#52weeksofnature Photo Contest Week 32 Winner
The winner of Week 32 of our #52weeksofnature photo contest is TJ Watt (@tjwatt). You only get one chance for a shot like this so you better have your camera settings dialed. TJ has won $150 and is getting his winning image printed on a HippyTree t-shirt. Explore the Nature Photography Collective section on our site to view t-shirts of past winners.
Where was the image shot?
Khutze River, British Columbia, Canada
What camera did you use and what were the settings?
Camera: Canon 5D Mark IV
Lens: Canon 100-400mm
Shutter Speed: 1/3200
Aperture: f/5.6
ISO: 3200
Was there any special preparation required to capture the photo?
Pre-visualization came into play here. As we floated up the river the eagle I’d been eyeing swooped down right at eye level. Thankfully, I’d set my camera to a high shutter speed, high frame rate, and auto focus tracking. Capturing birds in flight is always a challenge but this time all the elements came together.
How long have you been shooting?
About 15 years.
What's your favorite subject matter to shoot?
Trees! Each old-growth giant is a unique character unto itself, a wonder and inspiration to behold.
Where would be your dream location to take photos?
I consider Vancouver Island a dream location already but outside of here, probably the California Redwoods or Yosemite National Park.
Who are some photographers that inspire you?
Jimmy Chin for his outdoor adventure photography; Edward Burtynsky for his compelling imagery of humanity’s impact on the planet; Paul Nicklen and Cristina Mittermeier for their work to protect oceans at SeaLegacy; Jeremy Koreski for his stunning surf and scenic shots along BC’s coast.
What excites you about photography?
The understanding that it has the power to change the world along with the countless adventures it continues to inspire. My life is infinitely richer because of it.
