In the little patch of magic forest I’ve been setting up cameras, there is a very small, spring fed pond. It’s always been in the back of my mind to see if much goes on there, but for whatever reason I haven’t, until now. After a stretch of 100 degree days, I finally scrambled down there with a trail camera. All I can say to myself now is “What took me so long?”
Our family of Black Bears have visited several times now. The footage is both amusing and amazing. I’m learning so much about black bears and I’m just getting started. I just ordered two books about these amazing animals.
I’ve been asked about mama’s somewhat cold attitude towards one of her cubs in a few videos, like this one. My best guess this is typical Black Bear behavior, but honestly I don’t know for sure. Someone on Facebook wondered if she is trying to wean them … great question. People come to me with wildlife questions all the time, assuming I’ll have answers. So often I disappoint. I probably know way more about the natural world than most … but there is way, way, way more that I don’t know. And I like it that way. That’s how I know it will always be exciting to me.
At first glance, I would say haven’t gotten anything too exciting since the coyote. Deer, Wild Turkey and squirrels. But looking closer at some of the images, and I’m pretty happy with them. There is something about camera trapping that really appeals to me. It’s a total different approach than traditional photography. I can for the most part control the composition. I can sorta control light (need to get better at this). What I cannot control is how animals will enter the frame. While I’ve had some heartbreaking missed shots, I’ve also had some super interesting things happen. I would never compose an image like the following with my regular camera, but somehow it works.
I LOVE THE RANDOMNESS of camera trapping.
Other stuff:
- I’ve taken one of the two camera traps down to do some repairs/maintenance. The cubs have been very rough on some equipment. It’s almost not cute anymore. LOL.
- I’m applying for a grant to purchase two more camera trap set ups. I’ve been successful with this foundation before. I need them to see how passionate I am and what this art is all about.
- I’ve had two good weekends of business in a row. Being a full time artist/wildlife photographer ain’t always easy. I always want the business to do better and better.
I really enjoyed writing this tonight. A place to say whatever I want to say. Fun. Thank you for reading!!!
Forgive any grammar, spelling and whatever else mistakes I made. I will likely read this in the morning and do some correcting.
Dan
Elster Photography 