Local resident of Dry Tortuga National Park
This pelican followed me around the entire time while trying to get shots of the sail boats. I was getting a little nervous as he insisted on standing next to m...
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This pelican followed me around the entire time while trying to get shots of the sail boats. I was getting a little nervous as he insisted on standing next to me. They are known to be very aggressive if disturbed.
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Feb, 2016Views
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Awards
Top Shot Award 22
Spring Selection Award
Top Choice
Superb Composition
Peer Award
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken while camping on Dry Tortuga Island. It's a small island that holds old Fort Jefferson. It's the last island in the Keys, ninety miles north of Cuba. There is no water or electricity available. You bring your own water, food and camping equipment.Time
This picture was taken right after returning from Loggerhead Island which is three miles across the open Gulf from Dry Tortuga. We were unloading our kayak when this pelican approached. He/She just stood there and watched us the whole time. Notice the band on the right leg. This pelican was tagged and being observed by marine biologists.Lighting
Sun was more in the western sky at this time and there were no clouds. Positioned the shot with the sun to the pelican's back.Equipment
Nikon D7000 with 18mm-105mmInspiration
The pelican almost seemed like he/she wanted to say something. It kept inching closer and closer. I was starting to actually get a little nervous. Pelicans look harmless but they can be nasty. I grabbed my camera and got down on my knees, inching as close to the bird as I could. The bird watched my every move with little concern.Editing
The only post-processing done was to slightly blur the background to bring the pelican out more.In my camera bag
Wide angle lens. Some type of 18mm-105mm and occasionally macro. Remote flash and remote control.Feedback
I've discovered that the best shots are the ones you are not looking for. If instinct tells you that you should shoot it, you should. I love close-ups of animals and inanimate objects. When shooting up close to animals, always keep one eye on the picture and one on the animal. The pelican I shot had a razor sharp point on his beak for tearing up it's food and defense. I had one eye on the bird's posture and behavior while taking the shot. I also made sure I could make a quick getaway in case I had.
