Dragon on a Rock
Water dragon resting on a rock beside Forest Lake in Summer, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
Water dragon resting on a rock beside Forest Lake in Summer, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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Mar, 2023Views
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Awards
Contender in the Photography Awards
Summer Views Award
Flawless Summer Award
Winner in Backyard Lizards Photo Challenge
Peer Award
Top Choice
Absolute Masterpiece
Superb Composition
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken on grass at the edge of Forest Lake behind the houses in Brisbane, QLD, Australia.Time
It was late afternoon when we decided to go for a walk. The light was less bright as the day moved towards its close at around 3.20pm. The sun sets early in QLD and there is no twilight. I had wandered off from my companions and was reflecting on the beauty of the Lake when this water dragon appeared and ran over to the rock.Lighting
The sun was low in the sky and it was a little overcast and cloudy. This enabled me to capture a crisp image without shadow or glare.Equipment
I was using my Nikon Coolpix P950 and had attached a monopod but did not need to lower it. I took this photo with camera hand held and lens extended. 300dpi 152mm f/5.6 1/250sec ISO250Inspiration
Forest Lake is so peaceful and calm and a lovely quiet walk enabled me to wind down at the end of a busy day. I had been capturing swallows, parrots, fairy wrens and other local birdlife when I saw this water dragon run across the grass to the rock and pause to take a look around. I really like the way it posed for me on the rough rock and the way the rock and dragon contrasted against the bright green grass in the background.Editing
This image spoke for itself and did not require any post processing in my opinion. It was crisp and sharp with the detail of the lizard and rock clearly standing out.In my camera bag
I always carry two cameras with me. My Nikon Coolpix P950 and my Canon SX60 HS. I choose these cameras as I have difficulty holding up heavy cameras with lens attachments. These two cameras suit me very well as they are both relatively lightweight to hold up and carry. The 83x optical zoom of the COOLPIX P950 covers an incredible focal-length range, from wide-angle 24mm to super-telephoto 2,000mm and everything in between. The PowerShot SX60 HS has a gigantic 65X optical zoom lens, equivalent to 21-1365mm (naturally, it has image stabilization). With these cameras I also attach a monopod for extra stability. I carry extra sim cards and batteries. There is nothing worse than running out of battery at that crucial moment.Feedback
I always feel you need to observe your natural environment quietly and take time to rest and wait. Wildlife in your area can be quite prolific you just have to have patience and it can take days to get the shot you are looking for. Lighting, weather and timing all play a part. Learn the habits of the animals and birds you are looking to photograph. Also always take your camera with you for those unexpected moments that happen right in front of you. Many of my photographs have been taken that way, out on a walk or sitting by the Lake. Enjoy your photography and observe closely, taking time to look up and down and even beneath your feet. I photographed a wee robin as I sat patiently on a seat and it finally came to me.
