It was not just epic, but brutal - some of the angriest action many have seen there in years. There's always next year...

[KirkHMB]

Yup, Mavericks is over already. It was not just epic, but brutal - some of the angriest action many have seen there in years. There's always next year...

Gee, according to the website, it hasn't gone off yet.
http://www.maverickssurf.com/Contest/Default.aspx?id=1300
And I signed up for notification when it did go off, and I've gotten nothing yet (gotta check the spam filter) http://www.maverickssurf.com/Contest/Default.aspx?id=74

And I haven't seen the crowds near my house ( I live within walking distance), or any articles on the local paper
http://hmbreview.com/shared-content/search/index.php?search=go&l=25&q=mavericks

or local website
http://hmbreview.com/shared-content/search/index.php?search=go&l=25&q=mavericks


I could be wrong, but I don't think its happened yet.

[atomick]

Yikes! I just read about it in the Chron and assumed it was on/over! My bad, KirkHMB and others, I gots mah facts discombobulated! Apologies!

[303villain]

Hello,
I just thought I might pop in here really quick. I am not FROM SF but, in march Im going to Monterey/Carmel for a photojournalism class and Im staying an extra few days in San Francisco. If anybody has any suggestions on cool places to go shoot, Id be greatly appreciative. I am going to be staying near Fisherman's Wharf and I wont have a car so Im gonna be kind of limited!

Also, if there is a cheap/easy way(ie-bus or something) to get from the Monterey/Carmel area to San Francisco I would be very grateful! Im sure a cab would be astronomical!

[Wsman2]

Hello,
I just thought I might pop in here really quick. I am not FROM SF but, in march Im going to Monterey/Carmel for a photojournalism class and Im staying an extra few days in San Francisco. If anybody has any suggestions on cool places to go shoot, Id be greatly appreciative. I am going to be staying near Fisherman's Wharf and I wont have a car so Im gonna be kind of limited!

Also, if there is a cheap/easy way(ie-bus or something) to get from the Monterey/Carmel area to San Francisco I would be very grateful! Im sure a cab would be astronomical!

Some of San Francisco's landmarks are walking distance to where you are staying. Chinatown & Coit Tower are certainly pretty good hikes. You can catch a tour bus that can take you around town and across the GGB.

Perhaps mention your intentions in SooCool (http://www.soocool.com/forum/index.php) and you might get some help (and maybe good company) from the area folks.

[Wsman2]

If anyone is going to Macworld, a Photowalk (http://www.photowalking.org/2008/01/08/great-chance-for-out-of-towners-to-photowalk-in-sf/) has been planned for Friday at the conclusion of MW.

[Kraig C]

Greyhound? I rode one from sf to santacruz once.

[Kraig C]

oh, the santa cruz anual fungus fair is starting on january 12; I met up with Ken "from the fungus fair" and a couple other people, then went collecting in monterey; gathering mushrooms for the display's; they started collecting on sunday and will be going north of santacruz tomorrow morning; Might want to check out the website, they are gathering at 8:45 in the morning infront of harvey west park "scout-house" where the tables are next to the pool building; just across from A-toolshed; rain or shine... Might be some good photos on the trip, I took my camera along this morning, but didn't have a chance to take it out; too busy looking for mushrooms... I might try to go in the morning just to take photo's? http://www.fungusfed.org/body/funfair.html If you are in the area and have any cool mushrooms growing, dig them up and drop them off in the designated area at the museum...

here's a quote from their website.. "We also urge you to collect on your own and bring the mushrooms either to the collecting parties meeting at Harvey West Scout House, to the Santa Cruz City Museum of Natural History on East Cliff Drive, or to Louden Nelson Center during the setup period. After hours collections may be left at the Museum in the stairwell around the left side of the building as you’re facing the front door. After Wednesday, bring any additional collections to Louden Nelson Center after noon, but before Friday at noon."

[KirkHMB]

Yikes! I just read about it in the Chron and assumed it was on/over!

That's your first mistake, assuming there's anything correct in the Chron. Paper runs more column inches of corrections than any paper I've ever seen.

I am not FROM SF but, in march Im going to Monterey/Carmel for a photojournalism class and Im staying an extra few days in San Francisco.
Also, if there is a cheap/easy way(ie-bus or something) to get from the Monterey/Carmel area to San Francisco I would be very grateful! Im sure a cab would be astronomical!

Why leave Monterey / Carmel? Much more natural beauty down there. You could go wild wandering the coastline. Who's PJ class are you taking?

From http://www.monterey.org/transprt.html
Greyhound Bus (Web site: www.greyhound.com) service is not available in Monterey but it is available in Salinas.

[303villain]

I actually decided to stay in Monterey for an extra 2 days. I found a good deal on a cheap hotel. Im not looking for anything fancy.

The PJ class is through the college I go to in Denver here. The professor's name is Kenn Bisio, prett amazing guy, shot for Time, SI, etc. Should be a fun trip.

[Wsman2]

Gee, according to the website, it hasn't gone off yet.
http://www.maverickssurf.com/Contest/Default.aspx?id=1300
And I signed up for notification when it did go off, and I've gotten nothing yet (gotta check the spam filter) http://www.maverickssurf.com/Contest/Default.aspx?id=74

And I haven't seen the crowds near my house ( I live within walking distance), or any articles on the local paper
http://hmbreview.com/shared-content/search/index.php?search=go&l=25&q=mavericks

or local website
http://hmbreview.com/shared-content/search/index.php?search=go&l=25&q=mavericks


I could be wrong, but I don't think its happened yet.

The online site for the San Jose Mercury just announced a green light for this Saturday (Jan. 12th)!

Careful though. According to the newsstory, organizers are discouraging spectators from going (probably due to the recent storms that may have weakened the cliffs around that area).

[KirkHMB]

The online site for the San Jose Mercury just announced a green light for this Saturday (Jan. 12th)!


Dang, just heard this on the radio as well

I'm already triple booked for Saturday. May try biking over anyway, if I can sneak in.

Still haven't gotten my notification email, nothing on the website yet................

[pitslave]

Here's another link for the surf contest. http://cbs5.com/local/mavericks.surf.contest.2.627231.html

[Killjoy]

So? Did anyone make it out there and take some shots?
Can we see what you got? I was unable to attend.

Thanks

[Bignerd]

I had been hoping to go to the mavericks to take pictures of waves. I knew that with a competition going on I would never get close enough to photograph anything. I didnt go, but I am tempted to go today to take pictures of waves.

[pitslave]

I had been hoping to go to the mavericks to take pictures of waves. I knew that with a competition going on I would never get close enough to photograph anything. I didnt go, but I am tempted to go today to take pictures of waves.


Too bad I didn't see your post. I was thinking the same thing yesterday. I was planning to go out there today to try and shoot some coastline photos. Maybe next time

[KirkHMB]

http://kirkhmb.smugmug.com/Surfing

I went, got some lousy pictures from the bluff a ways to the north. Shot with a 400mm f5.6 + 1.4TC on the 30D, thus about 900m effective focal length. Tried to shoot from the beach, got squat, the 2 waves in front of the surfers block your view. My shots give you a clue as to how big it was

Start of a nice wipe out here (3 shots)
http://kirkhmb.smugmug.com/gallery/4154825/1/242593842/Medium

got my lens from borrowlenses.com One guy near me had a 100-400, nothing else big in the vicinity. Saw lots of PS, cell phone, and maybe 300mm max zoom.

[avwh]

Just did the elephant seal tour at Ano Nuevo yesterday; first batch of shots (from the late-afternoon tour, so I have mostly golden light, pre-sunset) are here:

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=4702933#post4702933

[TwistedGray]

Anything going on this Sunday?

[Wsman2]

Watched some of the news this morning. If I heard correctly, Amgen's Tour of California (http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/) is in February.

Start thinking of those prime spots.

[Killjoy]

Watched some of the news this morning. If I heard correctly, Amgen's Tour of California (http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/) is in February.

Start thinking of those prime spots.

According to the web site, some of the more greuling parts of the race will be on the section from Modesto to San Jose near the Lick Observatory. I just happen to have that day off and may have to go find a nice hill to camp out on. Either to catch them making the driving run up, or perhaps at the bottom, or near a curve?

[Wsman2]

I just caught wind of this. There's a Photo Fair (http://www.photofair.com/) this Saturday, Jan. 26th in San Jose.

[TwistedGray]

Well it looks like they (bikes) will be going right through town again :)

I think I'll head down Highway 1 in Big Sur and see what I can capture :)

[TwistedGray]

I have a shoot at a bridal expo in S.Cruz this Sunday, whoot whoooot.


Can't wait for this rain to let up!!!

[TwistedGray]

bump, anyone doing anything?

[Cybnew]

not yet, but is anyone shooting the Tour of California this month? I have a press pass for the event, so I will be at The prologue, stage 1, (Maybe 3) , and 4.

[avwh]

not yet, but is anyone shooting the Tour of California this month? I have a press pass for the event, so I will be at The prologue, stage 1, (Maybe 3) , and 4.

My wife has covered it the two prior years, writing for our local paper (the first year, she went to every stage). Last year I didn't have a serious camera when we went to just the last 2 stages (but the post-race press conferences, and hanging in the hotel lobby seeing teams casually were still fun).

This year, I'll be in Hawaii on business when the Tour is in N CA, unfortunately. I'd love to try to get some serious race pictures, otherwise.

[Kraig C]

I wouldn't mind sitting on a corner somewhere for the bicycles....

[TwistedGray]

That is this Sunday right? well for those in the Monterey area...

[avwh]

Not exactly a Bay Area outing (though I'll be starting from there ;)), I'm planning to go to the Cosumnes River Preserve (between Sacramento & Stockton) this Saturday, before the sandhill cranes depart.

Besides sandhill cranes, there's supposed to be: (winter & migrant) tundra swans, greater white-fronted geese, white pelicans, green-winged teals, ring-necked ducks, ruby-crowned kinglets, American pipits, tree swallows, (resident) wood ducks, cinnamon teals, Nuttall's woodpeckers, yellow-billed magpies, western bluebirds, and wrentits.

I guess the time to be there for sandhill cranes is sunrise & sunset, as that's when the flocks fly. They also "dance" as part of their mating ritual, which usually occurs this time of season before they head back north.

[avwh]

two recent outings-

Sandhill cranes at Cosumnes River Preserve:

http://allenh.zenfolio.com/p59610852/

Ano Nuevo elephant seals:

http://allenh.zenfolio.com/p764545473/

(two visits, once in January, when pups were nursing, and then February, when adults were mating and more fights between bulls were likely)

[Killjoy]

It's been a month since anyone has posted to this thread.

I can't believe that people aren't out there shooting. Are there any events going on?
Is anyone going shooting anytime soon?

According to the page on Google, from 8-9 this evening, SF will be taking part in a lights out event. I went to the last one, last October, and they only turned out the lights on the major landmarks.

Shall we see if they can do better this time?

[Bignerd]

Hi all,
It has been a while since I last posted here. Life has a way of interfering with the more enjoyable parts.
I have been to Filoli a couple of times, getting some good Tulip shots, and about as opposite as humanly possible, I have been to Metcalf Motorcycle park in San Jose, getting some shots of dirt bikers jumping into the air.
I am not aware of any major events taking place, or specific activities. Cherry blossoms are in bloom and should afford some nice landscapes if people know where to go for them. Any suggestions?

[TwistedGray]

Hey BIGNERD, you might have luck posting some of those photos on www.southbayriders.com as a lot of them consistently go to Metcalf. I ride my DRZ all around and take pics, but haven't been to Metcalf...

[Bignerd]

I just want to take a quick opportunity to recommend to everyone a visit to the Palo Alto Baylands Reserve. Many of the birds are in breeding plumage, and the Egrets and herons are out in large numbers. Evening lighting is perfect and makes for some fine shooting

more posts will follow in the birds section

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2394/2448283740_05fc71edda_o.jpg

[Bignerd]

Hi everyone,
This thread has been dormant way too long. What is everyone up to? Any special events, recommended locations we should be looking forward to? Is it time to organize a group outing to some exotic location to refresh acquaintances with each other?

Lets get some activity going here!!

[Kraig C]

One thing I'm not looking forward to is the clearing of natural habitat at a local park that I do alot of birding at. They have cleared about half an acre of underbrush to put in a disc golf course, and now they plan on spraying herbicides in an area known to support the endemic and listed as endangered species, White-rayed pentachaeta (Pentachaeta bellidiflora) also known as whiteray pygmydaisy . Since they started clearing the area about a month ago, I haven't seen the pair of red shouldered hawks that usually sit in the big oak tree at the end of the dirt road to hunt rabbits.

[Bignerd]

California has gone spray crazy. There is a whole campaign I have been hearing about spraying against some moth that doesn't harm the apple industry with some pesticide that has been untested, in some time release capsules that are easily inhaled and apparently never exhaled. You think that the governator really is a terminator?

[Kraig C]

That's the LBAM thing..... they are screwed up! they should capture all those moths and export them to Andrew Zimmer's show "Bizar foods"

[Kraig C]

I'm gonna go argue with the sprayers and make sure they don't spray our wild mushroom foraging area's.....

[Kraig C]

Well, I missed em by a day, The warning sign said spraying for poison oak.. They sprayed both sides of a nice long trail that was packed with wild black berries, various native plants, including some willows and two small patches of wild daisy's, that might be the protected white rayed pigmy daisy...

I went back today with my macro stuff to get some pictures of some white crab spiders that I found on the little patches of daisy's and found green junk sprayed all over the daisy's. I did manage to find one crab spider, but the daisy's were coated in the green junk, all wilted, and trampled over, looks like they drove a sprayrig through the trail, all spraying all the plants on the sides of the trail, including short grasses that cotton tails feed on, and the blackberries that we liked to gather... So the pics are a documentation of herbicide missapplication rather than macro art.

Apparently they deviated from their targeted plant to include "brush control" which wasn't mentioned on the sign, nore was the sign placed on the trail that was sprayed...

The rabbit in the pic was far away from the sprayed trail, it's not sick or anything, just resting in the shade, sprawled out to probly cool off, it let me get withing about 20 feet before it jumped up and into the bushes.

[Kraig C]

after reading a few articles; the daissies in these pics look like a regular daisy, rather than the protected one. I did find some more daissies in another area of the park that I noticed had a slight red/pink ting to some of the petals, with taller central yeallow parts, similar to the white-rayed pigmy daisy.

[KirkHMB]

Hey gang, at least there is one upside to all the fires burning elsewhere: Great sky colors

Late afternoon at Crystal Springs Reservoir, shot with a P&S, that's all that was in the car.http://kirkhmb.smugmug.com/photos/320905646_EEVeh-L.jpg

[GaryK]

I came across some notes about the Festival of Sail. A number of tall ships will sail under the Golden Gate on July 23 and be available to tour through the weekend. More info at http://www.festivalofsail.org/index.asp