Loading...Images from the Id – Choices or How to Outsmart a Red-Tail Hawk.
Commentary: Generally speaking I have lost confidence in the American people. There was a time when Lincoln’s prediction of “that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” meant something to this nation. It is amazing if we look at history and how the political parties have flip-flopped. Yes, Republicans are still conservative and Democrats are still liberal but their views on human rights have totally reversed since Lincoln’s time. The“new” Republicans believe in human rights – as long as the rights are in line with their beliefs. Let me give you my spin. I am anti-abortion (be careful with this because it may not mean what you think) BUT I am pro-choice. Yes, you know all about certain cases where it should be done etc. I look at it differently. To be anti-choice is very different than anti-abortion. Against choice doesn’t mean there is no choice but only one choice, in this case – the choice to not have an abortion. My point is being pro-choice on anything also protects my rights and your rights to say no not just yes. Can’t they under stand the word choice.
Making choices in photography is a huge subject and may lead to many blog entries. For now let’s look at birds and one experience.
Last Saturday, I decided to go to a nearby state park and see what I could find. Usually there were some wading birds and at worst some radio controlled aircraft to practice on. I have a general pattern in the park. I usually go to a parking lot that overlooks the lake and has some shore access. It is good for White Pelican, some shore birds and once in a while some surprises. Next, I stop a small wetlands area which usually has a lot of activity. This time I hit jackpot at the parking lot. Near the lot was perched a large Dark-phase Red-Tail Hawk and it seem to be ignoring me. So I started stalking. I slowly walked closer and circled behind the bird. I knew from experience not to approach from the front. Once behind the hawk, it swooped down to capture something and missed. I got some good shots but they were all with the bird going away. My brain and experience kicked in. I took my time and quietly walked down to the shoreline. I took a few Pelican shots, nothing special and talked to a few fisherman. They can give a lot of information since they have the patience I lack. I knew that by approaching from the shore I had cover and could see the bird from the front. Quietly walking up the hill toward the bird I became increasingly excited. It was still there, I was getting a front view, and I was ready. After a few poses, it happened. The bird attacked. I was so close I actually had to zoom out. Fifteen feet from me, it hit and this time successfully. That poor little Bull Snake had no chance, and I got something special.
Lessons to learn: Always be prepared.- in most cases a situation will never repeat itself. Practice, practice, practice – part of being prepared. Know your subject – most animals have behavior patterns they follow. Be patient – my biggest problem. Take a lot of images at your fastest shutter rate. For birds uses shutter speed of 1/1000 or even faster to stop the action. Know your equipment – what setting work best for this situation.
This week’s Photo
“The Attack”; f/6.7, 1/2000 sec.(fast Bird), 210/315 mm.. +1 EV (dark Bird) ISO 800. Cherry Creek State Park. Colorado, Adjusted in Lightroom 5.4
Second image “Lunch” f/8,1/1000 sec, ISO 800, +1 EV (too bright but adjusted easily) 400/600 mm After the attack.
