I’m Off!

Ron NiebruggeAlaska, Lake Clark, Photos, Travel 8 Comments

Brown Bear cubs from last June's trip, Lake Clark National Park, Alaska.

Brown Bear cubs from last June’s trip, Lake Clark National Park, Alaska.

I’m excited to be heading off on a bear tour early tomorrow morning.  I’m always excited for my bear tours, but this trip I’m extra excited for a couple of reasons.  First – I know it can change, but I’m hearing reports that 4 of the first year cubs from last June are back – hopefully these two are among them.  And, I’m hearing reports of a new set of Spring cubs!  First year (Spring) cubs are so cute because they are so small, but second Summer cubs are better photo subjects since they are still really cute, and far more active and playful.  Sounds like this year we might have the best of both worlds!  Speaking of this, due to a recent cancellation, I still have two spots for my August Alaska Bear and Puffin photo tour.

I’m also excited as I have traveled with everyone on this trip in prior years, so for me, it is going to be like getting together with old friends!

The day after I return begins a private Alaska photo tour.  Then begins the July 4th weekend, so there may not be any activity here for awhile.  See you on the backside hopefully with lots of great bear stories!

Ice

Ron NiebruggeAntarctica, Photos, Travel 2 Comments

Ice near Booth Island, Antarctica.

Ice near Booth Island, Antarctica.

Not surprising, Antarctica has some of the most amazing ice I have ever seen including this backlit berg near Booth Island.

Seward, Alaska

Ron NiebruggePhotos Leave a Comment

Seward, Alaska.

Seward, Alaska.

Looking down on my cool little home town last Friday.  You can see why a cruise ship like the one you see here can double the size of the town.

PBS Show on the mustard in Anza-Borrego

Ron NiebruggeAnza-Borrego, California, Photos, Travel Leave a Comment

My before and after images were used in this PBS show on the mustard invasion in Anza-Borrego.

It will be interesting to see what happens this year – especially if it is a wet El Nino year. There was speculation in the local paper last winter claiming that the mustard can not survive 3 years of drought, and last year, being the third extremely dry year in a row may have killed off the seeds. I hope!

I like to photograph a relatively unknown spot I call the cactus garden – I see they filmed much of this in my “secret” spot.  🙂

Here are more photos of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in Southern California.

Salisbury Plain

Ron NiebruggeAntarctica, Photos, Travel Leave a Comment

Salisbury Plain, South Georgia.

King Penguins on the Salisbury Plain, South Georgia.

I can’t believe I haven’t shared a photo of this amazing place from last winters Antarctica trip!  This is the King Penguin colony at Salisbury Plain.  Although St Andrews was my favorite location on South Georgia, this is a close second, and extra memorable as this was our first landing site on South Georgia, and the first time I had witnessed a huge King Penguin colony in person.  Really excited to be heading back!

Canon 600 f/4 IS For Sale

Ron NiebruggeMiscellaneous 9 Comments

Canon 600 f/4 IS Lens.

Canon 600 f/4 IS Lens.

I’m selling my baby, my 600 f/4 IS lens – this has been an awesome lens and helped me capture most of my wildlife images over the years.  I am the original owner, and have the manual, original box, lens caps and strap.   It comes with a neoprene cover which has kept it protected over the years.  There are a few minor scratches on the barrel, and some of the paint is worn off one part of the foot.  The front of the lens coating and glass is all in great shape.  I can provide closeup images of the wear to anyone who is interested.

I’m asking $5,600 plus shipping.  I believe I can get more then this through EBay, but would rather avoid the hassles and commissions if I can sell direct.  We can take Visa, MC or Amex.

Why am I selling?  Since I photograph far more bears then birds, I don’t really need the extra reach, and shoulder pain has slowed me down a bit, so I’m looking to downgrade to the 500.

I’m also selling my carbon fiber Gitzo 1548 along with the original Whimberly Head and could do a package on all three.