This Utah cow moose encounter is one I should have shared back in June 2022. My friend and fellow photographer Mia McPherson was showing me some of her favorite places near her Utah home.
In the Wasatch Mountains, we spotted a cow moose moving through roadside brush.
Utah Cow Moose Moving Through Wasatch Mountain Brush
The moose was near the road and partly surrounded by thick vegetation. Her long face, large ears, and dark body stood out in the morning light.
She paused long enough to look directly toward me. That brief moment gave me the head-on portrait shown above.
The second photograph shows more of the setting. It also gives a better view of her moving between the brush and small trees.
The green June vegetation provided plenty of natural context. It showed the mountain environment without completely hiding the moose.
I have also written about photographing a Yellow-bellied Marmot during my time in Utah.
Photographing the Moose From Behind the Vehicle
Mia pulled over after we spotted the moose. I stepped outside, but I stayed behind her vehicle.
The vehicle gave me cover and a solid barrier. I could photograph the moose without walking closer or entering the brush.
I worked hand-held with my Canon EOS R5 and RF 100-500mm lens. A focal length of 363mm let me frame the moose while keeping some vegetation around her.
The light was bright and uneven. Parts of her dark coat were in shadow, while the surrounding greenery caught direct sunlight.
Camera Settings
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
- Focal length: 363mm
- Aperture: f/8
- Shutter speed: 1/800 second
- ISO: 500
- Exposure compensation: -1
- Support: Hand-held
- Date and time: June 7, 2022, at 9:47 a.m.
This was a brief encounter, but it gave me two photographs I still enjoy.
The first photograph has direct eye contact and a strong portrait feel. The second shows more habitat and tells more of the story.
I am still not sure why I waited so long to share them. They bring back a good morning in the mountains with a friend and a memorable wildlife subject.
Thank you. Love moose, very fascinating & huge!!