Search

No book featuring the wildlife of Ludington State Park would be complete without the official Michigan state bird

It was a picture that looked like a Monet painting. I was reminded of Monet's garden series as I made this photographic "painting" of a pair of mute swans and their newborn cygnets in a marshy cove on Lost Lake. Monet observed that the water lilies in his pond were "merely the accompaniment." And that's the way it was on this occasion on "my" pond at Ludington State Park.

Michigan's official bird appears out of place after one of the heaviest snowfalls of the winter. I am thankful for the robin's decision to head north early and to pick such a beautiful perch this morning. My West Shore Community College photography students and I photograph the cool bird for several minutes while it stays frozen in place. F13.0 at 1/160, ISO 200, 80-200 mm lens at 165 mm

Brad and I have watched closely how man and nature have coexisted at Ludington State Park. With few exceptions, we have been impressed with how well they have shared the space. State Park management and staff and state conservation officers set the tone and the rules. But they cannot be everywhere at all times. So many times Brad and I have witnessed people truly appreciating and respecting the park and its wildlife residents. Lovers of the park

I don't consider myself a great wildlife photographer. When I think of some of the all-time greats, I think of Carl Sams, Jim Brandenburg, and Franz Lanting. I was excited this morning when I watched over twenty bald eagles fight over a couple of dead deer north of Custer. I came home with one photograph I was proud of. F5.6 at 1/1600, ISO 800, 600 mm lens with 1.4 extender at 850 mm

Indigo Bunting

Attention on deck! A family of Canada geese appears at full alert along the north bank of the Sable River on a summer afternoon. Perhaps they are watching for the fox that lives just around the bend, or perhaps they have already spotted the sly predator.

With a good perch and a good view, a heron fishes on a pond near Lincoln Lake.

Sometimes respecting wildlife means leaving it alone. When I spotted this fawn 75 yards below me as I hiked the Piney Ridge Trail, I wanted to move closer. But I knew if I took even a few steps downhill, the fawn might be scared away from the hiding place where its mother had tucked it away. Instead I quickly made this environmental portrait with the 500-millimeter lens Brad and I purchased for making wildlife pictures like this without threatening the wildlife. I was pleased with the image I quickly made. I was even more pleased to see the fawn still in the same spot when I passed by again a couple hours later.

Intense Stare

Visitors at the Ludington State Park often give my dad and me tips on where to find certain flowers, birds, and animals. On this hot August afternoon I was busy trying to make a photograph of a robin when I heard someone whistle behind me. When I turned around I was face to face with a spotted fawn. I don't know who was more surprised, the fawn or the photographer. Needless to say, all the helpful hints were priceless.

Few creatures in nature stand out like mute swans. This proud bird was finding winter refuge in some open water on the Pere Marquette River. Mute swans have become a common sight in northern Michigan but one that continues to rivet my attention.

Deer are one animal that you can count on seeing during almost every visit to the Ludington State Park. I made this photograph deep in the park just off the Coast Guard Trail.

My photography partner Brad loves this image. My middle son has a very keen eye and I respect his opinion that this picture must be in this book. He loves how pretty the doe looks standing on a grassy dune crest on a summer evening. But I think most of all, the deer's beautiful face and expression make us feel respect and affection for the deer. Photography is so much about feelings and connotations.

Sometimes possums can look quite homely, but I am thinking this one looks rather cute huddled under a pine tree near Dennis Road eating an apple. I stop quickly and try to capture a good moment. The possum doesn't seem to mind, perhaps thinking I cannot see it. F4.0 at 1/200, ISO 400, 80-200 mm lens at 200 mm

Sunrise on the Pere Marquette River—designated by Congress a National Wild and Scenic River—revealed a scene to match the designation. The affectionate sand hill cranes did not appear to notice my presence. I remained as motionless as possible while frequently shooting as their positions and the light constantly changed.

Mary the Albino Robin

Mary the Albino Robin

Monarch Mondays

The wake being made by a male mallard ripples the glassy surface of a pond turned golden by the setting sun. The tranquil scene reminded me of the wonderful Hamlin Lake outings I enjoyed with my parents and my brother Budde while growing up.