Today’s photo was really a “happy accident”.
I usually think about what my photo is going to be based on the environmental and atmospheric conditions. Since it was hazy most of the day, and I needed to get outside, I knew that a long lens would be a good idea for today’s photo. And that fire over on the Olympic Peninsula was still raging, adding the possibility of a nice sunset. I also knew I needed to be pretty high up. After looking for spots along Lake Washington, I decided to just head over to Newcastle. There are always views there.
I was snapping away at some golfers with the sunset going on thinking, “this will be pretty cool.” But as I worked my way around the property, I heard a bagpipe. I kept walking around the building by the tent and there on the hill, was the bagpipe player. But I was in the wrong spot to get a good shot of him. There were trees and buildings and it was just … wrong! So I hauled ass as fast as I could around the front of building (also trying not to be too noticeable – this was a country club and here I was in my hoodie slinging a camera!). I knew full well I didn’t have much time: he might stop playing and leave the spot or the sun would be gone.
Neither happened. I was able to get three good images before he did walk off that little hill towards the club house. The scene was over.
The bagpiper was none other than Neil Hubbard, a well-known Seattle performer. I’ve met him several times. And he has a shot very similar to mine on his website.
Timing is everything. And knowing your craft.