Tiptoeing Prairie Willet – Nikon D300, f11, 1/640, ISO 400, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light
Normally I prefer to have my subjects larger in the frame than this image of a Prairie Willet tiptoeing on the surface of the Great Salt Lake as it landed.
But I like this image even though my subject is small in the frame.
A lot of the time this is a view that people without a long lens or binoculars gets to see yet this bird is easily recognizable as a Prairie Willet and we even get to see the flash of white of its wings.
This might not be everyone’s cup of tea but I find it pleasing all the same.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Prairie Willet photos plus facts and information about this species.
Update: Willets were split into two species in October 2026. Eastern willets are now Saltmarsh Willets, Tringa semipalmata. Western willets are now Prairie Willets, Tringa inornata. This post has been updated to reflect those changes.
I like it because it actually does give more of a perspective on size and of course the reflection makes it even more amazing.
I really like the wider perpective of this shot. And am chuckling at the sneakiness of the pose. A joy and a delight to see this morning. Thank you.
I love the detail of close-ups but equally love seeing the environment or habitat of a bird.
Sometimes the wider angle tells a lot about the bird and its lifestyle.
Thanks, Mia.
Amazing photo!
Beautiful!
I like the scope of this image because it’s more lie what I might see if I was there….this birds looks just about ready to pounce!
I like it a lot – and the reflection too!
It’s very pleasing! I like shots that show the environment as well as the close-ups.
… and have a great road trip!!!! Looking forward to seeing all your great new images!!
Loving that tip-toeing action!!!! Great capture!!!
I find it pleasing too…well done.
I love it. The beginning of a ballet.
You are too hard on yourself. I think it’s a great shot!