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12-19-10
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Ahhh, the bald eagle is finally back! It's been a long time coming! I look forward to bald eagle season every year as much as I look forward to chasing. Watching these incredible birds perform their mid-air acrobatics and their precise hunting skills is always a treat. Their incredible story and how their population has been on a roller coaster ride for quite some time is respectable to say the least.
Mallard and brown duck. Who says they only eat bread and cracker crumbs?
Goose in on the action.
This little guy landed pretty close to me and kept me company for a few minutes. I was actually one of only three or four people there this morning which is pretty unbelievable. The masses have been growing and growing every year, which put very selfishly, is actually kind of aggravating. I'm the type of guy who would rather be alone in the woods, devoid of people. It sort of helps me hone in on my skills, I guess. I shouldn't complain about anything obviously since it's a public place and everyone has a fair opportunity. I just remember 3-4 years ago there were only 5-10 people there at MOST, at one time, all day long. I guess it has become quite the popular place!
I'm really needing those Russian guys with the fish launcher right about now!
Smoking a fish cigar.
The above pic and the one below really show the difference on sun angle vs. lens position and how much it can play a huge role in image quality. The one above was aimed just below the sun. That yieled a washed out blue color and a softer image on the eagles features. The one below was pointed completely away from the sun, which didn't have the brightness issue to deal with and instead utilized it to bring out the vivid blues in the sky and the sharp details and colors in the eagles wings. THAT is why I prefer sunny days, and certain times of the day to shoot.
The sun is now starting to get at an awkward angle, which starts getting really tough. If I was better at Photoshop, I could find out ways to brighten up the dark shadows and take the "blueness" out of the image. I REALLY need the full version of Photoshop.
Just be glad you aren't a fish.
Closest shot I have of an eagle attacking a duck, even though that is clearly not happening.
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