The Curious Calf

Christopher Swann's Image

Less than a metre from Christopher’s boat, a grey whale calf surfaced against a backdrop of wispy clouds. Holding his camera at water level, he was able to capture the head of this inquisitive juvenile as it investigated the visitors. Converting the image to black-and-white accentuated the smooth texture of this youngster’s head.

Although out of sight, this grey whale calf’s mother will be close by keeping a watchful eye on events. Once the calf is strong enough, the mother will lead it on a journey up to 10,000 kilometres north to feeding grounds in the Arctic – the longest annual migration of any mammal on Earth.


Behind the lens

Christopher Swann

Christopher Swann

UK

At 61, Christopher has been at sea most of his life. He ran whale-watching holidays for 28 years before crossing the Pacific in 2017 and selling his boat. He has recently started to concentrate on photography. He spends half the year in Baja California, his other great passion.

Image details

  • Nikon D200
  • 12–24mm f4 lens at 12mm
  • 1/200 sec at f14  •   ISO 200
  • Magdalena Bay, Baja California, Mexico
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Smooth swimmer

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