Smokey Mountian Elk

[FrankMi]

For your opinion...



I have difficulty getting images of birds and wildlife, other than in the zoo. So I was tickled when I got a chance to capture a young Elk in a protected area of the Great Smokey Mountains in western North Carolina.

It may not be as stunning as many I've seen at CiC, but it is one that I photographed so for me, this one is special.

[Downrigger]

Very nice shot. Not just special for you. Handsome creature and I think handsomely portrayed. Unless I'm mistaken, I think you were effective (but with not an excessive effect) in popping the elk out of that ho hum background. I think it's good that these are going successfully reintroduction after their extinction in the 19th century, but, like whitetails, they're going to need an apex predator at some point.

[zen]

Elk and other hunted species have a habit of fading into the background, but not this time! Great job getting him to contrast against the busy shrubbery and trees behind.

Good for you.

Zen

[IzzieK]

I love it Frank! He is very handsome...I think he posed for you to give you this experience. Once you start photographing them in the wild, you will not stop until you get another one...

[NorthernFocus]

Nicely done. The first shots captured of new species are always special. If one is lucky the sensation never diminishes with time or number of successes. Enjoy!

[Wavelength]

Very lovely animal and very nice shot

[deetheturk]

Great image Frank!

[FrankMi]

Thank you Mark and Zen. Yes, I was concerned about losing the Elk to the busy background when I shot the image but fortunately, his coat was sufficiently different in color that it provided the needed separation. I did warm the image just a but to help define the difference. I think the biggest help came from the fact that he was in front of a series of almost green tree trunks.

[FrankMi]

Thank you Isabel. Although I now know where these fellow hang out, it's about a three hour drive to that location, then quite a drive along a narrow gravel road. I'll get back there again but it might not be too soon <sigh>.

Cheers Dan. I did indeed enjoy this outing and can look back fondly at this image for years to come. Isn't that what capturing memories in photographs about?

Thank you Nandakumar for your consistently kind words. They are always appreciated.

Thank you David for taking the time to view my efforts and commenting.

[jprzybyla]

Well done Frank. Do you think maybe the nature/wildlife bug has bitten? If so be careful it can become addictive.

[FlyingSquirrel]

Well done Frank. Do you think maybe the nature/wildlife bug has bitten? If so be careful it can become addictive.

Yes, and...EXPENSIVE

[FrankMi]

LOL! Yup! Bitten, Addicted, and (unfortunately) on a Budget!