In August I wrote about a new tool I was using to help process photographs, Topaz Labs’ Sharpen AI (see post). While one may never revisit all of one’s photographs (too time consuming), it is fun to rework certain images. Thus a blast from the past … selected photos from Year #2 of my blog (this is year #9). I would hope that in addition to upgraded camera equipment and editing tools, I have just plain become a better birder and photographer. While I can never retake the same image, Topaz AI does yield some amazing results on old friends.

Northern Hawk Owl (my signature bird)

Nordic Skiing

Red Fox

Frozen in Flight (Goldeneyes)

Ice Planet Moonrise (Lake Superior’s North Shore)

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird in our Garden (Bee Balm)

Wisconsin Ice Caves

House Wren

Notes

• I took the Northern Hawk Owl photographs after three straight days of stormy weather off Lake Superior. When the day finally dawned sunny, clear and cold, I spent hours trying to find a Northern Hawk Owl I had been tracking all winter. Success was finally achieved!
• For the Frozen in Flight Goldeneye photographs I was standing at the end of Duluth’s old Interstate Bridge. I saw the ducks swimming towards the dead end of an ice lead. I knew the birds had to either dive or take-off. I was poised and ready!
• For the hummingbird photograph, notice the bird’s shadow. The last light of the day (or first light) is golden for many reasons. The shadow’s angle shows the sun would set within minutes.
• And yes … while I love being out in the woods throughout the year, winter is my favorite time of year in terms of photography.