Man does not live by bread alone. There's always chocolate, marzipan, and photography. I present these photos for publication rather than for money (which I won't turn down, but I'm after recognition of my more than 45 years in nature photography).

Not known for my patience, it's amazing that nature photography has been my hobby for over 60 years. Simply, I stored my SLRs and all their ancillary equipment, and went to digital in 2001. I have three cameras, but the one I use most is a Canon S3 IS (an SX10 after 9/9/09). Nothing else.

Just the camera and then a lot of work, but it's anything but work. I've been a management consultant for 30 years, live in Walnut Creek, CA at the foot of Mt. Diablo, and what you're about to see are nature photos that have been taken since 2001 where more than half the time, I'm within a mile or two of my home.

This site is dedicated to the point-and-shoot photographers who might need some pointers or hope. Not everybody has the gift of composition, but what most people lack is the ability to see. Nature is all around you: a flock of 50 cedar waxwings in a tree that's only 50 feet from you, but you have to look up; a praying mantis in a flower pot, but you have to look down; and a hummer where all you hear is the clicking noises before he dive bombs you, but you have to listen.

Flowers are easy. Damsel and dragonflies are impossible and, for a guy with little patience, I'm amazed how much time I've spent trying to get photos of these favorites. Over a year just to find the Variegated Meadowhawk. I did go home for meals, and enough can't be said for sheer luck.

Enjoy! And while you're at it, rate the pictures with a thumbs up so that I know what y'all are looking for.

Email me at ewinning@ewin.com if you have questions.

© 2009 Ethan A. Winning