A spokesman for the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center said the birds were a surprise to them as well. He said the center didn’t release the birds during the vigil.
About 60 miles away at a separate vigil in Lakeland, Florida, 49 white doves were released. But the birds in the Orlando picture appear to be black.
Where the birds came from is unknown.
The photographer said she would like to remain anonymous, because she would rather people be focused on the victims of the tragedy.
“Who took the photo is not as important as what is in it,” she said. “May everyone find healing and peace.”
She posted the photo on her Facebook page, where it was quickly shared thousands of times.