Dense cloud to the northeast and flat light, I started to doubt myself on what images I could produce today. With the present situation slowly sinking in, knowing that we have only just started this Rāhui we took off for a long walk around our local area this morning. The exercise was welcomed and will increase over the next few weeks.
Birds were not on my photographic agenda, yet it always surprises me what jumps out. Not far from our home there are often the rich songs of Tui and Korimako (Bell Birds). The native sounds ring crisp and this morning was no exception. I am surprised to capture the images below which was a treat!
Helping bring back the natives is the Halo Project with pest control. It allows native birds to re-establish in the Koputai/Port Chalmers area. For a link to what I am doing click here.
The above cover above was taken in the evening as the clouds cleared and evening sun warmed the last of the day. What a special place to enjoy - we are so lucky. While the image was being taken I had to talk to Molly the whole time to keep her still... stay...stay..stay for 30 seconds. She did well :)
Panasonic, G9, f/6.3, 30sec, 15mm = 35mm, ISO-100, tripod, ND Filter.
Panasonic, G9, f/6.3, 1/125sec, 400mm = 800mm (100-400mm), ISO-800
Hearing two Korimako close by in the bush I changed lens to my 100-400mm, which with a micro four-thirds camera sensor gives me an 800m lens. I am amazed at how this shot came out. However, the technique I used was to concentrate on my breathing. My first shots were too dark and with limited opportunities left before the bird flew away, I adjusted to a low shutter speed quickly. Staying as steady as possible was key to success. It is not usual to get an image sharp given the focal length of this lens and a 1/125th shutter speed. None the less I am pleased with the end result.
Panasonic, G9, f/7.1, 1/1250sec, 56mm = 112mm, ISO-800
We see these geese regularly and locals either love them or hate them. Admittedly not native they still form part of the local community. I am stoked with this image. My challenge was to produce something worthy. Key to this was light and timing and capture the bird doing something more unusual. I do not claim to be a wildlife photographer as I am more into photographing people and events. None the less I still like the challenge. As the bird moved in its gander I isolated the bird out in the frame and moved along setting the light in the right composition.
Andy`s Photography Tip: ‘The Reciprocal Rule’
The Reciprocal Rule - states that the shutter speed of your camera should not be slower than the reciprocal of the lens focal length. For example, if you are using a 100mm lens, you should not use a shutter speed slower than 1/100th of a second. To add to this little rule, one should never use a shutter speed less than 1/50th if handheld.
Please put a comment or emoji below. If you have any questions pop them in the comments box below or send me a video with your questions via Facebook - keep taking photos and get out there!
Andy Thompson