18 Jan Beyond Black | Jan 2017

Black Is Only a Beginning

Common Raven

We know that the Common Raven is black.

So why does this bird appear dark red in the photo?

The answer is light.

First, photography is the art of sculpting with light. So we add depth, shape, and interest by catching the play of light on our subjects. And that’s what happened here, in this photo.

And second, light reflects the color of its surroundings.

For example, I took this photo in Zion National Park at “The Temple of Sinawava.” Imagine red rock walls that rise up hundreds of feet, forming a bowl around a bend in the river. These walls are so high and so close together that sunlight seldom shines on the river.

Yet in the afternoon, these walls become alive when light reflects off of them. Then the light obtains a red quality that you see cast on this raven’s feathers.

So the blackest black can change into vibrant color when light shines upon it.

Much success,

Steve Kaye

Find More at:

Fluffed up Birds

Why Crows Fly Back and Forth

Profile in Courage

Birding Resources

The National Parks in the US offer many wonderful birding opportunities, as well as exceptional ways to enjoy Nature.

See the list at: National Parks

Then plan a visit to a park.

Did You Know?

The most effective way to help birds is to buy land.

Here are three organizations that excel at doing this.

1) American Bird Conservancy

2) The Nature Conservancy

3) The Trust for Public Land

Please visit their web sites to learn about the work they do.

Here’s an excellent book: The American Bird Conservancy Guide to Bird Conservation

You can help – Please share this blog with others.

Inspiring Respect for Nature, one bird at a time.

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