Picture Of The Week 07-30-12

Bald Eagle
(Haliaeetus leucocephalus)

Where: Richmond, VA • South of Richmond City

Notes: Looking back, I had not posted a Bald Eagle photo in quite a while. This photograph was taken on one of "Captain Mike's" Discover the James, Eagle Tour trips (www.discoverthejames.com). It is always fun to be out on the water, with someone who has such an appreciation for nature and a drive to share it with others. This is an immature Bald Eagle. These magnificent raptors take as long as four to five years to get their adult plumage. I was amazed at how many different individual Eagles, at least twelve, we saw that day between Richmond and Presque Isle as we headed down the river. I especially like the pose of this young bird as it turned and made an approach toward a fish in the water below. This movement put just the right amount of low, morning light onto its head, chest and wings. Blue skies provided ample ambient light, needed to capture the action.

Equipment: Canon EOS 40D • Canon 300mm f-2.8 Prime IS USM L Series Lens • 1.4X Converter • Hand Held • Pontoon Boat

Exposure: Shutter Speed = 1/5000 second • Aperture = f 7.1 • Exposure Mode = Aperture Priority • Focus Mode: AiServo • Lens (Focal) Length = 300 mm (420 mm w/ 1.4X converter) • ISO = 400 • Aprox. Camera Distance = ~75 Feet • Date Shot: 05-05-10

©2010 Robert W. Schamerhorn. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication prohibited.