I am wondering if anyone can explain what happened with my photos of the 2024 eclipse. Here's the setup.

I was near the center of the path of totality. There were a few high, very thin clouds, but the view was pretty much clear and unobstructed for the entire time.

These pictures were taken with a Nikon D5500 with Nikon 18-55mm zoon, set to 55mm.
Focus set to infinity.
Solar filter was installed.
Exposure was manual (I think F8, 1/30 sec, ISO 800).
Pix taken every 1 minute via remote shutter release.

I also had a Nikon D5100 with a Sigma 600mm reflector lens. Same exposure settings. Solar filter installed. Pix taken every 1 minute using an intervalometer.

The D5100/600mm took decent (although overexposed!) photos. You can plainly see the eclipse progression from beginning to end of the partial.

The D5500 only took pictures of a round image - no eclipse change noted, other than position. Just a round dot.
I know that the setup should have worked because I could see a difference when I moved my hand in front of the lens (using LiveView).

I've also checked the D5500 since then to see if there was any kind of damage to the sensor - everything looks fine.

I would like to understand what happened to cause every image to be the same dot.

Over the years, working with one client has given me several fringe benefits. The first came when I shared the opportunity to photograph the cats. Today, as I pulled into the drive, I saw that the mom had gone into full gardening mode and had plants sitting in their pots ready to be planted. This mom goes all out in everything she does! You should see her place at Christmas. Nothing goes undecorated, not even her animals. So I was excited to see she was going to garden again.

So, I decided to get a jump start and took a few shots. Can't wait to see the garden in full bloom!

This is a relatively new subject for me, so you flower perfectionists, I ask that you remember when you first started

I hope you enjoy my attempts!

I am trying to explore my options for flowers, so I tried Home Depot. It was a very sunny day with some wind. I went inside, and it was slightly better, but sometimes they were crammed together!

I wasn't satisfied with the last flower post, so I thought I would try again! I went to two other places, so all I can do is keep practicing!

I hope you enjoy this journey and process! Still, see soft focus sometimes!

Being a work in progress isn't always fun!

Feedback is welcomed!

Read this whole article about Vincent Dransfield who lives in Little Falls, New Jersey. What a story. To look at him and listen to what his life is like at 110 years. I wanted to post this last night, but I just could not decided what to post it with the correct words. If you read this man's post you will understand. I wish I could meet this Gentleman one time and listen and talk to him for just one day.



https://www.aol.com/news/man-110-still-drives-car-234745762.html

It’s not just Jews who have to worry about attacks. The headlines have been full of reports of individuals committing acts of violence against blacks, Hispanics, Asians, and many times just people in general. A common theme is the person committing these acts have been bullied or have very low self esteem. Most know they will probably die when law enforcement arrives but they know the media will make every effort to identify them and research their entire life. Thus they become, in a sick way, famous and no longer the losers they were before. I attend a very small Methodist church in a rural area. I am licensed for concealed carry and have been bringing a firearm to our services just in case. These are sad times.