Alan Boucher Photography: Blog https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog en-us (C) Alan Boucher Photography (Alan Boucher Photography) Sat, 28 Aug 2021 13:19:00 GMT Sat, 28 Aug 2021 13:19:00 GMT https://www.aboucherphoto.com/img/s/v-12/u283601435-o137151032-50.jpg Alan Boucher Photography: Blog https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog 120 92 Benefits of Drone Photography for Real Estate https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2021/8/drone-photography

Real Estate Photography by Alan Boucher
651-485-8809 | aboucher66@yahoo.com

 

There are many benefits of choosing a professional Real Estate Photographer who is also a Certified Drone Pilot.

 

CloseupCloseupAerial View

Professional Drone Photographers can capture unique aerial perspectives of the home and property. A bird's eye view can be visualized providing a full scope of the property for sale. 

90 degree angle90 degree angleAerial View

A drone can be raised high enough to capture the surrounding area to include any special features such as beaches, lakes, and parks showing prospective buyers the benefits of the location.

Straight DownStraight DownAerial View

 

Related Articles:

 

Check out my Real Estate Photography services and receive a FREE photo shoot as a first time client!

 

Real Estate Photography by Alan Boucher
651-485-8809 | aboucher66@yahoo.com

 

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(Alan Boucher Photography) drone images lighting photography quality real estate realtor sell https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2021/8/drone-photography Sun, 22 Aug 2021 18:07:14 GMT
Do I Really Need a Professional Real Estate Photographer? https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2021/7/Real_Estate_Photographer

Real Estate Photography by Alan Boucher
651-485-8809 | aboucher66@yahoo.com

 

A picture is worth a thousand words and can be thousands of dollars. Hiring a professional Real Estate Photographer can not only help you sell a property much sooner, but in some cases even help you reach a higher asking price!
 

People no longer physically go to all homes for sale to find their new dream home.  Instead we go to Zillow, Realtor.com, etc., enter a region, plug in our preferences and sit back and view images of homes on our large, high resolution monitors.  Professional photographers produce high quality images that can be displayed on these large monitors without loosing their quality.

 

Benefits of hiring a professional Real Estate Photographer
 

  • A Professional Photographer will capture all the details and lighting in each room then display it properly on the finished images.
    • Here is what a Professional Photographer's image looks like:

Fujifilm X-T2 DSLR Professional Camera - 11MBFujifilm X-T2 DSLR Professional Camera - 11MBReal Estate Photography

Fujifilm X-T2 DSLR Professional Camera on a tripod - 11MB
(press image to view it larger, then press browser back button to return)

 

  • Here is what a smart phone image looks like, taken from the exact same spot just seconds after the previous image.

Samsung Galaxy S10 Mobile Phone- 102KBSamsung Galaxy S10 Mobile Phone- 102KBReal Estate Photography

Samsung Galaxy S10 Mobile Phone handheld - 102KB
(press image to view it larger, then press browser back button to return)
 

  • The difference is obvious.  Also, when you click on the images to enlarge them, you will see better quality in the top image.

 

  • A Professional Photographer will highlight the unique features inside and outside the home.


Stained Glass WindowStained Glass WindowReal Estate Photography

 

  • A Professional Photographer sees details in staging the home that others did not realize.  Especially in lighting, whether to put lights on or off and to open or close blinds / shades.
     
  • You can utilize your time more efficiently.  While the photographer is capturing images of the home to be sold, you can be going over details with the seller or lining up potential buyers. 

 

Related Articles:

 

Check out my Real Estate Photography services and receive a FREE photo shoot as a first time client!

 

Real Estate Photography by Alan Boucher
651-485-8809 | aboucher66@yahoo.com
 

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(Alan Boucher Photography) images lighting photography quality real estate realtor sell https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2021/7/Real_Estate_Photographer Mon, 26 Jul 2021 14:39:43 GMT
Mail Delivery, Minnesota Style! https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2017/2/mail-delivery-minnesota-style Jan 29, 2017 was the start of the annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.  Established in 1980, this is the longest sled dog race in the lower 48 states. World class mushers have competed in the nearly 400 mile event which is a qualifier for the famed Iditarod race in Alaska. 

This marathon is a celebration of John Beargrease who delivered the mail between Two Harbors and Grand Marais by dog sled in the winter, over 100 years ago. Each sled in this race actually carries a bundle of official U.S. mail. Each musher is sworn in as an official U.S. mail carrier, and takes the letters to a post office at the end of the trail.

It was a blast being a spectator of this event.  I loved watching the excitement of the dogs and the mushers as they head out on their long, grueling journey.  

Here are some of my favorite images.  You can see them all at John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon 2017.

And there off!

John Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonJohn Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonStarted in Two Harbors, MN on Jan 29, 2017

John Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonJohn Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonStarted in Two Harbors, MN on Jan 29, 2017 John Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonJohn Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonStarted in Two Harbors, MN on Jan 29, 2017

John Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonJohn Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonStarted in Two Harbors, MN on Jan 29, 2017

John Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonJohn Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonStarted in Two Harbors, MN on Jan 29, 2017 John Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonJohn Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonStarted in Two Harbors, MN on Jan 29, 2017

John Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonJohn Beargrease Sled Dog MarathonStarted in Two Harbors, MN on Jan 29, 2017

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(Alan Boucher Photography) Beargrease sled dog https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2017/2/mail-delivery-minnesota-style Sun, 12 Feb 2017 22:09:27 GMT
Winter Break with the Snow Birds https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2017/1/winter-break-with-the-snow-birds Just after Christmas and through the new year, Rachel and I had a great time visiting our friends, Rick and Chris, in Bradenton, Florida.  Rick insisted that I bring my camera with my longest lens (Canon 100 - 400) because he wanted to take us on some nature hikes.  I'm glad I did and I appreciate my wife and friends' patience while I captured some of Florida's beautiful wildlife and landscapes.

 

Yes, I did put down my camera to have some fun too.  We had lots of delicious meals including fresh seafood of course, walked the beach and relaxed in the jacuzzi in the evenings.  And on the last day before going to the airport we had a delicious brunch with a co-worker of mine whom I never met face-to-face and then we went to Busch Gardens where Rachel and Rick braved all the rollacoasters, while I visited all the animals around the park.

 

Here are a few of my favorite images.  Just hover over each image to see a description. 

You can see more of my Florida images here: Florida2016.

Enjoy!

Ibis Up CloseIbis Up CloseBradenton, FL on December 29, 2016

Scrumptious Rock ShrimpScrumptious Rock ShrimpSwordfish Grill in Cortez, FL

Two BridgesTwo BridgesRobinson Preserve in Bradenton, FL on December 30, 2016 Little Blue Heron Stocking PreyLittle Blue Heron Stocking PreyRobinson Preserve in Bradenton, FL on December 30, 2016 Osprey Spots AnotherOsprey Spots AnotherRobinson Preserve in Bradenton, FL on December 30, 2016 Osprey with a FishOsprey with a FishRobinson Preserve in Bradenton, FL on December 30, 2016 Florida OrangeFlorida OrangePalma Sola Botanical Park in Bradenton, FL on December 30, 2016 Star FruitStar FruitPalma Sola Botanical Park in Bradenton, FL on December 30, 2016

Great Egret on the ShoreGreat Egret on the ShoreMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016

Anticipating the KillAnticipating the KillRobinson Preserve in Bradenton, FL on December 30, 2016

Aligator on the ProwlAligator on the ProwlMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Aligator on the ProwlAligator on the ProwlMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Egret FishingEgret FishingMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Egret FishingEgret FishingMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Wood StorksWood StorksMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Wood StorksWood StorksMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Cormarant Dancing on the LakeCormarant Dancing on the LakeMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Nice Catch!Nice Catch!Myakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 SpoonbillSpoonbillMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Great Blue HeronGreat Blue HeronMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Can You Canoe?Can You Canoe?Myakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016 Great Egret and Little Blue HeronGreat Egret and Little Blue HeronMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016

Above the CanopyAbove the CanopyMyakka River State Park in Sarasota, FL on December 31, 2016

3 Wise Meerkats3 Wise MeerkatsBusch Gardens in Tampa, FL

Upclose and Personal with a Reeve's Muntjac - One of the Smallest Deer in the WolrdUpclose and Personal with a Reeve's Muntjac - One of the Smallest Deer in the WolrdBusch Gardens in Tampa, FL

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(Alan Boucher Photography) https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2017/1/winter-break-with-the-snow-birds Sat, 14 Jan 2017 23:59:50 GMT
Could Bearly Sleep https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2016/8/could-bearly-sleep No, it wasn't my roommate's snoring or the trains shaking the hotel every half hour that kept me from getting much sleep on Tuesday night, August 16th.  It was the anxiety of getting up early to spend the day photographing around 40 black bears in a 2 acre field, during a full moon to boot!  That evening during our bear safety instructions at the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary, we were told to stay at least 10 feet away from the bears, but do the bears know that rule?  All night I just kept reminding myself to stay calm and they will not jump on me.
 
Up CloseUp CloseVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
 
Here's a little history of the wildlife sanctuary:
 
Vince Shute and his loggers lived in these remote north woods in Orr, MN where black bears, attracted by the smells of food, became a nuisance. Out of fear, the men solved this problem by shooting the bears, but after three decades, Vince began to question the killing. Having observed the animals, Vince came to the conclusion that “The bears weren’t mean – only hungry.” In the early 70s, to prevent bears from breaking into the cabins, he put food out in the meadow area to see if that would keep them away. In today’s world, we now know that Vince was wrong to start feeding wild bears, but he was ahead of his time in seeking a means of coexistence.

A special relationship developed between Vince and the bears. By the mid-eighties, Vince became known as “The Bear Man.” A growing number of people came to witness the amazing relationship between Vince and “his” bears.  Even today, when the bears are in the two-acre meadow they accept the presence of people. Outside of this area they revert back to their normally wild and elusive ways, exhibiting their natural fear of humans.

Capturing the Black BearCapturing the Black BearVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
On Wednesday morning at 6:30 AM, Rich and I entered the field of black bears eating out of many piles of food (corn, nuts, fruits and vegetables) and began our day of observing "wild" black bears' daily behavior and capturing great images of them.
 
 
Mom and CubMom and CubVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
There were a handful of mother bears with their cubs.  Of course, we knew not to get between them.
 
 
Twin Cubs Hanging OutTwin Cubs Hanging OutVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
The cubs spend most of their day in the trees where it is safe from the male black bears.
 
 
That's a Long Way DownThat's a Long Way DownVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
However, occasionally they climb down...
 
 
Got Milk?Got Milk?Vince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
to get some milk from mom..
 
 
Rock ClimbingRock ClimbingVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
and play on rocks.
 
 
That's My Food!That's My Food!Vince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
On occasion we would see some of the adults growl over food...
 
 
RRRRRRRRRRVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
and the cubs fight over the best limb in the tree.
 
 
Coming in from the ForestComing in from the ForestVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
I enjoyed the challenge of capturing the image of a black bear in the wild...
 
 
Keeping WatchKeeping WatchVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
and some close-ups using my Canon 100-400mm lens.
 
 
Up CloseUp CloseVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
Eventually, Rich and I discovered that staying in the grassy areas in the field, off the paths made by the bears, is the best way of preventing a stand-off between man and bear.
 
 
Papa Bear Quenching His ThirstPapa Bear Quenching His ThirstVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
On this 80 degree sunny day, black bears like to cool off in the water and keep hydrated.

Feeding TimeFeeding TimeVince Shutte Wildlife Sanctuary on August 17, 2016
Just before 5:00 PM, the bears know that dinner is coming.  By then I had taken about 1,200 digital photos.  After this long, enlightening day with lack of sleep, I appreciated Rich driving all 5 hours home.

See all my favorite images here: Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary.

 

 

 

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(Alan Boucher Photography) bear black https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2016/8/could-bearly-sleep Wed, 31 Aug 2016 01:28:05 GMT
North Shore Spring Waterfall Workshop - May 2016 https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2016/6/north-shore-spring-waterfall-workshop---may-2016 The weekend of May 20 - 22, I participated in the North Shore Spring Waterfall Workshop. Don and Peter just keep getting better and better at leading these fabulous workshops!  They picked some great locations and I keep learning some new techniques.

On Friday, I arrived about an hour and a half before dinner. So I checked in and stopped at Palisade Head where several adventurers were getting ready to rappell down the rocky cliff.  A couple of guys agreed for me to take their photos, while kayakers paddled below.
 
Rappelling and Paddling along the Lake Superior ShoreRappelling and Paddling along the Lake Superior ShorePalisade Head in Beaver Bay, MN on May 20, 2016

After having dinner at Camp 61 and our meeting to go over our agenda, some of us went to the Lake Superior shore to capture the full moon.

Full Moon Rising Over Lake SuperiorFull Moon Rising Over Lake SuperiorSilver Bay, MN on May 20, 2016

 
 
On Saturday, the next morning we met in the lobby at 4:45 AM and went to the rocky beach below Split Rock Lighthouse to capture the spectacular sunrise.

SunriseSunriseSplit Rock Lighthouse in Silver Bay, MN on May 21, 2016

Then when photographing the other side of the beach, much to our amazement, a yearling and her mother appeared at the edge of the woods.  We all had our wide angle lenses on for capturing landscapes, but it turned out that's all we needed.  The yearling confidently walked right past our camera bags and Terri, sitting on the beach, to get a drink from Lake Superior.  I think she was about 4 feet from Terri and about 10 feet from me.  All five of us photographers were completely still, not to spook the deer and ruin this magical moment.
 
Thirsty YearlingThirsty YearlingNear Split Rock Lighthouse in Silver Bay, MN on May 21, 2016
 
Meanwhile the mother doe watched anxiously from the edge of the woods.
 
Be Careful of Those StrangersBe Careful of Those StrangersNear Split Rock Lighthouse in Silver Bay, MN on May 21, 2016

Eventually, the mother doe decided it was safe and joined her yearling for a drink.
 
I Told You It is Safe MomI Told You It is Safe MomNear Split Rock Lighthouse in Silver Bay, MN on May 21, 2016

We had a well deserved breakfast at the hotel, while telling Peter what he missed while he slept in.  Then off to West Branch Falls, where we spent lots of time learning to capture silky water along with colorful foreground flowers.

 
Marsh Marigolds by the RiverMarsh Marigolds by the RiverWest Branch Falls on May 21, 2016

Then before lunch we stopped at Glen Avon Falls where there are many opportunities to capture different mini water falls.

Emerging WatersEmerging WatersGlen Avon Falls on May 21, 2016

 
Peter has a way of getting photographers to think out of the box to capture very creative images.
 
Hands-on Lesson on Capturing the FallsHands-on Lesson on Capturing the FallsGlen Avon Falls on May 21, 2016
 
 
Since we had a long, exciting morning we had to have a quick lunch and image critique session, then off to Tettegouche State Park.  After a hike up and down lots of stairs we spent some time capturing High Falls.  The mist coming out of the falls made a spectacular sight!

MistyMistyHigh Falls in Tettegouche SP on May 21, 2016

As usual, Don was giving great expert photography tips on location.
 
Giving Expert Tips on Capturing the FallsGiving Expert Tips on Capturing the FallsHigh Falls in Tettegouche SP on May 21, 2016
 

Then on the way back we went down the steps to photograph Two Step Falls.

Swirling WatersSwirling WatersTwo Step Falls in Tettegouche SP on May 21, 2016

Looking down river we were treated with a rainbow when the sun hit the spray.

RainbowRainbowTwo Step Falls in Tettegouche SP on May 21, 2016

After having dinner at
the Northwoods Family Grille in Silver Bay, that evening we endured the extreme lake effect temperature drop at the beach in Silver Bay to capture the full moon rising over an island.

Moon Over the IslandMoon Over the IslandFull Moonrise over Lake Superior in Silver Bay, MN on May 21, 2016

On Sunday morning, Don gave a great Lightroom / PhotoShop lesson along with critique and advice on our images we presented.  Then off to Caribou Falls where three of us wanted to get a unique perspective.  So we walked through the flowing river to the rocks below the falls to capture scenes like this...

View from the River BelowView from the River BelowCaribou Falls in Little Marais, MN on May 22, 2016

After hiking back from Caribou Falls, we changed into dry footwear and stopped at Camp 61 again for lunch to reminisce about our fantastic weekend!
 
The GangThe GangPost Waterfall Workshop
 
See more of my favorite images of North Shore Spring Waterfall Workshop - May 2016 weekend.
 
 

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(Alan Boucher Photography) landscapes north photography shore waterfalls workshop https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2016/6/north-shore-spring-waterfall-workshop---may-2016 Tue, 07 Jun 2016 02:09:16 GMT
All but Owls in Sax-Zim Bog https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2016/6/all-but-owls-in-sax-zim-bog The weekend of March 25 - 27, five of us avid nature photographers from the Minnesota Valley Photo Club drove up to Sax-Zim Bog hoping to capture (with a camera) Great Gray Owls.   Although we did not see any owls, we had a great time photographing the landscapes of the frozen bog a day after a snow storm along with wildlife that makes the bog their home.  We all shared the West Lodge at Alesches' Accommodations, which is a surprising nice place to stay.

The first morning we stopped at the visitor center, which closed a week earlier for the season.  The bird feeders were teaming with bird activity along with many Red Squirrels.

 

Red Squirel under IcyclesRed Squirel under IcyclesSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

 

I think the only time of the year a bog could be so beautiful is during the time we were there.  So we had to stop to capture it's beauty.   I brought out my heavy duty tripod and put on my landscape lens...

ArchArchSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

Pines by the RiverPines by the RiverSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

 

Tunnel of TreesTunnel of TreesSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

While scouring the trees looking for an owl on Admiral Road, I happened to spot a bump on a branch.  Finally an owl?  Nope, just a porcupine...

PorcupinePorcupineSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

When we approached Highway 7, I spotted this white raptor flying low along the side of the road, hunting for an unexpected rodent.  Could it be a Snowy Owl?  We stopped along side the road so I could attempt to capture this allusive flying object.  When we got back to the lodge we  enhanced on of the image in Lightroom and determined it was a Northern Harrier.


Northern Harrier on the HuntNorthern Harrier on the HuntSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

 

One of my favorite areas of the bog is where the Red Willow stands out from the snow.

Red WillowRed WillowSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

 

Red WillowRed WillowSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

On Saturday while I was waiting for the gang to get ready for our evening shoot, I went out side the lodge to capture the Redpolls and Chickadees by the feeders.

Common RedpollCommon RedpollSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016


Black-capped ChickadeeBlack-capped ChickadeeSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

 

On our way to find a sunset scene we stopped to photograph a lone deer in the field.  But just a little further was this old shed with nice pines in the background.

Old Shed by the PinesOld Shed by the PinesSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

While back on the road we noticed around 6 deer on the move.   This bald eagle must have been perplexed because it looked like the deer were trying to imitate him.

Bald Eagle soaring aboveBald Eagle soaring aboveSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

Super DoeSuper DoeSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

Super DoeSuper DoeSax-Zim Bog on March 19, 2016

I did not capture any special sunset images but the next morning we got up before sunrise to get in position to capture these beauties about a half mile from the lodge.

Old Barn at SunriseOld Barn at SunriseSax-Zim Bog on March 20, 2016

Sunburst through Old BarnSunburst through Old BarnSax-Zim Bog on March 20, 2016

 

Sunburnt ShedSunburnt ShedSax-Zim Bog on March 20, 2016

Sunday morning on our way out of the bog, we spotted a few Ruffed Grouse eating buds from a tree.

Ruffed GrouseRuffed GrouseSax-Zim Bog on March 20, 2016

On the way home we stopped to capture the raging river below the recently opened Thomson Dam in Carlton, MN.  I experimented with and without my Neutral Density filter.

Raging RiverRaging RiverThomson Dam in Carlton, MN

Raging RiverRaging RiverThomson Dam in Carlton, MN

Raging RiverRaging RiverThomson Dam in Carlton, MN

Raging RiverRaging RiverThomson Dam in Carlton, MN

 

To see full size images go to Sax-Zim Bog.

I hope you enjoyed my blog.  Comments are welcome!

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(Alan Boucher Photography) Alesches Bog Sax-Zim https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2016/6/all-but-owls-in-sax-zim-bog Sat, 09 Apr 2016 21:45:00 GMT
Capturing Landscapes of the North Shore https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2015/7/capturing-the-north-shore-landscapes Capturing the FlowCapturing the FlowBaptism RIver - Upper Falls north of Silver Bay, MN on June 27, 2015

The weekend of June 26 - 28, 2015, I took part in Don and Peter's North Shore Spring Workshop to learn some techniques to improve my landscape photography.  This weekend included many beautiful locations, great food, and terrific outdoor photographers.

 

On Friday, Phil and I drove up and stopped at Duluth to have a nice lunch at a sandwich shop.  Before reaching Silver Bay to check in, we stopped at Gooseberry Falls to capture some quick images.

Upper FallsUpper FallsGooseberry Falls on June 26, 2015

Then we met up with another photographer from our group and went out for delicious local Lake Herring and beer at Camp 61 in Beaver Bay.  After dinner, we all got together for an hour to go over some tips for the very long day ahead.

 

To catch sunrise near the summer solstice you need to get up very early.  So on Saturday morning we met in the lobby at 4:15 AM.  We headed to Sugarloaf Cove to spend a couple of hours trying many different sunrise techniques.

Beginning of a Beautiful DayBeginning of a Beautiful DaySunrise at Sugarloaf Cove on June 27, 2015

Gold!Gold!Sunrise at Sugarloaf Cove on June 27, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The next stop was my favorite, Baptism RIver - Upper Falls north of Silver Bay.  Here is where I practiced using a neutral density filter and a long shutter speed to capture the flow of water.


Moving WatersMoving WatersBaptism RIver - Upper Falls north of Silver Bay, MN on June 27, 2015

Don and Peter never had their cameras with them at any of these locations.  They were there to provide expert one-on-one advice and instruction.

Hands OnHands OnBaptism RIver - Upper Falls north of Silver Bay, MN on June 27, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hands OnHands OnBaptism RIver - Upper Falls north of Silver Bay, MN on June 27, 2015

 

Next stop, Cascade River State Park, featuring beautiful cascading waterfalls.

 

Flowing FallsFlowing FallsCascade River State Park on June 27, 2015

Flowing FallsFlowing FallsCascade River State Park on June 27, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After having lunch at My Sister's Place in Grand Marais, we drove all the way up to Grand Portage to capture the Lake Superior Coastline.

 

Lake Superior CoastlineLake Superior CoastlineGrand Portage on June 27, 2015

Lake Superior CoastlineLake Superior CoastlineGrand Portage on June 27, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then we spent some time by the Kadunce River, where we learned that the lower you can place your camera, the more creative you can get with moving water.


Flowing Little FallsFlowing Little FallsKadunce River on June 27, 2015

River Eye ViewRiver Eye ViewKadunce River on June 27, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we made it to Grand Marais to capture sunset.

 

End of a Wonderful DayEnd of a Wonderful DayGrand Marais, MN on June 27, 2015

 

After taking many magnificent images for the day, we had a 10:00 PM dinner at the only restaurant open in the North Shore, then finally back to Silver Bay by midnight.  Don wanted us to meet in the lobby at 4:30 AM the next day.  But only 2 determined sun-risers, not including me, joined Don to capture sunrise the next day.

 

After breakfast and a great Adobe Lightroom and image critique session, we headed to Gooseberry Falls.  But it was pouring rain on the way there.  When Phil and I got there it stopped.  So we spent some time photographing the falls before joining the rest for lunch in Twin Harbors.

 

I'm extremely happy we stopped, because I couldn't wait to practice what I learned on Saturday.  I think I passed the course.

Flowing Lower FallsFlowing Lower FallsGooseberry Falls on June 28, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After lunch we all met at Stoney Point to capture one last landscape before heading home.


Old Barn on the ShoreOld Barn on the ShoreStoney Point on June 28, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The details in this old barn was a good opportunity to try a black and white.


Really Old BarnReally Old BarnStoney Point on June 28, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On the ride back to the cities, Phil and I took the scenic route, which featured a couple of detours on dirt roads.  However, as Phil mentioned, it must have been serendipity because we happened upon some Sandhill Cranes in a field alongside the dirt road.  I stopped to capture one of them before they dissappeared into the woods.

Sandhill Crane in the fieldSandhill Crane in the fieldCaptured on June 28, 2015

Check out all of my images of the North Shore here:  North Shore Spring Workshop!

 

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(Alan Boucher Photography) https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2015/7/capturing-the-north-shore-landscapes Thu, 09 Jul 2015 22:00:00 GMT
Radio Controlled Dancing Sharp-tailed Grouse https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2015/5/radio-controlied-dancing-sharp-tailed-grouse The weekend of April 11th and 12th, 2015 a handful of us from the Minnesota Valley Photo Club went up to Aitkin, MN to photograph male Sharp-tailed Grouse dancing on their Lek.  This is ritualistic dance they perform for 2 - 3 hours starting at sunrise to attract females.

In order to get close to these grouse, we needed to be in blinds before they dance, which meant by 5:45 AM.  As we walked to the blinds we could already hear them hooting and clucking. 

Blinds on the Sharp-tailed Grouse LekBlinds on the Sharp-tailed Grouse LekAitkin, MN on April 11, 2015

Shortly after sunrise this male came about 20 feet from our blind.

Male Sharp-tailed Grouse Coming out to Dance at SunriseMale Sharp-tailed Grouse Coming out to Dance at SunriseImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 11, 2015

When dancing, their wings rattle sounding like a lawn mower.  You can listen to their dance here: Sharp-tailed Grouse Sound.

Dancing MaleDancing MaleImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 11, 2015

On Saturday afternoon, Tim and I went on a 3 mile wildlife loop around Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge in McGregor.  I spotted this porcupine up in a tree.

Porcupine in the TreePorcupine in the TreeImage taken in Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge in McGregor, MN on April 11, 2015

At another stop on the loop this beautiful immature bald eagle circled overhead.

Imature Bold Eagle Soaring OverheadImature Bold Eagle Soaring OverheadImage taken in Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge in McGregor, MN on April 11, 2015

That evening we went back to the blinds to see if the males would dance before sunset, but no such luck.  However, the sunset was worth capturing.

Sunset from the LekSunset from the LekImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 11, 2015 Sunset from the LekSunset from the LekImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 11, 2015

Leaving the blind in the evening, there's a great chance to see whitetails.

Whitetails on the MoveWhitetails on the MoveImage taken in Aitkin, MN on April 11, 2015

Then next day from the blind started with some more hooting and clucking.

Male Sharp-tailed Grouse HootingMale Sharp-tailed Grouse HootingImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015

Following by the Dance.

Dancing MaleDancing MaleImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015 Fully SpreadFully SpreadImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015

If you look closely you will see a strange brown bump on this male's chest and also a wire sticking up.  We found out later that the MN DNR hired someone to tag and track grouse in the area this year.  This male was wearing a transmitter.

I think Tim had a remote control to bring this male closer to us so we could get some great shots.  :)

Sporting his TransmitterSporting his TransmitterImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015

Here are two males ready to dance for a female.

Let's Dance for that HenLet's Dance for that HenImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015

Here's their dance off.

Dance OffDance OffImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015

Well, who won?

2 Males2 MalesImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015

This male was about 15 feet from the blind.  There was one opening in the blind at grouse eye level.  I crouched down to capture this image through that opening. Great nature shot except for the radio transmitter. 

Male Sharp-tailed Grouse Sporting his TransmitterMale Sharp-tailed Grouse Sporting his TransmitterImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015

When we captured enough of these males dancing, we opened up the blind to spook the remaining few.  I caught this one as he circled back.

Male Sharp-tailed Grouse on the moveMale Sharp-tailed Grouse on the moveImage taken from blind in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015

On the way from the lek to a well-earned breakfast there were a couple of Sandhill Cranes on the edge of a farm's field.

Sandhill CraneSandhill CraneImage taken in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015 Sandhill CraneSandhill CraneImage taken in Aitkin, MN on April 12, 2015

Check out all of my images from this weekend at Dancing Sharp-tailed Grouse!

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(Alan Boucher Photography) https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2015/5/radio-controlied-dancing-sharp-tailed-grouse Sun, 24 May 2015 17:40:07 GMT
Fishing, Eagle Style! https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2015/3/fishing-eagle-style On Sunday, it was a beautiful March day, so I took Bailey for a walk from Lock and Dam #2 to Jacees Park along the Mississippi River in Hastings, MN.  I left my camera in the car because I wasn't sure if Bailey's knee would become sore and I would have to carry him back.

Well Bailey did fine on our 2 plus mile walk, during which I noticed lots Bald Eagles flying around.  Then as we were leaving there were 3 immature Bald Eagles on the trees right between the road and the river.  I had to pull over and take out my camera, leaving Bailey in the car.

I went to the river's edge and observed around a dozen mature and immature Bald Eagles fishing in the recently open waters of the Mississippi River.

Bald Eagles Fishing in the MississippiBald Eagles Fishing in the Mississippi

 

Check out all images at Bald Eagles Fishing in the Mississippi.

After practicing capturing some of these eagles in flight and eating their lunch, I went back to the car to find Bailey wondering where I went.

Bailey Patiently Waiting for his Shutterbug DadBailey Patiently Waiting for his Shutterbug DadCaptured on March 8, 2015 by the Mississippi River in Jacees Park in Hastings, MN

 

 

 

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(Alan Boucher Photography) https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2015/3/fishing-eagle-style Fri, 13 Mar 2015 20:00:00 GMT
Spotted My First Spotted Fawn https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2014/9/spotted-first-spotted-fawn On August 27, 2014 on my way home from work I stopped at Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, MN to see if I could find the deer along with their fawns I've been hearing about. 

Just after the park office I saw these does laying in the brush. 

Doe lying in the brushDoe lying in the brushPhoto taken on August 27, 2014 in Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, MN.

Then going by this field I was going to take a photo of these wild turkeys and suddenly a doe appeared in my lens.

Deer crossing turkey's pathDeer crossing turkey's pathPhoto taken on August 27, 2014 in Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, MN.

Then after doing some scouting around, I came across a family of around 6 deer.  One doe appeared to have an injured leg and let me get within 10 feet while she laid down chewing her cud.

Doe chewing cudDoe chewing cudPhoto taken on August 27, 2014 in Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, MN.

Finally I spotted what I was looking for, a spotted fawn.  After nearly tripping over the injured doe, I spent about 30 minutes following this fawn,  getting closer to get better angles for great images.  The fawn and it's family seemed to trust me as they all laid down in spite of my presence.

Close Closer
Fawn relaxingFawn relaxingPhoto taken on August 27, 2014 in Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, MN. Fawn listeningFawn listeningPhoto taken on August 27, 2014 in Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, MN.

  

Closest

Fawn lying between the treesFawn lying between the treesPhoto taken on August 27, 2014 in Fort Snelling State Park in St. Paul, MN.

 

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(Alan Boucher Photography) fawn fort snelling state park whitetail deer https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2014/9/spotted-first-spotted-fawn Thu, 25 Sep 2014 21:56:02 GMT
Welcome to Alan Boucher Photography! https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2014/9/welcome-to-alan-boucher-photography I've created a website at aboucherphoto.com for you to view, download, share, buy prints, buy full-size downloads and other items of my favorite photographs.  

 

American White PelicanAmerican White PelicanSpotted a landing place.

 

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Enjoy!

Alan

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(Alan Boucher Photography) https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2014/9/welcome-to-alan-boucher-photography Tue, 16 Sep 2014 19:07:45 GMT
Loons and Chicks https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2014/6/Loons-and-Chicks Loon Family

On Monday, June 9th, for my early 50th birthday present, my lovely wife sent me on this Loons and Chicks Workshop. This workshop was led by Professional Wildlife and Nature Photographer Nathan Lovas.  Nate brought me and other photographers up close and personal with many loon families on Clearwater Lake in Annandale, MN on his pontoon boat.  He gave us pointers on camera settings and told us when a great moment will be coming up for a photo shot, without even picking up his own camera to shoot.  He even let me use his Canon 100 – 400mm lens the whole time.

 

Nate’s philosophy for wildlife photography is something like this: Pick a species, learn what it eats, where is sleeps / nests, and its breeding behaviors. Then you will be ready to go out and anticipate when a great moment will occur to capture fascinating images.

So here is what I learned about loons using my favorite images.  Click on each image to see in full screen.

Both male and female loons dive under to catch minnows and worms to feed their chicks. Here is a male with a nice catch! Male bringing a minnow to a lucky chick.
  Feeding3  Here is the female loon bringing a worm to her chicks.
 Mom feeding a minnow to one chick.  The other chick wants a piece too.   Feeding4
  Feeding2  Here you can have one too.
 Here are a couple of plump, happy identical twins.   Mirrored-Chicks
  Chicks-Playing  And another pair of chicks at play.
 When the chicks are full they like to rest on the comfort of mom’s back.  
  Chicks-Riding-on-Mom  Some chicks find extra security under their mom’s wing.
 And some chicks just can’t get enough to eat. Feeding-while-on-Back
  The chicks learn to dive within the first week of life.  This one’s wondering where everyone went.  Seconds after this shot, he joined his twin under water.
  The adults routinely preen to keep their feathers clean.
  Once they are done preening from head to tail…
  they breach,
  spreading their to wings to stretch and dry them.
 Loons continue their activities during the evening hours, such as feeding…  
  and breaching.
 And also just enjoying each others company.  
  As the sun sets,
  they sleep over deeper water, away from land for protection from predators.

I hope you enjoyed reading about my loons and chicks adventure almost as much as I enjoyed learning about loons and capturing images of their daily activities. I also took photos of Red-necked Grebes, American White Pelicans, Great Egrets, and Yellow-headed Blackbirds.  Check out those photos too...

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(Alan Boucher Photography) Photography chicks loons https://www.aboucherphoto.com/blog/2014/6/Loons-and-Chicks Fri, 20 Jun 2014 11:53:00 GMT