Baby Giraffe
Jan, 2015Views
568
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Awards
Winner in Black and White Animals Photo Challenge
Superb Composition
Absolute Masterpiece
Outstanding Creativity
Genius
Top Choice
Peer Award
All Star
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Behind The Lens
Location
This was a really neat experience; we went to Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, PA, where you can feed the giraffes!Time
It was in the early-mid afternoon when I took this photo while waiting in line to feed the giraffes. This not-so-little cutie walked over to edge of the enclosure to get a closer look at us!Lighting
It was actually bright sun that day, and quite hot! I'm honestly very surprised that any of the photos turned out as well as they did due to the harsh shadows and bright highlights!Equipment
I used a Sony Alpha a57 with a 55-300mm lens that day.Inspiration
I really wanted to capture that moment! It was so exciting to be so close to such amazing animals.Editing
I cropped it in so the focus was on this little guy, rather than the enclosure around him. Then I adjusted the levels slightly, and used the Hue/Saturation tool in PSE to convert it to black and white while adjusting the brightness of each color to keep the dynamic contrast.In my camera bag
Generally I just keep my camera body and my lens, along with lens cleaning supplies--wipes, cloths, lens pen, etc.--extra batteries, and extra memory cards. I'm hoping to purchase more lenses soon once I have the money.Feedback
Be patient! The animals must feel comfortable in order to get the serene look that this giraffe seems to portray. Visit local zoos, sanctuaries, etc. often; you never know what you'll see! Do your research; I try to only go to places that have the proper conditions for the animals.
