Elk
Jul, 2016Views
926
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Awards
Contest Finalist in Silhouettes In Nature Photo Contest
Peer Award
Superb Composition
Top Choice
Absolute Masterpiece
Outstanding Creativity
Superior Skill
Magnificent Capture
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Top 20 rankTop 10 rank week 1
Top 20 rank
Top 10 rank
Top 30 rank week 1
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken at Eagle's Nest, NM.Time
I took this shot at sunset during the summer.Lighting
This particular day was stormy, and the sky was gray with clouds. A cloud covered the mountains, which added to the hazy quality of this photo.Equipment
I used a Canon Rebel t6i with a Sigma 70-300mm lens.Inspiration
It was my last night in New Mexico, and I had been trying to see elk for the entire week of my stay. My family and I took one last evening drive, not expecting much since rain was coming. Then, up on the hill, three female elk came out of the forest at the perfect moment when the dying light would cast them in silhouette. It felt mythical, mysterious, and it was the perfect photograph to end my time in New Mexico.Editing
I used minimal contrast enhancement to give this photo more drama.In my camera bag
My Canon Rebel t6i is my go to camera body. I carry my Sigma 70-300mm lens because it is versatile and has a macro function. I also carry a Canon 18-55 mm with a Polaroid wide angle lens attached for landscape scenes.Feedback
If possible, I like to shoot silhouettes like this one on hilly ground, especially if I am lower than my subject. Shooting up toward an backlit, elevated subject can increase contrast and make for a stronger silhouette. Also, be observant of your surroundings - we were driving when this elk was spotted. Remember to be respectful of the animals and keep your distance. You are in their space. And finally, sometime during your photo shoot, take a few moments to set down your camera and just enjoy the beauty of what you are seeing with your own eyes.
