Finally flying - common loon at lift off

[Randy Stout]

As I have mentioned before, loons are so heavy for the size of their wings, that it is a real challenge to get airborne.  After splashing and paddling and flapping for 100 yards or so, they slowly lift off, often having to bank and circle around the smaller lakes once or twice to gain enough altitude to clear the trees.  Because they fly so infrequently compared to most birds, capturing in flight shots is a distinct challenge, you just don't get many chances .  So, I am always happy when I am able to capture the process.

D810  600VR  f/7.1  1/1600s  iso 400.

Shot from my little boat

Advice and comments always appreciated.

Cheers

Randy

[Hugh_3170]

Wow, this is dramatic! 

The bird looks like a military plane heading out on a mission.  Love the splashes, the water droplets in the air, the bands of cloud and the lighting of the bird's belly and under wings.

Just reward for effort I would say.

[Anthony]

Wow, this is dramatic! 

The bird looks like a military plane heading out on a mission.  Love the spashes, the water droplets in the air, the bands of cloud and the lighting of the bird's belly and under wings.

Just reward for effort I would say.

+1.

[Peter Connan]

Just keeps getting better Randy!

[armando_m]

Wow++

Excellent capture

[Bent Hjarbo]

Wow++

Excellent capture

+1

[Randy Stout]

Thanks guys, appreciate your thoughts and input.

Hugh:  funny about your comment on a military plane.  I actually thought the bird looked like a torpedo bomber on a low level approach, and almost mentioned that in the title.  Interesting how certain visuals call up interesting associations.

Cheers

Randy

[Jacques Pochoy]

What an extraordinary picture... I can almost hear the flapping 

[Mongo]

Dramatic and sharp - skillful shooting Randy.