Kip’s Comments - April 25, 2026

Part 1 - Sharp and Artistic

As I enjoyed the sunrise early this morning my space was interrupted by a very vocal house wren - the first I have seen this spring. Since the bird was close, I photographed it at the nest box.

House Wren - Image 1091584

As I was reframing the wren for a different view, my camera focused on the reflections of trees on the surface of the Wapsipinicon River. When I saw the view I switched my efforts from sharp, wildlife photos to more artistic images. I think the reflection images would look good printed on multiple surfaces and hung on a wall. Imagine these in a hotel room.

Reflections on Water - Image 1091854

Reflections on Water - Image 1091875

After spending time on the reflection views, I then photographed field pussytoes wildflowers. At first I made typical compositions. Then I found a plant being naturally lit with a dark background. The look was almost artistic rather than an ordinary specimen shot.

Field Pussytoes - Image 1091444

Part 2 - Views From the Woods

Late this afternoon my brother and I wandered a woods looking for fungi and wildflowers. There was plenty to see, beginning with some of this year’s woodland vegetation being constricted by last year’s autumn leaves.

Autumn Leaf vs Leek (Ramp) - Image 1091300

Autumn Leaf vs Mayapple - Image 1091310

We also found the following fungi and flora.

Dryad's Saddle - Image 1091325

Large-flowered Bellwort - Image 1091699

Nodding Trillium - Image 1091719

Nodding Trillium - Image 1091736

Nodding Trillium - Image 1091745

Nodding Trillium - Image 1091782

Virginia Bluebells - Image 1091912

Virginia Bluebells - Image 1091938

Wild Blue Phlox - Image 1091953

Wild Ginger - Image 1091959

Wood Anemone - image 1091984