28 NATURE AND THE CAMERA 



fasten the branch by means of strong twine to some 

 stationary object, such as a peg driven in the ground, 

 one of these being used on each side. It is need- 

 less to add that these guys should not be included 

 in the picture. 



When fastening back branches that would other- 

 wise obstruct the view of the nest, be careful not 

 to alter the natural growing position of a plant 

 or branch. For instance, a branch that is found 

 growing horizontally would look somewhat peculiar 

 if it were portrayed in a vertical position. It is safer 

 to avoid, so far as possible, disturbing the surround- 

 ings of a nest ; for unless the changes are made with 

 due care and knowledge of how things should be, 

 the picture looks artificial and loses its value as a por- 

 trait of a nest in situ. It is permissible to introduce 

 flowers into the picture if they serve to give a better 

 idea of the nature of the surroundings. If properly 

 arranged, these flowers add greatly to the beauty of 

 the composition, but all depends on their proper 

 arrangement. A nest may be situated within a few 

 feet of a bush of blossoming huckleberries, and if 

 there is no reason why it should not have been placed 

 nearer, the bush may be transplanted so that part of 

 it will show in the picture. 



The same may be said of blackberry-vines, among 

 which birds so often build. A sprig on which 

 there are several flowers, if placed above or beneath 



