Hoodies
Description: "Colton's Gate at Dover Castle" Walking through this gate leads towards the Great Tower of Henry II, and on to Mary of Castro's Church, and the Pharos Lighthouse. This impressive octagonal gate-tower dates from the 13th century; the upper part was altered in the late 15th century, per the placard. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260717-DSC_4909 AI Alt Text: A tall stone castle ruin stands under a bright blue sky. The path leading to the castle is surrounded by greenery and wildflowers. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: " Peverell's Tower and Gateway" There are many gates and towers within Dover Castle. Peverell's Tower is a 13th-century structure originally built by Henry II as a defensive feature. It is located within the castle's western defenses and has historical significance, having served various purposes over the centuries. At one time it was even a prison; today it sleeps two in great comfort if you can work with the fixed schedule offered. Unfortunately, the date structure did not work for us. Peverell's Gate is part of the outer curtain wall of Dover Castle, which has been a key defensive site throughout history. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260717-DSC_4903
Description: "View of Dover from the Castle" The castle wall here, seen in the foreground, was lowered in the 18th century as a firing position for infantry. Today, it provides a view of Dover and the town's fortifications. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2026-07-17-DSC_4876 AI Alt Text: A scenic view of a town nestled between green hills and the ocean. The foreground features a lush meadow, leading to a harbor with boats. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Constable's Gateway Entrance to Dover Castle" This is one of two visitor entrances to the castle, known as Constable's Gateway, located at the uppermost level. The castle looms over the harbor from a site above the White Cliffs of Dover, which can be seen from most anywhere in town. It isn't just a castle; it's a massive complex of fortifications dating back to Roman times that includes not only strongholds but secret underground tunnels. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260717-DSC_4823 . AI Alt Text: A grand stone castle stands under a cloudy sky, with a sturdy entrance bridge leading to the main entrance. The structure features tall towers and ivy-covered walls. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Approaching Dover Castle" Walking the incline to the upper-level entrance of the castle. It looked like rain might be coming, but luckily the gray, cloudy sky soon turned blue as we began our exploration of the interior grounds. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260717-DSC_4816-Edit.tif A grand castle stands majestically on a grassy slope under a cloudy sky. The aged stone walls and surrounding greenery create a picturesque scene.
Description: "Lark Sparrow on a Country Road Post" I often like to drive the rural roads in search of birds, and I am often successful in finding at least a few that are perched. It was early May, yet without the normal Spring rains, the remains of winter twigs surrounded the old wooden post where the Lark Sparrow was taking a break on this back road in North Oklahoma. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260509_DSC4546 AI Alt Text: A small bird perches on a wooden post amidst dry, slender twigs. The background is a clear, light sky, enhancing the scene's tranquility. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Gliding Into A New Day In Oklahoma" It was my birthday, and what did I want to do? Get up before dawn, chase the early-morning colors around the lake, take in the beauty of the new day, and of course, wait for the sun to make its appearance later. Photographed at the Great Salt Plains State Park Lake in northern Oklahoma. The area is known as Sandy Beach, with views of the earthen dam rising to the horizon where the full sun would soon appear. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260509-DSC_4231 AI Alt Text: Two birds glide across a serene lake during sunset. The sky is a gradient of warm colors, reflecting beautifully on the calm water. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Stillness of Early Morning Oklahoma" I waited at the lakefront for sunrise; before the sun cleared the horizon, the sky erupted in ribbons of pink and blue that mirrored on the still, glassy water. The only sounds were of the distant birds beginning their day. This is the Great Salt Plains Lake in northern Oklahoma, and the white strip in the distance shows where the lake meets the salt flats. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260509-DSC_4213 AI Alt Text: A serene lake reflects the soft hues of a sunrise sky. Reeds gently sway at the water's edge, adding a touch of greenery to the tranquil scene. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Spotted Sandpiper Walking the Shoreline" Enjoyed watching this sandpiper in breeding plumage as it teetered along the shoreline, a motion they are known for. Photographed at the Great Salt Plains Lake in Northern Oklahoma in mid-April. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260419_DSC3257 AI Alt Text: A small bird with speckled feathers walks along the shoreline. The gentle waves create a serene backdrop as sunlight reflects off the water. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Dawn on South Padre" The sky was black when I started my day on the condo balcony. As the first rays of light began to pierce the darkness, the sky shifted through a range of colors. There were just enough clouds for the light of dawn to paint the sky around the blue opening. It was a beautiful start to another day on South Padre Island, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260404-DSC_3856 AI Alt Text: A breathtaking sunrise over the ocean, with vibrant hues of orange and pink painting the sky. The calm waters reflect the colorful sky in a serene moment. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Brown Pelican Gliding Over Water" I had been watching this Pelican fish in the canal behind my house, and after a while it just drifted around on the water. Thankfully, I had my camera ready when it took off, and the evening light colored its wingtips gold! Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20160130-DSC_1712 AI Alt Text: A pelican is captured mid-flight, elegantly skimming over the water's surface. The sunlight accentuates its feathers and the gentle ripples below. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Two Harbors Lighthouse Minnesota" One of several lighthouses we discovered while driving the North Shore Highway of Lake Superior in Minnesota. Two Harbors Light is the oldest operating lighthouse in the US state of Minnesota, overlooking Lake Superior's Agate Bay. The construction of the lighthouse began in 1891 and was completed with the light first lit on April 14, 1892. The lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on July 19, 1984 Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20250810-DSC_3173 AI Alt Text: A red lighthouse stands prominently against a blue sky, with an American flag fluttering nearby. The scene is surrounded by lush greenery and trees. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Wading Ibis in Wetlands" A White Ibis foraging in the early morning light. Captured from the boardwalk over the wetlands of Charlie’s Pasture Preserve in Port Aransas, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20251017-DSC_9175 AI Alt Text: A striking white ibis is seen wading through shallow water, surrounded by lush green reeds. The bird's reflection adds depth to the image. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Solitary Yellow Daisy" Out walking trails and birdwatching in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas when I spotted this yellow flower growing at a diagonal. So many similar flowers, but it might be a Golden Crownbeard, AKA Cowpen Daisy. Photographed in the Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park near Mission, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327-_DSC1552 AI Alt Text: A bright yellow flower is captured against a dark, blurred background. Its petals are fully open, revealing a textured center. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Green Jay at Bentsen Rio Grande" One of my favorite birds to find when birdwatching in South Texas is the beautifully colored Green Jay. Here, it seems to have noticed me. Photographed at the Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park near Mission, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327-_DSC1435.NEF AI Text: A vibrant bird with striking blue and green plumage perches on a thorny branch. The sunlight highlights its colorful feathers amidst a backdrop of green foliage.
Description: "Mangrove Warbler At Home" ...in the Mangroves. This little one was flitting all about within the large stand of Mangroves. I would find him and lose him, repeat. Then at last I had my camera on him as he flew above the Mangroves, into the air, made a wide circle, and darted right back into the trees. I was thrilled to get this shot as it then flitted deeper into the greenery. Photographed from a mudflat by the causeway leading onto South Padre Island, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260401_DSC2388
Description: "Duck Foraging in Wetland" Photographed this Mottled Duck foraging in the Water Hyssop near a boardwalk on South Padre Island, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC2081 AI Alt Text: A duck is seen foraging among lush green plants in a wetland. The vibrant scene is captured with clear water reflections, highlighting the natural setting. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Sunrise Blanketed By Clouds" It was April Fool's Day, and I headed to the beach to catch the sunrise, but the prank felt like it was on me. A stretch of dark, ominous clouds cloaked the horizon, obscuring the sun. Slowly the sky shifted colors, and at last the sun pushed above the cloud bank and made its grand entrance. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260401-DSC_3820
Description: "Black-bellied Whistling-Duck Close-Up" Photographed on South Padre Island, Texas, this Black-bellied Whistling-Duck gave me an unusually close look at its distinctive face and colorful bill. The warm morning light brought out the subtle details in its plumage and bright eye, while the darker water created a beautiful, natural backdrop. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC1993
Description: “Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth Minnesota” Duluth’s Aerial Lift Bridge is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—only Lake Superior tops it, according to the visitors center. Standing 138 feet and stretching 390 feet, the steel span crosses the Duluth Ship Canal, linking Park Point’s sandbar to the city. Its lifting system raises the deck to 135 feet to let massive ships pass. It was impressive to watch it lift to various heights depending on the size of each vessel. Here, the Vista Star tour boat passes under the bridge. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20250810-DSC_3145
Description: "Duluth Harbor North Pier Light" This lighthouse is located on the north breakwater of the Duluth Ship Canal in Duluth, Minnesota. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2016. I transformed my original photograph with a subtle painterly effect, creating photo art while preserving the scene I experienced. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20250810-DSC_3118
Description: "Duluth South Breakwater Outer Light" The lighthouse has quite a history spanning from the 1800s to current times. It has had many different lenses and foghorn sounds, some of which were controversial, causing rounds of noise complaints. Today, the light continues in service, displaying a fixed green light. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2016 for its local significance in engineering, maritime history, and transportation. I transformed my original photograph with a painterly effect, creating photo art while preserving the scene I experienced at the ship canal in Duluth, Minnesota. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2025-08-10-DSC_3129 AI Alt Text: A solitary lighthouse stands against a vibrant bl
Description: "Great Kiskadee in a Rain Puddle" It was Springtime in Texas, and rather hot and humid after a rain shower. The birds didn't mind, though; they actually enjoyed the fresh water. Some were drinking, some were splashing, and some simply enjoyed cooling their feet! Great Kiskadee photographed at Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park in South Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1414 AI Alt Text: A small bird with a striking yellow breast stands on wet ground. Sunlight filters through leaves, creating a dappled effect on the scene. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Hotel Donaldson Fargo ND" I knew nothing about this hotel when I photographed this sign; it just caught my eye. What I learned later: Originally built in 1893 by the Odd Fellows Lodge after a fire destroyed much of downtown Fargo. In the mid-1900s, it became a hotel and went through many owners over time. Around 2000, the hotel, which was in great disrepair, was bought once again by another owner; renovations began to bring it back to life, and it was reborn as a modern luxury boutique. I transformed my original photograph with a subtle painterly effect, creating photo art while preserving the scene I experienced. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20250809_0644 AI Alt Text: A vintage neon sign reading 'Hotel Donaldson' is
Description: “Fargo ND Theater” The Fargo theater opened in 1926, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in March 2026 held its 100th-year celebration. This iconic venue, located in the heart of downtown Fargo, is known for its beautiful Art Deco design, which has been meticulously restored. Originally part of a vast vaudeville network, linking small towns to larger cities. Today, it hosts independent films, live concerts, comedy shows, and community events. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2025-08-09_0657
Description: "Cormorant Resting on a Wooden Post" I spotted this Neotropic Cormorant perched on a wooden post in the waters of the Laguna Madre. Its colorful eye was shining in the morning light, a beautiful contrast to its dark feathers. Photographed from a boardwalk in South Padre Island, Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC1863 AI Alt Text: A cormorant perches serenely on a marine post, its feathers gleaming in the sunlight. The background features gently rippling water. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Sparrow Bathing In A Puddle" It was Springtime in Texas, and rather hot and humid after a rain shower. The birds didn't mind, though; they actually enjoyed the fresh water. Some were drinking, some were splashing, and some simply enjoyed cooling their feet! Lincoln Sparrow photographed in the Bentsen Rio Grande State Park in South Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2026-03-27-_DSC1380
Description: "Northern Cardinal in a Rain Puddle" It was Springtime in Texas, and rather hot and humid after a rain shower. The birds didn't mind, though; they actually enjoyed the fresh water. Some were drinking, some were splashing, and some simply enjoyed cooling their feet! Photographed in the Bentsen Rio Grande State Park in South Texas. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2026-03-27-_DSC1373 AI Alt Text: A striking red cardinal stands beside a small stream, casting a clear reflection in the water. The sunlight highlights the bird's vivid plumage against the earthy background. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Aegean Dream Tanker at Port Aransas Texas" The Aegean Dream is a large crude oil tanker owned by Arcadia Shipmanagement, a Greek company, while "Arcadia Hellas" refers to the company itself. I'm always on the lookout for ships in the port when I'm birdwatching at Charlie's Pasture Preserve in Port Aransas, Texas. They almost appear to be more on land than in the ship channel, which ends in Corpus Christi, where they load. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Coastal" 20251016-DSC_9050
Description: The public art sculpture on the Norwood Bridge in Winnipeg, Canada, is titled River Arch and was created by artist Catherine Widgery. While the top of the two tall columns resembled glowing flames to me from a distance, I discovered the design actually depicts golden sheaves of wheat, for the agricultural abundance and history of the Canadian Prairies. I transformed my original photograph with a subtle painterly effect, creating photo art while preserving the scene, and then converted it to black and white. Photo Art Copyright Debra Martz 20250808_0625
Description: View through what was one of the three front doors of the Saint Boniface Cathedral. On July 22, 1968, the cathedral was damaged by a fire that destroyed many of the structure's features and contents, including the rose window, vestments, 1860 bells, and parish records. Only the facade and the walls of the old church remained. Located in the heart of the French Quarter (St. Boniface) in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20250808-DSC_3061 AI Alt Text: A view through a stone archway reveals a lush green park with a single street lamp lining the path. The cityscape in the background hints at urban life beyond. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: On July 22, 1968, the cathedral was damaged by a fire that destroyed many of the structure's features and contents, including the rose window, vestments, 1860 bells, and parish records. Only the facade and the walls of the old church remained. In 1972, a new, smaller cathedral was built incorporating the back wall, which was directly behind where I stood to take this photograph. Located in the heart of the French Quarter (St. Boniface) in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved
Description: I captured this Great Blue Heron as it looked for a place to land among all the resting ducks. So many birds to see when birdwatching from the nearly one-mile boardwalk at the South Padre Island Nature Center. The boardwalk goes over brackish water and on out to the Laguna Madre, all areas have great habitat with tall grasses, reeds, and Mangroves. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260402-_DSC2771 AI Alt Text: A heron gracefully flies above a tranquil wetland, its wings fully extended. Ducks rest on the shore with lush greenery in the background. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: While walking from the parking lot to The Forks in Winnipeg, this vintage railcar immediately caught my eye. The colorful piano-key walkway leading alongside the train created a fun contrast with the historic railway car, while dark summer clouds rolled in overhead. I paused long enough to capture the scene before heading back to the car to grab an umbrella. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20250808_0551 AI Alt Text: A vintage red train car is showcased along a colorful walkway resembling piano keys. The scene is set against a cloudy sky, adding contrast. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Canadian Museum for Human Rights Photo Art" While exploring Winnipeg, I couldn't resist photographing the striking curves of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights beneath an approaching summer storm. I later transformed my photograph with a subtle oil-painting effect on a textured canvas, creating photo art that highlights both the museum's modern architecture and the dramatic sky. Copyright Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20250808-I_0549 AI Alt Text: A unique building features a spiraling design made of glass and steel. The structure stands against a backdrop of dense clouds and lush greenery.
