Outdoor photography goes far beyond birds and mammals, even for this hunter who loves nothing more than trying to capture that perfect pairing of upland birds and pointing dogs on the grasslands. We all have our muse, but the natural world in its entirety offers countless opportunities to capture Mother Nature's splendor at home and in town.

Bugs and blooms are among my favorite practice photography opportunities because of their brilliant colors, intricate details, and the fact that they surround us every day. Flowerbeds and vegetable gardens attract critters like ladybugs with bright red...