February | 2012 | View from the Lookout

I spent a few hours working on my hummingbird set up in the back yard. Using old branch clippings I was able to set up my tripod and flash to try to get some pictures of the hummingbirds. For a few hours I was visited by these little buzzing birds. They are fascinating.

Female Anna's Hummingbird

There were at least five distinct birds, two females and three males. The males were constantly dive bombing each other in the brisk winds. Sometimes they would just miss the camera or me.

Male Anna's Hummingbird

I enjoy watching these amazing creations. No more than four inches, the males have an iridescent mask of red covering their head and throat.

Male Anna's Hummingbird

Sometimes it seems to glow when the light hits it. When not reflecting the light, the mask appears black.

Male Anna's Hummingbird

Moon over Rainier at Chinook Pass Sunrise

It is getting to the time in the north when the sun rises earlier in the morning. I look forward to early dawns because it provides opportunities to get out before work for photography. One of my favorite spots is a short 45 minute drive up to Chinook Pass. The pass is over 5400 feet above sea level and the views of Mount Rainier to the west are perfect for dawn photography. The area includes upper and lower Tipsoo Lake, trailhead for loops around Naches Peak, entrance to the Crystal Mountain area, and a straight up climb of Yakima Peak.

Lower Tipsoo Lake

Many mornings I run into other photographers who share the joy of such as beautiful spot. A favorite spot is just off the highway at Upper Tipsoo Lake.