Last month, when I took this photo of a male Ruddy Duck shaking at my local pond, I liked the way the light illuminated the lower part of his wings.
Drake Ruddy Duck shaking in morning light – Nikon D500, tripod mounted, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Sometimes, there is just one thing in my photos that makes me appreciate and enjoy them. Sure, I liked his pose, loved that he was in breeding plumage when I took this photo, and the light was lovely. All of that was great that morning, but what really appealed to me was the light shining on and through his wing feathers.
This Ruddy Duck had been at my local pond for months, along with a female. After I took this image and other photos of him at the end of April, I couldn’t find him again. The pair might have moved on to find a better location to build a nest. I am not sure. I do know that I was thrilled to have them in my viewfinder so close to home.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Ruddy Duck photos plus facts and information on this species.
Simply lovely – and I echo Marty’s hope.
Especially like the reflection of those lit up primaries and secondaries. Hope he and his mate are having a successful breeding season wherever they are!
Simply Gorgeous. I could stare at it all day. Thank you! 🙂
Beautiful use of the light, Mia!