The Short-eared Owl is an unusual bird, especially for this area. When we found a pair living down the block from us, it was big news. So big that for the past week I have dutifully stood by the field where they were located in the hopes of capturing a good image of one. A nocturnal hunter, my best hope for a shot will be just before sunset or just after sunrise.

Last night that presented a challenge. As I stood at the fence separating the field from the road and waited for the owls to begin their hunt, I noticed that the sky over the Huachuca mountains was blossoming into a spectacular sunset. Not wanting to miss the Owls, but with only one camera, I did what any modern photographer would do - whipped out my iPhone and prayed it would capture a good image.

The Owl did eventually show up, but it was too dark to get a good photo. But I did get this shot of the sunset, and I can live with that.
Shoot Date: December 22, 2018
iPhone 8 Plus
Normal ¹⁄₂₀₀ sec at f/1.8 ‒ 2 EV
Lens: iPhone 8 Plus back camera 3.99mm f/1.8 @ 3.99 mm
ISO: 20