After the recent snowstorm in Arkansas, I photographed several female Red-winged Blackbirds in foggy, snowy conditions. I had a great time taking their photos.

Female Red-winged Blackbirds in fog and snow, Sebastian County, ArkansasFemale Red-winged Blackbirds in fog and snow – Canon R7, f7.1, 1/250, ISO 1000, +2.3 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 400mm, natural light

I know these conditions aren’t every bird photographer’s favorite. Some might find the dim light frustrating or think it limits their ability to create stunning photos.

Me? I see it differently.

I love the challenges that low light brings—it pushes me to think creatively, adjust my settings, and adapt to the ever-changing environment.

Frosty female Red-winged Blackbird in snow, Sebastian County, ArkansasFrosty female Red-winged Blackbird in snow – Canon R7, f7.1, 1/320, ISO 1000, +2.3 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 400mm, natural light

There’s something special about the mood and atmosphere in those moments, the soft shadows, and the subtle hues that emerge when the light is faint.

The resulting images often feel intimate and unique, making the effort—and frozen fingers—well worth it.

I also think it brings awareness to the incredible resilience of birds and animals as they endure and adapt to the varying weather conditions they encounter. Watching them thrive through harsh winters, scorching summers, and storms deepens our appreciation for their strength and the need to protect their habitats.

Female Red-winged Blackbird standing in snow, Sebastian County, ArkansasFemale Red-winged Blackbird standing in snow – Canon R7, f7.1, 1/500, ISO 1000, +2.3 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 360mm, natural light

Providing food for birds during harsh winter weather, whether it’s extreme cold or heavy snow, can help them survive.

These female Red-winged Blackbirds came for the seeds and stayed for them too.

Female Red-winged Blackbird walking through deep snow, Sebastian County, ArkansasFemale Red-winged Blackbird walking through deep snow – Canon R7, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 1000, +2.3 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 400mm, natural light

The blackbirds in my viewfinder managed to cope with the cold, fog, and snow. I managed too, but only for brief periods—about 20 to 30 minutes—before heading back inside to warm up, before going back outside again. I sure love what I do.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Red-winged Blackbird photos plus facts and information about this species.