Red-breasted Merganser on the Gulf of Mexico – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/750, ISO 160, Nikkor 80-400mm VR at 360mm, natural light
Sometimes I find an image appealing because of the memories it wakes up and not so much from the technical or compositional aspects, this Red-breasted Merganser image is one that isn’t perfect but it does awaken memories and stirs my senses.
This male Red-breasted Merganser in eclipse plumage was just off shore in west central Florida and had been bathing in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico when it started to flap its wings. It was so peaceful and I can almost smell the sea breeze just looking at it. I was with good friends who are also photographers. We laughed, we learned and we enjoyed.
Mia
I agree with Patty, this bird appears to be smiling. I had to go back and have another look at our Common Merganser you posted Jan. 27th. Thanks for introducing me to these birds Mia — I hope to see one someday soon.
Utahbooklover, we get Red-breasted Mergansers in Utah too. These “saw bills” are great birds.
Thanks for the info. I need to get our more, but don’t like the cold weather in winter
Mia, I can’t tell you how many of the images in my portfolio are special to me for the same reason … I understand completely. Somehow, posting them … sending them out into the universe, as I like to say, I hope the emotion that I felt … the joy, the wonder … goes out with them and touches someone else. And this is a lovely, lovely capture, as always from you!!!
I like this bird’s “smile”….
Me too Patty!
That’s the nice thing about our photos – they bring back such memories. It’s a great shot, Mia.