BlairB

Reindeer

I thought the light was difficult and harsh -- until I saw the shadows created by the antlers.

I thought the light was difficult and harsh -- until I saw the shadows created by the antlers.
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SONY ILCE-7RM2

settings

Aperture f/4 ISO 800 Shutter 1/4000 Focal Length 2000/10

upload_date

Nov, 2015

Views

1616

Likes

+316

Awards

Featured

Contest Finalist in Shadows In Nature Photo Contest

Staff Winter Selection 2015

Peer Award

+133

Top Choice

+27

Superb Composition

+23

Absolute Masterpiece

+12

Magnificent Capture

All Star

Outstanding Creativity

Superior Skill

Genius

Top Ranks

Top 10 rank

Top 10 rank week 1

Top 10 rank

Top 10 rank week 1

Top 10 rank

Top 10 rank week 1

Top 10 rank

Top 10 rank week 2

Top 10 rank week 1

Top 10 rank

Top 10 rank week 1

Top 30 rank

Behind The Lens

Location

I had just bought a new lens (Sony 70-200) and was eager to try it out even though it was getting late and the sun was very low. I was passing the Stone Zoo in Massachusetts. Though it was close to closing time I went in anyway, dying to just snap a few with my new lens. The light was raking and harsh but I was phenomenally lucky. This reindeer was in the perfect position and that raking light was magic as it created the marvelous antler shadow on his side. Any other time would not have worked so well.

Time

Late afternoon.

Lighting

Late afternoon would not have been my choice for "good light." But this reindeer photo has taught me to be more flexible about making light choices outside my comfort zone.

Equipment

Since I was on the run with minutes 'til the zoo closed I used no tripod, no flash. This is just a hand-held shot.

Inspiration

I saw those shadows and just prayed I'd catch them in the seconds I had!

Editing

I may have darkend the background in places for more dramatic effect.

In my camera bag

Oh, wow. That depends where I'm going. On walks with my dogs I take my camera with one lens. If I'm going to an event I take everything I've got -- which isn't really a whole lot: camera, three lenses, tripod.

Feedback

That's tough. I was extremely lucky. For me, at the zoo, for instance, it's pretty much hit or miss. But I try be prepared with my camera settings and just have fun!

See more amazing photos, follow BlairB

BlairB

BlairB

Reindeer

I thought the light was difficult and harsh -- until I saw the shadows created by the antlers.

Behind The Lens

See more amazing photos, follow BlairB

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