Getting light in the eye of a Barn Owl in flight is often a challenge because of their deeply set eyes but when you throw in the dark foreboding skies of an approaching storm it becomes even more difficult.
1/2000, f/8, ISO 400, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light, not baited, set up or called in
This bird was hunting for voles along the edges of stands of phragmites and since there was snow on the ground I’d normally have a chance to get at least some light in the eye from light that was reflected off of the snow’s surface. But on this morning the dark clouds behind me prevented that from happening.
I believe that birds are fully aware of approaching storms and this owl was relentless in its attempt to find food before the bad weather hit when it would likely have to hunker down for cover. For me, light in the eye always gives the bird “life” and I wish I had it here but there’s also something about the mood of the moment and the situation that appeals to me.
Ron
Ron, thank you for sharing another superb image of your Barn Owls! I continue to enjoy my “vicarious birding” through your efforts!
It’s interesting to see how the image does convey the purposefulness of the Owl.
I think the sombre mood is captured perfectly be the absence of the ‘must-have’ catch light on this occasion. Yet another stunning image of a bird which has my heart. Thank you.
Thanks very much, Elephant’s Child.
Wonderful shot…can’t get over what you get to see…photograph and share. What is a “catch light”? The highlight in the eyes? I almost always add one in my paintings…to bring my images “to life”, but painted a bobcat recently that actually looked better without it…or at least a very modified, muted one…sometimes one that’s too bold and bright, ends up looking like the reflection of a flashbulb…not good.
Yes, Patty – the catch light is the eye highlight. And you’re right, when folks add artificial highlights to photographs of birds they often look “flashed”. Personally I don’t like flashed images of birds – they usually don’t look natural, partly because of the effect on the eyes. And there’s other ethical issues with flashing birds too, especially owls.
Such a great shot just the way it is. I love barn owls. I watch ‘live’ cams of barn owls in California. Amaing to watch them in their owl boxes!! You didn’t have to have to add anything!! Just beautiful the way it is!
Ellen, Barn Owls are one raptor I’ve yet to watch on live cams. I’ll have to check one of them out come nesting season.
Beautiful flight shot Ron,we can’t always be in a position to catch a great catchlight but it doesn’t take anything away from this image.The bird is full of life doing its thing and there is an ever so subtle hint of “life” in its eyes.I would have never noticed the missing “prominent” catchlight.
I can see that “hint” too, Tim, but it’s very, very faint.
I appreciate the integrity of your approach, Ron. By not adding in something, you allow us to see what you saw and to truly share in the moment. A wonderful photo.
“By not adding in something, you allow us to see what you saw and to truly share in the moment.”
Thank you, Alison. I think that was well said.
Beautiful. I find that added catch light can look quite phony (I guess the ones that don’t look phony, I wouldn’t notice as added). I love that you show us the actual moment in time. It increases the amount of awe that I have for your phenomenal work and dedication.
You’re absolutely right, Sharon. Fake catch lights usually look like just what they are – fake. But even if they don’t I just don’t think it’s ethical to add them. If there’s already a faint one there I’ll occasionally enhance it slightly with an extra round of sharpening but that’s all I’ll do.
Great flight shot Ron- Glad to see you don’t ADD the glint in PS!
Thanks, Bob. A lot of folks add catch lights in processing but it just doesn’t sit well with me, so I don’t.
What a beautiful flight shot Ron! Thanks for sharing!
Charlotte