A Gentle Landing
A Heron landing at Marazion reserve
A Heron landing at Marazion reserve
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Mar, 2016Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This was taken at a RSPB reserve in Cornwall, called Marazion Marshes. Straddles between the ocean and a busy main road, this small oasis is home to many species of birds including Herons. Herons nest very early in the year and this individual was collecting nesting material.Time
It was a long day of birding for me and my friends, going around various sites in Cornwall and ticking birds as we went. We headed to this little reserve and watched the many beautiful Herons building their nests for the upcoming breeding season.Lighting
It was getting towards dusk so a soft light was casting down on them, creating a warmth to the image which contrasts from the cold and steel grey plumage of the Heron.Equipment
I used a Nikon D610 body with a 300mm f2.8 lens.Inspiration
I was actually trying to photograph the Coots which were going back and forth between the reeds. As I lay down, to get a charismatic low angle, I saw at the last minute this Heron flying in so I quickly focused on the bird as he came into land and managed to catch him in an elegant stance.Editing
I just enhanced the colours slightly, a little crop and brought the contrast out slightly.In my camera bag
Nikon D610 body with a 70-300mm f5.6 lens, 50mm f1.8 fixed lens.Feedback
Always look for a different angle, this image works because I was in a low position which enabled the reflection on the water to also add to the composition and overall feel of the image. This is also an unusual image of a Heron as they are known for their long legs and iconic hunting through the water, but with a low angle it has enabled me to capture them in a completely different way.
