Eye contact!
Be observant.
Be ready.
I was halfway there. I was observant, but not necessarily ready.
One afternoon, I’d gone out to shoot stock photos of the energy industry activity in western North Dakota. I was west of Dickinson shooting long shots of an oil refinery under construction. It was a grey sunless day. The diffused light dampened the contrast and color. So, I didn’t waste much time or effort to shoot grey, lifeless photos of a construction project. I turned around on the gravel road and headed back to Highway 10. Then I saw it: life!
An appaloosa dances while the rest of the herd watches
Across the road, a herd of horses horsed around. Horse play! And wow, they were playing!
Scampering!
Frolicking!
Two appaloosas and a white or albino took turns dancing, jumping, running. It was like watching kittens or puppies play. Entertaining and joyful. Their antics were captivating; I forgot camera settings.
Observant, I’d caught the action before I drove past, but I wasn’t quite ready. My camera was still set for the dark images of the construction site. I stepped outside my pickup and shot. Adjusting the camera between shots just a bit at a time, I monitored the playground to see how these playful critters scooted about.
I’m sure the gaiety lasted longer than my short time allowed. I could have sat for hours to watch the merriment – but alas, I was supposed to be “on the job.” I had appointments to keep. So, discipline topped enjoyment. I left the herd in revelry while I headed off to responsibility. Now, I’m home, I see that why I was mesmerized by the play. So, I posted the set of images on my website. http://tinyurl.com/pztlyx4
How long would you have stayed to watch?
North Dakota 365 