WATERWAYS GALLERY EXHIBIT/RECEPTION

Next time you see a great close-up photo of nature's creatures, be assured that a great deal of preparation and patience went into capturing that image besides just the click of a camera.

Austrian-born Michael Salzlechner, now living in Stuart, will display the treasures of his trade as a wildlife and landscape photographer at Waterways Gallery during the month of January. As guest artist, a reception will be held for Michael and his exhibit at the gallery on January 3 from 5-8 p.m. All are welcome to attend and enjoy free food, drink and the company of local artists.

Getting such great shots of a Great Horned Owl sitting in a far-off tree or a bald eagle soaring through the sky starts with having the right equipment: After scoping out a site with binoculars, Michael shoots from a tripod using up to a three-foot lens to get the distance and clarity he's aiming for. It has to be the right time of the day, from sunrise to 9 a.m. or 4 p.m. to sunset, to get that "golden" light that highlights the birds.

The photographer must also know when and where birds will be out looking for food or when they're showing their courtship rituals, building nests, sitting on eggs, or raising their babies. Michael plays birdcalls through speakers, which attracts territorial hawks and owls who want to fend off intruders -- and gets great photos while doing so.

Photos on display are from hours of scouting out the Loxahatchee, Lake Kissimmee, Wakodahachee and the Everglades. Michael recently moved to Stuart from Miami and is now looking for new territories like Halpatiokee Park and Savannah State Park to find his next models.

"It looks like it will be good in a couple of weeks," says Michael, "but there are so many variables that must come together for a successful photo ... it takes a lot of patience, learning and luck."

Waterways Gallery is located at 2881 SE Ocean Drive and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12 noon to 9:30 p.m. Call 781-9100 for more information.