The Story Behind the Photo

I just posted my very first blog on my website, and I would love for you to take a look! Each photo I share comes with an amazing story that adds depth and meaning. While a photo can capture a moment, the story behind it brings in emotions, history, and personal connections that make it truly special. Please come check it out and join me on this little adventure. I can't wait to hear your thoughts!

Blog 1- The Story Behind the Photo.

Capturing Something Truly Magnificent with my Lens

As a passionate photographer, I always strive to capture the beauty of nature in its most authentic form. Pointe au Baril, with its serene waters and abundant wildlife, provides the perfect backdrop for such endeavors. Last summer, my husband and I decided to explore this picturesque location in our kayaks, hopeful for the extraordinary shots that only a water-bound perspective could offer.

Admittedly, bringing my camera on a kayak was a risky decision. The potential for missed opportunities weighed heavily on my mind, but I couldn't resist the allure of capturing the unspoiled moments that awaited us. As we paddled through the calm waters, our adventure took an unexpected turn—one that tested my resolve and resourcefulness.

Amidst the lush evergreen trees, we spotted a majestic bald eagle with its powerful talons firmly grasping a large fish. The scene was a testament to nature's raw beauty, and I knew I had to immortalize it through my lens. However, strong winds presented a formidable challenge. Every time I let go of my paddle to steady my camera, the kayak drifted perilously close to the nearby rocks. Regaining control and refocusing became a frustrating cycle.

Determined to capture the perfect shot, my husband and I devised a plan. With his support and insightful suggestions, we identified a starting point from which I could briefly stabilize the kayak and take the photo. The process was far from easy; it required numerous attempts and careful coordination. I had to navigate back and forth between the rocks and our starting point, battling the wind's relentless push.

After what felt like an eternity of adjustments, my persistence finally paid off. I captured the photo I had envisioned—a stunning image of the bald eagle poised gracefully in the evergreen tree with its impressive catch. This moment of triumph was a testament to patience and teamwork, and I couldn't have achieved it without my husband's unwavering support.

Reflecting on that day, I am filled with gratitude for the experience and the beautiful memory it created. The photo not only symbolizes the majestic nature of Pointe au Baril but also underscores the importance of perseverance and the bond shared with my husband. Together, we faced challenges and conquered the elements, emerging with a lasting reminder of our adventure on the water.

Blog 2- The Story Behind the Photo

Captured during the serene blue hour, this photo from Tunnel View in Yosemite National Park, California, holds a special memory. My husband and I were wading in the Merced River, trying to capture the perfect landscape photo. After spending some time near the base of El Capitan, he suggested we head up to Tunnel View.

As evening approached, we decided to venture to Wawona Road. Our timing was impeccable—we arrived just in time for the golden hour and watched the sky transition into the mesmerizing blue hour. Other visitors offered advice on changing my perspective, and togetthe perfect spot to capture this breathtaking moment.

Everyone there was in awe of the scene, and we shared their amazement. We had lively discussions about the different mountains in front of us. El Capitan, which tons 3,600 feet over the western end of Yosemite Valley, was a particular point of interest. Conversations included the incredible free solo climb by Alex Honnold, who scaled it in under four hours without any safety equipment on nearly vertical walls.

We even spotted climbing gear on the sheer cliff and imagined the climbers' tents. It was a incredible evening, with many people together, all mesmerized by the beauty of nature.

Blog 3-The Story Behind the Photo

Ever since I first laid eyes on a Snowy Owl, I’ve been captivated by its ethereal beauty. I dreamed of capturing the perfect shot—one that would not only showcase its majestic presence but also evoke the spirit of the snowy wilderness it called home. Little did I know, this journey would test my skills, patience, and determination in ways I never expected.

Several photographers shared the locations where they had photographed Snowy Owls, inspiring my husband and me to embark on numerous road trips in search of them. One of the destinations was the Canadian Raptor Conservancy, which required a two-and-a-half-hour drive each way, often through snowy winter conditions.

The first major hurdle I faced was the weather. Photographing a Snowy Owl on a snowy day meant braving bitter cold and chilling winds. There were times when I could no longer feel my fingers, yet I pressed on. I experimented with two different pairs of gloves designed for photographers, but both proved cumbersome, making it difficult to access the camera buttons.

Capturing the owl in flight proved to be the most daunting task. Predicting its movements and keeping it within the frame required immense patience and a keen eye. I spent countless hours observing its behavior, learning its patterns, anticipating its next move and developing my skills.

Frustration was a constant companion on this journey. Missed shots, out-of-focus images, and poorly exposed frames filled my memory cards. Each failed attempt reminded me of how elusive the perfect shot truly was, but I refused to give up. Every setback became a lesson, and each missed capture was an opportunity to improve.

Then, on that unforgettable day, everything came together. Snow gently fell, creating a serene, almost magical backdrop. I found a vantage point offering a clear view of the owl, and as I watched, it took flight. Its wings cut through the air with graceful power. My heart raced as I instinctively adjusted my settings and tracked its movement. The shutter clicked, and I knew I had captured something special.

When I reviewed the photos, one image stood out: a breathtaking shot of the Snowy Owl in mid-flight, framed by the falling snow. Every feather was sharp, the lighting was perfect, and the composition captured its wild beauty. Its eyes were clear and focused. That photograph taken at the Canadian Raptor Conservancy went on to win the 1839 Discovery Award, a testament to the perseverance and dedication it took to capture that fleeting moment.

The journey to that award-winning photo was filled with challenges, but it was ultimately incredibly rewarding. It taught me the value of persistence, the importance of learning from failure, and the joy of finally achieving a long-held dream. The Snowy Owl will always hold a special place in my heart, not just for its beauty, but for the journey it inspired.

Blog 4-The Story Behind the Photo

Iceland is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, but few species are as captivating as the Arctic tern. These small, striking birds are renowned for their extraordinary migratory journeys, traveling from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back each year, covering thousands of miles. In Iceland, they nest along coastal cliffs and in remote areas, fiercely defending their territories. Their territorial behavior and dramatic aerial displays make them a challenging yet rewarding subject for wildlife photographers.

Capturing photos of Arctic terns in Iceland was no easy task. These birds are notorious for their aggressive territorial defense, which requires a thoughtful and respectful approach. From the moment we entered their area, my husband ensured we maintained a respectful distance, moving the van slowly and carefully to avoid disturbing their nests. However, the terns were quick to react when I stepped out of the van for a closer shot, dive-bombing me, presumably in defense of their young. I returned to the van and noticed that one tern was resting on the ground next to us and would call out the moment I moved to leave the vehicle. Their sharp, swooping flights and vocal displeasure served as constant reminders to be mindful of their space.

Determined to photograph these vigilant guardians without causing harm, we devised a strategy that combined patience and respect. My husband parked the van in a position that honored their personal space and waited patiently with the sliding door open. For some reason, the terns didn’t perceive the van as a threat; viewed from above, it didn’t resemble a predator. This approach allowed me to capture their beauty without triggering their defensive instincts.

This experience reinforced the importance of being innovative and ethical in wildlife photography. It taught me the value of respecting animals' natural behavior while still pursuing my craft. The photos I captured, which beautifully showcased the terns in their environment, are a testament to this approach.