As a wildlife photographer, I’m always on the lookout for opportunities to capture incredible animal encounters. During a recent hike at Chaffee Crossing in Fort Smith, Arkansas, I had one such moment when I came face-to-face with a whitetail buck.

Spotted By A 5 Point Whitetail Buck

Spotted By A 5 Point Whitetail Buck here in Arkansas

I was carefully walking along a game trail, scanning the dense brush and trees for any sign of movement. That’s when I caught a glimpse of antlers – a nice 5-point buck standing perfectly still, staring right at me. We made eye contact and both froze, equally surprised to see each other.

A Whitetail Buck Fleeing The Area

A Whitetail Buck Fleeing The Area

My adrenaline spiked and I swiftly raised my camera, determined to seize this chance. Hand-holding my gear, I composed my shot through the tangled branches and clicked the shutter just as the buck took off running. Thanks to quick reflexes, I was able to capture a clear image of him standing alert and another as he bounded away.

This unexpected wildlife sighting was over in seconds but it left me feeling thrilled and accomplished. As a photographer, there’s nothing more satisfying than snagging a great shot of an elusive animal in its natural habitat. It was purely luck that I encountered this whitetail in the woods but being prepared with my camera at the ready allowed me to turn that luck into a memorable photo. Moments like these make all the effort worthwhile.

I can’t wait to get back out on the trails and see what other amazing encounters await! For now, I’m happy to add this buck photo to my wildlife portfolio.

Gear Used:

  • Camera: Canon EOS 1D Mark III
  • Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM

Technical:

  • Location: Chaffee Crossing (Arkansas)
  • Date Taken: November 19, 2010
  • Aperture: f5.6
  • Shutter speed: 1/800 sec.
  • ISO: 1250
  • Exposure Compensation: 0
  • Program Mode: Aperture Priority
  • Focal Length: 400 mm

Related Post:

  1. November Whitetail Buck