Alaska Photo Graphics

Dall Sheep Rams, Denali National Park

Many things fell together to make this image happen, starting with the essential factor--the motivation to climb in the foothills of the Alaska Range. I almost chose not to go, since it was already late in the afternoon.

But the weather was too fine to pass up the opportunity. Once on top of the steep ridge, which was about an hour and a half hike, I found a band of Dall sheep rams and watched them for a few hours. I was fortunate to capture this serendipitous posture with a couple different focal lengths. Dall sheep escape predation by dwelling in high places, and the distant mountain backdrop really reveals a sense of place for these regal animals.

I had enough time to shoot a 300mm lens and add a 1.4x converter, making a 420mm lens. Both focal lengths worked well. I made it back to my car at dark.