I don't know how I can ask for more from Mother Nature than to request for a "in-the-wild" Barn Owl. This owl has been at the top of my list for...ever...
I didn't ever have much hope for ever seeing a wild Barn Owl as my photographic years pass, but with the help of a great friend, the day finally came...
I got the call and dropped everything. I drove 45 miles and almost instantly found my prize. He was gorgeous! He was backlit, but still do-able photographically. The excitement was surreal! I couldn't believe I was looking up at one. Now for the hard part...
To get this guy focused and choosing the right settings was, to say the least, difficult! Backlighting is always tricky, but taking my time and adjusting this and that, especially the tripod at this almost vertical position, I finally was set properly, although my neck disagrees whole-heartedly.
The results were pleasing in reference to the raptors colors, although I would always favor a more pleasing backdrop in this case. I cannot complain...
Interestingly, 2 trees away from the Barny was a Long-eared Owl, which I will publish next...
