Before getting into today’s photo, I want to provide a little background. First, camera equipment: I went light—Nikon D3, Nikon 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6, Nikon 50mm f/1.4, three filters, cable release, two Nikon SB800s, tripod, Canon G12 and of course, lots of memory cards. Second, shooting during the “golden hours” was very limited both in the Galapagos Islands and at Machu Picchu. Both places put access restrictions on visitors. As a result, almost all photos that I will be presenting were taken during the hours from 9:00 AM until 5:30 PM. Third, you are not allowed to use flash in the Galapagos Islands. Finally, you cannot disturb the animals resting place or get within six feet of animal (if they come to you, there is no limit to how close they get to you—sounds a little like a double standard!).
As to the Galapagos Islands, I would have to say that the landscape is nice but not spectacular. Yes, there is clear blue water and some interesting plant life, but it is the animals and their interaction with humans that gets your attention. All the islands have the big four animals—sea lions, crabs, iguanas and birds. Today, I present three photos of sea lions. I like the first because of the graceful lines that the sea lion is forming and how the light sets him/her off from the background. As to the second one, how could you not like a photo of a baby sea lion begging for a little attention. And, as to the final photo, I just like it.
Enjoy.
