Project Athena - Day 322 (Wood)

Wooden Stalls

I have taken this shot before and will most likely shoot it again in different light. Today, I was testing some new settings on the Sophie with long exposures.

Barn at Bobcat Ridge, Loveland, CO

Fujifilm X-E2 • Fuji XF18-135mm lens • 58.9mm • F/18 • 30s • ISO 200

 

Project Athena - Day 126 (Fun!)

Hiking!

Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out going to the mountains is going home; that wilderness is a necessity...
— John Muir

Who do you think won this stand off with the cow? Granted, the cow was still just a baby, but she was actually kind of intimidating as she bogarted the trail with her bullying  Alas, her fierce stance gave way to fear of the hiker and her running to her Momma...this time.

Today while hiking, I had an awareness about photography come to me....It is an activity of playing the odds when you get right down to it. The first way to increase the chances of achieving a captivating photograph is to have a camera. Seems obvious but I hear a lot of people say they would love to win the lottery but never purchase a ticket. Second, the odds are increased substantially when one decides to get off the couch and out of the house, with the camera of course. Knowing how to use the camera increases the odds again and being willing to squat, lay on the ground, climb, hold up traffic, talk to people, go against many social norms, carry and use a tripod, and miss out an occasional party happening during the golden hours all contribute to boosting the odds exponentially.

That's all I have to say on that subject for now. Smiling lots today.

Stand Off with Angus Calf

Nikon D3200 • Nikon 18-55mm lens • 40mm • F/6.3 • 1/1600s • ISO 400

Project Athena - Day 84 (Barns)

Bobcat Ridge Natural Area

The buildings tell the story of pioneer settlement, farming, and cattle ranching dating from the 1880’s through the late 20th century.
— Bobcat Ridge Natural Area Brochure

Today sadly concludes the theme of barns for me. It was a truly a wonderful week of shooting as I met the friendliest people along the way and discovered an amazingly rich farm heritage that made this place I call home.

I couldn't decide which picture to post today so like a Fourth of July fireworks display, the grand finale is a collage of photos from the beautiful historic farm at Bobcat Ridge.

Discovering this natural area today was such a delightful treat. Strolling around the property, I realized there is a lot to look at and photograph as the preservation of the structures is phenomenal. I am looking forward to revisiting for another shoot, hopefully when the sunshine returns, as well as taking a hike on the trail.

Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, Fort Collins, CO

Nikon D3200 • Nikon 18-200mm lens • ISO 200