07/01/2026
Reposting one of my favorite photos. This is certainly not the best or most visually compelling photo I have ever taken, but I think I like it so much because of the memories it evokes and the lesson I learned taking it.
I was in the Florida Keys on a diving trip. I had no plans to even take photographs, and almost didnt even bring my camera on the trip. (Technical diving gear for a bunch of dudes takes up a LOT of space!). But one morning I walked outside by the marina for a stroll, and took my camera just in case. Not a lot going on. There were a few kites in the air, some seagulls squawking overhead, and a crow or two.
But then I hear a high pitch chirp coming from the bushes. I didn't see anything - at first - but I knew there was something interesting hiding in those bushes. I slowly approached, and waited patiently. (Those who know me know that's not easy for me!) But the wait was worth it.
All of the sudden, from out of the bushes popped this red winged black bird. He (or she?) stood atop the branches, just for a second, and called out in his shrill warble before flittering off to another branch. I suspect there was a nest somewhere in those bushes, and he was simply protecting his babies. I will never know. The whole encounter took under 5 seconds, but I came away with a memory and an image.
But the lesson I learned was invaluable. You never know where or when you will get the opportunity to capture a memorable image. It may be luck. But I remember an old saying a boss of mine once told me. Luck is what happens when preparation and opportunity coincide. I indeed got lucky that day.
(And PS - We had a great dive later that day!!!)
