Bald Eagle: Vertical Liftoff Series

[Ioway]

This is a three shot series as a change of pace from some of the horizontal flight shots.

Photo #1 : Adult Bald Eagle Perched This is a healthy bald eagle perched on a bare branch enjoying the sunshine on a wintery Iowa day. This is shot from a car. The eagle was aware of my presence, but allowed me to patiently work to close proximity without disturbing it. Good detail is visible in the wispy white head feathers as well as on the edge of the body feathers. A light wind was blowing the head feathers out of place. Notice the sharp talons?

Photo #2: Vertical Takeoff One The still photo captures an uncommon perspective of a Bald Eagle as it shoots straight into the air from its perch on the tree branch. Here you get a unique look of the talons spread wide-open. At this moment the legs are stiff and straight as all the energy was expended in a vertical leap. The wings are wideopen ready to grab some air for flight. The head of the eagle is up. Also the eagle is gazing upward. It was not scared into flight by my presence but was going up to challenge a passing Bald Eagle flying through the territory.

Photo #3: Vertical Takeoff Two The Bald Eagle has back up in flight with the thrust of his powerful seven foot wing span. His eyes are locking upon the trespassing eagle. Quickly the defending Bald Eagle will be ready to set a flight course to intercept its adversary. This is pretty much a full frame shot. The feet are starting to close and you can still see detail under the large wings. This camera perspective is almost straight up yielding a decidedly different look at a Bald Eagle taking flight.


Ioway

[rawpaw18]

Great series again, very nice fresh perspective in the last shot,
lifting off right over your head almost. Got a healthy set of drumsticks too.

[Padre]

Tom, if it wasn't so darn far to Iowa from Tennessee I'd beg you to come shoot with you! Love the 2nd, the way the eagle is suspended in air. Just too cool!

[Ioway]

I thought I would add two more photos to this vertical launch series for now.

Photo # 4: Pre-launch Pose .

Photo # 5:







Ioway

[thooten122]

Once again...amazing work. I always look forward to opening your posts because I know beforehand that it is going to be something spectacular. What hits me the most right now though is not the amazing ability you have acquired to capture these beautiful birds but the forethought you put forth before ever clicking the shutter. That, coupled with your observant and keen knowledge of your passion to me I think is what makes you so successful. I met a couple while out birding yesterday from Iowa who are wintering down here and I bragged about your pictures to them...