Eastern Bluebird
Mar, 2015Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken at an environmental park that I visit almost every week. I love to hike the trails and see what kinds of birds and other animals I can find. In this park, I have gotten close to a groundhog, deer, chipmunks, butterflies, frogs, and lots of different birds.Time
This was taken mid-morning, about 10:00am. I had been hiking for awhile and noticed some bluebirds in this tree. I made a very gradual approach to the tree. Take a step. Stand still for a minute. Take another step. Slowly but surely getting closer, but not scaring the birds.Lighting
I had the sun behind and above me so that the bird would be well lit and have a sparkle in the eye.Equipment
I had my Canon 60D (hand-held) and my 70-300mm lens. I usually leave my tripod in the car when I am hiking and searching for birds. It is not practical to be lugging a tripod when trying to get close to the birds. A monopod might be a better option, but I don't have one yet. A 150-600mm lens would be divine!Inspiration
I love birds. I enjoy searching for them and trying to get close enough to see the details of their feathers. This was my first (and best) experience getting close to an Eastern Bluebird. Beautiful colors!Editing
I did minor post-processing. Just a bit of contrast adjustment and noise reduction and then a crop.In my camera bag
I have a Canon 70D now. Most of the time, I have my 70-300mm lens because I am usually in search of birds or other animals. I always have an extra battery and a lens cloth in my pocket. If I am in the mood to possibly shoot landscapes, I will have my 18-135mm lens and tripod along.Feedback
My mantra is: Be present. Be patient. Be persistent. When trying to find and photograph wildlife, you don't really know when and where your moment will happen. You have to get out there and see what you can find today. If you don't get out, you won't find anything. When you find your subject, you have to be patient. If you can be still, the animal will observe you and decide that you mean no harm. Then, you can slowly move closer. Persistence is a big one. Animals might move right when you are ready to take the picture. Or, they might be in places that are not well lit. Sometimes they'll only show you their backside! Keep trying. Eventually, you will be in the right place at the right time. It is magical when it all comes together and you get that shot.
