“f/8 and be there” is an old expression. It means you should just shoot. Don’t be too concerned about getting everything right. That’s why I carry my digital camera nearly every time I’m out.

I’ve seen a lot of birds on my walks and drives with Ginger lately. With the heavy foliage, warblers are a challenge but here are a couple from the last few days. American Redstarts are everywhere, calling, foraging, and always moving.

The same goes for Common Yellowthroats .

This has been the summer for Gray Catbirds, their litany of calls and songs wake us early most mornings.

It’s easier to photograph birds that sit still for a while. This Savannah Sparrow at the airport the other day is a good example.

Or this American Robin bringing breakfast home.

Birds that swoop and soar are impossible for me to capture with my point-and-shoot camera. These Tree Swallows stopped for a break.

Ticks and mosquitoes are bothersome in the summer, and there often are too many leaves to get clear shots. For me, summer mornings are a wonderful time to get out for exercise and birding. I need to remember that four months ago, here’s what our backyard looked like. Seize the day!