Osprey in flight - Munson Pond, Kelowna

Photo of an osprey flying above Munson Pond today in Kelowna, BC

I have photographed osprey many times, maybe dozens, but the photo I got today ranks up there with the best of them.  So much about photographing wildlife is dependent upon many variables.  Being at the right place at the right time is essential, but where and when is that?  There's experience, helpful tips from others, and just plain luck.

I have benefited from all three of those for both aspects of that question.  Today, it was a bit of the first and last components.  Munson pond is a favoured location for photographing wildlife.  Not only did I get a great shot of an osprey today, I also got the best photo of a yellow-rumped warbler in my collection.  Both of those was also based on luck as you can never predict where birds will be.  It just so happens that both species have recently arrived.

What I love about the shot is that the osprey was flying towards me; I must have gotten a dozen images of it and liked this one the best (I love the angle of the wings).  Furthermore, the bird was close.  I could easily make a 20 inch print from the frame with stunning clarity.

Tomorrow I will do a blog on the yellow-rumped warbler.  I have only just looked at the images and not examined them with any discernment.  I am looking forward to what they will reveal.

Thanks for reading.

Eric Svendsen     www.ericspix.com

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