Gerhard Geldenhuys
August 2026 - Breakfast Coming Up (7:00 AM)
About the Image(s)
Nikon camera with 400 mm f2.8 . ISO 900 F5.6 1/2500 sec. Spot metering. Taken in the Kruger National Game reserve in the wild from my vehicle with well supported equipment.
It is a Grey Heron which can remain motionless for extended periods patiently waiting on an unsuspected fish swimming by .
Apart from patience ,they have an incredible eyesight and strike with the speed of lighting . Quite an amazing action to observe. I liked the trail of water droplets as the prey got lifted from below the water surface. Post processing done in Photoshop.
6 comments posted
Gerhard, peak of action. When I face a shot like this I usually use burst non stop until the bird swallows the fish so you can have the "decisive moment" in your card. It is sharp. Your vantage point was a little high since you are shooting down into the water as background. iT IS SHARP. Posted: 08/04/2026 15:18:53
Thank you Isaac. I do capture the full sequence from the actual strike with the Heron's head submerged until the actual swallowing of the prey. I chose this particular frame as I like the water droplets. Posted: 08/05/2026 07:14:12
I think You showed us the right moment. I have a similar image I will present one of these days. I usually capture at 20/sec. I like your angle and the lighting is very good on the fish with his eye in the image. Bye Bye fish! Isn't photography fun? Posted: 08/05/2026 18:27:09
Gerhard, I agree! The beautiful light falling on the bird, along with the water droplets, really enhances the image and brings out its character. We have Great Blue Herons as permanent residents in our area, and they behave and look very similar to the Grey Heron. I never get tired of photographing them-they are such wonderful subjects! Well done! Posted: 08/10/2026 16:34:28
Super shot!
Looks like it's happing right now. Maybe a little more space around the bird. Love this! Posted: 08/12/2026 19:15:47
Looks like it's happing right now. Maybe a little more space around the bird. Love this! Posted: 08/12/2026 19:15:47
Gorgeous shot, very energetic, and great facial expression of the heron. Very sharp throughout. Impressive. Posted: 08/12/2026 22:00:07