Though fictional, the shelter in my novel, Who Is Mackie Spence? is based on real wildlife rehabilitation centers, where professionals and volunteers heal sick and injured animals. For this blog, I’ll interview those who work on behalf of our wild animal communities. – Lin Kaymer

More photos by Dottie

Q. You shoot still photography and video film as well. Do you have a preference, and if so, why?

A. I prefer still photography. I like capturing a moment in time. I am beginning to learn video and editing. It is a challenge, and I always enjoy learning something new.

Q. Why are wild animals your preferred subjects?

A. Photographing wild animals takes luck to patience, and every thing in between. I am honored to take photos at the WestSound Wildlife Shelter. The enclosures are fairly dark, especially on a gloomy day. This has really pushed my skill as a photographer. In the wild, it is always a gift to encounter a bird or animal, no matter the size.

Q. Where do you find the animals that you photograph?

A. Naturally, the easiest place is at the Wildlife Shelter, especially in the spring when all of the orphaned babies are brought into the shelter. I only take pictures while the animals are being cared for. This cuts down on the time they are exposed to people, and reduces stress. Taking photos of animals out in the wild has it’s own challenges. Knowing the behavior of the animal helps get “the” shot. I have taken photos everyplace from my kitchen window to hiking in the Mountains, and from Zodiac boats in the Sea of Cortez.

Q. What are the most exotic shots that you’ve taken?

A. I would have to say the “eye” of a Grey Whale is the most recent. Years ago, long before digital, we traveled to Kenya, and took photos of a large variety of exotic animals. Getting a great shot of a grizzly bear in Yellowstone was a thrill.

Q. Do some animals photograph better than others, and why?

A. Every animal is unique; it is up to the photographer to use the correct parameters to get a great photo. Of course, that is part of the challenge, changing the parameters quickly to match the light and movement of the animal.

Q. What are the main challenges of shooting film in the field?

A. It is easier to shoot a digital camera than film. With large memory cards, hundreds of photos can be taken without changing the “film” roll. Carrying all of the gear and making sure everything stays clean and dry can be a challenge when hiking into a location.

Q. Of all the animals in the world, what one(s) would you like to still photograph?

A. We are heading to the Galapagos Islands this year. I am really looking forward to getting close-up shots of a Giant Tortoise. And, I know there will be other animals to discover!

Q. How do you decide what kind of camera to use on any given day?

A. If I know a photo will be printed, I use a full frame digital camera. If I am taking snap-shot photos to share on-line, I use anything from my phone to a point and shoot. I also make use of a GoPro to take short videos of animals being released into the wild, after they have been rehabilitated. Of course, the best camera is the one you have with you, assuming you know how to use it!

Q. Who are the most camera-friendly animals?

A. There are two answers. Orphaned animals raised at the shelter are the easiest. The handlers try very hard not to get the animals used to people, but the animals who have never been in the wild are easier to photograph, especially the gulls and the raccoons. I don’t think there are any camera-friendly animals in the wild, with the exception of those who have been fed by people. Most wildlife photographers use lenses that are capable of shooting photos from a great distance.

Q. Who are the most camera-shy animals?

A. If we are talking about the animals at the Wildlife Shelter, I would say a bird called a Flicker. Baby bunnies are also difficult in that they become stressed very easily.

Q. If you could wave a magic wand, what kind of animal would you be for a day?

A. I had to think about this for a couple of days. I would choose to be a whale. They are intelligent, live in family groups, and live in a world that humans have barely explored. I have had the opportunity to scuba dive in many places, and would love to be able to see the underwater world through the eyes of a whale.

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