I’ve always had a DSLR camera around, mostly to capture moments of my kids playing sports as they grew up. But once they went off to college, the camera ended up on a shelf, collecting dust. One morning, I was in the backyard throwing a frisbee with my dog when I spotted a Pileated Woodpecker clinging to a pine tree in the empty lot next door. It just looked so cool, big, bold, and completely unexpected. I ran inside, grabbed my camera, and snapped a few shots.

I shared the photo with a few friends, and they all started telling me I should get into bird photography. At the time, I didn’t even know that was a thing. A buddy of mine suggested I check out the Viera Wetlands to try photographing birds in flight. That trip changed everything for me. I was instantly hooked.

While the Pileated Woodpecker was my spark bird, the one that opened the door was the Northern Harrier that really pulled me deep into this world. They’re not easy to photograph. I’ve spent entire mornings standing in one spot for hours, just waiting for one to appear. Sometimes I’d wait 4, 5, even 6 hours just for a flyby. But when it finally happens, and I’m able to catch one gliding low across the field, it’s the most rewarding feeling.

For me, it’s not just about the photo. It’s about sharing these moments, moments that most people don’t even know are happening around them. Every time someone sees one of my photos and leaves a comment or message, I feel like I’m doing my small part to raise awareness. These animals are out there, right now, but they’re being pushed further and further from their homes because of development and loss of habitat. If my photography can help people see how important it is to protect these spaces, then I know I’m on the right path.

These days, I spend almost every weekend hiking and shooting with my camera, from Viera Wetlands to Orlando Wetlands and down to Sebastian Inlet. It’s my outlet, my passion, and honestly, it keeps me grounded. What started as a random backyard moment has turned into something much bigger, and I’m grateful for every bit of it.

Perch with Stino!

📸 Instagram: @cervinistino 
📘 Facebook: stino.cervini 

---

What’s Your Story?

In an effort to place the spotlight on the birding community I am seeking birders who are interested in sharing their spark bird story to be featured on the Modern Birder Collective. Whether you’re a backyard birder, nature trail birder, or in an urban setting, every birder has a story to tell which can inspire others to discover the joy of birding.

SUBMISSION

Want to share your story on the Modern Birder Collective?

It’s easy! Simply write up your unique spark bird experience and email it to modernbirdercollective@gmail.com. Be sure to include the following:

• Your name as you’d like it to appear in the published post.
• A photo to be used as the featured image.
• Your story, written by you, I’ll copy and paste it directly into the post. It can be as short or as detailed as you’d like to capture your experience.
• Any social media handles (optional) you’d like to include so fellow birders can connect with you and grow the community. 

Looking forward to connecting with you soon & happy birding!