I drove up to Bear River MBR yesterday morning and was thrilled to be able to photograph an immature Snow Goose resting on the frost covered ground. Snow Geese are heading north to their breeding grounds at this time of the year.
Side lit immature Snow Goose – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/400, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I had side light to contend with when I photographed this young goose. I wasn’t sure I would like the effect of it in my photos. In the end I decided that I found the light appealing.
Immature Snow Goose at Bear River MBR – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/320, ISO 500, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
With my long lens I was able to take portraits of the young Snow Goose from the edge of the road without disturbing it or the adult that was nearby. My efforts at photographing the adult Snow Goose were stymied by grasses that obstructed my view of the bird. I wasn’t able to get light in its eye either.
The young Snow Goose, on the other hand, was mostly out in the open.
Immature Snow Goose up close – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/200, ISO 500, +1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
When I slowly moved my Jeep forward I was able take this last portrait of the immature goose where the side light seemed even more pronounced. After taking a few images from this location I thanked the geese and left to explore the rest of the refuge.
The skies were clear and the morning light was beautiful. I enjoyed a serene and peaceful trip around the auto tour loop after photographing the Snow Geese. What a great way to start my day!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Snow Goose photos plus facts and information about this species.
Wonderful head studies. I love the lighting. Thanks Mia.
I’m a big fan of side light, and you used it to such lovely effect here.
I love the combination of colours in these images. Very peaceful. Thank you.