Every year, as the holiday season approaches, the National Wildlife Federation selects a captivating photograph to feature on their season’s greeting card. This year, I am incredibly honored to share that my photograph was chosen to grace this prestigious card, showcasing the beauty of our natural world. In this article, I will take you on a journey behind the lens and share the story of the image that made it onto the National Wildlife Season Greeting Card.
Capturing the Moment
The photograph that was selected for the National Wildlife Season Greeting Card is a testament to the awe-inspiring moments that nature can provide. It was a cold winter morning when I ventured into the heart of a Purgatory creek lake eden prairie. Armed with my camera and a heart full of anticipation, I set out to capture the essence of the season and the raw beauty of the birds kingdom.
The sun was beginning its slow descent towards the horizon, casting a warm, golden hue across the tranquil lake. The surface of the water shimmered like liquid gold, reflecting the colors of the evening sky. As the day transitioned into twilight, a breathtaking scene unfolded – a beautiful Blue Heron, nature’s epitome of grace and elegance, descended from the heavens and gracefully touched down on the glassy surface of the lake.
The heron’s wings stretched wide, displaying their magnificent span, as if embracing the fading light of the day. Its feathers, a harmonious blend of deep blue-gray and pristine white, ruffled slightly in the gentle breeze. With a serenity that seemed almost otherworldly, it seemed as though time itself slowed down to savor this moment of avian splendor.
The ripples created by the heron’s landing radiated outward, distorting the reflection of the surrounding cypress trees and the vibrant, fiery hues of the setting sun. The entire scene felt like a painting come to life, a canvas where every stroke of color and every ripple in the water was a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world.
As the heron stood still in the shallows of the lake, its long, slender legs submerged in the cool water, it surveyed its surroundings with keen, amber eyes. Its dagger-like beak, designed for precision fishing, glistened in the soft, warm light. It was as if the heron had paused to acknowledge the day’s end, paying its respects to the sun as it retired for the night.
The tranquility of this moment, with the Blue Heron as the centerpiece, was a reminder of nature’s capacity to inspire wonder and awe. It was a scene of quiet serenity, a perfect marriage of the natural elements—earth, water, and sky—coming together to create a living work of art. The heron’s presence on the lake during the sunset was a fleeting yet profound encounter, leaving an indelible impression of the enduring beauty and harmony found in the world around us.
The Selection Process
Submitting the photograph to the National Wildlife Federation was both nerve-wracking and exciting. I knew that there were countless talented photographers vying for the coveted spot on the greeting card. When I received the news that my photograph had been chosen, I was overwhelmed with joy and a sense of responsibility to represent the beauty of wildlife and nature in the best possible way.
The Message of the Card
The National Wildlife Season Greeting Card has a rich history of featuring photographs that celebrate the wonders of nature and promote conservation. This year’s card, adorned with my photograph, carries a message of hope, reminding us of the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations. It serves as a poignant reminder that we share this planet with a diverse array of incredible creatures, each deserving of our respect and protection.
Conclusion
Having my photograph selected for the National Wildlife Season Greeting Card is a dream come true, and it is a testament to the power of photography to inspire, educate, and connect people with the natural world. Through this photograph, I hope to encourage others to appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature and to join in the efforts to protect and preserve the habitats and species that make our planet so remarkable. This holiday season, as you send and receive the National Wildlife Federation’s greeting card, take a moment to reflect on the majesty of the natural world and the role we play in its conservation.
https://www.cardshopnwf.org/product/blue-heron-landing-on-lake-during-sunset-card-nwf10901