Peanuts!!!
Sep, 2016Views
1627
Likes
Awards
Action Award
Winner in Chipmunks Photo Challenge
Peer Award
Magnificent Capture
Top Choice
Absolute Masterpiece
Superb Composition
Outstanding Creativity
Superior Skill
All Star
Genius
Virtuoso
Emotions
Impressed
Happy
Top Ranks
Top 10 rankTop 10 rank week 1
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Top 10 rank
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
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Behind The Lens
Location
I took this photo at Willow Springs Lake in Payson Arizona.Time
This is approximately 8am. Just after sunrise, the chipmunks were really active looking for breakfast and this made for a great time to get numerous shots of the little guys.Lighting
Lighting was perfect this day with the sunrise across the lake. I sat with my back to the light as close to the shoreline as possible so any shots I got of the chipmunks were of them lit up perfectly by the sun. Natural lighting is always great if you can capture it.Equipment
I used a Nikon D5300 with a 70-300mm lens.Inspiration
I was in Payson for a week for work. I visited the lake a few days prior to taking this photo and noticed how active the chipmunks were. I figured if I came back with peanuts, I may be able to get them a bit closer and to hold still long enough to get a good shot. I went back with a bag of peanuts and found they were quite hungry and excited to eat. I set the bag by my foot and watched as they approached and went inside the bag. This shot was with a small handful set on a rock just in front of me.Editing
I worked this photo in Lightroom and did some slight dehazing. Additionally, some fragments of peanut shell were distracting throughout the photo so I removed those pieces.In my camera bag
My must haves are my camera of course, two lenses (short and long range), a flash, and many extra batteries! Depending on the location, object of photography, and lighting, I may also have a tripod. I keep it simple.Feedback
Be patient and, if possible, bring food with you during a time the animals would normally eat. It draws them out and provides more opportunities to grab that perfect shot! Be prepared to hold as still as possible and be in the same position for a long time. Get comfortable and just wait for them to come to you!
