Amazing Harlequin Ducks in Yellowstone NP
When we planned our trip to Montana/Wyoming in early May there were a few things we expected. We expected to see bison, maybe coyotes, beautiful scenery, and hoped for bears and other animals. We expected the weather to be chilly. And, we planned to stay in a comfortable hotel, eat good meals, and DRIVE A LOT! We didn’t expect to see the amazing Harlequin Ducks in Yellowstone NP. Thanks to our guide, we did!
Egrets’ Courting Ritual | Northern California Fine Art Photographer
There is a small greenbelt area in the center of a little town near where I live. As I was driving down the Main Street, I noticed a rookery in a large tree near the center of the greenbelt. It was full of great egrets and great blue herons as well as a few other smaller birds. I was so surprised to see them, but they have apparently adapted to city life. When I returned a few days later I was able to capture the snowy egrets’ courting ritual and nest building.
Learning Wildlife Photography and Animal Behavior
Although I enjoy photographing large mammals, the reality is that birds are the most available wildlife to me. Learning wildlife photography and animal behavior has been instrumental in achieving wildlife photographs.
Rowing on the River | Northern California Fine Art Photographer
When arising early in the morning when it is still dark to go out and photograph something, there is never really any insurance that conditions will be just right. There are lots of apps for offering information about conditions, and they can be quite accurate; but the bottom line is, you just don’t know for sure.
Ethical Practices in Nature
Being very cognizant of the guidelines of the ‘Nature First’ principles, we were quite careful not to disrupt the natural routines of the wild animals in the area. By using long lenses and keeping a careful distance, we were able to observe these animals as they went about their day, dawn to dusk, hunting for food for themselves and their offspring. Great patience is required for wildlife photography.