Polly
Aperture f/5.6 ISO 400 Shutter 1/640 Focal Length 3000/10 
Jan, 2015Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
I went on a trip to the Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, PA, where I saw this gorgeous bird!Time
This was actually taken mid-day during the summer a few years back. It was so hot that day that most of the animals were hiding in their enclosures, trying to stay cool.Lighting
Although it was rather hot that day, there was enough cloud cover to help diffuse the sunlight, creating nice, even lighting on the animal.Equipment
This was taken with a Sony Alpha A55 and I believe I actually was still using the 18-55mm kit lens at that time, since I was still relatively new to photography.Inspiration
Look at the gorgeous green feathers and burning red/orange eye. How could you not be drawn to such an incredible creature?Editing
There were a couple hot spots on the top of the bird's head that I touched up with the burn tool in PSE. Other than that I just cropped it slightly, did small levels adjustments, and used the burn/dodge tools to really accentuate the depth in the feathers.In my camera bag
I currently have a Sony Alpha A57 with a 55-300mm lens and a 150-600mm lens. I always make sure to bring an extra battery and extra SD card, just in case.Feedback
Honestly with any sort of animal photography there's always at least a small amount of luck involved. If they don't feel like cooperating, they just won't. Be patient, still, and quiet with any sort of animal photography and you'll have a better chance at getting the perfect moment.
