A simple portrait of a Common Merganser, featuring water droplets and a bow wave, is what I wanted to share this morning. The photo was taken at my local pond.
Common Merganser portrait with water droplets and a bow wave – Nikon D500, tripod mounted, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 640, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The first spring merganser swam close to where I stood on the shoreline of the pond. I was delighted to be able to take portraits of this diving duck with water droplets falling from its bill and a bow wave in front of it.
I have noticed that this particular species of mergansers tends to be somewhat skittish. I want you to understand how much I cherished having this one so close to me. Anytime I can take portraits of a bird or animal that has voluntarily come in close to me is a reason for me to celebrate. I danced behind my tripod the morning I photographed this Common Merganser. The water droplets and the bow wave were the frosting on my cupcake.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Common Merganser photos plus facts and information about this species.
Great photo! I took snapshots of one on Millrace Pond a few months ago when I was walking my dog in that park. I always walk out on their fishing pier to bird awhile. My English Setter (bird dog) loves to just lie down there and search for birds, so we are both happy
Deedee
It’s all there. Great color, detail and composition…but what really lights me up about this pic is the Merganser’s reflection. It’s almost surreal. Great shot. Thanks Mia.
Simple and truly lovely. Thank you.
So amazing! It’s a photo in motion. Love it! 🙂
Beautiful portrait. they are so unique and specialized.I really enjoyed the abundance of mergansers this year, it was so exciting. They are one of my favorite, so much so I want to be a merganser in my next life!