Return to Paynes Prairie

After my first visit to Paynes Prairie, I was excited to see what I will encounter this time.  As it was later in the day, we had decided to just visit the main part of the park.  My husband and I once again went to the lookout tower behind the visitor's center.  Unfortunately, there were no animals to be seen .  As I gazed out into the prairie, hope as I might, nothing.  Disappointed, we decided to go trekking through some of the shorter trails.  

Nevertheless, the woods was beautiful teaming with a different type of life.

Then upon heading towards the campground area, I saw my first of the wildlife for the day.....

these fellows were accompanied by this little guy.

We reached the trail near the lake over at the campgrounds and followed it across the short bridge (Suggestion: read the warning sign about alligators and watch your step).  Lucky for me, none were near the path.  But I did spot this little guy hiding out in the water..

Once out of the woods, you will follow a trail in a field and there we spotted our first white tail deer. 

After several peaceful hours at the park, it was time to head back towards the car and as I gazed at the lake, I share my last look upon the lake

until next time.....

Let's Go To The Park

When many of us think of a park, we think of swings, monkey bars, and a playground.  Others imagine a field where you can play football, soccer, or lounge around and while having a picnic.  

Let me introduce you to a different type of park:   Paynes Prairie is located Alachua County.  There are several entrances to the park, but once you enter, be prepared to find a whole new world out there.  After entering the main gate and parking, we followed the path into the woods to head towards the lookout tower.  Not knowing what to expect, here is the first of the wildlife I encounter.

I didn't quite expect to ever see one of these wild beasts in out time.  But here at the prairie, it is a refuge for these animals. 

And just a few feet away from this wild buffalo, a brave turkey lurks in the grass hunting for food.

As the brochure states wild horses can also be found here.  I have not been lucky enough to see any of the horses, but as I had said, the prairie has several entrances.  After traipsing through the woods that never seemed to end..........

we finally found a clearing..........and a long walk out there.............we finally reached the end of the trail out to about the middle of the prairie.  Once up on the lookout tower out there, to my surprise, I saw these................

So, I count myself very lucky at this first visit and quite amazed that a place like this still exists neighboring the city of Gainesville.

Beach Portraits: Sea, Sun, and Sand

The beach has always been a place of peace and a refuge.  It has been a place to let go of the hustle and bustle of everyday life and let it all ebb away with the tide.  So, here I share my experience with my first family portrait shoot at the beach.

Meet the Shiller Family: Jeff, Victoria, and Kayden.  We were on location at St. Augustine Beach,

Rule # 1: be always prepared.  Aspiring photographers, make sure you are prepared for the sand and the water.  Dress comfortably, be ready to get wet and sandy.  Also make sure that if you are planning on taking photos low near the water, have something to protect your camera for unexpected splashes.  I brought along a large ziplock bag.  It may not sound much, but it did the work.  For those who are planning on being in front of the camera, depending on what type of photos you are looking for, always bring extra clothes.

As this was my first time doing a shoot at the beach, I was unprepared for the size of the crowd.  Luckily for us, it was not that crowded at that spot, but for future reference: it's better to find a spot where it is almost deserted or else you will be photoshoping a lot out of the photos.  Also be aware as to the position of the sun because your subjects will probably be squinting quite a lot and this does show on camera.

Now that we've gotten that out of the way, have FUN and remember anything can happen.  Let's take Kayden for instance.  (I'm partial to this little guy and I'm not just saying that because he's my nephew......well ok maybe I am, but he is adorable.)  On one of the first shots, I asked Kayden if he could put this hands in this pockets and this is what I got:

Remember, have fun

And if you're lucky enough to have an Uncle Joey to play with and keep him busy, perhaps mommy and daddy can get some couple photos done too.

And as the sun goes down and when all are tired and ready to head for that trip home..................

don't forget.........................