“August: Dramatic thunderstorms, warm days, and changes brewing.” 

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Monthly Overviews for JH / GTNP .

Check Out This Popular Page: If I Had Only One Day in the Tetons.

August 31, 2016 > Wednesday

At midnight tonight, 2016 will be 2/3 over! Locally, merchants will consider “summer over” by Monday evening of Labor Day. Many activities, like the JH Shootout, JH Rodeo, and Farmer’s Markets will end for the year. Fall activities will replace them!

Tomorrow, I will post a new September Daily Journal. I just published this initial post: Foliage Reports September/October 2016: You will probably want to check in on both regularly, as they will contain slightly different info and photos.

Golden Eye Flap: Moose were scarce today. The only two I saw were at Sawmill Pond Overlook on the Moose-Wilson Road. I took this image at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Mallards: Also taken at Schwabacher Landing. Mallard drakes have now lost their iridescent green head colorization.  Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Great Blue Heron: Taking off along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Gray Jay: Feeding on berries along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Red Leaves: Taken near the LSR Preserve on the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 30, 2016

The roadway between Leek’s Marina and Flagg Ranch is NOW OPEN! (access to Yellowstone)

“The highway pullouts along the highway in the fire area will be closed.  Firefighting traffic will continue to use the roadway, the parking pullouts, and Flagg Ranch as parking areas and supply staging zones.  However, the parking area at the north entrance sign to Grand Teton National Park will be available to the public.  Please drive through the fire area cautiously, as fire traffic will continue to use the road.”

Late yesterday, I made a loop through Moran Junction, then up to Leek’s Marina, and south on the Teton Park Road. For the past few days, I have been seeing indications of early yellow leaves. I was hesitant to post it here, because there can always be a tree here and there changing early. But, there are lots of them! The image above was taken on the hillside above Oxbow Bend. While they make up only a small portion of the deciduous trees, large chunks are shifting towards pea green and greenish-ochre. It’s still August!  Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Berry Fire: This was taken from Leek’s Marina last evening. Nikon D810 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Calf in Water: Taken at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Schwabacher Beaver Pond: I love zoom lenses! The above two shots were taken from essentially the same spot. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Beaver Dam: Tight shot from Schwabacher Landing. Red Leaves

Golden Eye: Also at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Floating Feather: I was hiking around on the Gros Ventre River early this morning looking for a bull moose. I never saw a moose by the river. It’s always a gamble, but occasionally a gamble pays off! When I gave up and went to Schwabacher Landing, people there said the sunrise was spectacular. I took this image at one of the beaver ponds there. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Aspens: Changing leaves along the Moose-Wilson Road near Granite Canyon trail head. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Mother Moose: In the afternoon, I found this cow moose grazing at Schwabacher Landing. She started crossing one of the connecting beaver ponds and then began calling for her calves. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Heed the Call: The little ones heard the mother’s call and came running through the beaver pond. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Nursing Calves: When the mother calls, there’s usually a reward. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Two Calves: Feeding on their own, but not that far from mother. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Beaver: I haven’t seen many beavers out of the water yet this year. I saw one along the Gros Ventre just before dark. This one was swimming around at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Moose and Calf: This cow has a single calf. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pronghorn in the Air: This youngster danced across the hay fields along Mormon Row Road. My shutter speed was only 1/320th second, but I panned at the correct speed to keep the head relatively sharp. There’s always a bit of luck involved!  Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

September One-on-One Photography Excursions Available!

Late September excursions are filling up, but I have openings for the first 10 days of September.

Teton Photo Excursions. I offer LICENSED One-On-One Photography Excursions in Grand Teton National Park, with emphasis on helping clients with their camera and gear. Each trip is customized based on client needs and requests.

(Note: It says One-On-One, but I take two people on a trip for the same price). We find some of the best locations for scenic photography, and look for wildlife in the process.  Check out some of the Client Comments. (Teton Photo Excursions is an Authorized Permittee of the National Park Service)

August 29, 2016

In A Thicket: This isn’t a great photo of a moose…I know! Our Shiras moose can weigh up to 1000 lbs and stand at about 5.5 feet at the shoulder. They can be easy to spot, but not always! I hiked about 3/4 of a mile of the Gros Ventre River this morning before I finally spotted just the tips of the antlers of this bull. I could walk by the same area another hundred times and miss him every other time. I stayed with the bull for an hour, or longer. He finally stood up, stretched, and then went right back down. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Elk Flats: I did a loop to the northern section of the park this afternoon. Bison have been in short supply in the south part of the park. They are apparently all in the Elk Flats area. There’s a new fire east of Elk Reservoir…not sure of the name yet. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Chopper and Tanker: The area most of us know at the “Dump Road” is the command center for the Berry Fire. A helicopter was refueling when I drove by. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Copter with Water Bucket: I took this image from the convenience store at Colter Bay. I thought the flag was an interesting element, but I also have shots with no flag. The workers at the convenience store said it has been very slow for the past week and the campground is only at about 30% occupancy. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Berry Fire: This was taken from the parking area at Leek’s Marina. Most reports suggest the road into Yellowstone will be open again sometime tomorrow. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Cottonwood Leaves: The temps have dropped to around freezing several mornings already this year. In some areas, leaves seem to be getting a jump on the normal foliage season. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Choke Cherries: Birds and Bears like these berries, found in patches along the Moose-Wilson Road and around the valley. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Water Walkers: That’s what I’ve always heard them called anyway. They were on the water under the footbridge at the LSR trail. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Berry Fire and Road Report: Keep an eye on this page: GTNP News Releases: I received an email from the Park Service saying they hope to have the highway into Yellowstone open sometime Tuesday.

New Feature Post! Days of Rose, Amber, and Gold

This new post contains a lot of moose photos taken in early morning, smoke filtered light from area fires. I hope you like it! …and if you do, please share it!

August 28, 2016 > Sunday

One more from : Days of Rose, Amber, and Gold Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Trees: Taken at Schwabacher Landing this afternoon. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Trumpeter Swan: Something tripped this Swan’s trigger. They seldom chase ducks, but often chase off Canada Geese and other Swans. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Eastern King Bird: I captured this bird image along Flat Creek yesterday afternoon. I didn’t get a chance to process my evening shots until late, so I’ll start Sunday with them. I only see a few of these birds a year in the valley. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Cedar Waxwing: I found this bird along the bike path on Flat Creek. They were landing on the fence, then flying out to capture insects above the water. Besides these two bird species, I saw quite a few Yellow Warblers, Swallows, and Yellow-rumped Warblers. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Young Moose: Captured in one of the Beaver Ponds at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pronghorns: This doe was attracting a group of bucks along Mormon Row Road. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pronghorn Bucks: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Late Evening Moose: I found this bull along the Gros Ventre River and stayed with him until the sun went down. He never stood up! Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Smokey Skies: Nikon D810 and Nikon 70-200mm lens.

August 27, 2016

I am getting emails fairly often now, asking when to expect foliage to be peak here in the Tetons. Last year, I created this page that documents the season. Each year will be slightly different, of course: Foliage Reports for September and October 2015. You should notice that foliage doesn’t peak across the valley at one time. That’s great! Nature spreads the event over several weeks.

• Fires Continue to Close Yellowstone Entry from GTNP: GTNP News Releases: My daily notifications from the Park say they don’t expect the road to open anytime during the weekend. Leeks Marina and Pizzaria are open.
• Tourists can still enter Yellowstone via West Yellowstone (125 miles) or Cody (300 miles)

Pronghorn Portrait: Actually, I took this photo last evening. I didn’t get to process the group until almost 10:00 pm. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Stepping Through Sagebrush: It seems there is a lot of “drama” along the Moose-Wilson Road each fall. I can only handle it in small doses. I spent a while along the Moose-Wilson Road before heading to the quiet side of the valley yesterday afternoon. This Pronghorn was grazing quite a ways out, but seemed to be working towards the road. I just sat back and let him do so. I enjoyed the solitude as I shot out the window. Often, someone drives up, gets out of their vehicle and spooks an otherwise willing subject, but yesterday, I had at least 45 minutes alone with this buck!  Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pronghorn Buck: The buck was apparently fine with me sitting in my car. A guy on a bike was riding up the road, which caught and kept his attention until he passed by. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Evening Swan: I stopped at the observation platform along Flat Creek on my way home and took a few with the reflected orange light. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Cygnets: The two Cygnets are getting big FAST! Much of their baby down is being replaced by actual feathers. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Moose in Sage: It’s still too early for the bulls to have much interest in the cows. This Gros Ventre bull is still in velvet. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Sandhill Cranes: Taken at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Sandhill Crane: Also taken at Schwabacher Landing. There were a cow moose and two calves in the area. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 26, 2016

Sunrise at Schwabacher Landing: Clouds looked good (promising) as I drove north out of town. Calm winds prompted me to go to one of the most popular spots in the valley. I made it to Schwabacher Landing in time to find a good spot and set up before the color began. A mother moose and two calves emerged from the forests at the back edge of the water, then moved across and to the right. Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens. (Two shots, stitched to make the pano. Click the image to see it larger)

Young Moose: The two calves took turns putting on a show at the water’s edge. The mother stayed back, allowing the kiddos time to roam around and play. Very cool! Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Young Poser: Hard to beat clear reflections and good light! Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

First Light: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Red Fox: I spent some time driving up and down the Moose-Wilson Road, hoping to get lucky and capture a few shots of black bears. Never saw one! This Red Fox was hunting near the Visitor’s Center at Moose. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Red Fox: Their coats are now sleek and clean. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 25, 2016

A Few Notes:

• Today!  National Park Service Centennial –

• Fires Continue to Close Yellowstone Entry from GTNP: GTNP News Releases
• Tourists can still enter Yellowstone via West Yellowstone (125 miles) or Cody (300 miles)
• Skies are clearer this morning. Clouds are rolling in.
• Mornings temperatures are dropping to 34 degrees.
• Moose-Wilson Road:  Expect spotty enforcement along the roadway. Signs and cones come and go, but it appears they go up immediately if bears are seen—especially between the Sawmill Pond overlook parking lot and the end of the “S” curves a mile or so south. Don’t expect to get photos along part of the roadway when you can’t stop or get out of your vehicle.
• Bison Hunting is underway along the northern end of the National Elk Refuge. Bison appear to have moved north.

Streaming Water: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Merganser: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Resting Moose: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

White Pelican: Yesterday, Dave and I headed to the South Fork (of the Snake) and drifted down the river on his boat. Besides the Berry Fire in the north end of GTNP, there’s another big fire near Ririe, ID kicking up huge clouds of smoke and altering the color of the sky. This White Pelican (along with Bald Eagles and Osprey) frequently flew overhead.

Orange Sky: Another shot taken from the river, looking West.

Fall Creek Falls: It would be difficult to go by this site and not get a few shots. Fall Creek Falls drops in the the South Fork near Swan Valley, ID. Click Here to see a satellite map of the area.

Black Bear and Berries: I did a pass through the Moose-Wilson Road this afternoon. A sow was feeding relatively close to the overlook at Sawmill Ponds, attracting a ton of people and a pile of wildlife managers and rangers. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Standing Black Bear: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Standing Black Bear: Earlier, I mentioned not expecting to get shots of bears along the Moose-Wilson Road. I’d still suggest it will be a fairly accurate assessment, but random opportunities may still be possible. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Moose Stripping Willows: I’ll include this evening shot, mainly because of the humorous expression. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 24, 2016

Heavy Smoke in the Tetons and No Entrance to Yellowstone: GTNP News Releases

Gros Ventre Sunrise: I was out early today to capitalize on the rich morning light. I took this shot from the edge of the Gros Ventre River. For now, I will just add photos…heading to the South Fork to fish today. I’ll try to add more comments later tonight. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Gros Ventre Sunrise: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Sunrise Cow Moose: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Fawns: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Fawn: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Custer: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Morning Moose: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 23, 2016

Photographing Large Game in GTNP.  This link will take you to a page that might be of interest. I originally posted it in 2014, but I believe the information is still valid today.

Rose Colored Morning: Taken early this morning from the bike path next to Flat Creek on the north edge of town. Area fires are still pumping smoke into the region and influencing morning light.  Nikon D810 and Nikon 70-200mm lens.

Red Cross Training: I spent most of the day at a Red Cross First Aid and CPR training course as part of my requirements for my Commercial Use Authorization Permit (CUA) as a guide in Grand Teton National Park. I managed to get out for sunrise this morning. Light was beautiful! A little smoke goes a long way, however!

Trumpeter Swans: Taken from the observation platform along Flat Creek. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Raccoon #8: I trapped another young Raccoon in my back yard overnight. That’s eight so far since spring! I released it next to the Snake River south of Jackson. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Berry Fire: NOTICE: “To protect public safety, Highway 89/191/287 in Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway is temporarily closed between Leeks Marina and the South Gate of Yellowstone. The Grassy Lake Road between Flagg Ranch and the Caribou-Targhee National Forest boundary is also closed. This closure includes Lizard Creek Campground and the Headwaters Lodge and Campground at Flagg Ranch, which have been evacuated. The roads are not expected to reopen anytime today, Tuesday, August 23. Access to the southern entrance of Yellowstone National Park is not available during this temporary road closure. Facilities at Leeks Marina remain open at this time.”

There are lots of useful links on Best of the Tetons! While there are fires and resulting closures in the area, I’d suggest clicking on the link in the Navigation Bar called : GTNP News Releases

Afternoon Smoke: North winds brought thick smoke into the town of Jackson. I took this from the highway…just south of town. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Mallard Stretch: Taken along Flat Creek. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 22, 2016 > Monday

Berry Fire: There are several fires in the region, including a couple in the NW corner of GTNP. Click the link to get more info, then click the map and zoom around to see all other regional fires.

NOTICE: The park highway between Leeks Marina on the south and Flagg Ranch on the north in Grand Teton National is closed due to fire activity. It is not expected to reopen until sometime tomorrow (Tuesday, August 23), once it is safe to do so. Lizard Creek Campground has been evacuated. Access to the southern entrance of Yellowstone National Park is not available at this time.

For the Birds! Last night, I scrolled through the first three weeks of August and realized I included a LOT of Moose photos. (They happen to be my favorite subject). Many recent mornings have been mostly cloudless so I haven’t been concentrating on landscapes lately.  Today, I thought I’d try to focus on a few different subjects—just for the change of pace. How about some birds! They are generally common all over the valley.

Red-naped Sapsucker: Found along the Gros Ventre while looking for Moose. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Meadowlark: Found along Mormon Row while looking for Bison. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Immature Bald Eagle: Found at Schwabacher Landing while looking for a cow and calf Moose. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Goldeneye Duck: Found at Schwabacher Landing while looking for Beavers. (not sure if this is a Common Goldeneye or Barrows Goldeneye?) Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Sparrow: Also captured along Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pine Sisken: Feeding along Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Non-breeding Drake American Widgeon: It was resting on a Beaver dam at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Non-breeding Mallard Drake:  This one was along Flat Creek at the North edge of town. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Young Moose: In the late afternoon, this youngster emerged from the willows along the Gros Ventre River. It was only visible just long enough for a few shots. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 21, 2016

Moose in Velvet: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Water Break: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August Notes: We are three weeks into August, and September is approaching fast! Days are noticeably shorter.  It can be cold at sunrise now! The first part of August was crowded, but there seems to be a lull now. Another group usually shows up during the Fall Arts Festival and again as the fall colors begin to change the landscape.

August 20, 2016

Moose-Wilson Road Update: The Park Service added a couple of signs on the Moose-Wilson Road this morning. The version on the right was added in the afternoon.

Custer: Morning light and majestic bull. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Approaching Bull: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Cow At River’s Edge: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Mule Deer: Found grazing along the river bottom. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Sun Bathed Bull Moose: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 19, 2016

 Moose-Wilson Road Update: As of this morning, it appears the Wildlife Management crews are telling people they cannot get out of their cars or walk into the 1.3 mile closure area south of Sawmill Ponds Overlook.

• Don’t Stop — Keep Moving
  
• Don’t Get Out of Your Car
• Don’t Attempt to Park in the 1.3 Mile Closure
• Even if you park in an approved parking area, Don’t Walk or Stand on the Road
• Stay 100 Yards from Bears

Bull Moose: Another capture of a bull moose along the Gros Ventre River bottom this morning. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Resting Bull Moose: Golden light on the same bull. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Lip Curl: It’s way too early for the rut, but this bull is getting into the season. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Red Berries: I took a few images along the Moose-Wilson Road late yesterday when it was still legal to stop in a parking area and walk around. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pond Scum: Late evening light on “Moose Pond” on the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Evening Light on Sleeping Indian: A band of thunderstorms passed over Jackson Hole in the late afternoon. Lightning sparked a fire under the belly of Sleeping Indian. This image was taken from the observation platform on Flat Creek. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Trumpeter Swan: If you are lucky, the gold hillsides of Crystal Butte and Miller Butte adds unique color over Flat Creek in the late afternoon. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Heart Charms: On my way home from the Park, I stopped at the Art and Antiques show at Miller Park. One of the vendors had bins and bins of interesting objects. They let me set up my tripod and photograph some of them. Nikon D800 and Nikon 70-180mm zoom macro lens.

August 18, 2016

Moose-Wilson Road Bear Management Policy Changes: If you are planning on visiting GTNP this fall, you might want to keep up with some new management policies going into effect on Moose-Wilson Road.

Park crews have added cones to every pullout from the large Sawmill Pond Overlook parking lot to the access road to the inholding houses 1.3 miles south. The small pullout .25 miles from the Sawmill Pond Overlook may or may not be coned, depending on bear activity. The parking closure then extends another mile south.

Park officials seem to be trying to fine tune the policy and enforcement rules. As of today, it appears to me it will be difficult for photographers to get photos of bears along that section of the roadway this season. Here are a few of the rules I was told today:

• Don’t Stop
• Don’t Attempt to Park in the 1.3 Mile Closure
• Don’t Stand on the Road
• Don’t Take Photos while standing on the road.
• Stay 100 Yards from Bears

I asked if any of the new policy/rules are printed or posted anywhere? Not yet. If I get more details, I’ll post them here.

Red Berries: I believe these are Choke Cherries. I took these along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Red Leaves: There are a “few” aspen trees turning yellow and some of the Black Hawthorn bushes are beginning to change colors as seen here. Most are still green, however. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 17, 2016

Hedrick Pond: We haven’t had many clouds at sunrise in a long time. Today, they returned! I we up early enough to make it to Hedrick Pond before the first hints of color bathed the clouds. (Sometimes called Hedrick’s Pond). Nikon D810 and Nikon 24-70 mm  lens.

First Light: Clouds in the east changed the scene regularly over about 30 minutes of time. If you were to go to this spot, be careful if you try to approach the edge of the water. You’ll be standing on a mesh of vegetation—not firm earth—and it could be very dangerous! Nikon D810 and Nikon 24-70 mm  lens.

Morning Range: Depending on the light and clouds at the time, there can lots of opportunities and vantage points. You can find Hedrick Pond on the Park Map, located between Snake River Overlook and Triangle X Ranch. Nikon D810 and Nikon 24-70 mm  lens.

The Grand and Timbered Ridge: I stopped along the Moose-Wilson road, climbed a small butte and took this photo while the Grand was lit. Nikon D810 and Nikon 24-70 mm  lens.

August 16, 2016

Bull Elk: This was taken with essentially no light. I drove up Spring Gulch Road to start my morning. Big Bulls graze on ranchers grasses before disappearing backing into the thickets. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bull Moose: Also captured with very little light. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Stripping Willow Leaves: Taken along the Gros Ventre River bottom. Yesterday, I heard a wildlife safari guide telling his clients the bulls have white on their antlers and are stripping their velvet. Nope! Not yet! Some of them have white streaks of velvet. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Morning Drink: Bull Moose along the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bison Bull: Taken from Gros Ventre Road. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bull and Grand Backdrop: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 15, 2016

Note: Adobe Creative Cloud 40% off through August 17 : If interested, check it out!

Jackson Peak: There can still be haze in the mornings from area fires. This is Jackson Peak taken from the Gros Ventre Road. It hasn’t been too bad lately, however. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Moose with Flowers: Wildflowers are less dominant in the valley lately, but you can still find them. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Mid-sized Bull Moose: Someday, this bull is going to be a beauty! I’d estimate him to be about 5 years old. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Moose Near Willows: This morning, there were six bulls feeding in close proximity along the Gros Ventre. I could be wrong, but this bull looks a lot like the nice bull that typically spent his mid-summer days under the bridge on the Snake River at Moose Junction.  Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Morning Drink: Taken along one of the side channels of the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Mule Deer Fawn: Taken along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 14, 2016

Red Squirrel: I spent about an hour and a half hiking around looking for Owls this morning. I didn’t find any, but stopped to capture a shot of this Red Squirrel. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Moose Cow Nursing: This Cow and Calf were visible from the road along the Gros Ventre. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Moose Cow Drinking: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Moose Cow and Calf: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Running Calf: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Young Moose: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 13, 2016

Resting Bull Moose: This bull has a unique “index finger” sized tine growing from his skull. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Custer Antler Growth: Another view of this bull’s unique tine. I will be curious how and when this element is shed in December.  Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Morning Drink: Taken at the edge of the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bull In Side Channel: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Custer in the Gros Ventre: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 12, 2016

Best of the Tetons: Hopefully, the quirks on this site are now fixed! Make a comment! Subscribe!

Quick Local Notes: Check out the Art Fair at Miller Park this weekend. Some really good photographers show there. Also, check out the Art and Antiques Show at Teton Village over the weekend.

Schwabacher Landing Stars: I was up fairly early today—probably should have been out an hour earlier if I had wanted to see the meteor showers. Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Custer In Morning Light: This bull has been growing in stature since my first photos of him in 2011. I spent the morning photographing him and two cows all morning. He was grazing along the Gros Ventre. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Custer Antlers: This year, Custer has a distinctive drop tine on his right antler and a new, smaller drop tine on his left antler. And…he has a new small antler at the base of his left antler. Depending on the angle, it can look a bit like a unicorn horn. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Agitated Cow Moose: Another cow moose was getting too close to this one, causing her to drop her ears to her neck. It’s a sign of agitation. I also saw the cows getting too close to the bull. Right now, he’s running them off, but that will change in a few weeks.

Cow Feeding: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Great Gray Owl: A fledgling found along the Snake River’s dark forests. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Young Great Gray Owl: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 11, 2016

Five Bull Moose: If you study the antlers, you can see five sets of antlers. There was one additional small bull just out of the scene. Sometimes, I hear tour guides telling their clients that bulls live a solitary life at this time of the year, but I’ve seen them assembled in groups of five or more on numerous occasions. After the rut, they reassemble for a month or so. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Moose at GV: This group was stripping willow leaves along the Gros Ventre river bottom this morning. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Coyote Pup: After the moose moved back into the trees, I made my way back to my van. I was moving slowly, looking mainly up for Great Gray Owls, when I spotted two young coyotes bounding through the underbrush. This one stopped along the game trail, observing me in a curious fashion before running to catch up with its sibling. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Black Hawthorn Berries: It’s almost black bear time. It looks like the berry crop is thinner this year than last year, but that’s just an unscientific observation. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Black-billed Magpie: I took this image in my back yard this afternoon. I’ve seen a few Western Tanagers, Lazuli Buntings, and Grosbeaks coming through, but they don’t appear to be staying around long. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 10, 2016

Bison Cow and Calf: This morning, I watched a bison bull attempt to separate this cow from her calf, and later attempting to mate with her. I’ve been told it is extremely uncommon to witness bison mating…suggesting that is always done at night. This bull apparently didn’t get the “memo” and was ready to go in mid-morning light. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pronghorns: This family of Pronghorns were ready to cross Mormon Row. The fawns are growing rapidly! Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Young Pronghorns: When I passed by Elk Flats (north of Moosehead Ranch) there were lots of Pronghorns. They are often seen near Lupine Meadows and Timbered Island, and in the hay fields north of Kelly. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bull Moose: I headed out to Teton Village in the afternoon and saw this nice bull along the roadway. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 9, 2016

Stretching Swan: This pair of Swans has a couple of growing Cygnets, and hangs around the roadway along Flat Creek. This morning, a different pair of adults entered their territory, causing a big ruckus. After running the intruders out of the region, both adults displayed their version of a victory dance. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Gold Swans: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Barn and Fences: This is part of the Chambers Homestead on Mormon Row. The Bison were north of Antelope Flats Road today. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pronghorns: Taken along the East Boundary Road. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pronghorn Buck: These mammals are keenly aware of all movement around them. They initially checked me out, but then switched to watching other potential threats. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bull Moose: This is isn’t a great shot of a moose, but I wanted to include it to show some of the animals I found this morning. It’s a crop of an image I took at about 250 yards. I’ve identified at least seven different Bull Moose along the Gros Ventre this year. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 8, 2016

NOTE!!!! Last month, I updated the WordPress software for this site. One of the Plugins conflicted with the update and began prohibiting people from making comments. I believe the conflict is now resolved. Network Solutions techs are also tracking an issue with the RSS feeds. They should be working soon, too. Please, post your comments on any page now! Sorry for the inconvenience. MJ

Sunrise: Taken from the parking lot at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D810 and Nikon 24-70 mm  lens.

Schwabacher Landing:  Nikon D810 and Nikon 24-70 mm  lens.

Moose: Head to Head: When I first saw these two nice moose, I assumed they were Washakie and Custer, but I was wrong on both. These two gently rubbed antlers, but not enough to break the velvet. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bull Moose: Taken along the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Teton Photo Excursions. I offer LICENSED One-On-One Photography Excursions in Grand Teton National Park, with emphasis on helping clients with their camera and gear. Each trip is customized based on client needs and requests. (Note: It says One-On-One, but I take two people on a trip for the same price). We find some of the best locations for scenic photography, and look for wildlife in the process.  Now’s a great time to book a six to eight hour One-On-One Photography Excursion with me for August and early September!  Check out some of the Client Comments.

Trumpeter Swan: Photographed in Flat Creek at the north edge of the town of Jackson. The two cygnets are still alive and growing fast! Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bison Bull: The annual rut is well underway in the hay fields and sage flats north of the small town of Kelly in Grand Teton National Park. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bison Bull: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bison Calf: Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 7, 2016

Approaching Storm: I was heading towards Schwabacher Landing this morning, but had to stop on the highway for a few images. Nikon D810 and Nikon 24-70 mm  lens.

At the End of the Rainbow: Captured at Schwabacher Landing. Nikon D810 and Nikon 24-70 mm  lens. (click this image to see it larger)

Hay Bails: I drove up Spring Gulch Road this afternoon after seeing some moody clouds rolling in. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Corner of the Barn: I saw this tall grass, then did a U-turn and took a few photos. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Hansen Barn: Also found along Spring Gulch Road. Nikon D810 and Nikon 70-200mm lens.

Afternoon Sprinkler: Nikon D810 and Nikon 70-200mm lens.

Bison Bull: The bison herd was about 3/4 mile off the roads this morning, but moved closer late in the day. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 6, 2016

Trumpeter Swans: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Cygnets: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Angel Rays: Nikon D810 and Nikon 70-200mm lens.

Dusky Grouse: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Dusky Grouse: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Mule Deer: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 5, 2016

Trumpeter Swans: Two cygnets in early morning rose colored light. Captured along Flat Creek on the north edge of town. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Sleeping Indian: Taken from the observation platform along Flat Creek.  Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Flat Creek: The National Elk Refuge can be seen behind Flat Creek, with Miller Butte on the left, and Sleeping Indian in the distance. Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Pronghorn and Grand: Taken along Mormon Row with Blacktail Butte cutting a diagonal line across the scene. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pronghorn Doe: Ready to cross Mormon Row Road. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bull Moose: This bull still has plenty of growth to come. He was grazing along the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 4, 2016

Washakie Backlit: I spotted Washakie along the river long before there was any sunlight. I took this image only a minute or so after it cleared the eastern ridges. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Gros Ventre Fisherman: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Droopy Eared Moose: This moose was feeding along the far side of the Gros Ventre River. His right ear droops down on his neck. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Resting Moose: Besides Washakie’s distinctive brown tines, this moose has splits in each ear and a couple of scratches on the right side of his muzzle. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Brow Tines: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Morning Drink: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Washakie Crossing Side Channel: Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 3, 2016

Bull Moose: The Gros Ventre River serves as a backdrop for this shot from this afternoon.  Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

In the Willows: Same moose stripping willow leaves.  Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Pronghorns: I found these does along Mormon Row. I didn’t see a the bison herds this afternoon. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Swan and Cygnets: Captured along Flat Creek on the National Elk Refuge. Nikon D810 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Night at the Moulton Barns: I planned on staying out late last evening, with intentions of going to a location with some water to reflect stars in the scene. I changed plans when I felt a fairly noticeable breeze and headed to Mormon Row.  Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Red Lights: It’s difficult to get reliable shots when too many people are at the same location. Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Peach House:  Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Headlights: Typically, I use flashlights to add light into a scene like this. I took this image as someone drove down Mormon Row with their bright lights turned on. Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Last Shot: As I finished taking this image, I started hearing deep grunts of Bison entering the area. I packed up and headed back to the van! Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Peach House Pano: It took some time today to stitch this pano set. Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

August 2, 2016

Park Notices: Extensive Fire Restrictions begin tomorrow for GTNP and Forests.

Young Buck Pronghorn: Taken along Mormon Row Road early this morning. I saw three moose along the Gros Ventre river, but out of my shooting range. Bison were scarce, too. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Sage Grouse: Taken on Warm Springs Road, just west of the Kelly Warm Springs. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Trumpeter Swans: Captured along Flat Creek. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

August 1, 2016

Expect first week or two of August to be quite similar to July 2016.

Sunrise: Smoke from lightning caused wildfires near Dubois and Bondourant will likely be a morning feature for much of August. I took this photo from Spring Gulch Road as the sun cleared the eastern ridge line. SW winds, if they kick up, can clear much of the smoke by mid morning. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Two large fires are burning in and near the Teton Interagency Fire area.

• The Cliff Creek Fire is burning in Bondurant, WY on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. For additional information about this blaze visit our Wildfires page or http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4865/, or call Cliff Creek Fire Information at 844-708-7666 Hours: 7a.m. – 7 p.m..
• The Lava Mountain Fire is burning northwest of Dubois, WY on the Shoshone National Forest. Visit http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4864 for information on this fire.

Bull Moose: Captured along a side channel of the Gros Ventre River. So far this summer, I’ve seen at least four different bulls and several cows along the river. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bison Bull and Freeloading Birds: Bison will begin their annual rut soon, if not already. I found this lone bison not far off Mormon Row. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bison and Cowbirds: Bison and Pronghorns are fairly visible right now. Bears…not so much…but berries are beginning to ripen. I have been hearing reports of large groups of Bull Elk gathering in some of the area river bottoms.  Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bison Eye: Afternoon photo along Mormon Row. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Bison Lip Curl: The rut is just beginning. Bulls are roaming around looking for ready females. Nikon D5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Final Night at the Teton County Fair: I tried to get a similar shot Saturday night, but lightning grounded the Vertigo ride. Last evening, I returned and captured the shot I had hoped to get the night before. This image is a composite of eight or nine captures, combined in Photoshop. You essentially never see all of the rides going at the same time. I created a Feature Post consisting of photos taken over a period of four days. Check out  Teton County Fair 2016.  Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Ferris Wheel Flower: This shot was captured over 2.5 seconds at F/18 and ISO 100. Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

Going, Going, Gone: The last of the fair goers passed through the gates around 10:30 pm last night. By 6:00 am, the rides were broken down to their trailers with the Frazier Shows crew ready for the drive to Farmington, New Mexico.  It is an amazing transformation—and it happens over just a few short hours! Nikon D5 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

9: 12,14,16,19,24,28,30 10: 1,4,5,10

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