Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
The Newfoundland Holy Trinity

This image was taken in Cable John Cove in Newfoundland. When we arrived at the cove we were thrilled to see icebergs just a kilometer off shore in the entrance to the cove. As we explored the area we noticed a small island just off the shore which was filled with puffins. They were flying around the island like some sort of puffin 500. I noticed that if I positioned myself just right on the edge of the cliff, and used my large 500mm zoom lens, I could get both the puffins on the island and the iceberg in one image. I set up and started shooting, trying to time when the puffins were taking off and landing. I crouched there for a very long time trying to get the image I was looking for. Then I noticed a tour boat heading for the iceberg as part of a tour. I set up and waited for it to get into position. When it arrived I began shooting as quickly as possible to try to capture the moment. Like on cue, a puffin came flying in to land at the perfect moment. My body was cramping from the weight of the lens and the awkward position I had to hold for so long, but I was able to lock focus on the bird and get the image. I feel this is a once-in-a-lifetime image for me. It was such a gift. To get the puffins, iceberg, and fishing boat in one frame is the story of NFLD. I really hope you enjoy it.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 06.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Spillars Cave, Newfoundland, Canada
Camera: Canon EOS R5
Copyright: © Glen Strickey