It was Autumn... Although usually the gold of fallen leaves makes for a nice image, this time I thought that no color was needed to tell this story.

A macro photo (full body) of a female praying mantis, species Mantis religiosa. This one was found in the wild in Portugal, climbing on a plastic structure (thus the background). The common name, Praying Mantis, comes from the stance these insects take, resembling a praying position, and formed by their raptor legs. Praying Mantis(es) are predatory animals feeding on other insects. Their shape and color is a very good example of camouflage by mimicry and the praying mantis can easily blend in with the foliage. I was not counting on any macro shots when I saw this little one, so forgive me the poor lighting (direct on-camera flash).

Ruins of an old house in a field near Pitlochry, Scotland. In this sunny Autumn day, the clouds were creating an interesting effect on the rich blue sky. As I was travelling on the A924 this dry grass field gave me the contrast I was looking for. The old house and the tree complement the image, giving it a much stronger composition.

On the path to the summit of Ben Vrackie, Scotland. The change and contrast of colors along the hill was impressive. And to top it off, it was a beautiful summer day, perfect for some mountain hiking.

A young Highland Cow (kyloe) on a field near Loch Lommond, Scotland. This breed of cattle is characterized by their reddish long wavy coats and long horns (when adult), giving them a rugged albeit funny look. Highland cows can be found all over Scotland, but in higher numbers in the Scottish Highlands and Western Isles of Scotland.

Brown foal (baby pony) with mother on pasture. Grazing horses on background.

Extreme macro of a tiny bud on a small cactus. Non-cropped image.

Ground covered with fallen leaves in Autumn, with single tree trunk. These image was taken on a no longer used cemetery in Cologne, Germany.

A couple of mushrooms sprouting near a small wall at the Cologne Botanical garden, Koeln, Germany

Photo of leaves. Due to the angle the leaf had, it was clearly illuminated differently. One of my favorite photos of that day.