Wildlife Photography - Aubyana C


     This photo was taken on February 27th, near the Fairhaven train station. During the trip, I took several pictures that I really liked, but this one particularly stood out when I reflected back on the day. In the frame, three of the birds, including the one I captured mid-motion, appear to be common goldeneyes, though I'm not certain. The fourth bird, which is closer to the shore, seems to be an American coot. The contrast between the goldeneyes' striking plumage and the coot's distinctive shape made this shot compelling to me. 


    I was experimenting with proximity when taking these pictures, growing closer and closer to the group of birds, which also included several mallards. The closer I got the more detail and contrast my camera could capture, yet this further shot was the one that drew me in with the composition. I have not truly attempted to capture wildlife photography, especially when animals are in motion. I feel this could've been a clearer and higher quality photo overall but I am satisfied with the movement I was able to capture, as well as the more stationary birds surrounding. 


    I did not edit this photo much at all, primarily cropping the image to bring the birds into the focus and get rid of some background noise. I tried to adjust the clarity a little in Lightroom but that was the only other component I adjusted. I think I will attempt to engage with wildlife photography more in the future. 

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