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2016 Wildlife Photo Contest

beaver, Yellowstone National Park, United States
Beaver Carrying Branch

Species: beaver | Location: Yellowstone National Park, United States

Beaver carrying a branch back to the den during winter.

About The Photographer

Since I was a child, I’ve always related to nature. My dad used to take me bird watching and it became a part of me.

Growing up in Massachusetts and now living in Colorado, I’ve been drawn to wildlife photography and, in particular, birds. I sometimes get so enamored by nature that I actually miss capturing the photograph. That means I must visit a place several times. First to get the feel for the place and then to capture it. Nature brings me such joy and peace and I strive to convey that in my work.

Part of the challenge of being a wildlife photographer is being at the right place at the right time. Getting out often is essential because I’ll never get a great picture if I don’t get out!

One time, in Yellowstone National Park, I waited for hours listening to wolves howling, but I never set eyes on one. Other days, it all comes together and I am blessed with some of the most amazing shots!

One of the things I like the best about my work is observing how people respond differently to the same image. For example, a black and white photo can evoke feelings of coldness, severity, peacefulness, calmness, relaxation, or even, violence. I love listening to people sharing their feelings about my art.

Most wildlife photographers are men. Being a woman, I think I bring a feminine eye to wildlife. Maybe it’s that I have a different eye; or that I try different angles to get a special view; or maybe I just see the simple beauty of an animal in its element. Whatever the reason, people are right when they tell me “I can tell you love your job.” And I do!

Nature is my playground no matter the season. Go out and enjoy it!

Check out Heather’s photography website: www.diamondphotogallery.com
Follow Heather on Twitter: @diamndphotos
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WWF & Natural Habitat Adventures. Discovering Our Planet Together.

Since 2003, Natural Habitat Adventures has partnered with World Wildlife Fund, the world’s leading environmental conservation organization, to offer conservation travel—sustainable travel that supports the protection of nature and wildlife. Nat Hab has provided more than $4 million to WWF and will continue to give 1 percent of gross sales plus $150,000 annually through 2023 in support of WWF’s mission to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth.

Learn more about the Nat Hab/WWF partnership.