Dawn's Daring Dance: A Grouse's Sunrise Spectacle That Could Ignite Your Passion for Wildlife Photography!
Picture this: a solitary male black grouse, mid-hop against the blazing backdrop of a Scandinavian sunrise, frozen in a moment of pure, untamed elegance. This isn't just a photo—it's a testament to the patience, dedication, and sheer magic that unfolds when a photographer communes with the wild. But here's where it gets intriguing: what if capturing such beauty comes at a cost to the creatures themselves? Dive into this captivating entry from the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, and you'll discover the story behind the shot that might just challenge how you view nature's fragile balance.
Marc Costermans's Captivating Capture
The Belgian photographer Marc Costermans masterfully depicts a male black grouse leaping in place beneath a radiant Scandinavian dawn. To achieve this vision, Marc endured five chilly nights camping in the snow, staking out his spot well before sunrise to be perfectly positioned for that golden opportunity.
Positioned low to the ground on his belly, he observed a group of 15 black grouse, fingers crossed that one would align just right with the rising sun. After an hour of anticipation, his patience paid off—one bird delivered the perfect pose.
Male black grouse boast striking blue-black feathers that shimmer with iridescence, a natural spectacle that's even more dazzling when they lift their tails to flash brilliant white underfeathers. For beginners in birdwatching, think of this as nature's own flashy display, like a peacock's strut but with a rugged, northern twist. These birds don't just show off for show; for a few crucial weeks each spring, they gather at special communal spots known as leks—think of them as ancient arenas where males compete fiercely for dominance, strutting, calling, and battling to win over potential mates. It's a ritual as old as time, highlighting the intense, survival-driven drama of avian courtship.
The Man Behind the Lens
Marc's deep connection to the natural world began in childhood, when he found joy in simply being outdoors. His honeymoon trip to America's majestic national parks was a turning point—it sparked a passion that led him to buy his first camera upon returning home. Ever since, he's committed to wildlife photography, setting aside time each week to chase those elusive moments. Since 2018, he's been leading photo expeditions for the Starling Voyages agency, sharing his expertise and inspiring others to appreciate the wonders of the wild.
And this is the part most people miss: in an era where ethical concerns about wildlife photography are rising, is it okay to disrupt an animal's habitat for that perfect shot? Marc's dedication shows the thrill of immersion, but it also raises questions about balance—do the benefits of awareness outweigh potential stress on the birds? It's a topic that's sparking heated debates among nature enthusiasts. Some argue that such close encounters educate and conserve, while others worry about unintended harm. What do you think—should photographers tread lightly or push boundaries?
Technical Breakdown of the Image
To bring this scene to life, Marc relied on precise gear and settings:
- Canon EOS R6 Mark II camera
- 100–300mm f2.8 lens
- Shutter speed of 1/5000 at f13 (-1.3 e/v), ISO 200
- Location: Långträsk, Piteå, Sweden
For those new to photography, this setup ensures sharp, detailed captures even in bright, fast-moving situations— the high shutter speed freezes the action, while the wide aperture controls light beautifully against the sunrise.
Copyright Notice
Remember, copyright for images in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition belongs to the photographers. You can't copy, share, reproduce, or republish these photos without permission under copyright laws. If you're a media professional interested in using this image, reach out to us for inquiries.
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What are your thoughts on the ethics of wildlife photography? Do you believe moments like this justify the effort, or does it cross a line? Share your opinions in the comments—let's spark a conversation!
