Humpback Whale

Humpback whale outside of Seward, Alaska.

Monday night, a couple photographer friends (Jess Lee and Michael Murphy) and I, chartered a boat with Doug Boulden, owner of Captain Kid’s charters. We had had a wonderful night! Doug normally specializes in fishing trips for families with children (thus the name), and can be booked through the Fish House in Seward – but I think he had just as much fun watching the wildlife, even if he did have to endure a bunch of “photography talk”

This humpback whale was feeding in the last light of day, it was some sweet light! And hey, I managed to keep the horizon level – something I sometimes have trouble with when shooting handheld from a boat – especially with verticals for some reason.

Comments 13

Dave Taylor

June 18, 2008 at 7:06 am

Great shot! If you’re ever looking for another photog to go in on a charter like this, I’d be happy to drive down. Always wanted to do an evening (or early a.m.) charter for the good light.
Anyway, beautiful light on that blow!

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Ron

June 18, 2008 at 9:23 am

Thanks Dave,

That is good to know as I really can’t afford to charter a boat by myself, but if I can split the cost it is pretty cost effective.

Ron

Dave Taylor

June 18, 2008 at 9:36 am

I’m in the same “boat” (gosh I love puns) Ron. This photography thing can get real expensive. I was just in Seward and did another trip on the Mariah (of the Kenai Fjords fleet) on Sunday. What a great trip! Smaller boat with an excellent crew, and the trips last 10 hours. We had beautiful weather too, and they cater to photogs and birders.

Mark

June 18, 2008 at 10:10 am

Because verticals make you feel like you are up higher Ron – ssheesh. 😉

Great light in the spray there.

Mike

June 18, 2008 at 3:18 pm

Ron, thanks again for helping get this trip set up. Monday’s experience will be one I’ll never forget, long after the photos are forgotten!

You’re welcome to see my account here:

http://www.losmadrones.com/Los_Madrones/LM_Blog/Entries/2008/6/18_Whale_of_a_Time!.html

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Ron

June 18, 2008 at 4:14 pm

Thanks Mark.

Hi Dave. I agree, Mariah is a good tour for photographers. The problem with Mariah and all the tours for that matter is that they won’t be out there at 11:00 p.m. when the light is the best.

Ron

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Ron

June 18, 2008 at 4:24 pm

Hey Mike,

Great to hear from you! That sure was a great time. You captured a wonderful image – I’m jealous!

Let me see if I can make the link work: here

Thanks,

Ron