The golden sands of the Baltic coast stretched endlessly under the warm sunlight, a picturesque backdrop for my planned photo session. Little did I know, the day would be anything but ordinary. A small, curious seagull decided to join me, transforming my solitary photography outing into an unexpectedly delightful experience. She arrived with the boldness only a seagull could muster, hopping onto the scene with a mix of curiosity and cheek. Her antics reminded me of a character straight out of a song by one of my favorite bands, Röyksopp. And so, I named her "Forsaken Cowboy" — a title both endearing and fitting for this lone wanderer of the beach.

Unlike other birds that kept to themselves or flocked together in the distance, Forsaken Cowboy seemed entirely uninterested in mingling with her kind. She had found a new companion in me. Whether I crouched to frame a shot or adjusted my camera gear, she remained close by, her beady eyes scrutinizing my every move. Her playful nature quickly became apparent. Whenever other birds dared to approach, she would puff up and shout them away, her shrill cries echoing over the waves. It was almost as if she wanted me all to herself, a sentiment I found both amusing and oddly flattering.

Forsaken Cowboy wasn’t just an observer of my photo session — she wanted to be involved in every way possible. She pecked inquisitively at my camera bag and even perched momentarily on my tripod. Her audacity peaked when I pulled out a snack. With a daring flutter of her wings, she attempted to snatch a piece of bread right from my hand. I couldn't help but laugh as I watched her determined little dance, her wings flapping indignantly when I playfully pulled the food away. At one point, I thought she might lose interest and fly off, but no. Her loyalty (or perhaps her appetite) kept her by my side for the entire day.

There was something poetic about her presence. Despite her small stature, Forsaken Cowboy embodied the untamed spirit of the Baltic coast — a creature of independence, courage, and a touch of mischief. She wasn't just a bird; she was a symbol of the unexpected connections nature offers when we least anticipate them. As the sun dipped low and painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, I packed up my gear, my heart warmed by the day's unique adventure. Forsaken Cowboy lingered for a while longer, watching me as if to say goodbye, before finally taking to the air with a triumphant cry. That evening, as I reviewed my photos, I couldn’t help but smile. While the camera captured stunning shots of the Baltic's beauty, the memories of Forsaken Cowboy — her playfulness, her boldness, and her endearing quirks — became the highlight of my day. Sometimes, the most unforgettable stories aren't the ones we plan, but the ones we stumble upon when we least expect it.

• Camera: Canon 5 DsR
• Lens: 50-500mm
• Filters: Lee
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