Snow – Life by Lens and Laptop

The Littlest Snowflake

I’ve always envied photographers who can capture such tiny forms such as individual snowflakes. I didn’t have much in the way of expectations, but I still gave it an effort and managed to get 1 good picture out of probably 15 other attempts. I could probably manage far better with some stabilization like a tripod or a surface to rest my camera on so I may try to use that next time. Still, not bad, overall.

That such beauty stands out from such a tiny form. It boggles my mind that this is what comprises the snow we make snowmen from and walk on.

Spring Snow

2018-03-31 Doves

A Wyoming snow came in today despite it technically being Spring now. It’s snowed several times over the last few days (but here in Cheyenne, only light accumulations).

Despite the snow, the birds were just singing their hearts out while it fell. Robins, Blue Jays, Juncos, House Sparrows, House Finches, Doves, Grackles, Starlings and Flickers were observed today. After filling all of our feeders, I stood outside under the aspens and quietly listened while the flakes fell.

And it felt more like Spring than Winter.

Fog Crystals

Hoarfrost isn’t a weather event I’ve ever seen before personally. But, the small ice crystals that coated our property the other day after a fog rolled in during single digit temperatures seemed to fit the bill, on a smaller scale. They weren’t the long, spike-like formations I’ve seen in more extreme pictures, but it was still impressive to see covering everything in sight. The photo here was a close-up of the edge of the railing on our back deck.

Cold Feet

2014-03-03-junco

This tiny Dark-eyed Junco was doing all it could to only keep one miniature foot in the snow at a time in a 2014 snow in Virginia. It was only after watching carefully for several moments from 25 ft away that I noticed it changing feet every few moments. Not to worry though, just out of camera range were 4 feeders I kept filled in the back yard it had a feast at.

Snow Cardinal

2014-02-13-cardinal-tree1 A brilliant red Northern Cardinal popping against the snowy background of the nearby woods.

2014-02-13-cardinal-landing Coming in for a landing to peck at seeds just under the snow.

Coldscape

2016-11-19 Egbert Snow A cold November day this past winter to be target shooting in Wyoming.

It was windy. And not the simply gusty kind of windy; no this was the kind where my cold-weather coat was on, hood was up, gloves on, wool base layers on and my eyes still teared and ran from the whipping cold air with sunglasses having zero effect in shielding them. It was a definite no-go. But I still snapped a few quick shots because even though it made for a miserable short time, our favorite shooting spot was ever beautiful in the strong and unforgiving way that Mother Nature is. Have to respect that.

Snow Hiking in Boulder

The NCAR (National Center for Atmospheric Research) Trailhead off of Mesa Trail.

The Mesa Trail system in the Boulder, CO area didn’t disappoint. Craggy mountain vistas, views of the city of Boulder, birds, spring growth, icicles and stunning evergreen forests abounded.

The really great part about hiking in the Flatirons is that within the first 10-15 minutes of walking, you’re already seeing fantastic mountain views and photo opportunities from the trail.

At this elevation, just go ahead and keep the 45SPF with your trail bag.

A curious little fellow singing to the sun.

The trails began out of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) property where we parked. It’s an easy drive from just about anywhere to get here and parking was plenty.

I’ve also found that while everyone is usually focused on their feet, it goes a long way to be friendly and thank those who stand to the side for you, offer a comment about spots to tackle with caution you just passed or where there’s an awesome camera shot ahead.

I’m surprised by how much plant life continues to flourish in the mountains under and through the snow as the seasons change.

Admittedly, I was a bit worried that I would struggle with the winter out here and possibly find myself not enjoying it. But I love winter so far here! And for me this includes still getting out on weekends when to enjoy the gorgeous country that is just a few miles down the road.