Turtle Time

On Saturday, we spent another long day working on our project at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This time for me however, I decided to get some updated photos of the resident Sea Turtles while Dawn was shooting more video. Now, taking photos of sea turtles is tough, for they typically spend most of their time resting on the bottom of their tanks.

A lot of time and patience is needed to get good shots of them, so I sat and waited for just the right moment, for at some time they need to wake up and come to the surface to breath or to eat. So knowing that, I got myself into position where I had hoped they would come up to the surface, and overall, I guessed right.

I was able to get some very unique and creative shots of Max, Rob, Stubby, Stumpy and Cocoa, some the Kemp's Riddleys, Greens and Hawksbill turtles that are permanent residents at the aquarium. It made for a challenging but very rewarding day!

(Click on the thumbnails for a larger photo)

Meet The Gang At CMA

Over the past several weeks, Dawn and I have been working on a awesome project together. Of all of the clients, friends and people I have ever done work for in the past, this is without a doubt the best I have ever worked on in my career.

A few weeks ago, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium asked us to take videos of all of their residents, and without hesitation we jumped at the opportunity. First up was all four of the Dolphins, which are Winter, Panama, Indy and Nicholas. During this time I have also been photographing them, and what a blast it has been, not too mention I have gotten some amazing shots of them.

On the video side, Dawn has a special connection to them, and it enables her to get some real great and cute video footage of them, for they love to ham it up for the camera! These videos will be available on the new CMA website that is scheduled to launch shortly for the entire world to see. In the meantime, you can watch them here and enjoy them!

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Watch A Video Of Winter (3:24 - SWF)

Watch A Video Of Panama (3:00 - SWF)

Watch A Video Of Indy (2:52 - SWF)

Watch A Video Of Nicholas (2:56 - SWF)

Watch A Video Of A Dolphin Slideshow (2:52 - SWF)

Watch A Video Of A Dolphin Photo Op (2:21 - SWF)

Watch A Video Of Cooper (1:10 - SWF)

Watch A Video Of Garth (1:12 - SWF)

Watch A Video Of A Sea Turtle Slideshow (3:05 - SWF)

Watch A Video Of Chloe's Release (1:11 - SWF)
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Dawn still has numerous videos to shoot in the coming weeks, and what a great experience it has been and we can't wait to see the finished results!

Florida Cottontail

Last Sunday morning, I was sitting out on the back porch when out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a quick moving object moving through the grass. I looked over, and saw that it was a baby bunny. A split second later, I then saw a Black Racer right behind it, and it was closing in fast.

I ran outside to stop what could of been a very disturbing and gruesome event, and when the snake saw me, it raced into the brush. Those things move like lightning, and are one of the fastest snakes I have ever seen. The baby bunny sat motionless in the grass, and it's heart was pounding.

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Click Here To Watch Video Of A Florida Cottontail & Black Racer
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Dawn grabbed the video camera to take video of the snake, and I found a small bunny nest, just inches below the grass, with another baby still inside. I picked up the other baby and gently placed it with it's sibling to hide from the snake. Mommy bunny came by late that evening to feed them, so hopefully they will make it. It's tough being little in a world of predators in Florida.

Meet Cooper

Last Saturday, we had a meeting with a special guest, and his name is Cooper. We had an all-access pass to get close and personal with Cooper, who is a North American River Otter that came to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium in July 2001. Cooper was found in a garage in St. Petersburg and sustained abrasions and abscesses along his back, worn footpads and nails, and partial paralysis in his rear legs.

Due to the nature of his injuries, it is likely that he was hit by a motor vehicle. Although he has regained much of his abilities to walk, he still suffers from permanent damage to his vertebrae, which requires him to be on daily medications, and does not enable him to walk properly. For these reasons, Cooper will be a permanent resident at the aquarium.

It was cool to get so close to this little Otter, and even though they are one of the tougher subjects to photograph, for they won't sit still for even a moment, it was one of the more enjoyable assignments I have had at the aquarium.

(Click on the thumbnails for a larger photo)

High Above The Water

We had another long day scheduled at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium on Saturday to capture more photos and videos of the animals, but this time our focus was strictly on the resident dolphins. Our plan was to get a completely different perspective of them, so without hesitation the answer was from above.

Now I have shot from the roof above in the past, for it gives the best perspective and opportunities that are simply amazing. Today, I had several shots in mind I wanted to capture, and it was not only the most fun I had, but also resulted in some of the best shots I have ever taken of Nicholas, Indy and Panama as they performed for the large crowds below.

I ended up filling numerous flash cards, as I filled them up some of the most interesting and unique shots of the gang. Overall I was very happy with the results, and was a good call on our part to shoot the shows high above the water.

(Click on the thumbnails for a larger photo)

Hot Diggity Dog

I decided to take a break from my recent projects, so I met up with my good friend John Jacobsen and his wife to take in a minor league baseball game at Brighthouse Fields. The Clearwater Threshers took on the crosstown rival, Tampa Yankees. With the temperatures in the low 80's, it was hot, not too mention the seats.

We paid our six dollars at the gate, and literally had the run of the place. Not a whole lot of people attend minor league games, so we could sit anywhere we wanted, and took full advantage of trying out several locations, all in the first row and close to the action.

Being so close to the field we could pick our perspective. It resulted in some amazing shots of the action, all of which looked like baseball cards. It also allowed us to try out some creative shots, which I was pleasantly pleased with. In the end, the Yankees beat the Threshers, but either way, it was a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

(Click on the thumbnails for a larger photo)

Winter Meets Amputees

Everyone who loves Dolphins knows the story about Winter, the little Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin who lost her tail a couple of years ago when she was very young. I can personally vouch that she is one of the most adorable Dolphins I have ever had the pleasure to meet, and having such close access to photograph her has to be a highlight of my career.

Recently, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium has started a fantastic program whereby individuals with physical injuries, including amputees, can visit the aquarium free of charge. The two-hour, scheduled program, allows participants to go behind the scenes and experience Winter’s story via video and discussion, learn about the technology behind Winter’s prosthetic tail, and see Winter interact with her trainers.

I recently had the honor to photograph one of these events, with over 30 amputees, both young and old, came to the aquarium and got a V.I.P. tour of the aquarium, and the highlight of their visit was a personal encounter with Winter for those who could make their way down to the pool. Everyones eyes lit up when they saw her, and judging by all the smiles, they had an experience they will never forget.

During the visit, everyone also got to see how Winter wears her prosthetic tail, so during that portion of the event, I made my way up to a secret access area and up to the roof to photograph it high overhead. It was a good call on my part, for I got some very unique and amazing perspectives of the entire process of how it is put on to how she uses her new tail.

This is a fantastic program to give back to the community and to help those that have missing limbs to show them how this brave little Dolphin has overcome her odds of survival and now has become a true inspiration to not only them, but to all of us.

(Click on the thumbnails for a larger photo)

A Day At CMA

With summer break winding down, and the snowbirds finally making their way back north, the beaches are still a little too crowded, so we decided to spend the day at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. I had some more photos that was lacking in our gallery, so I worked on getting more while trying out some new techniques I have been wanting to try.

I even created a few HDR images of some of the displays, as well as worked on using backlight in the water to create some very interesting effects. It was a great way to spend the day, relaxing and watching the shows and animals.

(Click on the thumbnails for a larger photo)

Goodbye

Every once in a while, a moment in time is captured forever that has deep meaning, and on Tuesday night, I witnessed just such a moment. On a beautiful spring evening on Clearwater Beach, a special girl was going home, and that girl was a Loggerhead Turtle named Skylar. She is special for she beat incredible odds of survival, and this was going to be the most emotional turtle release I most likely will ever be a part of.

Tammy Langer, the Director Sea Turtle Nesting & Sea Turtle Programs at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium was leaving after 11 years, and Skylar was her last release. Skylar was going to be the turtle that of all of them that have come before her, the most special one. Tammy and Skylar spent an incredible amount of time together during her rehab, so tonight needed to be special for the two of them.

This release was a private release, which in itself is unusual. Only staff, volunteers and their families knew of the location, for it was a fitting tribute for everyone who works so hard at the aquarium. Without a doubt, it was shaping to be a release as all that have taken place in the past, and everyone there had a rare opportunity to watch and enjoy the moment.

However, something happened that stunned everyone. When Skylar started her crawl back home into the Gulf of Mexico, and with the crowd cheering her on, she stopped right before she entered the water. Everyone gasped, for no one knew what was happening since that never happened before. Just then, Skylar looked back at Tammy, and wouldn't go until Tammy came to her to say their final goodbyes to each other.

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View The Final Goodbye Of Tammy & Skylar
(JPG - 216KB)
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It was about as an emotional moment as I have ever witnessed, much less photograph. There was not a dry eye on the beach that evening, as it seemed as it was meant to be. I am sure no one there will ever forget that fainting moment when they parted. What an amazing experience to take part in something so special with all our friends that evening, and as Skylar dipped below the surface, the most beautiful sunset appeared on the horizon.

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View A Photo Gallery Of The Release Of Skylar
The Loggerhead Sea Turtle

View A Video Slideshow Of The Release (2:46 - SWF - 20MB)

View A Video Of The Release Of Skylar (2:47 - SWF - 20MB)
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Moments like this don't come along that often, so when one has the opportunity to photograph that moment, it has a meaning that lasts a lifetime. Be safe in your travels Skylar.

Tampa Bay: A Photographic Portrait

A while back I mentioned a book project I was working titled "Tampa Bay: A Photographic Portrait". Well, the work was done several months ago, and the book is now complete! The book is filled with images of the cities and surrounding areas of Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg and include the stunning coastline from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg Beach and along Hillsborough Bay to the fabulous Tampa skyline of period and contemporary architecture.

Photos of Ybor, historic parks, museums, and visual and performing arts venues accentuate the region’s cultural influences, while the Lowry Park Zoo, public gardens, parks, extraordinary aquariums, and sanctuaries emphasize the importance of area wildlife.

You can place your pre-order for the book which will officially go on sale May 20, 2008 directly from the publisher, as well as several outlets around the Tampa Bay area.

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Click Here To Order Your Copy From The Publisher

Click Here To Order Your Copy From Barnes & Noble

Click Here To Order Your Copy From Amazon
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I hope to also be offering signed copies of the book that I will ship to you directly if you are also interested (contact me directly for more details). WooT!

Helping Sea Turtles

A couple of weeks ago I was contacted by Barb Bergwerf from the Island Turtle Team and the Sea Turtle Hospital in Charleston, South Carolina about donating some of my photos that I have taken of the resident Sea Turtles at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Without hesitation I gladly donated several photos to be included in their 2009 Sea Turtle Calendar.

The calendar is dedicated to those who work with Sea Turtles on the beaches, and rehabilitation facilities along the Eastern United States. The list includes the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Sea Turtle Rescue, Marine Science Center, Marathon Turtle Hospital, Florida Aquarium, Mote Marine Laboratory, Georgia Sea Turtle Center, New England Aquarium and the Virginia Aquarium.

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View The Back Of The 2009 Sea Turtle Calendar
(JPG - 148KB)
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The calendar will have several of my photos, including Bailey, Stumpy and Cocoa, all Green Sea Turtles. The proceeds from the sale of the calendars will benefit all of the facilities to help further research and needed funds to keep these beautiful creatures in our waters here along the east coast. I will post more information on where you can buy a copy when they are ready for sale.

Field Notes: Atlantic Stingray

The Atlantic Stingray are cartilaginous marine fishes related to skates and sharks. Their longevity is 6-12 years. Males average disc width of about 10 inches. Females average disc width of about 12-13 inches. Maximum adult weight may reach up to 10 lbs. They can reach a length of about 35 inches. They can range from as far north as the Chesapeake Bay to Southern Florida and around the Gulf of Mexico and as far south as Central America.

They have an elongated snout and their head is slightly elevated so the stingray can take in water while lying on the seabed.

Atlantic Stingrays are common in shallow water off the coast to depths up to 70 feet. Younger stingrays may also seek shelter in the shallow waters that surround mangroves. They prefer warm coastal and estuarine waters that are above 59 degrees and they can endure temperatures above 86 degrees. Believe it or not, the Tampa Bay waters and the Gulf of Mexico on the Western Coast of Florida can reach 86 degrees and can be as warm as 95 degrees.

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View A Close-up Of An Atlantic Stingray
View A Photo Of An Atlantic Stingray In Turtle Grass
View A Photo Of An Atlantic Stingray On The Sea Floor
View A Photo Of An Atlantic Stingray Looking For Food
View A Photo Of An Atlantic Stingray Resting
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Atlantic Stingrays can maintain adequate physiological functions at varying degrees of salinity. There are stingrays that are found in the St. Johns River system, in Florida, that represent the only permanent fresh water population in North America. They prefer sandy bottoms and grassy sea beds. They will bury themselves in sand to hide and to blend in with their surroundings. They can be found alone or in small groups or schools.

Atlantic Stingrays give birth to live young and they can have a litter size from 1 to 4 pups. They give birth in the mid to late summer.

Atlantic Stingrays feed on a variety of bottom dwelling organisms. They jet water into the sand to expose their prey. They feed on shrimp, small crabs, small fish and even clams and sea scallops. They have rows of sensory cells called "Ampullae of Lorenzini" that are able to detect weak electric fields generated by prey items. The stingray can use these sensors to locate prey that's even buried in the sand. The male stingrays may use this sense to locate buried female stingrays during their mating season.

Atlantic Stingrays will normally flee from swimmers and divers. Sometimes they will lash their tail vigorously if stepped on or grabbed. They may also warn you by lashing their tail when you first step into the shallow water. You may also see them whip their tail up and towards their head like the motion of what a scorpion would do. Step back and away from them and wait for them to swim by before you step back into the water.

The spines in their tails can cause very painful wounds that can also be dangerous because of people getting secondary infections in the wounded area. The spines in the Stingrays tail are thought to be modified scales with the females having longer tail spines than the males.

That's why we say down here in Florida "Don't forget to do the Stingray Shuffle."

Field Notes: Sea Urchins

Variegated Sea Urchins are in the family of Echinoderms just like sand dollars and sea stars. Variegated Sea Urchins are one of the most common sea urchins in Florida. They are a peaceful animal around 3 inches in diameter and are generally nocturnal. They are a reddish-purple color but come in color variations such as white and pink. The spines make the sea urchin a very recognizable marine animal.

Sea urchins are spherical shaped animals with a skeleton composed of plates of calcium carbonate. There is an opening on the top for the anus and at the bottom there is an opening for the animal's mouth. The skeletal structure underneath the spines and tube feet is called a "test."

There are bands of spines that run from the mouth end (which is usually facing the oceans bottom) to the anal end of the animal. These spines can also regenerate themselves. In between the bands of spines are rows of tube feet or PODIA. These tube feet or Podia assist the sea urchin in locomotion and are used for protection against predators. Sometimes these spines are tipped with a small glandular bulb which is filled with venom.

The spines sit on the small spherical ball and are moved by muscles attached to their bases. Most sea urchins have several different sizes of spines.

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View Photo Of A Sea Urchin On The Beach
View Photo Of A Sea Urchin Close Up
View Photo Of A Sea Urchin With Sea Shells
View Photo Of A Sea Urchin On A Rock
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Variegated Sea Urchins eat algae from the sandy sea floor and from coral reefs. They are also known to graze on sea grasses. The pick up shells and small pebbles and cover themselves to hide from predators, thus, the name "Decorator Sea Urchin." They can securely place themselves on rocks and other types of substrates and they can resist tidal and wave action. Sea urchins will also burrow deep into the sand looking for algae and animal remains.

They can be found on the wet sand on the beach and wedged in rock crevices, beyond the waves in shallow water and can be found in water that is several miles deep.

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View Photo Of A Sea Urchin On A Rock
View Photo Of A Sea Urchin With Sea Weed
View Photo Of A Sea Urchin Skeleton
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While snorkeling from the beach to 6 feet of water around several beaches in the Tampa area, we have not seen excessive amounts of Variegated Sea Urchins or an over population in one area. We have found a healthy amount of sea urchins in these shallow waters close to shore. We have found all sizes and up to 3 inches and variations in color. We have seen them in bare sandy ocean bottoms to areas of healthy sea grasses. We have not seen excessive damage to sea grasses from sea urchins grazing.

We have found many on the sandy beaches and mud flats during low tide as they wait for the tides to come back in. Some Variegated Sea Urchins will hide themselves by wedging themselves in rock crevices in the surf line. Some sea urchins were active and moving and busy decorating themselves with sea shells, sand pebbles, pieces of coral and even small plants. Any that were on the dry sand were gently placed back into the ocean and past where the waves break so that the sun and heat wouldn't dry them out, or worse.