For some people, a Blue Jay portrait might be a common image to capture, but for me, it’s not common at all. This particular one was taken in Arkansas, not Utah.
Blue Jay portrait with a sunflower seed – Canon R7, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 1250, Canon Canon RF 100-500 mm at 500m, natural light, at a feeder
I’ve only seen Blue Jays in Utah a couple of times, and the photos I have taken of them were definitely not close-up portraits. No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn’t capture the portraits of this mostly eastern species that I wanted.
However, I have been able to achieve that here in Arkansas, specifically in my friend Steve’s yard, at a feeder, using his Canon R7. Did I do a happy dance? You bet I did!
I have wonderful and fond memories of Blue Jays from the time when I lived back east instead of out west.
What is considered common for easterners isn’t always common for westerners, and vice versa.
I am enjoying seeing, hearing, and photographing eastern birds some of which I have missed seeing and hearing dearly.
Stretching my wings with Canon equipment instead of my Nikon gear is a learning experience but Steve has been extremely helpful and I appreciate that very much. Every day that I learn something new is a great day.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Blue Jay photos plus facts and information about this species.
Setting aside, for a moment, my love of the detail in this shot…it’s the depth and deep range of color in the Blue Jay’s eye that really knocks my socks off. What a pic! Thanks Mia.
I tried to make out the reflection in it’s eye! He’s so beautiful
Beautiful portrait. I have never seen one. Haha we will convert you. It’s the Canon plan.
Jays are fun and feisty little stinkers. Glad you’re getting some bird fixes on the way back (even if you’re “stuck” with Canon equipment). 😉
Wonderful how the sunflower seed suggests the Jay’s beak shape in reverse.-Jeri
What a beauty. I am so glad that you are doing happy dances. I suspect they are needed.