"EAGLE SCOUT"

American Bald Eagle - Mature (6 Photos)

One scenario for photographing American Bald Eagles:

1. Wear suitable traction footwear & clothing;

2. Locate one, hopefully in a tree with little or no branch interference for a clean shot;

3. Walk thousands of steps while trying to look nonchalant;

4. Plead for an audience & allowance to get into range;

5. Work with the light Nature gives you. In this instance, it was a soft morning light with the sun slightly off to the right of the photo.

It certainly is much easier to shoot with the light source behind you but this particular subdued lighting provided some striking contrasts & gave this gorgeous bird of prey an almost mythical appearance. (Photos 1 - 3)

And yes, it may have only been seconds before the eagle flew "Stage Right", but it was a little unnerving to stare a Bald Eagle in the eyes as it heads for what appears to be directly down the camera lens! (Photos 4 - 6)

PHOTO #1

PHOTO #2

PHOTO #3

PHOTO #4

PHOTO #5

PHOTO #6