Marie Heintzman Photography

During annual canoe trips down the Snake River in Jackson, Wyoming, it was not uncommon to spot bald eagles peering down from the tree tops or soaring overhead. On this fall day, however, a mature bald eagle and a juvenile were feasting on a large trout at the water's edge. Quite oblivious to our presence... it was a photographer's dream.

Once Upon An Eagle represents a convergence of the photographic work which led to my previously exhibited Wildlife and Light Tapestry portfolios. My wildlfe photography has focused on honouring the subject matter in its natural environment and conveying the excitement that I feel in the moment that the shutter is released. My Light Tapestry portfolio followed long periods of playful experimentation with shafts of light, which subsequently led to a greater understanding of colour, luminence and light patterns. This focus and knowledge, when applied to my photography in Once Upon an Eagle, proved to be a creative way to exemplify and honour such a majestic, spiritual bird as well as evoke the same intense excitement that I experienced while photographing these eagles on the shore of the Snake River.