Canada Goose and mate, Salt Lake County, UtahCanada Goose and mate – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1000, ISO 320, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

Because they are very common in most North America Canada Geese are often overlooked as subjects by some bird photographers. Some bird photographers will only photograph them if they are mating, fighting, flying or have cute little goslings with them but won’t stop to photograph them if they are just feeding, paddling around on the water or simply resting.

Me, not so much, I think they are beautiful subjects worthy of my attention. Their long necks and subtle brown plumage is pleasing to my eyes. They are of the earth, water and sky.

Portrait of a Canada Goose, Salt Lake County, UtahPortrait of a Canada Goose – Nikon D500, f11, 1/400, ISO 320, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

Their white cheeks, patent leather black bills and ebony colored heads and necks are challenging to photograph because of the high contrast between the blacks and whites but I enjoy challenges. I love being able to bring out the finest of details in their feathers and to show the depth in their dark brown eyes.

Canada Geese swimming towards shore, Salt Lake County, UtahCanada Geese swimming towards shore – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1000, ISO 320, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

Canada Geese are noisy, leave droppings everywhere and they can be quite aggressive towards humans during the nesting season.

Yet they are lovely, graceful subjects. These Canada Geese were photographed last week on Willow Pond in Salt Lake County when there was a break in the clouds and a bit of actual sunshine. What isn’t beautiful about them?

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Canada Geese photos plus facts and information about this species.