"Sullivan"
Oct, 2017Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photograph was taken at one of my favorite events. I live near the California Raptor Center at UC Davis where they help injured raptors. When possible they release the birds back into the wild and those that can't be released (can't survive on their own for various reasons) are cared for. Twice a year they have an open house where they bring out the various Ambassadors (birds that do well around people) that for the public to see and learn about them. "Sullivan" is one of the ambassadors that is brought out each time. He's a Golden Eagle and my favorite subject. He's also very photogenic and always a crowd pleaser!Time
I generally like to get to the open house in the morning when it starts. Most people come later in the morning so by being there right at the start everyone's fresh and the crowds are less. Plus the bonus of morning light.Lighting
The lighting is all natural. In order to reduce the chance of stress to the birds, flashes are not allowed. Consequently everything is natural lighting. There's a big tree that the handlers stand under with the birds so there's lots of shade as well. Since I get there for the start, most of my photos are taken 9-10 a.m. This gives me the sun coming through the buildings and giving me some light under the tree. In this photo, I was facing more towards the sun to get the natural rim light.Equipment
For this photo I used my Canon 5D mark ii with my Canon EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens. This is my favorite combination for just about any photography outing other than Macro days. The versatility of the 100-400 for wildlife in general is terrific. I love the sharpness and close focus it has making it great for wildlife both far away and up close! I don't use any other gear other than the camera/lens as tripods get in the way at an event like this and flashes aren't allowed. My main goal is to keep the gear to a minimum to allow better maneuverability amongst people gathering around.Inspiration
"Sullivan" is an inspiring subject. He poses well and has a look that just screams "take my photo!" He's amazing to see up close and I love getting portraits of eagles. Events like these are also great to practice bird portraits as you have time to think about your settings and composing instead of trying to shoot fast before the bird flies away. The more I photograph them the better my skills and that helps when I encounter raptors (and other birds or wildlife) in the wild. Any time I get to work on improving my skills is inspiration to click the shutter button.Editing
In general I keep the post simple. I'll adjust contrast, sharpness (if needed), and such for enhancing but that's about it. I'm not one for changing backgrounds or other alterations. While I have the skills and know it can enhance images, I leave that to my graphic arts and keep the photography true to the scene.In my camera bag
My main photography backpack always has my Canon 5Dmii in it and the Canon EF100-400mm L II. Then, depending on where I'm going and what I'm planning on shooting, I'll often have my Canon 7Dmii as well with the Canon 24-105mm L for a full range. Other times I may have a macro lens and Speedlites. I always have spare batteries, memory cards, cleaning supplies, and snacks & water with me as well. Gotta keep the hunger and thirst away for best results!Feedback
For anyone who's interested in bird photography (especially portraits), check your area to see if there's any centers around that allow the public to come and see the birds. Some places will even have demos where you can see raptors fly and such. Others, like the CA Raptor Center, have them perched for viewing (some can't fly which is why they are there) which makes the Bird Portrait practice great! Being a controlled environment you can focus on what you're doing without worrying about missing the shot. You may even learn something about the birds themselves and maybe, gain a new appreciation and love of these creatures. It really can be an unforgettable experience and you just might come away with some great photos as well!
