Last November, Debbie announced that James Shadle had donated 2 of his workshops for a contest for PM'ers. I carefully picked what I thought was one of my better images, submitted it and then forgot about it. Later that February, I received an email from Debbie telling me to "Pack your bags!" I was going to Florida. Needless to say I was very excited!

The emails started flying between Debbie, James and I. I know I asked James hundreds of questions about which of his trips to take advantage of. He patiently made valuable recommendations. I decided on a rookery trip in April. James even asked if I was heading down early so he could take me to some other areas of his beautiful state to photograph.

James is a great host, in person and over the phone. He makes you feel welcome and is very interested in getting the images you want. He has a great sense of humor and shares his photographic and nature based knowledge in an easy, comfortable manner. I knew this before I crossed the Florida state line. Needless to say we had a blast!!

When I arrived in Florida, I called James and he gave me directions to the next mornings spoonbill shoot and shared some other nearby locations to check out on my own. That afternoon was fun, but the next day was even better!!

We arrived early with 3 other photographers. The birds were very active and James took great care in keeping us at a proper distance so as not to disturb the birds. Ibis, great blue herons, oystercatchers, and yes, spoonbills, in their beautiful breeding colors!! James is truly a gifted photographer and generous teacher. The morning was amazing and shutters clicked continuously. Later that afternoon, it was just James and I with more birds and a brilliant sunset.

The next morning I was on my own and took a tour of some natural areas near my camp. Florida has numerous locations to take nature based images. A bit later, around 11:00, I met James and his party, including Artie Morris, at the boat ramp for some lunch. The conversation was interesting and informative as Artie and James shared their awesome images. The afternoon continued with another amazing photo experience in the company of James, Artie and few others. The spoonbills were especially cooperative.

The next 2 days were filled with different locations, birds and rookeries. The photographic opportunities were limitless. James' son, Blake, was also on hand and is a great photographer and equally as fun as his dad. It's obviously a family trait. I learned so much and really honed my in-flight photography skills, James is an excellent instructor.

I must say I had the time of my life. I left Florida with new friends and countless images that I am still going through. I try to stay in touch with James and have invited him to Texas where, hopefully, I can return the hospitality. Most of all, I would like to thank PhotoMigrations for having such a wonderful site, host and members and for allowing me to take the trip. I also appreciate James' generosity in donating his workshops. Head on down to Florida, James will treat you right!

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