Last month there were plenty of American White Pelicans at my local pond. Because they were there I had the opportunity to photograph them in light and shadows.

American White Pelicans with light and shadows, Salt Lake County, UtahAmerican White Pelicans with light and shadows – Nikon D500, tripod mounted, f7.1, 1/2500, ISO 640, -1.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

There are a few minutes each morning when the sun rises over the Wasatch Mountains, and during this time, my subjects can be bathed in bright morning light while part of the pond remains in the shadow of the mountains.

When I took this image of the American White Pelicans the sun lit them up and they glowed. The water in that particular section of the pond was in the shade of the mountains, which made the pelicans appear even brighter. I enjoyed the contrast between the darkness and the brightness of the pelicans.

Would I have been happier if the pelicans had been facing me? Maybe. I think the fact that they were not is what contributes to the image’s drama. Drama that might not have been present if they had been facing me.

Most of my American White Pelican photos in my galleries has the kind of light photographers are taught or trained to look for.

What kind of light is that?

Early morning or late afternoon light with the sun behind my shoulder.

However, I like to experiment, I love challenges, and I like to look at my subjects in their settings with a different perspective or eye at times.

While this image might not satisfy everyone’s tastes, I know it more than satisfies mine. As I have mentioned before, I take photos for me.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my American White Pelican photos plus facts and information about this species.