Daily Minneapolis Photography - Street Scenes, Wildlife & Weather

Minneapolis Photographer Mitch Rossow presents daily photos of Minneapolis. Cityscapes, People & Perspectives: Mitch explains composition and techniques.

The Great Blue Heron, Ardea herodias

The monsters of the midwest have returned as bird week continues here on Mitchster.com. This big guy let out from behind a tree as I was photographing a loon. Luck was on my side as I quickly drew a bead on him and fired away. The high-speed focusing of the Nikkor 70-300mm VR is incredible, only three out of over twenty shots was out of focus.

The Great Blue always makes me think of wise old men. They walk carefully on the shore inspecting as they go, looking as if their hands are folded behind their back. When they take off, they are so slow and deliberate. When I accidentally disturb one, I feel the need to apologize.

Tomorrow: The American Robin, Turdis migratorius

This post has 7 comments. Add your own.
Rob - 23 Apr 08 at 08:43:31

I think of Jurasic Park when I see a Heron. They appear prehistoric in flight. Magnificent bird but quite shy. Are you panning your shots with his flight?

Dad - 23 Apr 08 at 10:14:49

An old man walking with hands behind back, I love the way you relate to animals. Very thoughtfull.

Olivier - 23 Apr 08 at 11:01:38

ta photo est superbe, ce héron est vraiment magnifique et majestueux

Your photo is superb, this heron is really magnificent and majestic

Ineke - 23 Apr 08 at 13:02:27

that is super shot!

Abraham Lincoln - 23 Apr 08 at 14:55:09

You are lucky to have been ready at the time and ended up with a very nice photo. I do the same with my Canon camera. I shoot a lot more than I would if it was film but then I have the luxury of looking and trying to find something unique. And I have out of focus shots too and blurred ones and use IS on all shots and lenses.

isabella - 23 Apr 08 at 19:00:38

Very nice catch!
Lots of GBH’s around my parts, but I never fail to stop and admire those “wise old men” ;-)

Inkster1 - 24 Apr 08 at 06:28:58

Lovely!

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