Owls and Flash

[kenpossum]

Apparently there is an active discussion on another birding site regarding the use of flash to photograph owls. Not having read the debate I hesitate to comment except that I can not see where flash photography is warranted at all. Why is there even a debate on this?

All low light situations with owls can easily be solved by using a tripod and a slow shutter speed. My experience is that owls resting in a canopy of tree branches are so still that a flash simply isn't necessary.

The Barred Owl and Saw-whet Owl below were photographed near Reifel Sanctuary today. The Barred Owl was so dark that I had a hard time seeing him but using a tripod and a shutter speed of 1/4 sec. the results were very satisfying. No need for flash at all, and the risk of damaging the owl's retina or disturbing it's time of rest made the use of a flash a no brainer.

High speed, freeze motion, daylight flash photography in most situations will not harm or disturb birds but it should never be used in nocturnal or low light situations, especially with owls.

[Chris]

Good topic Ken. You have clearly demonstrated that without using a flash one can still awesome pictures of owls.

[Gord]

Ken, you've actually shown me that more than I thought would be possible. Excellent work. Certainly very useful to show others a much better way to capture owl photos that is in obtrusive.

[kenpossum]

Thanks Gord. I get a very comfortable feeling with the members on this site regarding responsible birding and photography. Having had the opportunity to meet many members I am totally impressed by their over-riding concern and commitment to practice responsible bird photography. I am learning all the time, and I appreciate the comments from members guiding us "Newbies" in birding etiquette.

We all make mistakes. Having photographed wild animals for 40 years, I have been charged by grizzlies, moose and mountain goats, and almost met my maker courtesy of a cobra. Each time, I was too close for the animal's comfort. Those animals I offended were all capable of fighting back and teaching me a firm lesson. Birds, as I am learning, are more at our mercy. They have no teeth, claws, hoofs or venom to assert themselves when we are disrespectful. All the more reason for we photographers to be cautious and treat them with respect.

This concern to 'do the right thing' extends to being careful not to damage sensitive ecological areas as well. Below is a photo of Len well behind an ecological barrier fence at Blackies Spit. We observed other photographers not so inclined to stay out of the protected area.

[Chris]

Ken, one thing I would like to point out is, although not on this forum but a few others, bird photographers have been heavily criticized recently, because of actions by a few individuals. There are many ethical bird photographers out there.

The picture you posted could easily be someone that has a pair of binoculars or a scope trying to get a better look instead of a camera.

Just thought I would point that out.

[kenpossum]

Thanks Chris I was hoping that was my message, an apologize if I was unclear. The picture is of a bird photographer (Len) doing the right thing - protecting a fragile area by well staying behind the barrier. Could have been a birder with binoculars as well, but I sense that they are not as prone to get close as photographers are. I may well be incorrect in this assumption.

I do sense that the vast majority of birders and photographers in all sites practice good, responsible viewing or photographic practice, and we only hear about the occasional problems - some intentional and I am sure, many unintentional. I would also like to point out the excellent relationship between birders and photographers that exists on this particular site. Both have my 100% respect. That would be no accident, and I credit Gord and all the moderators for fostering this air of cooperation and mutual respect. Personally, both, birders and photographers on this site and in the field have gone out of their way to assist me, for which I am deeply appreciative. We seem to have found a formula for success here.