dan elster




friday, december 07, 2012
Season's Greetings!

Seasons Greetings!

 
 
Generally speaking, the more time I spend observing wildlife, the better I understand the subjects I'm photographing. With ravens, it seems the opposite is true. They raise more questions. Much has been written about ravens and I've certainly done my homework researching them. Even with my book smarts and the hundreds of hours I've spent in the field with them, I always leave a "photo shoot" wondering what they were doing, why they were doing it, and most of all, what the heck they were talking about. Their vocabulary is expansive and complex. I wish I could attach an audio file to this first photo.
 
It's a treat when I can get this close to a couple of ravens. They paid very little attention to me for a few exciting minutes.
They communicate both vocally, but with gestures. The one on the left looks like its pounding the post
to stress an important point.
 
This bird was found not too far from the pair of ravens above. I'm guessing it's a young raven, mostly because of it's
soft, almost perfect plumage.
 
Fog rolled into the area after a nice bright overcast morning, forcing me to work with crummy light. The communication
between ravens becomes even more evident when they can't see more than a couple hundred feet. The following image
shows a raven letting loose a deep, almost kind creepy growling sound. Other birds answered.
 
Some photographers might call it a day when fog this thick rolls in.
 
******************************************************************************************************************
Earlier in the day, I watched a sea lion alternate sleeping, barking, rolling, flatulating, and growling...enjoying life as a sea lion, I guess.
A couple of locals struck up a conversation with me and said this guy was becoming a trouble maker and may have
contributed to the sinking of a small boat, simply by climbing aboard while it was tied up to a dock.
 
 
This guy isn't stressing over the holidays!
 
 
 
 
*********************************************************************************************************
Other Stuff:
 
A great gift idea: Jigsaw puzzles!!
 
 

I've been searching for something new to do with my photography and I finally found it. If you are looking for a unique holiday gift, look no further.
 
Five different images that come in two sizes:
 
-8x12, 30 piece, perfect for younger children.
-18x24, 672 piece, perfect for adults...challenging!!
 
 
 
To see more and to order, go here: http://www.elsterphotography.com/25527/index.htm . Every puzzle will come with a blank greeting card for gift giving.
 
A few people have reported problems with the Paypal portion of my website when trying to order, I'm sorry and I'm trying to figure out how to fix it. If this is you or you
would rather pay by cash, check, pick up locally to avoid shipping and handling, etc., just drop me an email and we will take it from there. My goal is to make it as easy as possible
to purchase from me the next couple of weeks.
 
Another "holiday special": buy 2 11x14 matted prints and I'll throw in a third print free! Just order the two and email me your third choice. I'll confirm it back to you in an email.
 
If you want anything by Christmas, the earlier you order, the better! Just know that I'll do whatever I can to make you a happy customer.
 
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy Hanukkah!!!
Dan
 
PS: questions, concerns, comments are welcome
 
 
 
A gull on top of a mermaid statue in Crescent City Harbor. I blew this shot a
couple of years ago and was delighted to once again, see a gull here at sunset.


[0 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]


thursday, august 16, 2012
Summer of 2012

Greetings!
 
It's been months since I've written one of these and I'm sure the suspense has been killing you. Elster Photography has been on the road doing art festivals all summer long: Edmonds WA, Lake Oswego OR, El Dorado Hills CA, Bellevue WA, Chester CA, and of course several showings in Ashland. All of the travel has made time to take photos (and write newsletters) hard to come by. Somehow, I've still managed to get some new images I'm proud of.
 
I'll start with my most recent work.
 
On a brief trip to the coast, I came across several juvenile brown pelicans in Crescent City, CA. They were hanging out at a fish cleaning station; hoping to score some scraps from fishermen. Pelicans aren't meant to swallow large fish bones (they can choke) or to wallow around in fish slime and waste (it weighs down their feathers and makes it hard for the bird to dry off, leading to hypothermia/death). Apparently several dead birds have appeared in the harbor recently and many more have needed rescuing. Here is an article http://www.triplicate.com/News/Local-News/Hazards-in-harbor. I was unaware of all of this when I first whipped out my camera that day. The birds I saw seemed healthy and one in particular seemed to really really enjoy having it's picture taken. He/she was quite a character.
 
 
One of my favorite new images!
 
Initially, I wasn't paying any attention to the people cleaning their salmon, but a couple of guys started talking about pelicans and all of the trouble these birds were causing (they were now having to use the indoor cleaning station and had to discard the fish waste properly instead of just tosssing it into the harbor). The men started talking louder and louder until I realized they weren't really talking to each other, but to me. In short, I don't think they liked being told how to clean fish, didn't care much for pelicans and certaintly didn't want any more attention brought to the subject by some guy with a big fancy camera. I eventually backed off and only then noticed several posted signs about imperiled pelicans and how fishermen could help. My final site before leaving the harbor was of another young pelican hiding under some rocks away from his/her pals, acting very lethargic....
 
The combination of a big telephoto lense and getting so close to this guy resulted in some unique portraits with super detail!
 
 
In nearby Gold Beach, I could hear what sounded like gunshots coming from the mouth of the Rogue River. A boat was patrolling the waters shooting some sort of explosives/blanks at any sea lion who had the nerve to be swimming/hunting in the area. Apparantly, sea lions are the reason salmon runs/populations have been on the decline for decades, not dams, commercial fishing, pollution, too much water diversion for irrigation, etc.. This guy was not going to let those pesky sea lions get away with it!
 
Can't we find a way to get along?
 
Good hunting to you...Be careful out there!
 
 
*********************************************************************************************************************************************
 
Owls
 
I'm an owl freak...I've come to accept it. I just love them and they will always be a big part of who I am. I had a great time this spring with a family of Great Horned Owls living a barn near Ashland. I've "shot" these owls in past years, but I think the images from this year are my best yet. I once read that a really good nature photographer will try to eliminate any man made elements from their images. I don't agree anymore, man is part of nature, whether I like it or not. The wood of this barn has a beauty all it's own and as soon as I embraced that idea, my photos improved.
 
This juvenile is sitting down...note the talons pointed toward the camera. I'm not sure
I've seen one do this before.
 
 
I believe this is the adult male(?), new to this barn this year. He was quite suspicious
of me for a while.
 
Momma (I think) and I sharing a beautiful sunrise.
 
 
***********************************************************************************************************************************
 
Way back in January, I travelled to Ocean Shores, WA to photograph snowy owls. They don't typically come this far south in the winter so I HAD to go see for myself. I ended up getting lots of great looks and plenty of nice
photos. The setting was a small sandy peninsula off the Pacific Ocean with the Olympic Mountains as a backdrop. Not bad!
 
 
 
***********************************************************************************************************************************************
This next image was almost deleted. I always want nice detail in my subject's face abd this raven has none...but I've never captured detail in the wings like this before. Ravens are not typical birds, so maybe I should stop trying to get typical images of them. Anyway, I've grown to love this photo and it's been a big hit at art festivals this year.
 
 
***********************************************************************************************************************************
 
A couple of new photos from the Klamath Basin. I could have written the entire newsletter about this area, but it's too late for that now.
 
Tundra swans in dense, I mean really dense fog.
 
When I get a good subject (like an eagle) in my sites with nice light, setting, etc., I'll usually stick around as long as it takes to see what the animal does. Once in a while something really unexpected happens.
 
A bald eagle with some tundra swans passing by. There were lots of swans in the area, but I never expected them
to cooperate with me on this level. These guys flew perfectly into the frame.
 
 
*****************************************************************************************************************************
 
I'll be at the Lithia Artisan's Market the next few weeks: The market has made some changes, one of them being lots of new music acts. Consider "liking" LAM on Facebook for updates. https://www.facebook.com/#!/LithiaArtisansMarket .
 
If you do decide to visit my booth in Ashland, drop me an email if you are interested in FREE FRAMING! I've recently switched to a new frame style and would love to pass on some of my older frames! Most are a little "used" looking but I'll make them look next to new for you.
 
*******************************************************************************************************************************
 
 
I'll be at Bosie Art Museum Show in Boise, ID: September 7th, 8th and 9th. http://www.boiseartmuseum.org/events/AIPinfo.php
 
********************************************************************************************************************************
 
On October 27th I will be teaching "Bird Photography Basics" at North Mountain Park in Ashland. I'm already working on how to best explain how I do what I do. This is a one day workshop and I'd love to see you there!
 
*********************************************************************************************************************************
Want to order a print? Email me by responding to this email or danelster@yahoo.com or.... go to: www.elsterphotography.com
 
 
 
.
The following image was just ordered from elsterphotography.com. I haven't looked at this reddish egret from FL for a long, long time.
 
Thanks for reading,
Dan
 
p.s. I love and welcome feedback!


[1 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]


monday, december 12, 2011
Happy Holidays!

Lets try this again....sorry

 
 
Happy Holidays!
A super busy and very successful show season has come to an end for Elster Photography, so I'm now 100% focused on shipping orders in time for the holidays. Here are a few gift ideas that you will not find at the mall or Target!


Now thru Christmas:

Buy any 2 11x14 matted prints and get a 3rd one Free - A $40 dollar value!

Buy any 2 16x20 double matted prints and you guessed it, get a third one free - a $75 value!!

After ordering your two choices at
www.elsterphotography.com , simply email me your 3rd choice. I'll let you know asap that I got your third choice and then will work like mad to make sure you get your order by Christmas! If you want blank Christmas or Holiday cards to go along with your prints, just ask!

I'm also happy to ship directly to the recipient of your gift and will even include a gift card with your message on it.

journals make great gifts too!
http://www.elsterphotography.com/24004/index.htm

Questions, special requests, can't find what you are looking, glitches on the website: I'm on it! Just respond to this email or
-
danelster@yahoo.com
or
-541 864 9309



*****************************************************************************************************
This will be the last email of 2011. A huge thank you to everyone who has supported me in the last year. Little by little, the business grows
and I can't wait to see what 2012 will bring.

*******************************************************************************************



Here is one last series for 2011.

Last week, on my way home from a great show in Eureka California, I stopped in Crescent City, CA (one of my very favorite places on earth). It was low tide so I started hiking
around the exposed rock looking for life.

The following set of photos isn't the first time I've seen/photographed a western gull swallowing a sea star, but I still marvel at the sight. I don't know how healthy of a meal
this is, but it seems like much more of a natural food item for a sea bird than french fries in the parking lot of McDonalds.



This is the first view I got.



Then it hopped up on this rock to give me a better view.
 
 
 
 
About 20 minutes later, it really started to work the sea star down.
 



About 1/2 an hour total.


Thanks again to all of you! Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and I can't wait to share some photos with you in 2012!
Love Dan


[0 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]


tuesday, november 01, 2011
fall of 2011

Happy Fall! It marks the end of outdoor art festivals and a very active time in nature. I'm really trying to get out in the field as much as possible.
 
Recently, I spent a couple of days at Point Reyes National Seashore. Among other things, Pt. Reyes has
a very healthy population of bobcats and they were a major reason I chose to explore this part of the northern California coastline .
I had one encounter, but it was so brief that I didn't even reach for my camera. I saw plenty of other very cool stuff and despite the almost constant fog,
I managed to come away with a few new images.
 
I wasn't really thinking elk and deer when I arrived, but exploring any new place is predictably unpredictable!
 
On my third and final day at Point Reyes I awoke to fog (again). Frustrated but not ready to quit, I decided to pay this bull and his harem
one last visit before heading home. When I got to the top of this ridge, a sliver of sky opened up on the horizon and the herd had
moved a bit higher up a hill, making this image possible. As quickly as the light appeared, it vanished.
 
 
This magnificent bull, "his" harem and the amazing scenery combined for nice photos and a fun/rewarding experience. His "bugling" call is still
echoing in my head. It's been a long time since I've photographed elk.
 
The elk at Pt. Reyes show almost no fear of people....but that doesn't mean they are tame. Keep your distance!
 
The sun did come out for a while on day 2 and that's when I found the following beauty....
 
This blacktail buck had a doe cornered against a barbed wire fence. He was very "frisky" and in love. She was apprehensive
of his motives and a little scared by his advances.
 
***********************************************************************************************
 
These next images might not be so new to some of you. Earlier this spring, thanks to some landowners above Ashland, I was
able to observe a family of grey fox for a few weeks. I spent a lot of time here for only a few minutes of action, but it was worth every
second!
 

 
Here is one of the youngsters...probably a few weeks old. This may be the cutest animal I've ever seen.
 
 
 
One of the adults bringing a meal back to the den...I think it was a wood rat.
 
***************************************************************************************************
 
A few more recent images.
 
 
 
A juvenile American Kestrel peeking out from it's nest on the side of a barn. Kestrels are the smallest and most common species of falcon
in the United States.
 
 
A male Evening Grosbeak: It was raining this day, but getting wet was a small sacrifice to capture this beautiful, somewhat rare songbird.
 
What is an Elster photography newsletter without an owl ? A juvenile great horned owl.
 
I spent a couple of days in Crescent City, CA on the coastline and surprise surprise, I had to deal with dense fog. It's not that
I don't like fog, it can actually make for some moody and cool images - but I'd rather have a couple of hours
of it, not day after day.
 
A western gulll warning me not to jump off a cliff into the Pacific Ocean. Thanks for the tip birdy!
 
The sun came out for a few hours and I found a few active sea lions.
 
Thats close enough!
 
*********************************************************************************************************************
 
When Patty and I first moved to Oregon, we were told of a magical place on the Rogue River called Rainee Falls. Each fall, if you timed it just right, you could see salmon
leaping up the falls to spawn farther up river. Our first attempt was timed perfectly, but I didn't get an image I was thrilled with. I've taken the 4 mile hike every year since
and seen few or no leaping fish until now. I spent a beautiful morning in early October at the falls and finally I got a "keeper".
 
It's incredible to watch these fish struggle against the raging Rogue River. At first glance, it would appear impossible to get to the other side of Rainee Falls. Many do.
it's an inspirational thing to watch. What a world we live in!
 
*************************************************************************************************************************************
 
Upcoming shows: I have lots of stuff going on in the next couple of months. Portland, Eureka/Arcata CA and a few local shows too.
 
November 19th and 20th: Portland Audubon Society Wild Arts Festival: Montgomery Park (2701 NW Vaughn Street, Portland)....booth 17 http://wildartsfestival.org/
 
November 25th, 26th and 27th: Lithia Artisan's Holiday Faire: Historic Ashland Armory (corner of B and Oak in downtown Ashland)
 
December 2nd, 3rd and 4th: Humboldt Artisans Crafts and Music Festival (Redwood Acres Fairgrounds in Eureka CA)
 
December 9th: I'll be hanging a show at one of my favorite venues, Liquid Assets Wine Bar: 96 N. Main Street, downtown Ashland. First Friday reception in January. http://liquidassetswinebar.com/index.html
 
December 9th: Opening at Harmonic Design in Talent, OR. A show of some of my latest work on canvas.
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
 
The Holidays:
 
I'm coming up with some cool holiday gift ideas/specials! Look for an upcoming email. In the mean time, I'm now offering journals. They are completely blank on the
inside (unlined paper), with one of my images on the front and the title/info on the back. Check them out here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/danelster?section_id=10430934
 
If you are looking to purchase prints from this newsletter go to: http://www.elsterphotography.com/4511/index.htm
 
Thanks for reading and I love hearing from you,
Dan
 


[0 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]


wednesday, april 20, 2011
Spring 2011

Elster Photography...Spring 2011
 
Greetings!  Long time, no email. I hope all is well.
 
My winter has been about taking photographs, instead of promoting and selling them....and  I'm pretty excited to share some of my latest work with you.
 
 
I took two trips to the coast. The first trip was a complete waste of time photographically, but a fun family outing. It was raining when we got there,
and pouring when we left.  A week later I returned to Crescent City, CA for a marathon day of photography and things went much better.! 
 
 
 A western gull with a big starfish. I've seen gulls do this before and it still amazes me. It took this bird at least half an hour to swallow
this starfish. Gulls are tough, smart and beautiful.
 
 
 There were tons of ducks in and around Crescent City harbor. I usually don't spend much time trying to photograph them because
they don't allow a close approach. I think weather pushed them close to shore, allowing me to get closer than ever.
 
I'm not much of a duck guy and didn't even know what species this was at first - a white winged scoter:
 
 
 
 
 Crescent City Harbor was hit by a Tsunami as a result of the same earthquake that hit Japan.Minor in comparison, but still millions of dollars in damage.
The HUGE barge in the photo above is being used to pull sunken ships up from the
bottom of the harbor. The seals and sea lions in the foreground had one of their favorite docks destroyed, but
seem to be adjusting.  
 
 
 
 
 
*********************************************************************************************************** 
 
 
In early January, I went looking for one of our largest owls(the great grey), but instead found one of our smallest....a northern pygmy owl. This species
has eluded me since moving to Oregon and it sure was nice to finally see/photograph one.  I must give credit to my good friend/expert birder
Harry Fuller for spotting this little guy. Thanks Harry!
 
 
I've read plenty about these owls, but I still couldn't believe how small it was - about 6 inches
tall and weighing just a few ounces.  What they lack is size, they make up with aggresiveness...regularly taking down prey larger
than themselves!
 
 After the Pygmy owl encounter we still wanted our great grey owl, so we moved on...We never found the bird, but I did end up getting
a rare landscape image. The scene from Howard Prarie that evening was spectacular!
 
 
Mt. McLoughlin, a beautiful sunset sky and dense low lying fog all came together, making this a landscape shot that I couldn't
pass up!
 
****************************************************************************************************
 
Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge was where I found the peregrine falcon featured in the last email. I returned hoping to photograph
that individual again, but it was nowhere to be found. I did find this young red shouldered hawk. This is one of my favorite new images
for 2011.
 
  
Some photographers don't like bright white skies...In certain conditions, I love them! It can
create a studio like effect. This image is one of my first offerings as a canvas or giclee print.
 
 
 
********************************************************************************************
 
No winter would be complete without at least one trip to the Klamath Basin.....easily one of my favorite photography locations.
My biggest gripe with the basin is that between here and there lies a mountain range that can be downright scary to cross in the
winter. Probably the biggest reason I don't spend a lot more time there.
 
 
 
Coyotes before dawn. With almost no light to work with, I decided to intentionally blur these guys. I could see at least twelve from
this vantage point, and could hear even more howling in the shadows. Sharing a frigid sunrise with these beautiful creatures is the
sort of thing I live for!
 
 
  I found another one later in the morning and had much more light to work with.
 
 
 The Klamath Basin is famous for it's winter populations of bald eagles. I'm as awestruck by their beauty and size as anyone,
but they're among the most photographed wild animals in the world. It's hard to take an original photograph of a bald eagle, so I'm spending
less time trying to so.
 
 
 
This eagle had caught a duck but wasn't willing to share with me. A few steps closer, and I would have been'
able to photograph the entire bird and it's meal, but this bird would have surely took off. That's how it goes.
 
 
 A great horned owl at dusk. This bird looks somewhat menacing...appropriate for an aggressive, top of the food chain predator.
 
 
************************************************************************************************
 
 A couple of other random shots':
 
 
 Varied Thrush invaded Ashland this winter after being somewhat scarce the last couple of winters. Beautiful!
 
 
A stellars jay...what a handsome species!
 
 
 A wood duck along Ashland Creek. A slow shutter speed combined with a perfectly still duck made the rushing water blurry and
the bird perfectly sharp. The green shadows are part of the tree that I was hiding behind.
 
 
**************************************************************************************************************
 
 
 
  2011 Schedule
This is still coming together...Stay tuned for updates or feel free to contact me with questions.
 
 
April 26th: I'm giving a presentation to the Rogue Valley Audubon Society. 7:00pm at the Westminster Presbyterian Church at 2000 Oakwood Drive in Medford. http://www.roguevalleyaudubon.org/meetingsprograms.html
 
 April 29th, 30th and May 1stTaste of Ashland: I'm going to be set up 10-5:00 in front of the Northwest Nature Shop at 154 Oak Street in downtown Ashland. I will be unveiling some new images for the first time. If the weather is terrible, I'll probably set up something a little smaller inside the store. Thanks Uhtoffs!
 
May 7th and 8th: Eldorodo Hills CA - my first time at this show near Sacramento:
 
May 14th: My first appearance @ my home away from home:  The Lithia Artisan's Market in downtown Ashland. I'll be a regular here all summer long. http://www.lithiaartisansmarket.com/
 
June 16th, 17th and 18th:  Edmonds Art Festival in Edmonds WA: My first time here...beautiful setting north of Seattle. http://www.edmondsartsfestival.com/page.php?content_id=40
 
July 1st, 2nd and 3rd: Whitefish Montana Arts Festival: Yet another first show for me. http://www.whitefishartsfestival.org/
 
more shows to be added.... possibly Salem,OR- Lake Almanor,CA- and Corvallis,OR
 
***********************************************************************************************
 
I have a new studio space. Having two kids at home finally forced me to find somewhere else to call Elster Photography home. If you 'd like to stop by, pick up a print or are going to be in town during the week
and would like to see some of my framed/finished stuff...give me a call to make an appt. 541-864-9309. More to come!
 
 
 My little corner of @ 2nd floor studios. Not quite a hot shot gallery in downtown Ashland, but I have to start somewhere!
 
**********************************************************************************************
 
Now thru May 15th, I'm offering free shipping at   www.elsterphotography.com !  The site has been updated.  If you do
order, don't be surprised if I include a couple of extras!
 
 *************************************************************************************************
-I now have an Etsy shop. You can purchase small sets of cards and other stuff from me here. http://www.etsy.com/shop/danelster
 
-I'm having fun with my Facebook Fan Page. This is where you can see my latest first and leave comments: Become a fan!   http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Elster-Photography/84906756849
 
-Coming soon: Canvas (giclee) prints and journals!
 
Thanks as always and I welcome feedback!
Dan
 
If you would like to sign up or get off this mailing list: http://www.elsterphotography.com/page7964.htm


[0 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]


wednesday, december 08, 2010
Happy Holidays!

An Awesome Encounter and Gift Ideas From Elster Photography !   
 
 
 
 
Mother nature gave me an early Christmas gift....another Peregrine Falcon! I spotted this one near Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge in northern California, about a week ago. I had very poor light to work with, but at least the bird wasn't camera shy. 
 
  
 
What a thrill to get so close to something this magnificent!  A pre-flight wing inspection?
 
 
 
 
Peregrine falcons are the fastest animal on the planet, reaching speeds over 200 miles per hour!  While populations have slowly recovered since their near extinction in the 1970's, I've had little luck in finding/photographing one. This is only my second ever photo opportunity with a Peregrine, the first coming just a couple of months ago on the Northern California coastline. Just like the first time, I was really excited and could hardly contain myself when I called Patty.
 
 
 
 
 
Light is so important in photography. Nice light would have resulted in a sharper, better
image...but I'm pretty pleased with this one. I think I may be revisiting this wildlife refuge
in the next couple of months, and hope this falcon is still around. Stay tuned!
 
 
 
************************************************************************************************************  
 
Not a day goes by that I don't think about how fortunate I am to be able to pursue this dream career. Right now, I'd like to thank this falcon, my wife, family and all of you. I wouldn't be doing this if it wasn't for all of support, purchases, kind words/feedback, and advice I've gotten from so many people. I'm more encouraged about the future of Elster Photography than ever!
 
 
*************************************************************************************************************   
"Think" about the perfect gift!  
 
 
I'm already sick of my inbox being overwhelmed with holiday "sales", Cyber Monday stuff, spam and I'm sure you are too... That's why I'm going to keep this brief.  
 
Now thru Christmas, I'll be offering a couple of special deals at:         www.elsterphotography.com   
 
      -any order $75.00 and up will receive a free 11x14 matted print of one of my favorite recent images:   "Think." . We all know someone we wish would think a little bit more!
 
 
      -any order $150.00 and up will also get free shipping!
 
 
 
      -While I don't have gift certificates on the website right now(long story), if you would like to let someone pick their own present, drop me an email and we'll work it out!
 
 
Reaction to this image has been really strong: Some note it's not my typical "style". Some are doubting the
authenticity. Most seem to get a kick out of it.  
 
 
 
Merry ChristmasSeason's greetings and a happy new Year. I really look forward to sharing more of my adventures with you in the new year!  
 
Take care,
Dan
 
 
 
541-864-9309 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              541-864-9309      end_of_the_skype_highlighting
 


[0 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]


saturday, november 13, 2010
Fall of 2010

Elster Photography: Fall of 2010

 
 
 I can't believe it's November....!
 
A very busy outdoor art festival season and two young children have made camera time hare to come by.
 I'm grateful and fortunate to have some recent images that I'm excited to share with you.  
 
 *****************************************************************************
 
This first story may seem a bit far fetched. I probably wouldn't even tell it... if I didn't have hundreds of pictures and several witnesses.
 
Just before sunrise on October 1st, while letting our dog Coco in, an unforgettable bird presented itself to me in an unforgetable way -wide eyes, intense stare and just a few feet in front of me. I did a double take, and then a triple take. Up in the rafters of our back porch roof sat a western screech owl. The bird seemed a bit surprised at my presence, but not alarmed. After the initial shock, I slowly closed the door and then started running around like idiot, getting my
camera gear. I was so excited, I even woke up Patty....kind of like a little boy waking up his parents on Christmas morning.
 
My heart pounded as I reopened the sliding glass doors to take the first of 100's of photos. After several minutes, my new friend relaxed, and so did I.
 
For the next four hours, it hardly moved and I was thrilled to show Savannah and a few neighbors this incredible bird. 

 
 
We have four signs hanging on our back porch: " Sing"; "Relax"; "Think" and...."It's all Good". Part of me wishes this owl would
have chosen "It's all Good!" . I'm still contemplating what it is that I should be thinking about.
 
Later in the afternoon, the bird took a tour of our yard. It landed on several beautiful trees and became this photographers most willing/trusting subject ever.
 
 
 
Over time, I was able to get incredibly close. At one point, I could have touched it.
 
 
 
This is what an alarmed screech owl looks like. Some noisy kids were riding
their bikes down the path behind our house.
 
 
 
 
One of the very last images, right at dusk. A farewell wink.
 
This was one of my most unusual experiences ever with a wild animal... It's hard for me to not look for a deeper meaning.
 
********************************************************************************
 
I did manage a short trip to Crescent City, CA this fall. Fog was a factor for much of the trip, but I still managed to find
a few great subjects.
 
 
 
My first peregrine falcon! I don't like heights, but somehow got brave enough to persue this spectacular bird. This
is a young falcon, perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. I ran away from this scene completely overjoyed...laughing and
jumping around like a little kid. People must have thought I was nuts
 
I spent a great deal of time with a great egret looking for a meal. The bird's patience -and mine- were rewarded. Watching animals simply living their
lives is deeply rewarding.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 I don't think I've ever come to Crescent City and not seen, heard and smelled a few California sea lions. Several of them were
piled up on a boat dock, allowing me to get fairly close.... ideal for an incredibly foggy day.
 
 
Sea lions aren't pretty, but they sure are fun to hang out with.
 
I spotted this big buck while driving on I5, near Ashland. While expressways are not my favorite for parking/photography, this beast was irresistable. I was able to use traffic noise and some shrubbery as cover for an approach. When this buck finally spotted me, he was startled and quite unhappy. He stomped his hooves, grunted a few times and then made a hasty retreat up a steep hillside. They move with such power!  
 
 
 
My adrenhalin was in overdrive when I snapped this!
 
 
 
****************************************************************************************
 
Other Stuff:
 
A few shows that I'm very excited about:
 
November 20th and 21st: The Wild Arts Festival in Portland. I'm thrilled to be a part of this show!
 
November 26th, 27th and 28th: The Lithia Artisan's 10th Annual Holiday Market at the Historic Armory in Ashland(the corner of Oak
and B Street in downtown Ashland).
 
December 3rd: The Vagabond Rose Art Gallery in Chico, CA is hosting a reception for my show "Big Birds". 236 Main Street, Chico.
 
******************************************************************************************
 
www.elsterphotography is being upgraded.  I have a lot more "space" now and am adding many never before seen images. Other upgrades are also in the works. Hopefully, things will be "finished" in the next few weeks - in time for the holidays. Gift ideas and a "grand reopening" of elsterphotography.com will be anounced in an upcoming email. Unfortunately, I won't have calendars this year.
 
 
My career is looking brighter than ever and I'm incredibly grateful do be pursuing a dream. Thank you so much for supporting me and my work!
 
Take care,
Dan
 
I welcome feedback:
  danelster@yahoo.com or use the link below:
 
ps. Sorry in advance for all of the misspellings, grammar mistakes etc, that will present themselves to me as soon as I hit "send".


[0 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]


thursday, july 29, 2010
More Owls

More Owls 
 
 
Greetings! This newsletter is long overdue. 
 
Great grey owls are huge, spectacular birds that I've dreamed of photographing for a long, long time. They are also shy and elusive. That's partly what made this spring one of the most memorable of my life. I spent more time on this project than any other in my career. When all was said and done, I was at this nest site for about fifty hours and if life didn't get in the way, I would have spent another hundred! I endured rain, wind, cold and hail, mostly because I feared that I would miss something. After a couple of visits, these birds pretty much ignored me...accepted me. What a privilege.  
 

 
 
The first time one of the youngsters appeared, I about fell over! A mind numbing wait was  finally over. While there were two youngsters, I  never got a good view of both at the same time. Look closely and you'll see rainfall. Wild animals have to endure the elements 24/7, pretty amazing to think about.
 
 
Here's momma, taken shortly after the first image. Great grey's are huge, wingspans approaching 5 feet. This branch was only a few feet from the nest and was her favorite perch for the first couple of weeks. I love the mossy tree and her watchful eyes.  
 
 
What I remember most about this image is what had happened moments earlier. The male owl had just delivered a vole...then quickly disappeared. Moments later, a lone raven attempted to raid the nest. I'm not sure if it was looking to steal the vole or one of the baby owls (it would have been happy with either, I'm sure). Mother owl was furious...she reared back, exposed her talons and made a few intense vocalizations. This caused the raven to change course and hit a nearby tree with considerable force. The face off lasted only seconds, but the event will be with me forever. When things finally calmed down, they gave me this great pose...one of my favorite images of the project.
 
 
Within a few weeks, the young fledged and became much more difficult to find. The parents were working really hard at this point, providing food for two very rapidly growing youngsters. I think this is the male(one of my only decent photos of him). He delivered this rodent and within seconds, the fledgling devoured it and dad went off to hunt(again).
 
It was bittersweet the day I counld no longer find the young...
 
 
 ****************************************************************************
 
 A few other recent images.
 
 
 
When this rainbow appeared, I jumped in the car and desperately tried to find a bird...but failed. I settled
for this red bud tree. A rare non wildlife image by Elster Photography.
 
****************************************************************************
I've been happy to tag along with a wildlife biologist monitoring wild spotted owls this summer. Most of you already know about this species and all of the conservation issues surrounding them. We hike into some incredible wilderness in pursuit of these birds and I can get much closer to spotted owls than most species.
 
 
I love the way this bird almost melts into the tree. This photograph won an editors pick
on the Nature Photographers Network...an online organization of nature photographers
from around the world. The quality work and talent on this website keeps me very, very humble..and to receive any recognition is a big deal for me!
To see what other photographers said about this image, go here:
 
 
 
 
A pair of sandhill cranes at Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge. This image is from last spring, but I just started offering it as a print this summer. I'm surprised at how popular it has become. Silhouettes don't usually grab anyone's attention.
 
 
 
 Upcoming shows/appearances:
 
Lithia Artisan's Market in Ashland: I'll be a regular here most weekends unless I'm at an event listed below. Starting in Sept, I'll miss every other Sunday. You can always contact me to confirm.
 
August 7th and 8th: Lake Almanoor in Chester CA: It's been a couple of years since I've been at this beautiful show and I'm thrilled to be back!
 
October 1st thru Nov 13th: The Vagabond Rose in Chico California. I had a show here in 2007 and am grateful to be invited back! They are having a reception on October 1st, 5-7.
 
October 9th: Here is something I never thought I'd do: teach a workshop on wildlife photography. The more I think about it, the more excited I get. I'm going to really enjoy this and will go above and beyond to make sure all participants have a good time and learn something. It will be near Crescent City, CA (exact location will be determined closer to the day). This workshop is being offered through Darlene Lyon Kruse (an accomplished photographer and experienced workshop leader).
 
Her website:
 
to sign up, follow this link:
 
October 22nd through December 17th: Liquid Assets in downtown Ashland.  This wine bar is one of my very favorite venues!
 
November 20th and 21st: The Portland Audubon Show at the Atrium in Montgomery Park.  I know, I know...this is looking way too far ahead, but I'm really excited about this show.
 
 
 
 
Just so you don't think I've dedicated my life solely to photographing owls, here is a recent image of a river otter near Gold Beach Oregon. This guy seemed huge compared to the river otters I see inland.
 
 
*********************************************************************
 
 
Forest Daniel Elster was born on May 31st! 
 
 
 
*****************************************************************************
 
 Like usual, I apologize for any spelling/grammar errors in advance.
 
I love feedback....
 
 Thanks as always for reading and following my career, it means so much to me.
Dan
 


[0 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]


thursday, april 15, 2010
Spring 2010

 Elster Photography....Spring 2010

 
 
Greetings and happy spring. I hope your winter wasn't too long or too tough. In my world, winter is a season of few art shows and lots of camera time. Last year, it seemed like I had great photo opportunities at every turn. This year was different..... it seemed a lot more like work! But in the end, I had some thrilling encounters with incredible wildlife.
 
Many of you know I love ravens and spend too much time trying to photograph them.  A short list of admirable traits I've observed in these birds would include: individual personalities, great communication skills, clever food foraging techniques, and incredible flight agility.  Perhaps most interesting, they seem to enjoy life and like to "play".
 
Ravens are fairly common, but ususally camera shy. They let me approach, only to retreat milliseconds before I'm ready to "shoot". A couple of times, I swear they've even taunted me! Also, a raven's dark plumage is very difficult to do justice with a camera. Perfect light and exposure are required.  In short, I find ravens to be a challenge.
 
A few weeks ago, I spent a few hours with my favorite gang of ravens and came away thrilled with some of the new images! Things really came together!
 
 
 
These two were deeply involved in what I assume was some sort of courtship. I couldn't stop taking photos!  I love the "pose" they struck here. Perfect light resulted in detail that I've never been able to achieve with this species. Maybe my favorite image of the last several months!
 
Order any 16x20 or larger of this image and I'll throw in a set of 5 assorted raven greeting cards!
 
 
 
This bird was HUGE! It was also louder and bolder than the rest.
 
 
**************************************************************************************
 
 
I could go on an on about big black birds if I wasn't obsessed with owls too.....
 
A phone call from a friend led me to this next bird.
 
 
 
 This barred owl showed up at a river bottom in Ashland - late January ..Barred owls have become well known for competing with our native spotted owls for hunting/nesting turf. A very complicated issue with no easy answer.
 
 
 I spent two days of my life cruising dusty roads in the Klamath Basin to spend five minutes with this next owl. Sometimes I think I'm crazy!
 
Wildlife photography = hours of down time with a few thrilling moments sprinkled in.
 
 
 
 
Short eared owls nest and roost on the ground, fairly atypical of owls.
 
 
 I've known this great horned owl and her partner several years now and I think they know me too. I still can't say with certainty if they mated this year.  I should know in the next several days..
 
 
  
Strange light angles in this barn allow me to get creative.
 
 
*******************************************************************************
 
 
 Way back in November, I spent a couple of days in Monterey photographing sea otters, a first for me. I'm much more familiar with their freshwater cousin, the river otter. I've come to the conclusion that neither species takes life too seriously. 
 
 
Priceless!
 
 
 
 
I have a growing collection of photos showning animals sticking their tongues out at me.
 
 
 
Play time! These guys can really move in the water! But on land, they seem almost helpless -nothing like a river otter.  
 
********************************************************************************************** 
 
I also spent some time in Crescent City, California - one of my favorite places. California sea lions are common here. They are relatively harmless (I think ), but that didn't stop this one from scaring the heck out of me! I was on a boat dock, completely absorbed in shooting a cormorant when this one made a huge splash right behind me. I'm surprised I held the camera steady. To me, marine mammals are very mysterious.
 
 
 
 
The more I look at this image, the more I like  it. I love thes water, the eye contact and the sense of movement.
 
**************************************************************************************************
 
I found this coopers hawk right across the street while loading my camera gear into the car. I never left home that morning, because of this cooperative bird! Coopers hawks are well known for hanging out near bird feeders, hunting down careless songbirds. They are smaller, but faster and more agile than the better known redtail hawk.
 
 
 
A songbird's  worst nightmare.
 
 
Anticipating a critter's next move is important in wildlife photography...and I blew it here. Had I better predicted this eagle was going to take flight, I would have backed my lens off to include the entire bird in this image. I do love the close up of the talons, plumage and facial features.
 
 
 
This is about the closest I've gotten to a wild bald eagle.
 
 
Upcoming shows and other stuff:
 
April 23rd and 24th /11-4:00 each day: 2010 Preview:  I'll be unveiling my latest work for the first time at the Northwest Nature Shop at 154 Oak Street in Ashland. Hopefully the weather will be nice and I'll be set up outside. Two years ago, I attempted to do this on the same weekend and at the same place. Patty came with and while helping me set up, went into labor (a month early). Patty is now eight months pregnant. In short, if I'm not at the Nature Shop on this weekend, it's because we're having a baby.
 
May 1st and 2nd: My first weekend at the Lithia Artisan's Market, along Ashland Creek, behind the plaza in downtown Ashland.  I'll be a regular here this summer.
 
May 8th and 9th: Art In Bloom in downtown Medford at Vogel Plaza. My third year at this show..  http://www.art-in-bloom.com/  .
 
June 19th and 20th. The Marin Art Festival: http://www.marinartfestival.com/  . My first year at this show.
 
July 7th thru September 6th: I'll have a show hung at the Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek, California. There will be an opening reception on a date still to be determined. I don't know much about this area or the museum, but am excited about this anyway. http://www.wildlife-museum.org/
 
More dates and shows to be added.
 
 
 
 
A portrait of a wild turkey. Remember, beauty is in the eye of the beholder
 
*****************************************************************************************
 
Elster Photography is on Facebook, (if you care!) http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Elster-Photography/84906756849?ref=ts
 
I've been updating the website: www.elsterphotography.com . I'm looking for comments about the site, what you like or don't like about it. What you would change if you were me?....Good or Bad, I would love to hear from you.
 
Thanks as always to everyone who takes the time to read these newsletters...Sorry for all of the typos/mistakes in advance. I welcome feedback too!
 
Take care and see you soon,
Dan
 
 
 
 If you'd like to subscribe or unsubscribe to these newsletters: http://www.elsterphotography.com/page7964.htm
 


[0 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]


wednesday, december 09, 2009
a gentle reminder

 

A Robin, A Seal and One Last Reminder to Order Gifts!  
  
A couple of weeks ago, walking out the front door with Savannah and the pooch for an evening walk, I noticed a huge full moon rising over the mountains and a flock of robins in the trees across the street. I decided to get creative.  Most of my attempts were disappointing(i.e. bad), but I was pleased with this image. 
 

 
We have 1000's of American Robins spending the winter in Phoenix, Oregon. They generally don't show up until it's almost dark, making them fun to watch, but impossible to photograph.
 
In early November, I spent one day exploring Monterey, California....hardly enough time. I managed a few images of sea otters (my main goal), but this super relaxed harbor seal was probably my favorite image from the trip.
 
 
 
After watching this seal do essentially nothing but sleep for 15 minutes, it briefly stuck it's tongue out, making a little patience pay off.
 
Kind of strange how a harbor seal sticking it's tongue out at me can make my day!
 
 
This is the last email of 2009. I love sharing my experiences and photography with all of you! In January, my focus will be the local wildlife of the Rogue Valley and when weather permits, the Klamath Basin. I look forward to sharing new images and stories with all of you in the new year. I can't thank you enough for your interest and support.
 
 
*********************************************************************************
 
 
If you are planning on giving Elster Photography as a gift this year, to do so soon! My number one priority is quick production and timely delivery right now, but after this week, I'll start getting nervous about shipping delays.
 
 
 
To order calendars:  
Don't be surprised if you get an extra one.  
 
A free calendar with any print order!
 
****************************************************************
 
Let someone choose their own photograph!
Order Print Certificates:
 
 
 
After the last email, I received a few requests for Christmas cards, not "holiday" cards... I do have them!
To order Christmas cards:
 
Please don't hesitate to ask questions: dan@elsterphotography.com or 541-864-9309
 
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and a great New Year to all of you,
DAN


[0 Comments] [Read & Post Comments]