Low light portrait of a Mallard drake resting in snow – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/400, ISO 1000, +1.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
On the first day of the new year there was fresh snow on the ground in the morning, light snow fell throughout the day and there were heavy clouds overhead that dimmed the sun. That didn’t stop me from trying to get photos of birds at my local pond though.
Because of the low light and snowy conditions on the first day of the year I did not take many photos of the birds that I saw but I did get a few mallard images that I liked. I know these ducks don’t excite too many people but they are among the very first birds I remember seeing, watching and learning about as a child so I have a soft spot for them. I’ve been a bird lover and watcher for as long as I can remember.
I like this low light, wintry portrait of this Mallard drake resting in the snow. They are common yet beautiful birds.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Mallard photos plus facts and information about this species.
Stunning portrait! He’s marvelous!
Yes, he’s gorgeous!
They appear to be so numerous that many of us take them for granted. The eastern Mallards are declining in numbers and I would miss them were they ever to disappear. This drake is so handsome, and an exquisite image with all the detail, Mia.
Just beautiful.
Anyone who says ‘just a duck’ is a shmuck.
Excellent portrait!
The detail is amazing. It looks like mini teeth along the upper bill.
It’s a beaut