While experiencing this State Park, which is about an hour north of Las Vegas, we were fortunate to come across a small group of Desert Bighorn Sheep grazing not to far off the road.
Desert Bighorn Sheep - Valley of Fire State Park - Nevada
Nikon Z8
400mm · f/8 · 1/125 sec. · ISO 1000
Congratulations Frank, did/do you find this more fulfilling/challenging, than zoo photography?
Thanks Paul, (I think)...
I would love to go to exotic locations and photograph animals in their natural environments. I think Costa Rica, Africa, Australia and even the more remote parts of America where the animals run free and wild would be amazing and would definitely be challenging and rewarding to get the amazing shots like the ones others have posted here on Fstoppers. The opportunity just has never been a reality for me, "Life Happens!".
But I also love to photograph the animals I am able to photograph at zoos and rescue facilities. I find it fulfilling and challenging to capture them digitally trying to showcase their displayed personalities as I imagine and perceive.
I think that zoos today are doing a much better job at caring for the animals and providing help and assistance to locations around the world aiding in their conservation. Rescue facilities are nursing back to health and caring for animals that in the past would have been euthanized or just left to die. These animals are released back to the wild or if they cannot are cared for and become part of the educational effort.
I'm reminded of National Geographic's The Photo Ark by Joel Sartore, and their story presented on 60 Minutes, (it can be found on the internet).
I know I'm no where close to being a Nat Geo Explorer or photographer but I hope my images of animals, whether from the wild or a zoo can inspire and educate others to love animals and become better humans.
I think it would be awesome if Fstoppers could have a Monthly Contest of Zoo Animals, with guest judge Joel Sartore. ;D