Serene Pronghorn Doe – D200, f6.3, 1/750, ISO 400, 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
In July of 2010 my friend Ron and I made a trip out to Simpson Springs in Tooele County, Utah hoping to find some birds to photograph in the West Desert. There are a lot of wide open areas there dotted with free range cattle, wild mustangs, sagebrush, junipers and grass lands. It was pretty hot that day as we drove down the long gravel road to Simpson Springs and we saw more than a few Pronghorn that we took images of.
This might be my favorite shot from that day. A small herd of Pronghorn does crossed the road in front of us and we stopped to take some images when this doe stopped and turned to face me. The Pronghorn doe may have been in that same spot for nearly 5 minutes as the rest of the does grazed behind her.
For me there is something very serene and peaceful about this west desert Pronghorn image. It could be her doe-eyed look or her relaxed posture and the out of focus does in the background. I can’t seem to put a finger on it but I do know that this image captivates me.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Pronghorn photos plus facts and information about this species and here to see more of my West Desert photos.
It’s the ears…they are so graceful. She looks more interested than alert, which intimates that she is comfortable, not threatened, by your presence. A wonderful, peaceful feeling for those of us lucky enough to have such an experience. The Lakota word for that is “Wakan” which translates to sacred or holy, but means so much more. I had something similar once with a mulie. I think it might be her acceptance of you that captures your heart (a very good one!)
Wonderful!!
Serenity and beauty captured wonderfully. Thank you.
I find peace in the lovely shades of color.
And the doe is in focus while the rest of the image is remains unobtrusive in its soft blur.
So, there’s no tugging on the eye/mind to look here and there.
That’s how it strikes me.
Beautiful image.
Thanks Mia.
Very nice! I love it too.
Superb.