Hokkaido, Japan is a destination that keeps calling me back year after year, with the hope of capturing epic images of birdlife and winter landscapes. One location, Notsuke Peninsula, is particularly ideal for photographing deer, foxes, birds, and stunning winter scenery. Over the years, I’ve had countless opportunities to shoot in this beautiful place, but witnessing a sunset here is a rare treat.
On this particular evening, everything aligned perfectly. As the sun began to set, a mist started rolling in, and I could already envision the image forming in my mind. The trees in the distance stood out in layers against the warm, yet cold light. I began searching for a foreground subject when a pair of stags appeared nearby. I waited patiently for them to walk into the open and carefully positioned myself to isolate them against the trees and other nearby bushes.
As they stood upright, their antlers contrasting beautifully with the bare trees behind them, I captured the moment. I used my telephoto lens not just for reach but to crop out any potential distractions, ensuring a clean composition. This shot was taken with a Canon R3 and Canon RF 800mm f/5.6L lens, handheld at f/16, 1/800th of a second, and ISO 1000.
Moments later, the mist completely enveloped the scene, leaving me with this incredible, fleeting memory.