On the Nature Coast
Shired Island Campground

I ventured into Old Florida to check out the dark skies. This was the highlight of my quick trip and most definitely well worth it. First, some scenic beauty in the daytime hours.

See those tracks in the sand… well I got my rental car stuck in the sand, much to the entertainment of some of the other visitors. Luckily a man helped, literally pushing my car out with his strength. Ah men, how I love you and the differences between us. His wife was also amazing. She invited me to their fire and let me know their campsite was a safe space. It was a very appreciated and sweet gesture.

Exploring this little strip of paradise

These trees were killing me

Nabbed my spot at this first come-first serve campground

Exploring the Island at dusk

So many composition ideas for my night shoot… but I didn’t want to be so far from my tent.

Ready for my star shoot now

My first shot, unfocused and just testing the light, is quite beautiful!

Waiting for darkness. This was the foreground I liked…

Walking about to try to avoid the mosquitos. I was foolish not to have taken precautions with those blood-suckers. My ankles were ravaged. I looked like I had measles.

Getting in the shot with a mermaid top

Once the crescent moon went down, the stars were so vivid! I was not disappointed.

Star trails with heavy condensation on my lens unfortunately

It was a fantastic night, one which I felt I was exactly where I was supposed to be. It felt very profound at the moment.

The sunrise. That is the joy of camping… sunset, the stars, then sunrise. I woke up refreshed though I was shivering the whole night.

I regret not having time to shell the beach. But I want to return…

Those pastels…

The now defunct bathroom

In the am I met the benevolent owner of the campground and had a really nice chat with him. He was a breath of fresh air. I left the campground with a tremendous smile on my face. All in a day’s work within the magic world of wandering on my own