Pretzel's Snack-A-Day (365 for 2014)

BackdoorArts · Jul 22, 2014

I think I've learned more from the stuff I've tried and failed at than I've ever learned getting it right on the first try. What's worse is getting it right on the first try and failing the next 3 times you try and realizing you're not good, just lucky. LOL

Tom Grove · Jul 22, 2014

Pretzel said:
Day 202 - *sigh* I just don't have it today, either. This pic was taken on the run, but I lost the oil well pump in the background. I fiddled for a bit trying to separate it back out and get something decent... You get this. I think I'm just too frustrated with my editing fail from earlier to mess with this one much. Gonna try to clear my mind and reset tomorrow.

View attachment 102519

I like it! Old things like that tell a story... Some HDR processing could really make the rust stand out more. Maybe take the shot from an angle instead of face on... unless of course there was no way to get an angle shot.

Pretzel · Jul 22, 2014

Day 203 - Not gonna happen...

Ever try to catch a Barn Swallow in flight? THEY'RE TOO STINKIN' FAST FOR THIS GUY!!!

Then I thought, "Hey, they're dive bombing ol' Green! I know where to aim to catch one mid-flight!" NOPE!

ALMOST got a good shot with one dive bombing another one sitting on the fence...

Then, I caught one sitting still, and I understand why they move so fast. He's looking a little scruffy and rumpled... (and he looks none too happy that I caught it on camera)

Alan · Jul 22, 2014

Just as bad as tree Swallows. Never have gotten a shot I liked :ambivalence:

snaphappy · Jul 23, 2014

Yah dozens live here and catching them is just about impossible. They nest in my barn and shelters but up high where there is no light and they move so darn quick that even with them right there capturing them nicely is mission impossible

Watching them swoop and fly sure is amazing and I love knowing they are feasting on bitty bugs

You are lucky to catch one resting on the fence!

Pretzel · Jul 24, 2014

Day 204

Yup, just another toadstool. All sorts have been popping up lately. They always have some interesting textures, that's for sure.

Vixen · Jul 24, 2014

Did you see the spider on the underside of that mushroom? Well, I THINK it's a spider

Nice shot too. Be good to see when it opens out fully

Pretzel · Jul 24, 2014

Vixen said:
Did you see the spider on the underside of that mushroom? Well, I THINK it's a spider Nice shot too. Be good to see when it opens out fully

Didn't see it until PP very late last night/this morning, but yup, spotted it. It doubled in size overnight, so planning a shot this evening too, for comparison.

Pretzel · Jul 25, 2014

Day 205

Nothing to really like here. No artistic intention, no artistic edit. Simply photojournalism and a simple B&W conversion.

A very somber day, with a big reminder of how fragile life can be. Emergency personnel were already on the scene, working frantically to save a life.

I can not imagine the trials and stresses our law enforcement and firemen go through on a regular basis, but I know that every single time they are needed, they dive in with no hesitation to protect and serve their fellow man. Today was no exception. They dove into a situation that involved an overturned vehicle on fire, working as one to move the vehicle (for whatever reason) while still fighting to put out the fire, all to reach a victim in danger. Unfortunately, according to the news, both involved passed away. My prayers go out to the families, as I can't even begin to wrap my mind around having to deal with such loss.

Here's the story that includes a picture that shows the two vehicles, and the total devastation, involved.

Update: Second person dies in Sapulpa crash | www.krmg.com

There's no stated reason for what caused the accident, but I'd just like to remind everyone.

Sleepy driving, distracted driving, driving under the influence... they're all dangerous. Please drive safe. You may be protecting more than just your own life.

Pretzel · Jul 27, 2014

Day 206 - 'sploding shrooms!

Well, really just growing toadstools... This is the end result (much larger) of the toadstool shot from a few days ago.

Pretzel · Jul 27, 2014

Day 207 - w00t!

Went to do some yardwork for my FIL, and the wife found a nice little lamp and table at the neighbor's yard sale. It was just what we had been looking for in an end table for my end of the couch, so we got it all set up... And the wife approved one of my framed pics to be permanent decor!

Pretzel · Jul 27, 2014

Day 208 - Another day of nothin' fancy...

...but, sharing a great find. I've always wanted a good camping/outdoor pack; one where I could pack enough for 3-5 days of wilderness wandering. I found one at a local military surplus. A like new ALICE pack with frame and full pads. From the shape it's in, I'm guessing it was issued in the mid 70's, right before MOLLE equipment was released. Betting it was replaced after just a few weeks/months of duty. Whatever the story, I got a HUGE bargain for a pack I can carry for MANY hours, in comfort...

(and my Lowepro AW202 will fit inside of it easily as well)