Yes, I go to Bear River MBR to find and photograph birds, but I also go there to unwind and find comfort in the marsh and the magnificent surroundings.
Ground fog at Bear River MBR – Nikon D810, f9, 1/500, ISO 500, Nikkor 18-200mm VR at 70mm, natural light
Nature has always been a big part of my life from practically the moment I could walk. At times being in the field has been the best medicine for me when I have gone through serious upheavals in life or personal loss.
When I am in the field looking for birds or wildlife to photograph I am also focusing on the scenic views that surround me. I’m not just focusing on nature but savoring, feeling, and immersing myself in it. I am, after all, as much a part of nature as the sky, earth, water, or the creatures that live there.
Early last week I drove up to the auto tour loop at Bear River MBR and at the start of the loop I was delighted to see ground fog covering some of the flats. The sun had already lit up the Promontory Mountains to the west but had not yet reached where I was seeing this view from inside of my Jeep.
Bear River MBR and fog on the water – Nikon D810, f9, 1/500, ISO 500, Nikkor 18-200mm VR at 70mm, natural light
I couldn’t help but take the time to photograph the fog hugging the trees, grasses, water, and the river. It was quiet, chilly, and refreshing.
Sunrise and fog at Bear River MBR – Nikon D810, f9, 1/400, ISO 500, Nikkor 18-200mm VR at 112mm, natural light
I remember shivering but I didn’t shiver because of the cold, it was because I felt grateful for being in that spot at the precise moment in time and for seeing clearly everything around me. The glowing mountains, wispy fog, calm water, trees, morning sky, and the marsh excited, mesmerized and soothed me. Watching the marsh wake up has a wonderful effect on me.
Calm autumn morning at Bear River MBR – Nikon D810, f9, 1/2000, ISO 500, Nikkor 18-200mm VR at 26mm, natural light
Later in the morning when the sun had risen above the wetlands, I felt compelled to stop to savor the beauty and take a few more photos of the marsh. The bright blue autumn sky and wispy clouds reflected beautifully off of the water.
Fall view from the auto tour loop at Bear River MBR – Nikon D810, f10, 1/1600, ISO 500, Nikkor 18-200mm VR at 24mm, natural light
I stepped outside of my Jeep, felt my feet touch the earth, and drew in a deep breath. How very fortunate I am to do what I love, to travel where I desire in nature, and to see, feel, and connect to this stunning planet and the creatures that live on it.
Autumn view from the auto tour loop at Bear River MBR – Nikon D810, f10, 1/1600, ISO 500, Nikkor 18-200mm VR at 24mm, natural light
When I am surrounded by and immersed in nature, I am home.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge landscape photos plus information about the refuge.
Your landscape shots are extraordinary. Thanks Mia.
It is lovely. Thank you so much.
Thank you for such a poetic narrative of Mother Nature’s stunning beauty!
Beautiful, I love ground fog, I would love to capture it in Snow Canyon, so far I have not seen it.
Simply sublime. Thank you. Again.
BEAUTIFUL!!