wildlife photography

Two adult bald eagles perched together in a large nest high in a cottonwood tree.ethics and respect for wildlife photography
Side by side in the morning light — a quiet partnership in the treetops. The partnership incubates the eggs.
Ethics and Respect for Wildlife / Safety, Ethics & Respectful Travel / Travel and Photography Tips / Wildlife Photography / Wildlife Techniques and Mindset

Ethics and Respect for Wildlife

Wildlife photography is more than capturing beauty—it’s about responsibility. From knowing when to step back to choosing what to share, this guide explores how respect, restraint, and awareness lead to more authentic stories and stronger conservation values behind every photo.

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February 17, 2026
Snowy white owl perched on a telephone pole above an open winter field in upstate New York
A snowy owl perched above an open field near an airfield, using the landscape to quietly scan for prey.
Ethics and Respect for Wildlife / Wildlife Photography

When the North Comes South: Snowy White Owls in Upstate New York

Snowy white owls are birds of the far north, but in recent winters they’ve appeared closer to home in upstate New York. This quiet encounter tells the story of seeing one for the first time — and why patience, distance, and ethical wildlife photography matter when rare visitors arrive unexpectedly.

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February 13, 2026
Distant view of Mount Rushmore aligned through Shovel Johnson Tunnel on a scenic drive in Custer State Park
The presidents of Mount Rushmore appear in perfect alignment through Shovel Johnson Tunnel—an unforgettable moment on Iron Mountain Road.
Back Roads and Byway / Midwest Region Travel Guides / National and State Park Drives / Scenic Drives and Roadtrips / Small Towns and HIdden America / Travel Destinations

Exploring the Wonders of Custer State Park: A Journey Through Nature’s Masterpiece

Tucked into the rugged Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park is a place where wildlife, winding scenic drives, and dramatic granite peaks come together in one unforgettable landscape. From spotting massive bison herds along the Wildlife Loop Road to navigating the narrow tunnels of Needles Highway, every turn offers a new adventure. Whether you’re hiking the trails, photographing mountain lakes, or simply taking in the sweeping views, the park feels both wild and welcoming. On Back Roads Lens, I share not only the photographs that capture the park’s beauty, but also the experiences that make Custer State Park a destination worth slowing down for.

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June 16, 2025