Jason Means Photography

Baghdad Palace

2010-05-13T01:45:00.001-04:00

Baghdad Palace
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Well, it's been almost a year since my last blog post. Our deployment has, to say the least, been extremely busy. Couple that with poor connectivity and you've got a long time between posts.

Regardless, I'm sitting at the BIAP Helo Pad waiting for my flight back to Ramadi and thought I'd test the Internet waters with a small post and a cool image that I took while on pass.

Needless to say, I'm looking forward to the end of this tour and being able soak up the luxuries of civilian life.

Parting Shots....

2009-07-28T23:32:00.001-04:00

Hummingbird_26.Jul.2009_004
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Tomorrow I head off for my all expense paid government trip for sun and sand. For the most part, my blog will remain inactive for this upcoming year, so I wish everyone the best, and look forward to posting some really great images when I return next year.

Thanks to all who have helped me so much in my art over the years.

Flowers

2009-07-28T23:28:00.001-04:00

Lily_18.Jul.2009_001
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I haven't had much time as of late to shoot macro being so preoccupied with hummingbirds and such.

Bee Balms and Birds

2009-07-14T09:15:00.001-04:00

Hummingbird_12.Jul.2009_008
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

With the build up to my all expense paid government vacation, I haven't had too much time to spend behind the lens of my camera. However, tis the season for hummingbirds, and I really wanted to make some time and take a few shots of these little beauties before my departure.

Wren's Nest

2009-06-28T22:38:00.001-04:00

Wren_Nest_28.Jun.2009_003
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I spent most of the morning helping my brother Benny finish putting a metal roof on his house. While in his garage, he pointed out a nest that a little Carolina Wren had built in a roll of aluminum. Naturally, I couldn't resist taking a few shots, and was really impressed by how much material that the mother had used in building her nest.

Barn Swallow

2009-06-28T22:34:00.001-04:00

Barn_Swallow_27.Jun.2009_002
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

After a long week in Massachusetts, I've enjoyed being able to spend a little time unwinding this weekend. Tired of laundry and housework, I ventured over to Nelle's to photograph this Barn Swallow. Naturally, lighting and framing was a real challenge, but with a little patience and a lot of fill flash, I was able to come away with several decent shots.

Tree Swallow Feeding Young

2009-06-19T17:20:00.001-04:00

Tree Swallow - 14.Jun.2009_002
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I've been so busy with work, school and everything else as of late I haven't had time to post many images or blog at all. Hopefully, after this upcoming week is over, I'll have a few extra minutes to spare and I can get back into the groove of taking some pictures... although, I have my doubts.

In the interim, I'll share this image that I took last week. It's one of the Tree Swallows that I've been following for the past several months feeding its young. I find this image especially unique because the adult swallow stuffs its entire head down into to mouth of the young one, which can be a single bug, or several dozen all at once.

Why did the Woodcock Cross the Road?

2009-05-25T17:19:00.001-04:00

Woodcock Crossing Road
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Why did the Woodcock cross the road? I haven't the foggiest clue. But I thought I'd share a shot of this very elusive creature. I've been trying to get a shot of this goofy looking bird for several years now, not so much as for profit, but more just to prove that I had seen one. They're pretty rare in our area of the world, and even harder to photograph. They're small, flush quick, are perfectly camouflaged and faster than lightning. Needless to say, I'm pleased.

More Tree Swallows

2009-05-25T17:13:00.001-04:00

Tree Swallow
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

To say the least I've had a ball over the past few months photographing several pairs of Tree Swallows in the area. This particular one is nesting adjacent to Nelle Chilton's pond. I spent most of the morning watching this pair go in and out of their box, catching bugs and just playing around in general like good Tree Swallows do.

The only goof that I made today was having the ISO range on my camera set way too high (1250). I had did some low light shooting the evening before, and had forgotten to set it back to a normal shooting range (400-800). Due to the glare of the mid day sun, I paid little attention to the shooing information in my view finder, and shot the entire day at that exaggerated ISO.

Thankfully, my new 5D MK2 has a pretty decent expandable ISO range, and very little noise can be seen in these shots. If I had made the same mistake with my 40D, then the entire day would have been a complete waste. Anything shot on the 40D over ISO 800 generates a tremendous amount of noise, and limits the usage of the shots taken beyond that point.

Red-winged Blackbird

2009-05-24T20:41:00.002-04:00

Red-winged Blackbird - Female
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I had a lot of fun today following a female Red-winged Blackbird flying around the pond for food. I kept hoping that it would get a little bit closer to me so that I could get a shot that showed large amounts of detail, but every time that I encroached on its territory, it would just fly a few cattails further down the pond. Regardless, I was able to get a few good shots, and have a lot of fun as well.

A Sucker for Tree Swallows

2009-05-22T23:28:00.002-04:00

Tree Swallow
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

What can I say, I'm just a sucker for Tree Swallows. I love watching their mannerisms and socialization. I was also able to get some cool HD video of them today going in and out of their boxes. Hopefully, I'll get a chance to aggravate some other birds over the weekend and give these guys a break.

Jessica Means Graduation

2009-05-22T00:22:00.001-04:00

Jessica Means Graduation
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

My niece Jessica graduated from St. Albans High tonight. Naturally, I was glad to share in the joy and get a few pictures... but why, oh why, does everybody have to make a speech.

Tree Swallow HD VID

2009-05-20T22:43:00.001-04:00

Tree Swallow HD VID
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I've put together a few pieces of video from the other day when I was shooting a pair of Tree Swallows nesting near Nelle Chilton's pond. In the second portion of the video I've slowed it down so that you can see the birds going in and out of the bird house in a bit more detail. I also love the long drawn out sounds the birds make while the video is in slow motion.

Pink Lady's Slipper

2009-05-18T22:30:00.001-04:00

Pink Lady's Slipper
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Nelle Chilton turned me onto this wonderful little orchid, and I had a lot of fun playing around with a variety of angles capturing this beautiful flower. It was also a lot of fun trying out my new 5D MK2 and 100mm 2.8 macro lens for this particular shoot.

My First Stab at HD Video

2009-05-18T22:28:00.001-04:00

Frog in Chilton Pond
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I'm putting my new Canon 5D MK2 through the mill trying out all of its features. Being a stranger to video, I'm still learning my way around motion capture and movement.

Blocks and Rows

2009-05-18T22:25:00.001-04:00

Block Steps
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I'm a sucker for patterns of all sorts, and these rows of old concrete blocks really spoke to me.

Wide Angle Lenses and Lots of Brass

2009-05-18T22:24:00.001-04:00

WVARNG
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I don't shoot wide angle as often as I would like, but every once in a while I get a really good shot like this one that encourages me to shoot wide frame more often. For this particular shot I dug my camera down in the dirt next to the pile of spent brass in the foreground. From there I rolled the camera around snapping off shots at several angles and changing the aperture for varying levels of depth of field.

All Good Things Must Come To An End

2009-04-23T15:22:00.001-04:00

Morel
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

This year's morel season was a bit sparse compared to years past, but I was able to manage enough for several good meals. I was a bit bummed since I have to go out of town for several weeks soon, and thought that I'd miss a lot of morel picking. However, it seems that this year's crop of molly moochers have come and gone, so I guess I'm not going to miss out on that much after all.

WV Cycling Symposium

2009-04-18T19:45:00.001-04:00

WV Cycling Symposium
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I spent a good part of the day photographing the WV Cycling Symposium. After the group finished up a morning's worth of meetings, they hopped on their bikes and took a spin up to the state Capitol.

WV State Capitol Complex in Spring

2009-04-18T00:19:00.001-04:00

WV State Capitol Complex in Spring
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

On my way to the Cycling Symposium at the Governor's mansion, I spotted this colorful array of tulips next to one of the statues.

Tree Swallows in Spring

2009-04-16T16:11:00.001-04:00

Tree Swallows
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I've been watching this pair of Tree Swallows for the past month or so, having a blast photographing them on my lunch hour. Never before have I seen two birds so animated and fun to watch.

They continually repeat the same patterns over and over, so it's easy to move around and set up the same shot from a variety of vantage points and lighting conditions. So far, I think this particular shot with both birds in full focus is my favorite.

Morel Madness

2009-04-11T15:57:00.001-04:00

Morel
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

This year's morel harvest hasn't been the best... but it hasn't been the worst either. I haven't found them in quite the same numbers as this same time last year, but I have found enough to make several good meals.

Hey, I'm All Ears

2009-04-11T01:59:00.001-04:00

Sheltie
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

My neighbor Noel on Sutherland Avenue has two great Shelties, and I've been wanting to catch them romping about in the yard on a day with good lighting. Well, today was that day. Despite their barking and running around in circles, they modeled quiet well.

Pipe Smoke

2009-04-11T01:55:00.001-04:00

Jason Smoking Pipe
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Ever since I got my new fedora and started puffing on my pipe, I've been inspired to return to black & white portraiture. I just wish I had a few more people to model for me that would commit to wearing a silly hat and puff a pipe so I wouldn't have to do self portraits.

Barred Owl

2009-04-09T21:53:00.004-04:00

Barred Owl
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Well, I have had a really fun filled day of birds. Its started this morning on the way to work when I was able to get a picture of a Pileated Woodpecker. During lunch I climbed atop a ladder and shot preening Tree Swallows for about and hour. Then, on my way out to my dad's house, I came across a Red-tailed Hawk feeding on a branch.

What could be the icing on an already perfect cake? Seeing this Barred Owl on the way back to my house. He was sitting on a power line at the foot of Berry Hills Drive. And, just like our Red-tailed Hawk earlier in the evening, he had just finished his meal. If you look closely, you can see a little bit of blood still on his beak and talons.

Red-tailed Hawk Leaping from Branch

2009-04-09T21:48:00.001-04:00

Red-tailed Hawk Leaping from Branch
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I came across this Red-tailed Hawk on my way out to pick morels at my father's house this evening. His broad shape stood out in contract against the bare branches. After I hopped out of my vehicle, I was able to snap a few shot before he leaped. And, if you look really close on the right side of the frame, you can see some of the guts of whatever he was eating still hanging from the branch.

The Cleanest of All Birds

2009-04-09T15:38:00.001-04:00

Tree Swallow
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I'm pretty convinced that Tree Swallows are the cleanest of all birds. I photographed this same bird a few weeks ago doing exactly the same thing, picking and preening, over and over and over.

On The Way To Work This Morning

2009-04-09T09:06:00.002-04:00

Pileated Woodpecker
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

My morning drives are usually uneventful. Like most drivers, I'm just content avoiding traffic and getting to work on time.

But, just a few hundred meters from my house, while I was coming down Sutherland Drive, I watched this big Pileated Woodpecker swoop right in front of my vehicle and land in a tree next to the road.

Thankfully, I had my camera sitting in the passenger's seat and was able to get a few grainy images of this elusive bird. Not the best shot in the world considering available light and framing, but this is bird that I've been wanting to get a shot of for years.

Chilton Pond Reeds

2009-04-08T12:20:00.001-04:00

Chilton Pond
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I'm a sucker for abstract patterns in nature, and reflections as well. Needless to say, this image really stands out in my book. My only regret was that the wind was a little stiff, and it would have been nice to have a little sharper reflection in the pond.

WVARNG - CLS

2009-04-06T21:07:00.001-04:00

WVARNG - CLS
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Really good training is also a good place to find some really good photographs.

IV and Me

2009-04-04T20:17:00.001-04:00

2009-04-04 20:06:01 -0400
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I snapped this shot today with my iPhone. What can I say... I'm a sucker for purple gloves.

Moonset - 30 March 2009

2009-03-31T13:19:00.001-04:00

Moonset - 30 March 2009
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I caught this really neat moonset through the trees last night. I was a bit aggravated at first because I couldn't find a clean spot to shoot without limbs in the way, but I think the final image is actually enhanced with limbs in the frame.

First Morel of the Season

2009-03-31T13:08:00.001-04:00

Morel - 28 March 2009
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I spent a little time in the woods on Saturday, and was pleasantly surprised to find the first morels of the season. I can always count on the first ones to come up in the same spots, year after year.

Carbide Building Demolition Sequence

2009-03-28T12:45:00.002-04:00

Carbide Building Demolition
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Today's drop of the old Carbide Building in South Charleston brought everyone out to watch the spectacle. Local law enforcement definitely had their hands full keeping everyone safe and traffic moving as smoothly as possible. My hat goes off to all involved for a great show.

So, what does a swallow's butt smell like?

2009-03-23T19:29:00.001-04:00

Tree Swallow Butt
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

So, what does a swallow's butt smell like? Inquiring minds want to know.

Tree Swallows in Early Spring

2009-03-23T15:52:00.001-04:00

Tree Swallows in Early Spring
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

As I stepped outside this morning to sip my coffee and grab a breath of fresh air, I noticed some tree swallows had moved in next door and were doing a little spring cleaning of their own, getting their box ready for by picking out debris and dropping it in the adjacent field.

So, over lunch I stood atop a metal ladder, hoping and waiting, and after filling my memory card up with some nice shots, I had three frames left. This particular frame was the second to last shot I had available.

Despite being a little hungry and tired, I think it was well worth it.

I'd swear, it doesn't look like rain

2009-03-22T23:38:00.001-04:00

Bluebird_Branch_001
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

This curious little bluebird kept looking up... for what reason I haven't a clue.

Another Brick in the Wall

2009-03-22T23:33:00.001-04:00

Carbide_Building_002
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

The old Carbide building is getting ready to tumble next Saturday, so I've been out combing around the neighborhood, scouting locations to shoot the demolition.

Dusty Job

2009-03-22T23:31:00.001-04:00

Dusty_Job_001
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

This guy had the wind to his advantage... sad to say his co-workers did not.

A Little More Smoke

2009-03-18T10:53:00.002-04:00

Smoke
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

On the way home yesterday I stopped by Smoker Friendly to pick up a little bit of pipe tobacco. As I was heading out the door I saw some huge sticks of incense. I decided to get a few and play around with a little more smoke photography. I've been generally pleased with some of my previous shots, but naturally always want to improve upon them.

Chilton Pond Reflection

2009-03-16T09:21:00.001-04:00

Chilton Pond Reflection
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

In between the wind and the rain yesterday, I was able to capture this wonderful reflection of Nelle Chilton's house.

Diabolically Sinister

2009-03-16T09:20:00.001-04:00

Means Fedora B&W
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

My previous post inspired a bit of creativity.

Discrimination Against People Who Wear Fine Hats

2009-03-14T16:55:00.002-04:00

Discrimination Against People Who Wear Fedoras
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Honestly, when was the last time you saw a thief wearing a fedora...???

Houston to Tyler and Back

2009-03-11T23:02:00.002-04:00

2009-03-11 21:50:41 -0500
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I travelled from Houston to Tyler, Texas and back today for some job training. I'm looking forward to going home tomorrow and putting into practice all that I've learned over the past few days.

A Dog's Life

2009-03-07T06:37:00.001-05:00

Winnie Running
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

John and Cynthia's dog Winnie is fast... really, really fast. I've tried several times over this past year to get of picture him running, but with little success.

This past week I came across him and was able to get at least one usable image by changing the point focus on my camera to cover a broader field in the image.

Icey Trip Down the Road

2009-03-02T11:19:00.001-05:00

2009-02-25 21:52:58 -0500
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I completely forgot to post this image last week. On my way back down the road returning home from Guard drill, I stop at a GoMart to stretch my legs and noticed this neat ice formation around the hub caps on the vehicle I was driving. Needless to say, the road home was a little slippery in spots.

What Are You Looking At ???

2009-02-16T23:31:00.002-05:00

Squirrel
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

You'd figure with all the work I have to do in and around the house that I wouldn't have time to take pictures of squirrels on my front porch... but you'd be wrong.

A Trip to the Shelter

2009-02-16T23:27:00.002-05:00

Pound Dog
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

A trip the animal shelter is both fun... and really depressing. My wife Andrea volunteers at the shelter every Sunday and takes pics of the new arrivals to post on their website. Occasionally, I'll accompany her and take a few pics as well.

LT Jenkins

2009-02-08T14:33:00.001-05:00

LT Jenkins
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Had a really fun photo shoot with LT Jenkins yesterday for an upcoming Guard publication.

Tanks Steps and Shadows

2009-02-08T14:29:00.001-05:00

Tanks Steps and Shadows
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

On sunny days I can always catch a cool shadow at the water tank on top of Middle Ridge.

BBQ & Friends

2009-02-07T14:14:00.001-05:00

2009-02-07 14:07:55 -0500
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Ran into my buddy Rusty Marks today at Blue's BBQ.

The Long Hard Push

2009-02-02T01:30:00.001-05:00

Harold
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Harold is steadily making his way home with a sizeable load of supplies from the store. For as long as I've lived, I can always recall Harold and his brother Denny riding and/or pushing their bikes over most of the Kanawha Valley, transporting unbelievable loads in the worst conditions, but today is one of the first days I took the time to actually snap a few pics.

Winter Ice

2009-02-02T01:25:00.001-05:00

Winter Ice
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

My brother Steve and I had a great hike in the woods today, and came across some fantastic ice formations.

Late January Moonset

2009-02-02T01:23:00.001-05:00

Moon 01-31-09
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Caught this beautiful moonset the other evening. You'd think that for as many times as I've seen the moon in my life, I'd grow tired of photographing it... but you'd be wrong. It never grows old, and I'm always dreaming of the next shot.

Finishing Touches

2009-01-31T22:32:00.002-05:00

Nuthatch
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

This little Nuthatch is helping me put the finishing touches on my bird photography presentation for the Charleston Camera Club on Monday evening.

At Least I Accomplished Something Today

2009-01-27T15:08:00.001-05:00

2009-01-27 15:04:25 -0500
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

At least I accomplished something today.

Yellow-rumped Warbler

2009-01-25T21:10:00.002-05:00

Yellow-rumped Warbler
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I spent most of my Sunday cleaning up around the house, and watching my feeders on the front porch every time I walked through the living room. This is the first Yellow-rumped Warbler that I've seen at my feeder, and I was glad to get photographic evidence that it was there.

Right Place at the Right Time

2009-01-24T19:42:00.002-05:00

Jet Contrail and Crescent Moon Over Yeager Airport
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Just as I was arriving at work this past Friday, I noticed this beautiful crescent moon rising over Yeager Airport. Just as I popped my camera out to snap a few pics, this jet came into frame, with its contrail bright pink in the early morning sun.

You Can Tell That It's Winter...

2009-01-24T19:26:00.003-05:00

Smoking Pipe - B&W
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Yup... you can definitely tell that it's winter, because the self portraits start to fly.

Overall, I try to make a habit of not doing too many self portraits, because beyond being a bit vain, they're really tacky. But, desperate times call for desperate measures. I've been a bit consumed with work as of late, and the lack of daylight has made shooting this winter a real challenge.

So, out of boredom and the desperate need to shoot something... anything... here comes yet another self portrait.

My apologies are expressed to all...

Pipe Smoke

2009-01-18T21:53:00.002-05:00

Benny Means Smoking Pipe
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Since the weather has been less than ideal for walking about in the woods and snapping pics, I decided to do a little indoor shooting this weekend.

I've been on a smoke kick for the past few weeks, so I asked my dad if he would smoke a pipe for me and pose for a few pics. This particular pipe he bought while he was stationed in Germany, and hadn't puffed on it in over forty years.

Smoke Revisited

2009-01-13T22:13:00.002-05:00

Smoke - 011
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Rick Lee recently gave a presentation for the Charleston Camera Club reviewing some of his work over this past year. One of his projects involved smoke, and I was so enthralled with his shots that I decided to give it a stab.

Since the weather has been really crappy and I've been buried in work, I haven't had a chance to shoot very much over the past few weeks. So, I decided to do an indoor project this evening and try a stab at some smoke shots again. To say the least, smoke is a fickle thing, and at least ninety percent of what I shot was nothing other than blurry lines of nothingness. Thankfully, a few shots did turn out, and I never cease to amazed by the bizarre and beautiful patters that smoke makes.

Moonset Through Trees

2009-01-03T22:34:00.003-05:00

Moonset 1.2.09
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I've had the good fortune to catch a number of good moonsets over the past few months. Fair weather and a good westerly view from my front porch have helped tremendously.

Waxing Crescent Moon and Venus - New Years Eve 2008

2009-01-01T11:15:00.001-05:00

Waxing Crescent Moon and Venus - New Years Eve 2008
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Caught this last night just before I went over to the Hamilton's house for New Year's Eve. The light, whispy clouds add just the right touch to the photo.

Smoke and Sparks

2008-12-31T09:56:00.002-05:00

Welding
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Over the past few days, Crane America has been installing our new hoist at the shop. We've been eagerly awaiting its arrival to speed up production and make our lives a little easier. Up to this point, we've used our fork lift to do the bulk of the lifting, but it's tedious and time consuming, especially when it comes to moving individual tools.

We've did our best to stay out of the crane installers way, but naturally I couldn't resist taking a few pics once the smoke and sparks started flying. When you freeze industrial welding down to 400/sec. it's pretty damn cool.

Long Shadows & New Pillars

2008-12-30T23:36:00.001-05:00

Long Shadows & New Pillars
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I couldn't resist snapping a few pics yesterday when we opened the bay doors at the shop to get a little fresh air.

Orange Jelly - HDR Image

2008-12-28T22:46:00.002-05:00

Orange Jelly - HDR Image
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Today's walk in the woods was just what the doctor ordered. Not only was I able to stretch my legs and get a little exercise, I was also fortunate enough to come across this interesting jelly, and able to add another bird to my life list.

This particular jelly in only about the size of a silver dollar, but glowed like it had its own power source. I spotted it from about ten feet away growing on a dead limb laying in the middle of the trail. At present, I'm tentatively identifying it as Tremella mesenterica (Witches' Butter), but will defer to more trained eyes than mine for a positive identification.

This particular shot looks a bit ghostly since it's an HDR (High Dynamic Range) image. A standard image is posted on my Flickr photostream.

I was also able to get a couple of grainy shots of a Golden-crowned Kinglet. Naturally, I would have like to have gotten a few publishable images, but sometimes you just gotta take what's given.

Woodpeckers Love Suet

2008-12-28T22:32:00.002-05:00

Red-bellied Woodpecker
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I've had a lot of success over the past few weeks with my new suet log. Several Red-bellies and lots of Downeys keep me filling on the holes with fresh suet on a daily basis. Thankfully, all the extra time and energy has paid off with some nice shots.

Sunday Walk in the Woods

2008-12-22T00:19:00.002-05:00

Cynthia's Dog
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

After a busy week at the shop, I was really looking forward to getting out and stretching my legs in the woods this weekend. Unfortunately, I got called into work this morning and spent about half of the day at the shop. Thankfully, the sun was out today and I had some pretty decent lighting this afternoon.

I went over to Nelle Chilton's late in the evening to get a little identification help with some mushrooms that I came across in the woods yesterday, and ended up taking a stroll with Nelle and some of her family. Nelle's daughter Cynthia has a very spirited dog that I just love to shoot. Despite the cold weather, it decided to play in a large puddle near an old gas well.

Red-bellied Woodpecker

2008-12-08T20:11:00.002-05:00

Red-bellied Woodpecker
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Typically, my suet log attracts a lot of Nuthatches and Downey Woodpeckers, but every once in a while a Red-bellied Woodpecker stops in for a bite to eat as well.

This is one of the first good images that I've taken on my new suet log. Compared to my old one, this log only has holes drilled on one side. I designed it as such so that I could get nice profile shots by forcing the birds to only feed on one side, and to limit the amount of suet in the frame that detracted from the quality of the image.

Icey Moonset

2008-12-07T08:53:00.002-05:00

Moonset 12.5.08
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

As I was walking through my living room a few nights ago, I happened to catch a glimpse of the moon just about to set. For the most part, the sky was clear, but a few light snow clouds were on the horizon, and the moon light made some really beautiful circular glowing rings.

Carolina Wren

2008-11-30T00:26:00.002-05:00

Carolina Wren
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I spent most of my day either sitting the porch waiting for birds to come in, or tromping around in the woods with my brother, Steve.

Fortunately, I was able to get a pretty decent shot of this Carolina Wren. It was so content feeding on the fresh suet that I had just put out that it didn't even mind the fill flash on my camera popping off every few seconds.

Downy Woodpecker

2008-11-28T09:44:00.002-05:00

Downy Woodpecker
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I have several suet feeders at my house, but don't normally get many woodpeckers. However, the suet log at my Dad's house gets plenty.

Unfortunately due to the season, his feeders are usually back or side-lit most of the day, so lighting each shot tends to be a challenge.

Fill flash is of course the best measure, but tends to limit my time with each bird to only one or two shots at most sense the flash firing scares them away.

This particular shot is still back-lit a little heavier than I would like, but I was able to reflect some natural light back towards the subject with a piece of white poster board. This way I could take multiple images of the birds without scaring them off.

Waxwings-a-Plenty

2008-11-23T21:57:00.003-05:00

Cedar Waxwing
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I typically spend my Sundays walking about and taking pictures, but today I thought I'd drive and be a bit lazy. Naturally, I covered a bit more ground, but ended up with even fewer shots to show despite my efforts.

Thankfully, there was a small group of Cedar Waxwings feeding at Sam Parkin's house, and I was able to get a few decent shots. Naturally, at the distance I was shooting it was stretching the capabilities of my current lens. I just can't wait until next year when I get my new 400mm 2.8 lens. Coupled with a 2X converter, it's going to be one mean lens for bird photography.

White-throated Sparrow

2008-11-22T22:30:00.002-05:00

White-throated Sparrow
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I didn't shoot as much as I'd hoped today, but I was able to sneak out to my Dad's house for a few hours this afternoon and snag a few shots at his bird feeders. I was particularly pleased with the coloration of this White-throated Sparrow.

West Virginia Capitol at Night

2008-11-17T01:52:00.001-05:00

West Virginia Capitol at Night
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I had high hopes of catching a few good moon shots tonight, but the clouds rolled in earlier than I had expected. But, tonights cool, still, clear air gave me an opportunity to snap a few shots of the state capitol and its reflection in the mighty Kanawha.

Packers Loaded and Ready to Ship

2008-11-14T23:15:00.001-05:00

Packers Loaded and Ready to Ship
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Our first system hit the road this afternoon, and should most likely be in the ground within the next few days.

First System Ready to Go

2008-11-13T22:58:00.002-05:00

Originally uploaded by Jason Means

After several hectic weeks of getting the new Packers location in Charleston up and running, we finished our first system today.

Cedar Waxwing

2008-11-02T19:59:00.002-05:00

Cedar Waxwing
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

The Cedar Waxwings were out in full force today. Despite their playfulness, this was about as close as I could get. A far cry from a great image... but I'll take what I can get considering the equipment and time that I have available to me.

Making Up For Lost Time

2008-11-02T19:57:00.002-05:00

Fall Leaves
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

It's feels good to get back behind the lens of my camera. Between training for my new job and guard drills, I haven't had time to shoot very much, and have pretty much blown right through the month of October, missing my favorite time of the year for photography.

I've been trying my best to make due with the time available to me to shoot as much as I could this weekend, and enjoy some of the last colors of fall.

That Pumpkin Time of Year

2008-10-29T23:37:00.002-04:00

Dhania & Pumpkin
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Andrea and Dhania worked long and hard on their Halloween pumpkin... well, in all honesty, Andrea worked hard while Dhania watched tv. Regardless, a good time was had by most...

Finishing Touches at the New Packers Plus Facility in Charleston, WV

2008-10-28T21:54:00.001-04:00

Finishing Touches at the New Packers Plus Facility in Charleston, WV
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I started work this week at the new Packers Plus facility in Charleston, WV. Since the builders are putting the finishing touches on the building, we've spent the last few days getting our tools ready and assembling office furniture.

Late Night Prowlers

2008-10-26T22:17:00.002-04:00

Raccoons
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

After three weeks in Arkansas, and three days at Camp Dawson for training, I finally got a chance to kick back, relax, and spend a quiet evening at home... or so I thought.

During a handful of times during the evening, our dogs Luka and Molly kept barking at the front door. Occasionally a squirrel or stray cat will catch their attention and fits of barking will naturally follow. But this time they just wouldn't give up.

Upon further inspection, I came across these two scoundrels. They had made their way onto the porch in search of some fresh bird seed and ears of dried corn I had stuck out a few hours earlier.

Most of the raccoons that make their way across the porch usually scatter fast once the dogs hit the scene, but these young ones just huddled in one corner, afraid to make a move until the coast was clear.

I guess I'm going to have to come up with a squirrel/raccoon proof way of feeding the birds... or just be content at feeding every living creature in the neighborhood.

Deer Racks on Front Porch

2008-10-23T22:11:00.002-04:00

Deer Racks on Front Porch
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I just flew in from Arkansas this evening, finishing up my three weeks of training with Packers Plus. To say the least, it's good to be home.

My stay in Arkansas was busy, with not much to do other than train for my new job, but I did have time to squeeze off a few pics.

This image is the front porch of the infamous Bob Tom. I'll post a few more pics from my trip in the days to come, but right now it's off to bed because I've got Guard drill this weekend.

Atlanta Airport

2008-10-23T12:48:00.001-04:00

Atlanta Airport
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Almost home... I've got a three hour layover in Atlanta, so I should be home by 4:30 this evening.

J.P. McGarrell

2008-10-19T12:56:00.001-04:00

J.P. McGarrell
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

This is my friend J.P. McGarrell. He's been training us here at the Packers Plus facility in Conway, Arkansas helping us get ready to open the Charleston, West Virginia shop.

Payton Creek Catfish House

2008-10-15T20:07:00.001-04:00

Payton Creek Catfish House
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Wednesday night dinner in Conway, Arkansas.

Packers, Packers and More Packers

2008-10-09T21:57:00.002-04:00

Packers
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Palates of packers waiting to be rebuilt and assembled into systems.

Packers Plus Facility - Conway, Arkansas

2008-10-06T22:01:00.003-04:00

Packers Plus Facility - Conway, Arkansas
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

This is where I'll be working and training for the next three weeks.

Waxing Crescent Moon

2008-10-05T23:33:00.002-04:00

Waxing Crescent Moon
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

What a cool moon tonight, with its orange glow. I caught it just a few minutes before it disappeared behind the treeline.

Now it's off to bed. I'm starting my new job tomorrow - so it's off to Conway, Arkansas for three weeks of training.

Welfare and Silver Linings

2008-10-05T23:27:00.003-04:00

Phillips St. Fire
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I've had a cold for the past few days, and have generally felt like warm crap. I went to bed early last night, in hopes of slipping into a light coma and getting some peace and quiet, but was awoken at around 2AM or so by my wife when she arrived home from work. Upon my wakening, she told me that the rental house adjacent to us was ablaze, and that I might what to get out of bed and watch the spectacle.

Now, I'm not normally one for goose-necking, but I just had to watch the fiasco unfold. This house has a long history you see, one that has led to nothing for us (and most of the neighbors) other than pain and frustration.

The house has been a rental unit for some time now, and is owned by a pretty fair character. I've only met him a couple of times, but he's been very personable and friendly enough to allow us to park on his property and use it for access to ours. Unfortunately, he lives out of the Charleston area, and doesn't get to see the day to day welfare madness that we have to put up with.

We've lived here on Byng for about five years now, and have seen at least a half dozen different idiots (everything from goofy teenage skateboarder punks to full blown Chicago drug dealers) roll in and out of the blue rental hut like a strong breeze. They've all left nothing but a wake of unpaid bills and pissed off neighbors in their wake - the typical migratory hillbilly family.

I could tell from day one that this last family that moved into the house was going to be a real pack of winners. During my first conversation with them, they proceeded to tell me of their last living situation in St. Albans and how horrible everybody had treated them, looking for my sympathy and understanding. Having seen this act of paranoia and desperation before, I assured them that I really didn't care, but expected that if they were good to me, they'd see kindness in return.

It didn't take more than a couple of weeks for all the hillbilly fun to begin. Lot's of fighting and slammed doors at the wee hours of the morning, spinning tires and sundry of other redneck annoyances. At least there didn't seem any drug trafficking this time around, which was about the only silver lining in regards to this most recent pack of mouth breathers.

Within the first month all communication ties were severed, and we generally tried to not even look in a northerly direction at the blue rental hut that has caused us such grief. I've dealt with idiots like this before, and knew the best course of action is no action at all - just leave them the hell alone to wallow in misery and debt. To intervene or take action would only lead to slashed tires or missing property.

But, one thing that we have grown accustomed to is the waxing and waning phases of renters. We knew that they too would one day move under a cloud of disgust, and yesterday was that day.

Sadly though, a fire mysteriously broke out in the house just after they left. I'm by no means casting blame - only pointing out convenient timing - and the fact that it looked like somebody set a sofa in the basement on fire.

Anyhow, I wish the property owner the best. I hope that he fixes it up as he's often mentioned, and maybe, just maybe.... actually gets some half way decent renter this time around - one that pays on time and leaves us the hell alone.

Frosty Brew for a Hard Days Work

2008-10-04T20:42:00.002-04:00

Frosty brew for a hard days work
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

My brother Steve and I joined Timmy, Autumn and Dean for a bite to eat and a few frosty beverages after a hard days work.

Maybe Next Time

2008-09-30T22:19:00.002-04:00

Chickadee
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Most of my days behind the camera may not be monumental by any standard, but they are usually good days regardless. I may not always get the shot I pictured in my head, but I'll at least get something that makes my efforts worthwhile.

Unfortunately, today I blew it, and have nothing to show for my efforts other than knowledge that I blew it. I found a great pokeberry that some birds were feeding on and decided to stake it out with high hopes of getting a good shot. Within minutes of getting into position, my mind wondered off to other things, and noticed only too late that a little yellow warbler had snuck in under my radar and was making his rounds all over the pokeberry. By the time I drew the bird into frame he had made his way to another part of the plant and the shot was gone. I had missed a fantastic shot. The blood red pokeberries in contrast to the yellowest of all warblers.... what a drag.

Extreme frustration doesn't even begin to sum up how I felt. A golden opportunity had passed me by, and may not come again for quite some time. I staked out the pokeberry for two more hours, without a single bird coming into frame.

Oh well, at least I was able to pull a decent shot out of my butt yesterday with the chickadee pictured above. I put out some fresh seed the other day, and the chickadee's made little time in taking advantage of the fresh bounty.

An Excuse for Yard Work

2008-09-29T21:41:00.003-04:00

Goldfinch
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I've been a bit behind on my yard work. Well... actually, way behind is a bit more accurate. I've just had so much going on as of late, yard work has taken a back seat to several other projects.

But, yesterday I found a tremendous excuse for letting my yard slip in to the third level of gardening hell - making a bird habitat. The floundering economy has already taken a big bite out of my home value... so, why not let a few extra weeds polish off what little value is left?

This little goldfinch and several of her friends made a meal out of the weeds in my garden. After watching her munch away on some seeds, I didn't feel so bad that I had let my yard disappear beneath a blanket of weeds.

Sunday Walk in the Woods

2008-09-28T20:37:00.002-04:00

Spider
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Today's walk was a little on the wet side, but still a fantastic day to be in the woods. Fall is by far my favorite time of the year.

I came across this creepy crawly critter along a fence line on Nelle Chilton's property. It's orange body glowed against a background of changing fall colors.

The Art of Camouflage - and Persistance

2008-09-28T20:18:00.002-04:00

Toad
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Every so often, I help out the WVARNG Honor Guard with funeral details. This past week was really busy, and I ended up participating in seven funerals.

Several of those funerals were at Cunningham Memorial Park in Saint Albans. During one of services earlier in the week I noticed this toad precariously perched about five feet off the ground on a stone wall. I'm sure that getting into that position was no easy task.

The most amazing thing of all though was his absolutely perfect camouflage. His coloration was that of the concrete fill between the stones, and he matched it ever so well, even right down to the small black and grey spots of lichen between the blocks.

Due to the timing of the service, I was unable to take any pictures, but three days later, I was back at Cunningham for another funeral. To my amazement, our intrepid climbing toad hadn't budged an inch. He was in the exact same placement that he was days earlier, sitting as stone like as the wall upon which he was perched.

Naturally, I couldn't resist taking a few pics this time. After the funeral procession left I made my way over to the wall and snapped off several frames, this particular one being my favorite.

Ornamental Grass in Fall

2008-09-25T21:48:00.002-04:00

Ornamental Grass
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I've had a thing for ornamental grasses for some time now. I just love the shapes, lines and textures.

You Just Gotta Love Fall

2008-09-24T22:22:00.002-04:00

Blue Jay
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

To say the least, I'm ecstatic that fall has arrived. Cooler temps, warmer colors... a photographers dream come true.

This Blue Jay was digging for bugs on a dead tree. The low level evening lighting, combined with the turning fall leaves sits in stark contrast to our Jay, making the image really pop.

Something Mayfly This Way Comes

2008-09-17T19:53:00.002-04:00

Mayfly
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I was a bit of a bum today, and tried to make the best of things by spending a little time cleaning up around the house. Unfortunately (for the housework that is) I stumbled upon this huge Mayfly just outside the first window I started to clean.

Within only a matter of seconds, I had dropped my Windex and paper towels, turning to photography instead of the task at hand.

The lighting coming through the window was intense, and I loved the way it filtered through the Mayfly's translucent wings. I stepped quickly into the office and grabbed a sheet of white paper for a backdrop, and immediately was in awe of the perfect shadow that lay beneath the insect.

After several (hundred) frames, I felt that I had at least a few good images to pour over, and then the tedious task of image selection and editing began. I had several strong images from the shoot, but feel that this particular shot really combines many of the images I had in my head before I snapped the first frame.

Low Level Evening Lighting

2008-09-17T19:43:00.003-04:00

Dhania
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

Dhania and I took a trip out to the folks house this evening for a stroll and a breath of fresh air. As she was running through the fields, I noticed that lovely low level lighting that only the evening sky can produce.

My first round of snaps weren't so impressive, so I talked her into doing a few more laps around the field for me so I could get the perfect shot.

Black-capped Chickadee (Parus atricapillus)

2008-09-16T13:02:00.002-04:00

Black-capped Chickadee (Parus atricapillus)
Originally uploaded by Jason Means

I ventured out to visit my folks yesterday afternoon, with high hopes of strolling around the road to stretch my legs and ease my mind. But, the heat and humidity beat me down, so I decided to hang out for a while around my dad's bird feeders.

The overall number of birds is dwindling with the end of summer upon us, but there are still a few that make their way to the feeders, which is plenty enough for me.