While I was up at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge yesterday, I photographed a Bald Eagle on a leaning post, plus trees with the Earth Shadow and Belt of Venus.
Trees with the Earth Shadow and Belt of Venus at Bear River MBR – Nikon D810, handheld, f11, 1/100, ISO 1000, Nikkor 18-200mm VR at 62mm, natural light
I’ve been dreaming of taking the photo of these trees with the Earth Shadow and Belt of Venus for quite some time. In order for the Belt of Venus and Earth Shadow to appear in my images, I knew I had to be in this spot before the sun rose over this area. Once the sun is high enough, the Earth Shadow and Belt of Venus can’t be seen; they disappear as the sun rises.
The atmospheric conditions were just right; I was at the right spot at the right time yesterday morning. My plan for this image finally succeeded.
Majestic Bald Eagle on a leaning post in a marsh – Nikon D500, f9, 1/800, ISO 320, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
I went to the refuge knowing that not many birds are being found there right now—at least not birds that are easily photographable. But what I was really seeking was refuge at the refuge; I needed the quiet, the beauty, and the solitude I find there.
I had a peaceful trip around the auto tour loop but didn’t have many birds in my viewfinder there. On my way back to I-15, I had better luck with birds, including this majestic Bald Eagle.
Regal Bald Eagle perched on a leaning post – Nikon D500, f9, 1/800, ISO 320, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
I have been photographing Bald Eagles on this leaning post at the refuge since March of 2010, nearing the end of my first winter in Utah. I’ve photographed other birds on this post, but it is the eagle I always look for during this time of year.
My timing was perfect; the Bald Eagle wasn’t there on my way into the auto tour loop, but it was when I was leaving.
Even though I mostly created landscape photos and videos on the auto tour loop yesterday, I did find refuge there. I really needed refuge.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Bald Eagle photos plus facts and information about this species. Click here to see more of my Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge landscape photos plus information about the refuge.
Very nice! In south Florida I often photographed the earth shadow on the west horizon before sunrise, but had never heard of the Belt of Venus. Now must go back over old photos and see if I ever captured it.
Very cool shots. Bald Eagles are right up there in my “most loved birds” list. I’m also intrigued by the early “mood” shot of the trees. Great pics. Thanks Mia.
CRIO
When I saw the eagle on the perch, Crio was my first thought.
Absolutely beautiful!
Lovely images. That post is almost going down to the ground like the other post that was out that way. We need the duck club to put a few more in! Closer to the road please.