Kingfisher
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger National Park, South Africa
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Jan, 2016Views
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Awards
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Magnificent Capture
Absolute Masterpiece
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Behind The Lens
Location
The photo was taken in the Kruger National Park in South Africa.Time
I am an avid wildlife enthusiast. As we were leaving the park for the day, scouting for the usual Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), this beautiful Giant Kingfisher flew across the road and perched on the side of the bridge. I was so excited and hurried, because with wildlife, especially birds, the moment can vanish any second. This one was kind enough to give me a chance to get up close and take the time to create a good shot.Lighting
There wasn't enough time to think about special lighting and some other adjustments before it flew off again, I was fortunate enough that it worked out wellEquipment
This was shot on a Nikon D3300 with a Nikon 70-300mm f/4-5.6G AF Telephoto Zoom Lens. No other equipment was used.Inspiration
I love birds and animals, and this was just one of those opportunities where no inspiration was needed other than the fact that it happens seldom enough that you get a chance for such a great shot.Editing
No major post-processing, except for a little brightness adjustment.In my camera bag
I am a light traveller in every sense. My Nikon is always with me when I am travelling, depending on the destination, I might pack only my Nikon 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6 lens. I only take the zoom for wildlife captures.Feedback
Taking pictures of birds and wildlife requires loads of patience and good luck, really. What I love about the bush, is that anything can happen at any moment, and it is your job to be ready to capture it when it does. Even then, you might miss the shot, like I did earlier that day when a most beautiful full-grown leopard crossed the road and disappeared into the brush next to the road. By the time I had my camera to my eyes, it was too late! ... Patience and luck, only then skill comes in...
