Tales from the Lagoon ~ Episode: First Photo of Dolphin Anniversary
Tales from the Lagoon ~ Episode: First Photo of Dolphin Anniversary
On February 17, 2018, I went for a sunset paddle, feeling a little lost that night. Whenever I’m uncertain about what to do next, I ask, “Show me what’s next.” Then, I wait—open to the signs and guidance that appear.
That night, I had a dream. I was half in the water, half out, capturing photos of orcas at sunset. The sky glowed orange, and water cascaded around them in shimmering splashes.
When I woke up the next morning, excitement replaced uncertainty. Inspired by the dream, I decided to try it that night—not with orcas, but with dolphins in the Indian River Lagoon. It felt safer, closer, more possible.
Much to my surprise and amazement, they came! As I clicked the shutter, their tails lifted, water cascading around them, bathed in the same golden-orange glow I had seen in my dream. Wow, was this really happening?!
One of those dolphins was the dolphin I call M. I didn’t know it then, but he would become a familiar presence in my life—one I have spent the last seven years photographing, documenting, and simply sharing space with. He is such a sweet boy!
That night was the beginning of something unexpected and extraordinary. It has been a true honor to meet so many wildlife friends—photographing their babies, their pods, and witnessing their highs, lows, and, of course, all their silly shenanigans. What a ride!
Show me what’s next!
