merlin

A sunny and warm day in the Nature Preserve. Despite recent rains, the trail was surprisingly dry, due to the intense sunlight. My partner was at a retreat in the Bay Area, so I was on my own. But I still did a bit of off-trail scrambling to get some of the photographs. The trees, rocks, and vistas were inspiring and uplifting, as were the deep connections with nature and spirit. Food for the soul! 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Thanks, Mike! Quite a camera, eh? Yes, they are plants in our garden.

SOOC, except for re-sizing. I am impressed with the camera, to say the least!

Fleecy clouds and a cool breeze accompanied our hike today in the Nature Preserve. The incredible trees, boulders, rock formations, and vistas were inspiring and uplifting, providing a welcome alternative to the political horrors of these times. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10,

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

It is a different pp treatment of a flower photo I posted yesterday.

Another off trail hike in the Nature Preserve, exploring a different area. We needed to climb a ridge to get to the rock formation we saw from the valley floor, and it entailed some bushwacking as well as scrambling over rocks and scree. There were still a very few cholla blossoms, with attendant bees. The incredible rocks, trees, vistas, and stillness made the strenuous effort well worth while.

I have no problems using an across the torso sling strap whilst carrying a pack. In fact, I have carried two cameras that way, one on each side. I use op-tech straps for all my cameras. If I need extra length, I can purchase a longer snap-in insert.

Despite river flow at 20% more than last week, and lots of new above and underwater mud and sand flats to challenge our navigation skills, we managed to make it upriver to Cochiti Canyon. It was a superb outing. We saw Canada geese, ducks, herons, and ravens, and the stillness and solitude amidst such majestic glory was deeply meaningful. The best was yet to come, though, as near the end of our paddle we decided to explore a small bay opposite the boat ramp. To our great delight, we spotted three juvenile river otters swimming and diving in the water along the bank. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Great photograph, Rodger! To be honest, I have not tried it in low light situations such as this, but your shot will motivate me to do so. What aperture and ISO were you using? And thanks again for turning me on to the X30!

A few from this afternoon's hike to the mesa top. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

I also love my X30. It goes most places with me, especially on hikes, as its bulk and weight are minimal. Since I have other gear to use in low light situations, I use aperture priority and auto ISO with max 800, which obviates noise. My only issue is that the aperture often changes after slinging it back on my hip after taking a few shots, and the only solution is to have Fuji completely replace the lens and sensor assembly for about $225, including shipping both ways. But milandro is correct. The smaller than APS-C sensor is gone forever. Sigh....