I’m very proud of my photo of the month for April because it was the culmination of numerous things I have learned while photographing deer. I have failed more than I can count while attempting to take the perfect photo of this very skittish animal. Through my many failures, I have learned how to treat an encounter with deer to achieve the photos I’m after but, also ensure the comfort of the deer. The knowledge I have gained came together like pieces to a puzzle on this very chilly Saturday morning.

After spotting the two deer on my hike through the woods, I was able to put my self in a position where the deer were comfortable with my presence. I sat, watched, and waited for a special moment to photograph as the deer went about their business rummaging through the brush for food. Not before long, I was lucky enough to share this very intimate moment with the two deer. I knew imminently after pressing the shutter I had taken a photo I would be happy with. If it weren’t for my patience, my respect is given to the deer, and the deer’s acceptance of me into their home; I wouldn’t have been able to take this photo.

If there is one take away I want someone to have when viewing this photo its that we are all visitors in the homes of wildlife. Every time we go out into nature we need to remind ourselves of this fact. Often, it is very easy to think wildlife are intruders in our world, but in reality, it is the opposite. We need to be respectful to wildlife by treating their homes how we would expect guests to treat our own homes.