The morning was quiet and cool for the summer. I had hiked about 4 miles into the wildlife preserve with the sunrise. The trail I was on was a wooden walk path with handrails on either side, that stretched for a mile or so keeping visitors off of the protected land. The valley opened up for a beautiful view so I unloaded my equipment and sat on the path, feet dangling, elbows resting on the lower rail, and camera at the ready.
For hours I sat, enjoying the peacefulness of this remote wilderness so close to the big city. Watching the birds dart this way and that, never quite landing close enough or long enough to get the shot.
After time I could hear the morning walkers pounding down the pathway. I could feel their footsteps travelling down the boards as if laying an ear to the train rail.
I knew my chance at getting this shot was soon gone.
Just then, this little guy perched atop the branch singing his tune. I snapped this shot just before he darted away to catch his breakfast.
The walkers passed with a "good morning" that didn't quite cover their surprise at a 400 lb bearded behemoth of a man so deep in the woods, smiling from ear to ear.
The shot is not always there. Sometimes you have to make it. Most times, if you just wait and be patient, the moment will reveal itself. In this hobby, whether you get the shot or not, the day is never wasted.
