Who’s investigating who here? On this day, I was exploring nature and investigating what the Los Angeles Arboretum had to offer. While most of their efforts might have appeared to be vegetation and water related, the arboretum hosted a variety of insects and wildlife. I was delighted when I came upon this friendly peacock who didn’t immediately flee the area. The peacock moved slowly, showing off all of his sides, back and front. He did gradually move behind some sparse foliage before turning to intently look at me, his opportunity for safe investigation. Once his curiosity was satisfied, he folded in his tail feathers and sauntered off deeper into the bush. We both moved on to investigate something new.

I am not new to nature photography, having grown up in the mountains of Northern California. But I am continually intrigued by how often, if you approach with a quietly curious manor, an otherwise wild creature will stop and take a moment to check you out. It’s at that moment my investigation and creative documentation is most rewarded.