On the morning of September 6, 2021, I photographed this Whitetail Doe at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. While she was grazing, her Fawn lingered nearby, staying close to its mother for safety. Though I didn’t get a photograph of the Fawn, I recorded a video of them together. Watching their behavior offered a glimpse into the quiet rhythms of nature.
The Setup
I took this photo from my pickup truck, which I often use as a mobile blind. To keep the shot steady, I rested my camera and lens on a bean bag draped over the open window. This setup is practical and allows me to stay unnoticed by wildlife. When working with a long focal length like 800mm, minimizing movement is essential for sharp images. Shooting from the vehicle also kept me comfortable while waiting for the right moment.
Technical Details
Here are the details of the gear and settings I used for this shot:
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: Canon EF 800 mm f/11
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f/11 (fixed)
- Shutter Speed: 1/800
- ISO: 2500 (Auto)
- Exposure Compensation: 0
- Focal Length: 800 mm
I chose a fixed aperture of f/11 for optimal sharpness. The shutter speed of 1/800 was fast enough to freeze any motion. Auto ISO allowed me to adapt to the changing light without making manual adjustments.
The Location
The Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife and a favorite destination for nature photographers. Located in eastern Oklahoma, it features diverse habitats like wetlands, forests, and open fields. These environments attract animals like deer, herons, and eagles. The refuge offers opportunities to observe and photograph wildlife year-round.
On this visit, I focused on Whitetail Deer, which are abundant in the area. Early morning is one of the best times to photograph them. The soft light enhances their natural colors, and the animals are more active before the day heats up.
Reflections
Photographing this Whitetail Doe was both challenging and rewarding. The morning light illuminated her coat, emphasizing the warm tones of late summer. The Fawn stayed hidden in the grass most of the time, but it occasionally peeked out to check its surroundings. Watching the pair reminded me of the importance of being patient and observant.
Wildlife photography isn’t just about capturing a great image. It’s about immersing yourself in the environment and learning from the animals. Spending time with this doe and her Fawn gave me a deeper appreciation for their behavior and the delicate balance of their ecosystem.
This encounter is one I’ll remember fondly. It’s a reminder of why I return to places like Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge time and again. Each visit offers new opportunities to connect with nature and document its beauty.