Sometimes I don’t have to worry about getting my ducks in a row—they do it themselves for me. I was really struck by the beauty and grace of these ducks as I watched them glide across the water earlier this week. Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) are the most common ducks where I live and most folks here take them for granted, barely giving them a passing glance.
I think that there is something special about rediscovering the beauty in the familiar—all that it usually requires is slowing down, putting aside distractions, and focusing on the moment with all of your senses. You will find that there is beauty surrounding you all of the time.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Nice Mike! I agree with your statement for familiar photo subjects! I like the “wake” pattern in the water with the ducks in the pattern.
Thanks, Reed. It was a simple, quiet moment and the wake the ducks were making in the water as they moved across the frame was definitely a help in making the composition a bit more interesting.
Excellent, Mike.
I could repeat my comment left on your Christmas post, as it fits today’s as well…but your second paragraph says it beautifully. The enlarged photo is a delightful treat. “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” – John Muir. Thank-you, Mr. Mike!
Thanks, Ellen. I think that quote could easily serve as a permanent part of my blog description, because it describes so well my approach.
Gorgeous image in behaviour, colours and patterns.
Thanks, Chris. You have articulated so wonderfully how ordinary subjects can be extraordinarily beautiful.
LOL! You are right. I get excited about buffleheads and Mergansers, but not about mallards, which are so omnipresent here all year round. But they are truly beautiful birds. Even the “drab” female with her little blue wing brooch and tailored look is handsome. In your image, I notice that both males and females have a little black dot on their bills (like the one Hindu women wear on their foreheads) , which I never noticed before.
We like to call them Google Ducks.
I hope you had a nice Christmas!
I agree, Mike, there is something wonderful to rediscover in the familiar. 😊 Your photograph is beautiful and I like the reflection of the colors in the water too! 👍 Glad to see you have your ducks in a row!!
Nice capture of the Mallards, Mike! It is a joy to watch ducks just go abut their business.