High key Merlin – Nikon D300, f6.3, 1/800, ISO 800, +1.0 EV, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light, not baited
Merlins are winter visitors in the Salt Lake Valley so I have just a few more weeks to attempt photographing them. Merlins used to be called “pigeon hawks” because their shape and flight patterns are similar to pigeons. Merlins feed on small mammals, birds as large as doves and apparently they include bats in their diets.
Like other falcons Merlins are strong fliers, can turn very quickly and they can grab their prey in mid air.
I didn’t have the best of light when I photographed the Merlin in the photo above plus the fresh snow on the mountain slope behind the bird produced a high key effect but I liked the Merlin’s pose, the eye contact and the way the branches moved through the frame.
Life is good.
Mia
To view more of my Merlin photos plus facts and information about this species click here.
Mia, every time I land on one of your posts in my feed, I see the most extraordinary visions. This is so beautiful, with the bird isolated against that background … it took my breath away.
Thank you Ingrid, I really enjoyed how this Merlin image came out even with the less than optimal circumstances. Your comment is much appreciated and humbling.
Wonderful capture Mia. Amazing with that light and those settings what a wonderful photo you took, shows your skill.
Thanks Dan, your comment is much appreciated!
Fantastic shot! I’ve yet to photograph one. The ones I’ve encountered were very skittish.
Jeremy, thanks for your comment. I have found Merlins to be skittish too so I am always happy when one will stick around for a few frames.
Gorgeous shot, Mia!
Thanks very much Scott, they are gorgeous little falcons.
There’s something particularly striking and powerful about raptors in the snow.
I so agree with you Laurence, raptors in snow make for dramatic images!
Lovely image, Mia! I really like the crispness of the beautiful Merlin against the soft background. Stunning capture!
Thank you very much Julie, I thought the soft background was very appealing too.
Great shot, Mia. I love the high key effect, and I love the way you juxtiposed the Merlin off to the right. With the branches it makes a delightful compsition.
Bob, thanks for your wonderful comment, much appreciated!
Cute bird!
Thank you!
Lovely image of a good looking raptor. I sure have problems when the background or large parts of it are very bright. I have not been to successful so far, but I will keep trying. Your have handled these situations so well.
Hi Skip,
Merlins are handsome birds, I wish I had more images of them. High key backgrounds are challenging but doable and they can produce very dramatic results. Thanks for your comment.
Great capture Mia!
Thanks very much Steve!