Male Sun Bird feeding chicks
Dec, 2015Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This was taken in my backyard, these birds often build their nests around human habitation. This particular nest was hanging off the shed roof.Time
Mid morning but before noon to capture the right light, a narrow time limit as this part of the yard is heavily shaded.Lighting
I had been observing the birds throughout the previous days & there was only one angle available within the narrow time frame. All the other aspects had very bright backgrounds & placed the birds in dark shadow. So I got myself into position and waited for the right moment .... It was an awkward & uncomfortable wait but worth every ache in the end.Equipment
This was shot with a Nikon D610 & the Nikon 70-200 F.4, hand held ...... and a convenient tank stand.Inspiration
Proximity mostly, these little birds are fairly abundant here in Far North Queensland & like to build around homes. They are very colourful & unafraid of people so you tend to find yourself becoming invested in their lives & the success of their progeny.Editing
I always do a little post processing. With this shot, a crop then lightened the shadows and added a bit of contrast & a general fine tune. Finally sharpened and bumped up the clarity all done in LR.In my camera bag
My Nikon D610, Nikon 70-200 F.4, Tamron 24-70 F2.8 & a lens cleaning kit, this is my basic kit, at times I take my manual when shooting in unfamiliar circumstances. Note book, pens & phone .... You just never know when they will come in handy.Feedback
Observe Observe Observe !!! You will find out where the birds will be, what time they be there & when they are feeding & nesting. Patience is utmost too, some days they just don't co-operate. Take your camera with you always, even when just observing you might just get that shot without all the preparation. Mainly enjoy the whole process, don't rush and the shots will happen.
