My first time ever photographing a Northern Waterthrush was a tough setup. The light was more sunny than expected and even though this was not a target species, as soon as it showed up, it became my target. I spent about an hour with this bird trying to get anyting in the branchy swampy habitat and also dealing with the harsh light in spots. For this one the light was somewhat softened coming through the forest and I finally managed to find a small opening to shoot through as the bird stared head on at me. I have a few things I don't love about the shot but for my first time with the species I'll take what I can get.