Carnegie Lake Waterfowl

Carnegie Lake is home to a vibrant and diverse population of waterfowl.

Between the boats racing on Carnegie Lake, I used the Fujinon XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R OIS LM WR to photograph some of the wildlife in the immediate area.

Carnegie Lake is home to a vibrant and diverse population of waterfowl. It serves as a haven for graceful waterbirds, from graceful swans gracefully gliding across the water's surface to the antics of ducks, geese, and herons. The soothing melodies of birdsong echoed through the air.

Saturday 22 April 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 at 1500 sec, ISO 320 · XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR at 484.5 mm at f/7.1
Saturday 22 April 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 at 1500 sec, ISO 1250 · XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR at 327.6 mm at f/7.1
Saturday 22 April 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 at 1500 sec, ISO 250 · XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR at 600 mm at f/8.0

Red-winged Blackbird

I was standing there, checking out the races happening on the canal, when I heard a rustling in the leaves nearby.

As I stood watching the races taking place on the canal, a rustling in the leaves of the tree next to me caught my attention. I instinctively looked up, seeing two red-winged blackbirds. What luck!

After the disappointment of the bird walk in Cape May, this unexpected opportunity felt like a gift. And the best part? I didn't have to make a two-hour trip away from my home.

I captured several photographs of the bird closest to me, then allowed myself to be fully present, watching their playful antics.

Saturday 22 April 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 at 1500 sec, ISO 800 · XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR at 600 mm at f/8.0

Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail

Bhavna and the kids, and I have often taken peaceful strolls along the canal between Rocky Hill and Kingston. Kingston's section of the Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Trail offers an easy way to get fresh air and exercise while enjoying the area's natural beauty.

Kingston's section of the Delaware and Raritan Canal Park Trail offers an easy way to get some fresh air and exercise while enjoying the area's natural beauty. The historic trail spans approximately 70 miles and provides a serene and scenic respite for outdoor enthusiasts. Beginning in the historic village of Kingston, the trail takes walkers along the historic Delaware and Raritan Canal, which once served as a vital transportation route between Philadelphia and New York City.

Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail
Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail · Saturday 22 April 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR

Lush trees line the trail, offering shade and a sense of tranquillity. The trail meanders along the canal's curves with calm waters that enhance the surrounding scenery. Along the trail, visitors can observe a variety of flora and fauna, from wildflowers and trees to diverse bird species and small woodland creatures such as turtles and snakes.

Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail
Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail · Saturday 22 April 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR
Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail
Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail · Saturday 22 April 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR

The trail itself is well-maintained and offers a smooth surface, making it accessible for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and even equestrians. Benches and picnic areas are strategically placed along the trail, inviting you to pause, rest, and immerse yourself in the surroundings.

Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail
Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail · Saturday 22 April 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR

Bhavna, the kids, and I have often taken peaceful strolls along the Rocky Hill and Kingston section of the canal. I never seem to tire of photographing the various sections of the canal.

Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail
Delaware & Raritan Canal Parl Trail · Saturday 22 April 2023 · FujiFilm X-T3 · XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR

After completing my morning photography of the Princeton University crew races, I turned back toward the trailhead to return to the car. I followed the now sun-kissed trail and marvelled at the ever-changing scenery. The canal, adorned with blooming lily pads and delicate water irises, mirrored the near-cloudless sky, creating a mesmerising symphony of blues. Occasionally, a graceful turtle would leisurely slide off a sunlit log into the water.

Along the way, I encountered fellow nature enthusiasts, exchanging warm smiles and words of appreciation for the beauty surrounding them.