Follow the Light

Last evening, almost in Bell County, Texas.   Dirt roads can play havoc on those of us who drive small cars, stirring up dust all around.   After a heavy rain?  Even more problematic.   But they continue to intrigue me.   More so near sunset.  Golden dust devils. 

A Few From Recent Walks

It’s been a while since posting something from my recent walks.   My little Olympus camera goes with me on every stroll.   Since the walks are meant to be exercise, I usually spend no more than 30-90 seconds on a photo before moseying on.    All but the grasshopper were taken in Taylor.  The grasshopper is a Georgetown resident.

Egrets and Cows

Egrets do love cattle.   I suppose that’s why some  are called Cattle Egrets, not Great Egrets or Snowy Egrets.    On a recent outing near Coupland, birds and bovines shared a recently-harvested cornfield.   The cows chewed on stalks, their feathered buddies staying close by for anything leftover.    Even when there’s not a nicely-cleared field, egrets will stay close to cattle for the insects that constantly hover.   Egrets are partial to bugs.  I’m thinking the cows appreciate the help.   In that last shot, there’s an egret patiently waiting for that calf to get to the other side.   Just some scenes from the Blackland Prairie, friends. 

Rain Comes to Our Area

These aren’t rain photos, just images made possible by the presence of moisture.   All were made this afternoon and evening.   The opening photo of the Texas Longhorn seemed more suited to black-and-white.   The cow photo is near Taylor, others around Bartlett.   Thank goodness for rain, but praying that flooding doesn’t become an issue.

A Relaxing View

Let’s be honest.   All photographers return to favorite places.    I’ve taken photos of this scene a few times over the years.   This version was made just after the first significant rain in 50-plus days had moved through, leaving us with a gentle and inviting light.    On places like this, I’m careful to avoid identifying the specific site.    The image was made from the road that runs by the pond. I know photographers who take licenses to trespass on private property, giving us all a bad name.