The Ghost of the Forest

There’s something truly special about photographing a species of wildlife for the first time—especially one as elusive and captivating as the great gray owl. I had first spotted and photographed this owl the evening before with a few other photographers. Early the following morning I returned to the same area, and to my surprise, I was the only one there. I spent the morning quietly following and photographing this incredible owl, and that peaceful, one-on-one encounter led to this beautiful image. It’s a moment I’ll always remember.