Ghost in the Shadows

The great gray owl is without a doubt one of my favorite subjects to photograph. Their striking appearance, quiet intensity, and sheer size make them absolutely mesmerizing to watch, and being in their presence is nothing short of awe-inspiring. What makes encounters with them even more special is how elusive they are. Great grays are masters of camouflage and are incredibly difficult to find in the dense northern boreal forests of North America. Searching for them has become one of my favorite challenges as a wildlife photographer and requires patience, persistence, and of course a bit of luck. But when I do find one—especially when I’m on my own—it’s an incredibly rewarding experience that always reminds me why I love doing this in the first place.