Kingbird on a wire
May, 2016Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken by Noble Lake south of Pine Bluff, Arkansas.Time
I took this photo in the early afternoon. Usually Eastern Kingbirds are nervous, but this one posed nicely for about 5 shots.Lighting
The light was diffused nicely by early afternoon clouds. That is what helped me get the fine details of this beautiful bird.Equipment
I used a Canon T1i and a Canon 100-400 MKII lens handheld from my car.Inspiration
This image was more about trying to get used to my new lens. The red farm house in the background contrasted nicely with the dark bird. I have loved birds for more than 30 years and have been trying to photograph all 400 plus species in Arkansas. Eastern Kingbirds are plentiful in the summer and there were 10 Kingbirds in sight of this one.Editing
I used Photoshop to add my name and copyright. I didn't have to change tones or contrast with this photograph.In my camera bag
In my Lowepro Flipside 400 AW I carry my Canon T1i mounted with the Canon 100-400 MkII. I also have to Tokina AT-X 100mm Pro D Macro Lens, Canon 10-18mm Wide Angle Lens, Movo Photo AF Macro Extension Tubes, and a Sirui T-004x Tripod. I also carry various memory cards and shutter release cables. My flash is a Yongnuo YN560 IV wireless flash and flash trigger.Feedback
My advice for this type of photo is patience. I have tried to get good pictures of Kingbirds for years. I have learned to approach slowly and let the bird settle back into a normal routine. When I leave to go take pictures I do not generally try to plan on a particular photo. I let Mother Nature dictate what I shoot on any given day. This helps me be prepared and open for any situation.
