White bellied eagle at rest
Jul, 2013Views
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
Gascoyne River, Western Australia. While camped beside the river, I would walk along the bank. As the afternoon settled so did the wildlife. A waterhole here was the food source for several birds in the locality. The river was not flowing which limited the food chain to some degree. This eagle was resting near a nest. Unable to determine if the nest was the home site, or convenient location.Time
Late in the afternoon, when large numbers of birds would come in to roost. At this time they were less likely to take flight as I moved quietly along the opposite bank. Although wary, they tolerated my presence, while keeping an eye on my activities. This allowed me to catch the light in the eye. After getting this image I left them to settle. Allowing them to rest for another day.Lighting
As the light was coming from above and behind me, the catchlight was noticeable. Using the sun position and the background colour gave me better contrast. The eagles height and position restricted what I could do with a flash. Also being free creature, too much activity would have disturbed it's rest position.Equipment
Canon 450D, 70-200L lens. Handheld due to moving amongst trees and shrubs, taking a tripod was not practical. Even using a monopod would not allow the height I needed for this image. It would have made it awkward to hug the tree in the manner I did to achieve this image.Inspiration
Seeing this bird in it's own environment, close to it's "nest". An altogether complete image, with a good balance of colours,relaxed pose. A juvenile, yet in apparently good condition. The contrast of the birds plumage and the growth of the trees foliage, pleasing to the eye. Each time I look at this image it reminds me of that scene at the rivers edge. It gives me a sense of the emotion I felt while trying to complete this image. Being able to do so without distracting or disturbing the bird to a great degree, in it's own way added a sense of satisfaction.Editing
Small amount of cropping. Also some sharpening, with a small amount of contrast adjustment.In my camera bag
Canon 450D (upgraded to 60D), 50mm, 18-55 kit lens, 55-250 kit lens, 70-200L lens. Polarizing filters to suit. Tripod. Muse Lensbaby.Feedback
Whenever taking photo's of wildlife, respect them in their environment. Giving them space and respect, with practice will ensure you capture better images. Before you take the shot, take the time to see what the final image will look like. Make sure all your settings are correct, there may not be a second chance to get that you seek. Be patient, if the subject starts to look unsettled, relax yourself. If you miss that shot, look to see what else is available. I got this shot because the bird I chose flew, giving me the chance to make the most of this image. In itself I learnt from that experience. Watch for those signs they give, while getting ready, I saw this bird looking in the same direction often. After the shot I looked up to find a pair of eagles watching my antics. Obviously alerting the youngster to it's saftey levels. We learn by observing.
