The Screech Owl Yawning: Capturing a Perfect Moment
Discover the captivating story behind the iconic "Screech Owl Yawning" photograph, taken in 2001 at My Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Learn about the equipment used, including the Nikon D1 camera and a 600mm lens with a 2X teleconverter, and how modern technology like Gigapixel AI enhances this timeless image.
In 2001, while visiting My Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts, I experienced one of those rare, serendipitous moments that every wildlife photographer dreams of. Armed with my Nikon D1 camera, I hoped to capture the elusive screech owl in its natural habitat. I ended up with a photograph that remains one of my favorites to this day: the screech owl mid-yawn.
The Moment of Luck
With my camera locked down and aimed at the owl, I felt confident I had secured the shot. But as I looked up, the owl did something unexpected – it yawned. I quickly fired the camera, capturing a moment of sheer spontaneity and natural beauty. It was a very lucky shot, one that perfectly encapsulated the owl’s character and the tranquility of the cemetery.
The Gear Behind the Shot
This memorable photograph was taken with the Nikon D1, a digital camera that boasted a 2.7-megapixel sensor. By today’s standards, that resolution seems almost quaint, but at the time, it was revolutionary. Despite the relatively low megapixel count, the image holds up remarkably well, thanks in part to the monochrome nature of the shot and the perfect exposure.
Enhancing the Image
The photo was captured using a 600mm lens combined with a 2X teleconverter, providing an effective focal length of 1200mm. This setup allowed me to get up close and personal with the owl without disturbing its natural behavior. Even more impressive is how well the image scales. Using Gigapixel AI, a cutting-edge image enhancement tool, the photograph can be enlarged to at least 11 x 14 inches without losing its clarity or impact. In addition, I used a Nikon Flash and Better Beamer to light in the hole where the Screech was nesting.
A Timeless Photograph
What makes the screech owl yawning image so special is not just the subject or the circumstances under which it was taken, but how well it has stood the test of time. The combination of equipment, luck, and the advent of modern technology has ensured that this photograph remains as captivating today as it was when it was first captured over two decades ago.
In the ever-evolving world of photography, where megapixels and advanced features dominate the conversation, it's a reminder that sometimes, all you need is the right moment and a bit of luck to create something truly timeless.
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Roseate Spoonbill–Jefferson Island
A photo of a Roseate Spoonbill at jefferson Island. The most beautiful Wading Bird in North America.
Roseate Spoonbill–Jefferson island
A photo of a Roseate Spoonbill at jefferson Island. The most beautiful Wading Bird in North America.
Photo of the week 2016-09-12
It's been far too long since I've posted here, gotten out of the habit and I plan on starting up again. This weeks photo was taken in May at Lake Martin.
I was waiting for the sunset, this was happening in the opposite direction and I liked the light on the trees and the fisherman in the shot. I also took one after the fisherman had left, so if you're justed interested in the scene without the boat let me know.
It was shot as a 3 image vertical panorama and stitched together with a 50mm prime lens, my D810 Nikon Camera, and a panoramic head.contact me if you're interested in a print.
Late Evening at Lake Martin