Post by kenpossum on Dec 16, 2010 21:33:40 GMT -8
OK ... confession time. Today I took a series of pictures, hand-held, ie no tripod. There are times when a tripod is not the best solution, and hand holding is the only option. I know it's confusing that I state this after giving you all the pros for using a tripod. Well, it's not a perfect world as you all know.
Today, a flock of about 40 bald eagles flew over my head. (Harrison River at Kilby, you say). I tried to position my tripoded camera (new invented word) to shoot straight upwards but neither it nor my back was flexible enough. So, the camera came off the tripod, and the IS feature turned on. I was able to get the shots. Ken Pugh (Chilliwack)
There are other times when a tripod is not the best option. Wind is your tripod's enemy during low light ie. slower exposures. In strong light when you can shoot at 1/000 sec, no problem, but in low light at 1/250 sec a strong wind will shake the tripod's legs and the vibtarion will transfer to the end of your lens.
Other situations are on a canoe or boat - just no room for a tripod, or on the ferry - too much engine vibration.
When an effective flash is used (one that can reach your subject), motion will be taken care of, but you may only get one chance if the bird is flach sensitive.
Finally, I am always reminded of Joanne's and Bruce's advice. Don't let equipment (or lack-of) control your love for getting out there and photographing birds. It is more important to get out in the field, walk, enjoy the sounds, the visuals all around you, and perhaps the company of others. If you get some great images - fantastic. If you miss some because you don't have the right equipment, you still come out ahead. Good advice Joanne and Bruce.
Today, a flock of about 40 bald eagles flew over my head. (Harrison River at Kilby, you say). I tried to position my tripoded camera (new invented word) to shoot straight upwards but neither it nor my back was flexible enough. So, the camera came off the tripod, and the IS feature turned on. I was able to get the shots. Ken Pugh (Chilliwack)
There are other times when a tripod is not the best option. Wind is your tripod's enemy during low light ie. slower exposures. In strong light when you can shoot at 1/000 sec, no problem, but in low light at 1/250 sec a strong wind will shake the tripod's legs and the vibtarion will transfer to the end of your lens.
Other situations are on a canoe or boat - just no room for a tripod, or on the ferry - too much engine vibration.
When an effective flash is used (one that can reach your subject), motion will be taken care of, but you may only get one chance if the bird is flach sensitive.
Finally, I am always reminded of Joanne's and Bruce's advice. Don't let equipment (or lack-of) control your love for getting out there and photographing birds. It is more important to get out in the field, walk, enjoy the sounds, the visuals all around you, and perhaps the company of others. If you get some great images - fantastic. If you miss some because you don't have the right equipment, you still come out ahead. Good advice Joanne and Bruce.