The Great Crested Grebe is one of my favorite subjects in wildlife photography. These elegant waterbirds are most active between October and December at a local nature reserve in Perth, Western Australia. I first visited this reserve three years ago when I began my wildlife photography journey, and I’ve been captivated by the grebes’ mating, courtship, and parenting behaviors ever since.
This image was captured in early December 2024, featuring a mother grebe carrying her three young chicks.
Over several days, I observed their behavior, documenting the adults’ tireless efforts to feed and protect their offspring. The male would dive for fish and return to feed the chicks, who remained safely nestled on the female’s back.
At this stage, they were still too young to swim on their own, making their mother’s back the safest place to rest while waiting for food.
Recognizing the potential for a compelling photograph, I searched for the best position to achieve a clean, dark background. After considering several angles, I settled on a low, eye-level perspective for the most intimate view. With my Sony Alpha 1, 600mm lens, and Bird Eye Zone AF, I carefully adjusted my settings: 1/800s, f/8, auto ISO 1600, EV -1.0. Looking through the EVF, I patiently waited for the perfect alignment. After 30 to 45 minutes, the family floated into position, and I was ready.
The moment was as emotional as it was beautiful—three chicks, safe and secure, resting with their mother.