I was asked by another photographer how a shot like this comes about. As much as I would like to take credit for setting this up the way I wanted it to be, I think it is obvious that this shot came about partially of it's own accord.
How many people can cue up a flock of geese on demand when they need one? I unfortunately cannot, so I will tell you that what brought me here was everything but the geese.
I had previously passed these shrubs that were planted alongside one of the most typical industrial style buildings in my area. There are 5 buildings similar to this one in close proximity and the hedges are something straight from a Dr. Seuss story. After passing them, I circled in for a better look.
I made four or five different compositions of the shrubs. In the middle of making my photos I heard the geese coming from the East. I searched for them, and as soon as I saw them crest over the building I started to snap some pictures.
The moment was over very quickly and after it had passed I went about finishing my shoot and then went home for dinner and time with my family.
After reviewing the shots, I was pleased with the results. I packed up my gear and headed back home. It was great to see the final result which is what you see above.
To bring this shot and my workflow into perspective, what I told my friend was that of course I didn't plan for the geese, but I was ready for them when they appeared. The result was a shot that I was really excited with that never would have been taken had I not turned the car around, had I been without my gear, or had I not kept my mind open to what the scene had to offer.
In essence, I find in my photography that scenes are everywhere, especially when you aren't carrying your camera. As a result, I carry my gear with me 90% of the time so that when the opportunity arises I at least can start by pulling out my camera. The other keys to getting shots like these are always being aware of what surrounds you and remaining flexible to new opportunities in the field.
In other words, luck favors the prepared.