After I cleared the snow from my Jeep yesterday morning, I went out for a bit and took a few male House Finch photos as they feasted on crabapples.
Male House Finch eating a crabapple – Nikon D500, f13, 1/400, ISO 640, +1.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
When the rising sun cleared the clouds and the mountain peaks to the east the morning light was gorgeous. During previous winters I have photographed American Robins and European Starlings feeding on these crabapples. This was the first time I’d had the chance to photograph House Finches pigging out on the fruits of these trees.
House Finch male perched on a snowy branch – Nikon D500, f9, 1/1000, ISO 640, +1.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The bright blue sky along with the fresh snow on the branches of the crabapples provided me with lovely settings to photograph the finches.
Male House Finch gorging on crabapples – Nikon D500, f9, 1/1000, ISO 640, +1.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I enjoyed how the reddish colors of the male House Finches were also seen in the fruits and branches of the crabapples. The snow looked like a natural frosting on them too.
Male House Finch with a crabapple in his bill – Nikon D500, f9, 1/800, ISO 640, +1.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
House Finches are fairly common here in northern Utah. I believe that even common birds can be uncommonly beautiful in the right setting and light. I was very pleased with how these male House Finch photos turned out because everything fell into place.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my House Finch photos plus facts and information about this species.
What a wonderful series of pics! The colors, detail and composition are simply extraordinary. Thanks Mia.
Mia, I love the photos of a cute little House Finches.
Beautiful shots!