Congratulations to HarveyGold for winning Feature Thread of the Week with 3 votes - View Previous Winners
A couple of years ago, I was fortunate enough to encounter a Great Grey Owl not far from home. This in itself was a treat as I had never before actually seen one in the flesh and have an opportunity to realize what an incredible creature it was.
Better still, during the following three weeks, my friends and I were able to relocate the bird on a number of occasions, allowing us to capture many photographs of this wonderful bird. Each occasion offered different surroundings, different conditions and a variety of light at different times of the day. We were able to acquire both perched and in-flight images.
Over time, the bird became comfortable with our presence and we were able to gradually approach closer each time. By the time the bird left for parts unknown, I was shooting with my 70-200 on a 1D MkIV. To say this was an awesome experience would be an understatement.
Here are just a few of the many images I was able to capture.
Sigh! Wow wow wow...I'd like just one of these and I can't imagine how many more you have. They are magnificent creatures and your photos of them are just wonderful.
Did I say WOW!
Eric
Those are really great...GGO seem to have little fear humans when they are hunting...I recently checked an area where they nest and heard them hooting for the 1st time (Oregon).
Hello Harvey, these are mesmerizing images and I am beyond envious of your encounters
I started picking favorites and picked them all so you get my vote for feature thread
Just fabulous, great IF shots, great looks and a wonderful set of comps and presentation!
Having spent several weeks shooting these guys when we had a few close I know how many hours can be spent waiting for one to take flight. Wonderful set, I hope to see one nearby again soon.