The still water mirrored the prothonotary warbler's vibrant yellow plumage against the dark embrace of a mossy log. This perfect reflection transformed a fleeting natural moment into an artistic study of light, shadow, colour, and form. Capturing such brilliance demanded meticulous attention to detail, particularly in preserving the delicate highlights of the bird's golden feathers. In manual exposure, careful calibration of aperture, shutter speed, and ISO was essential, constantly referencing the camera's histogram and employing highlight alerts to avoid clipping. Beyond technical mastery, composition elevated the image. The log's form guided the eye towards the warbler and its ethereal reflection, while the dark backdrop intensified the bird's luminous colour. The bark's texture and subtle shadows added layers of visual depth.

Intriguingly, the "prothonotary" warbler's name echoes the bright yellow robes of Roman Catholic prothonotaries public, a historical link made unexpectedly resonant by the naming of a new Pope today.