Common loon – uncommon photographs

I have photographed a solitary loon at this small lake in early summer for years. It is unlikely that it is the same one each year, more likely just a convenient spot to fish and rest for a couple of weeks before continuing on its migration. I went out near sunset, close to 10pm presently, and enjoyed watching the loon preen, shake and then settle down for the night.

When I arrived at the water, it was overcast. The weak light was great for longer exposures. As the bird raised out of the water to shake itself dry, I liked the motion blur of the wings and the water.

After a little while, the sun fell below the cloud line and lit the water up in golds and pinks. Before it dove behind the hill, I went to the far side of the lake to photograph the loon in silhouette. It was a special evening for me with one of my favourite birds.

June 29, 2025 | Categories: Alberta, Birds, loons, motion blur, Sunset, Techniques, Wildlife | Tags: alberta, animals, blurred action, bragg creek, Canada, Common Loon, Gavia immer, loon, motion blur, nature, photography, shake, shaking, summer, sunset, water shake, water spray, wildlife, wildlife photography | 9 Comments