Never underestimate!

[Buddy4344]

Just a little story to remind us to never judge a book by the cover. I was cruising through a low income area of town when I saw some unique sunflowers. I pulled over, pulled out my camera, qucikly put on a macro and started snapping shots.

To my surprise, a gold finch landed on a sunflower head as I was setting up. Flustered that I was set on timer at a small f stop etc., I shot what I could as quickly as I could. Nerves are now rattled.

There is a tap on my shoulder. Next to me stands a poorly dressed individual that had the appearance of someone living on the street. As I gathered myself thinking I was about to be panhandled for money, the man spoke as follows: "Was that a 100mm macro you were using on that shot and what aperature were you using when the finch flew in?"
This guy new photography. I am a bit ashamed to admit I presumed much less capability in the gentleman. LESSON LEARNED.

BTW, the bird shots are fair but not as sharp as I had dreamed. This was a killer photo chance I blew.

[Old Jim]

Excellent story Buddy. I think each of us tend to judge at times. I know I am guilty of it but try not to be. I also believe you gained more than you lost. Did you get a pic of the stranger?

Jim

[Buddy4344]

You know, I was just too stunned to think to do that at that moment. When I got back into my car to leave, I thought how he would have been a great character study and probably would not have minded me shooting him. Another loss for me!

I agree that my lesson learned was more valuable than any photo I could have taken that day.