Description: Beach Walking At Low Tide by Debra Martz We spent a week in Gulf Shores, Alabama right on the beach. Every day was beach-perfect and great for walking several times daily. We stayed in the first condominium seen in the distance, a short cream-colored one. The nice thing about it is every condo has a balcony facing the gulf and one side is void of buildings for a good stretch as it belongs to the state park. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: "Coastal" 20240507_2991-SR.dng A serene beach stretches out towards the horizon, with gentle waves lapping onto the shore. High-rise buildings line the coastline under a partly cloudy sky.
Description: Pier at Gulf State Park Alabama by Debra Martz The pier is owned by the state and is part of the Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama. I found myself walking to this pier daily, sometimes more than once. Artistic finishes have been applied. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: "Coastal" "Alabama - Georgia - South Carolina" "Digital Art Photography" 20240507_2963-Edit.tif A long, sturdy pier extends over clear turquoise waters, with waves gently crashing against its black pillars. The sandy beach glows under a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy white clouds. Photo Art by Debra Martz
Description: Seagull Photobombs the Parasail by Debra Martz I was looking to take a photo of the parasail showing that it did not have passengers...only weights to hold it in place and advertise. But a seagull had a different idea. LOL Photo manipulations were done in Topaz Impressions. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: "Coastal" "Digital Art Photography" 20240507_2930-Edit-SR.dng A colorful parasail drifts high in the sky, tethered to a boat below, while a seagull soars nearby. The scene unfolds over a calm ocean with gentle waves. Photo Art by Debra Martz
Description: Gentle Waves in Motion by Debra Martz A long exposure as the waves gently roll in and out next to the state park pier in Gulf Shores, Alabama. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: "Coastal" 20240507_2950-SR.dng Waves gently wash onto a sandy beach in an appearance of slow motion. The sky is blue with scattered white, puffy clouds. A pier extends into the ocean on the left side of the scene Photography by Debra Martz
Description: Pineapple Fountain Photo Painting by Debra Martz This is one of two fountains located in the Waterfront Park in Charleston, SC. Both fountains are open to wading and splashing "at your own risk"! It is a beautiful park dotted with many benches for resting & relaxing plus walkways shaded by beautiful trees. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: "Digital Art Photography" 202420140507-008-Edit.tif A large pineapple-shaped fountain is positioned at the center with water cascading down in a beautiful park setting. Palm trees and lush green shrubs surround the fountain, set against a clear blue sky with a few clouds.
Description: The Early Morning Beach Setup by Debra Martz Every morning while having my coffee on the balcony, I would wait for the employee to arrive and do this beach setup. The first few days were the same person, arriving at 6:30 and putting out the umbrellas and chairs for daily or weekly rentals. It was impressive to see the different manners in which they would approach putting all the pieces out but more impressive was the large amounts they would carry each time. You cannot tell from this point of view but that sand is very fine and very deep. Not easy just walking through it with one bag/camera let alone with large loads of chairs and umbrellas made of wooden frames and canvas material. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved
Description: Beginning Of A New Day by Debra Martz It was a wonderful way to start the day; view of the sunrise colors painting the sky and water while having coffee on the balcony. Gulf Shores, Alabama in May. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: 'Coastal' 'Alabama - Georgia - South Carolina' 'Sky Sunrise Sunset Clouds' 20240507_2884 Clouds tinged with pink and purple float across a serene sky, while gentle waves lap at a sandy beach beside a distant pier. The scene captures a peaceful seaside sunrise with a blend of calming colors and tranquil waters.
Description: Baby Steps by Debra Martz I was out visiting the local antique shops looking for a teapot for my Mom. But a number of other things kept catching my attention. Someone had bronzed their baby's shoes and mounted them on a tray. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: Digital Art Photography 20230715-baby shoes-Edit-Edit-Edit.tif A pair of worn baby shoes is displayed on a decorative base with the words "Baby Steps" written below them. The background appears to be a wooden structure with a lace doily underneath the base.
Description: Underneath Gulf State Park Pier by Debra Martz The pier is owned by the state of Alabama and is part of the Gulf State Park located in Gulf Shores. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: 'Coastal' 20240506_2830 Underneath a concrete pier, the view stretches out over the ocean, with waves gently lapping at the sandy shore and clouds dotting the blue sky above. Shadows cast by the structure create a pattern on the wet sand, enhancing the serene coastal scene.
Description: Cloudscape Gulf State Park Beach Alabam by Debra Martz The Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama is located both on the beach and north across the street behind the beach. This nice stretch is devoid of any buildings between the last condominium west and the state park's pier to the east. It's a very nice, uncrowded area that is enjoyed by both beach goers and people out to do some salt water fishing away from the other crowded areas. It's also a great spot of the beach for walking and beach combing. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20240506_2810
Description: Bee On Rosemary Blooms by Debra Martz Captured in south Texas on a beautiful February day. Rosemary grows so well in the climate there and stays green year-round. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: "Butterflies Bees Insects" 20242014-02-23_147.dng A bee is collecting nectar from a small, delicate purple flower amidst green foliage of Rosemary. The intricate details of the bee and floral structures are prominently captured. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: Gulf State Park Pier Alabama by Debra Martz Walking toward the state park pier which was damaged by Hurricane Sally in 2020 collasping a 200 foot section, I could see the ongoing work. Toward the end of the pier in the water, the section without railings, is the part that collapsed. Work appeard to be getting to close to their estimated date of completion sometime in the Summer of 2024. I took this photograph on May 6, 2024 on Gulf Shores beach, in Alabama. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: 'Coastal' 20240506_2804 A serene beach scene extends to a long pier reaching into the ocean, with gentle waves lapping against the shore. Puffy clouds fill the bright blue sky, enhancing the calmness
Description: Emerald Water of Gulf Shores Alabama by Debra Martz It was our first day at the beach and I took a long walk. On the way back I stopped to admire the beautiful sky and the colorful water of the Gulf. Center right is where the condominiums start at the edge of the local state park. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: 'Coastal' 'Alabama' 20240506-2024-05-09_2849 Waves gently lap onto a sandy shore under a sky filled with scattered clouds, while a distant skyline of buildings lines the coast. The sea transitions from turquoise near the shore to a deeper blue further out.
Description: High On An Old Treetop by Debra Martz I first liked the simplicity of this with the soft and fluffy clouds straight out of the camera. But sometimes I want a more artistic look so I used digital brushes to add painterly effects. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: 'Digital Art Photography' 20240308-DSC_0790-Edit.tif A bird perches on a weathered tree branch against a backdrop of a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. Digital paintbrushes were used to add the movement and texture of the clouds. The scene evokes a sense of tranquility. Photo Art by Debra Martz
Description: Golden-fronted Woodpecker On A Dead Branch by Debra Martz Image captured along the Chachalac Trail in the Santa Ana NWR in southern Texas. This is the male Golden-fronted Woodpecker as a hint of its red cap is slightly visible. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: Feathered Friends and Digital Art Photography 20240308-DSC_0785-Edit.tif A Golden-fronted Woodpecker perches on a gnarled branch under a sky dotted with fluffy clouds. The serene backdrop enhances the tranquil scene of nature. Photo Art by Debra Martz
Description: Ring Necked Duck Santa Ana NWR Texas by Debra Martz We were getting close to the end of our day hiking the wildlife refuge and were looking for a connecting trail that would lead us back to the parking lot. We had made our way around the Willow Lakes Trail when I looked back and saw this duck. I just had to return to the water's edge for a few more photos. I was surprised to spot the two dragonflies over her head when I was reviewing my pics on the computer. This refuge is located in south Texas and borders the Rio Grande with so many trails that we have yet to complete them all on our many visits over the years. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20240308-DSC_0879.NEF
Description: Great Kiskadee Santa Ana NWR Texas by Debra Martz We were on the Willow Lakes trail and I had been watching the large variety of waterfowl and shorebirds. Then I heard the unmistakable call of the Kiskadee. I looked around the reeds and finally spotted it high in the trees near the water's edge on the opposite side of where I stood. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: 'Feathered Friends' 20240308-DSC_0864.NEF A bird with a yellow belly and brown wings, a Great Kiskadee, perches on a high branch surrounded by lush green leaves. The calm bird is well camouflaged among the foliage as it scans for possible small prey.
Description: Green Jay Posing Pretty by Debra Martz Well, not exactly posing but it did stop for a few seconds before heading back into the deeper woods. Captured along the outer loop trail at the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: Feathered Friends 20240307-DSC_0769.NEF A vibrant bird, a tropical Green Jay, with striking blue, yellow, and green plumage perches on a slender branch amidst lush green foliage. The bird's curious gaze with its head tilted to the side gives it an inquisitive appearance.
Description: Fluffy Colorful Green Jay by Debra Martz One of my favorites when birding in the Rio Grande Valley, is the vibrant colored Green Jay which is found in the tropics but extends its range just into southern Texas. It is a colorful bird that can be quite noisy, yet it becomes challenging to locate when it stays quiet and motionless deep in the trees. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20240307-DSC_0766.NEF
Description: Gulf Fritillary on Blue Mistflower by Debra Martz It was the first week of March and only a few of the flowers on this plant were blooming. But this butterfly zoomed in, landed on, and moved about on a few of them. Captured this image while walking the outer loop trail at the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: 'Butterflies Bees Insects' 20240307-DSC_0759.NEF An orange butterfly with black spots rests on a small purple flower amidst lush green foliage. The background is slightly blurred, emphasizing the butterfly and the flower.
Description: Curve Billed Thrasher by Debra Martz Along the trail was an area of fallen trees of which some had been cut to maintain passage of the trail. This Curve-billed Thrasher spent a minute or so hopping around possibly in search of insects. Location: National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas. Soft smudging and texture have been applied to the piles of tree trunks and limbs to bring more emphasis to the bird. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: 'Feathered Friends' 2024-03-07-DSC_0728-Edit.tif Alt Text: A Curve-billed Thrasher, a bird with a long, curved beak and striking orange eye, perches on a fallen branch. The background is soft and blurred, emphasizing the bird's detailed feathers and
Description: Green Jay In Lush South Texas by Debra Martz It is almost hard to believe that this is the first week of March as lush as the woods are and with flowers blooming. It was the perfect setting to capture the beautiful Green Jay in its favored habitat. This area is just north of the Mexico border in Mission, Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: 'Feathered Friends' 20240307-DSC_0743.NEF Alt Text: A tropical bird, the Green Jay, has a vibrant blue head and green body. It is perched on a tree branch that goes from the left to the right side of the image. The background is lush with green foliage, with some scattered orange flowers.
Description: Chachalaca Profile Portrait by Debra Martz Most of these Plain Chachalacas were deep in the trees along the trail. I was pleasantly pleased when this one emerged and it gave me the opportunity to get this profile portrait. I captured this photo in March in Mission, Texas along the border of Mexico. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: 'Feathered Friends' 20240307-DSC_0720.tif Alt Text: A bird, a Plain Chachalaca, with grayish-brown feathers and a striking red patch on its chin, stands against a blurred green and brown background. The bird's distinct profile and sharp beak are prominently featured. Its head is held high and its eye is bright and wide open.
Description: Chachalaca Pair Deep in the Trees Black and White by Debra Martz I was walking along a trail with dense trees and brush on both sides when I started to hear the calls of birds; very loud birds! If not for the sounds, I might not have spotted this pair of Chachalacas. Seen in Mission, Texas near the border with Mexico. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: 'Feathered Friends' 2024-03-07-DSC_0711-Edit.tif Alt Text: Two birds, Chachalacas, with detailed feathers, are surrounded by dense, leafy branches. The monochromatic palette adds a dramatic and intense atmosphere to the natural scene.
Description: Can You Hear Her Now by Debra Martz I was walking along a trail with dense trees and brush on both sides when I started to hear the calls of birds; very loud birds! If not for the sounds, I might not have spotted this pair of Chachalacas. And I must say, he looks like he's leaning away from her loud vocals! ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: 'Feathered Friends' 20240307-DSC_0712.NEF Alt Text: Two birds, Chachalacas, are perched close to each other in a dense thicket, the female's beak is open as though she is calling out rather loudly. The scene is surrounded by lush green foliage and the birds' feathers blend into the earthy colors of the limbs and branches in the background.
Description: Chachalaca Pair Deep in the Trees by Debra Martz I was walking along a trail with dense trees and brush on both sides when I started to hear the calls of birds; very loud birds! If not for the sounds, I might not have spotted this pair of Chachalacas. Digital textures and brushes used on the foliage surrounding the birds' heads. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: 'Feathered Friends' 'Digital Art Photography' Alt Text: A pair of camouflaged birds blend into their woodland surroundings with their heads peeking inconspicuously amongst leaves and branches. Their brown plumage matches the tones of the forest, helping them stay hidden from potential predators or prey.
Description: Yellow Prickly Poppy by Debra Martz I spotted quite a few of these growing along the edge of the outer loop trail of the National Butterfly Center. Located in Mission, Texas, on the border with Mexico. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: "Flora" 20240307-DSC_0741.NEF Alt Text: A yellow flower with delicate petals stands against a soft green background, its vivid colors drawing attention. Spiky green buds and stems contrast with the flower's softness, hinting at the complex beauty of nature.
Description: Checkered Skipper by Debra Martz I saw many of these darting around on the outer loop trail at the National Butterfly Center in Mission, TX. What little beauties they are! I added an overlay of texture to enhance and brighten the background greenery. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collections: "Butterflies Bees Insects" "Digital Art Photography" 20240307-DSC_0676-Edit.tif Alt Text: A butterfly with a pattern of dark brown and white spots rests on a small, bright yellow flower, surrounded by lush green foliage. The image appears to have a soft focus effect, giving it a dreamy quality, with some motion blur evident in the surrounding leaves.
Description: Checkered White Sulphur Butterfly by Debra Martz I spotted this butterfly walking along the outer nature trail of the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas. The trail leads to a bird-watching area with benches which was my main reason for being there. However, I often stopped to get photos of some of the beautiful butterflies along the way. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: Butterflies Bees Insects 20240307-DSC_0700.NEF Alt Text: A white butterfly with black markings is perched on a green leaf. Its wings are spread open, revealing the distinctive patterns as it likely rests or feeds on the plant.
Description: Water Lily Black and White by Debra Martz Though the National Butterfly Center is less than a mile from the Bentsen Rio Grande Valley State Park, we had never stopped there after our many visits to the state park until this day. The beauty of the place started with a small pond by the parking area with many blooming Water Lilies. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: Flora 20240307-DSC_0667-Edit.tif Alt Text: A black and white photograph captures a single water lily floating gracefully on a dark, rippled, water surface. The lily's petals are spread out symmetrically, creating a delicate contrast against the liquid backdrop.
Description: Water Lily Bloom by Debra Martz Though the National Butterfly Center is less than a mile from the Bentsen Rio Grande Valley State Park, we had never stopped there after our many visits to the state park until this day. The beauty of the place started with a small pond by the parking area with many blooming Water Lilies. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: Flora 20240307-DSC_066.NEF Water Lily Bloom-1 Alt Text: A vibrant pink water lily blooms gracefully on the surface of a tranquil pond, its bright yellow center contrasting beautifully with the petals. Ripples in the water gently distort the reflection of the flower, adding to the sense of peace and natural beauty.
Description: Walter Lilies Photo Art by Debra Martz This image was created from one of my photographs at the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas. First converted to black and white with only slight color remaining and finished with several digital brushes for extra enhancements. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: Digital Art Photography 20240307-DSC_0658-Edit.dng Alt Text: Water lilies bloom serenely on the dark surface of a pond, surrounded by floating leaves that create a contrast against the reflective water. The scene conveys a sense of tranquility and the timeless beauty found in nature. The work is in black and white with hints of color on the water.
Description: Water Lilies by Debra Martz Though the National Butterfly Center is less than a mile from the Bentsen Rio Grande Valley State Park, we have never stopped there after our many visits to the state park until this day. The beauty of the place started with a small pond by the parking area with many blooming Water Lilies. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: "Flora" "Nature" 20240307-DSC_0658.NEF Alt Text: Three pink water lilies are blooming above the surface of a pond with their reflections gently mirrored in the water. Surrounding the flowers are floating green lily pads, contributing to a serene aquatic scene.
Description: Harris Hawk Perched Roadside © Debra Martz The sight of this Harris's Hawk stopped me in my tracks! We were walking the Loop Road in the park when I spotted this beauty! It is not every day that I get so lucky to see and have time to photograph a hawk out in the open just staring back at me! It could have easily been in all those green trees but thankfully it chose to land on this snag! It was the perfect ending photo as we were making our way to the exit. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: Feathered Friends 20240307-DSC_0627.NEF
Description: Who ME by Debra Martz I have to admit that when I saw this expression on the turkey's face, it gave me a laugh! I have seen Wild Turkeys at the Bentsen Rio Grande Valley State Park on several different visits, but they seemed to be appearing in every area of this large park on this particular March day. The state park is located in Mission, Texas along the border with Mexico. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: Feathered Friends 20240307-DSC_0641.NEF
Description: Wild Turkey Profile Portrait by Debra Martz I have seen Wild Turkeys at the Bentsen Rio Grande Valley State Park on several different visits, but they seemed to be appearing in every area of this large park on this particular March day. The state park is located in Mission, Texas along the border with Mexico. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Gallery/Collection: Feathered Friends 20240307-DSC_0641.NEF Alt Text: A colorful turkey stands alert with a direct gaze at the camera, showcasing its detailed vibrant red and blue neck and head. In contrast to its stark features, the bird's feathers display intricate patterns that blend with the blurred natural background.
