"Capturing an image of any wildlife comes with inherent challenges—harsh conditions, dark coloration that swallows light, and unpredictable, fast movement. The bald eagle manages to combine all of these. The birds’ flighty behavior means you’re usually limited to a longer lens. As they sweep through the air, you’re left trying to center a darting object through a narrow viewfinder—keeping the camera steady, guessing its next move. Their altitude often leaves you with nothing but open sky as a backdrop. With most animal encounters, you can control your positioning. Here—you’re at the mercy of the raptors. You can improve your odds through preparation, planning, and time spent with the animals. But this trip leaned on none of the three. I flew to Alaska with little more than a general location in mind, spending just twelve hours in Homer—only five of which were dedicated to watching and waiting. Heading into my visit, I told myself it would be a win to return home with just one strong image. But those hours on the shoreline in the rain—watching the eagles glide overhead and dive for fish—would have been enough. The photographs were just a bonus. I’ve been fortunate to stand and swim beside some of the planet’s most remarkable creatures. But few feelings compare to watching a bald soar by at eye level. America’s bird was born to fly—and born to fly free."