My photos for today are of a Great Blue Heron that I photographed at the Robert S. Kerr Lock and Dam in Oklahoma. You will notice in both images that the Heron has a light dusting of frost on its back.
I like going to this Dam in the winter because of the large amount of birds I photograph feeding on shad when they open the locks. Some of the birds I photograph are White Pelicans, Double-crested Cormorants and several types of Gulls. I also photograph Bald Eagles.
Capturing the Frosty Heron
This morning, the temperature was just below freezing as the sun came up over the river. I spotted this Great Blue Heron standing motionless along the river’s edge, focused intently on the water below. As I zoomed in with my camera, I noticed the light dusting of frost that had collected on its back overnight.
The frost glistened in the early morning sunlight, contrasting beautifully with the bird’s slate blue feathers. I loved the way it almost seemed to be wearing a shimmering cape. The light was perfect for capturing the detail of the crystalized frost against its intricate plumage.
Appreciating Wildlife in Winter
Getting shots like this make braving the cold Oklahoma winters worth it. It’s magical to watch the wildlife that calls this area home adapt to the changing seasons. Though the bustling activity of spring and summer dies down this time of year, there is still ample beauty to be found. You just have to be willing to bundle up and head out early to catch it!
I’m thrilled with how these frosty heron shots came out. The lighting and the subject combined to create some really special images. Let me know what you think of them!
Gear Used:
- Camera: Fujifilm X-T3
- Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II USM (attached with a Fringer EF-FX Pro)
Technical:
- Location: Robert S. Kerr Lock and Dam (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: December 1, 2020 (09:50 A. M.)
- Aperture Priority
- Aperture: f7.1
- Shutter speed: 1/2700 (as determined by the camera)
- ISO: 1600
- Exposure Compensation: 0
- Focal Length: 400 mm