When I walk around the neighborhood, I take my camera. If I don’t, I’m sure to see a roadrunner, hawk, or merlin. I don’t know if there is ONE best photography tip, but this one is on my short list: Be Ready. Ready means camera in hand, on, lens cap off.

Four years ago tomorrow, I saw this hummingbird hovering just above a claret cup cactus, as I rounded a corner close to home. Imagine me standing in the middle of the street, stopping the dog in his tracks as I juggle leash and camera, frantic that I will miss this great shot, trying not to think of the cars that frequently roar around corners blindly. Fortunately for me, this was one patient hummingbird.

On the other hand, I’ve missed a lot of great shots over the years, ready or not. And taken plenty of crappy shots with all the time in the world. I’m grateful for what I see. mjh

PS: Now, I wear a carabiner to hold the leash, so both hands are free. And the dog has learned to stop on a dime. Luke is a good photo-dog, as was Lucky before him.