I had another talented group of photographers for the second group including Jacqui Burke, Beth Feder and Donna Bourdon. Having Donna along is like having a second right hand—she is very helpful! I would say it ended up being a good mix of subjects and shooting sessions for both groups. Weather cooperated and each group had some nice conditions, including some snow.
My favorite day was the day that we saw two Bull Moose fighting. They had both lost their paddles, so they decided to duke it out “old school.” The shot I captured is not a clean and clear shot, as they were against some trees, and I had to clone a third moose’s leg out of the frame (see image below).
We also had many fox encounters and on one of the days I captured a favorite. The fox was sitting in a forest of trees (shown above). I loved so many from that day including one of them with his magnificent tail flowing down a snow mound.
I left the cool tones as it was a blistering cold day.
As we were heading back from our morning shoot, we came across a coyote that was hunting a vole right on the side of the road. We gave the coyote some distance so he could continue his hunt. After he captured the poor little vole, he played around with it before eating it. Finally, the rodent faced off with him. It was such fun to watch but we did feel bad for the vole.
Pigmy owl
Our last day it snowed!!
We spent some time photographing the beautiful Magpies and I got one or two I liked. We spotted the Northern Pygmy owl again and spent a little time with the hoarfrost one morning. There was a red dog (very young calf) in the herd this year and both groups got a chance to photograph it. I hope it survives.
One of our favorite Pronghorn shoots was with “Stargazer”, my nickname for this adorable young Pronghorn with a mane. He was so cute we all had nicknames for him.
Hoarfrost on one of the largest trees in the park. I liked going in tight and get a close up of the frost.
I wish I got a hot of it against the mother for scale.
The roads in Yellowstone in winter can be a bit tricky and slippery. Thanks again to Michael Zajac for his expert driving and keeping all of my guests safe.