bird photography – Page 6 – Jennifer Sawicky Photography

I’ve seen secretary birds on my past trips to Southern Africa, but it seemed that I always encountered them either in terrible light, or at such a far distance they were little more than specks (or both!). This past trip I was spoiled for choice, and saw them several times in Uganda, and every day while in Kenya. It was very interesting to watch them high-stepping through the grass, looking for prey.

The difference good light makes is amazing. The same camera and lens combo was used for both photos.

This photo was from my trip last year to South Africa, and basically the best I could capture of a secretary bird.

A secretary bird strutting past our vehicle in Masai Mara National Park.

Happy Friday everyone!

A new visitor stopped by the yard this morning! I fired off quite a few shots from the porch, mostly so I could ID the bird, and then wandered closer. He or she didn’t mind my presence, and continued working up and down a couple of birch trees, picking off tiny insects. The red-breasted sapsuckers are a summertime visitor to my area, according to my bird app, so I am very grateful for the opportunity to view and photograph today.

I was glad I was able to move around the get the light in the right direction, and work towards an uncluttered background.

I love the out of focus soft green background, it really shows off the red feathers,

A chance to see the wings spread out, and the hint of yellow tones on the belly. 1/1000sec, f6.3, ISO 640 — A chance to see the wings spread out, and the hint of yellow tones on the belly.
1/1000sec, f6.3, ISO 640

Looking skywards. I love the detail that I was able to capture.

Tag: bird photography

2016-10-07: Feel Good Friday

Red-breasted Sapsucker