Member Report: Wildlife Photography

 Certified Master Naturalist, Ivan Hiett, submitted this article about Wildlife Photography. 

Wildlife Observations

 

I commend everyone who has posted wildlife articles and photos. Anyone who has attempted to capture that inspiring wildlife photo can attest that wildlife photography is the most difficult and challenging of all types of photography. First animals do not stop and pose for that picture. Next and probably more important is that the photographer has no control over lighting and weather conditions. Most of us are opportunistic photographers in that we shoot whatever scene or interesting target we come across. Professional nature photographers may spend hours, days, weeks or even months stalking that perfect shot. As stated in an earlier article by Ed Coleman, “it’s best to keep the camera in hand, with finger on the release button”. That said, I encourage members to coordinate their trail and wildlife surveys with a partner. One member can photograph while the other member records observations and takes notes. Do not forget to share observation credits with your partner(s) and remember to always research and verify your photos. The bird below was originally identified in the field as an immature Bald eagle but later verified by INaturalist as an immature Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) aka “chickenhawk”.

Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) aka “chickenhawk” photographed Angler’s Park, Danville, Va. August 23, 2020 by Ivan Hiett

Great blue heron (Ardea Herodias) photographed Angler’s Park, Danville, Virginia August 23,2020 by Ivan Hiett