PAM LAING
Birder & Photographer
Western Tanager male, a spectacular summer visitor
About me |
The Okanagan Valley is in south central British Columbia in the west of Canada, roughly half way between Vancouver and Calgary. Since 1998 I have lived here, near or in Kelowna, the largest city in the valley, located half way between Vernon, at the north end of Okanagan Lake, and Penticton at its south end. The lake is 135 km long and between 4 and 5 km wide.
I have had a lifelong interest in the natural world. Wild flowers, wildlife and especially birds have always been important to me. Now birding has become a passion! In 2004 I began to photograph birds using a small digital camera. While birding remains my main interest, photography has enhanced my enjoyment and enriched my knowledge of what I am seeing. Sometimes a photograph shows me something about a bird which I have not previously been aware of, often a feature not visible with the naked eye or through binoculars. I enjoy the challenge of bird photography. And I enjoy sharing my photographs through presentations to community groups. It has been said that the best way to learn about something is to explain it to someone else. This is my experience. I learn so much when I am preparing a presentation, and I enjoy that too. The camera may have changed over the years but the challenges - and the rewards - are ongoing. |
