Ospreys and More Coming Soon to a Theater Near You!

Sebastian Inlet Ospreys and More

Multiple IPT veteran Eugen Dolan is joining me for a month, arriving on 26 September. Beginning bird photographer Alvin Red Stevens is joining us for a week; he shows up on 12 October. And when he leaves, new friend Mishael Voisin will be with us for a week of photography and learned. Several folks have sworn that they will be joining me at some point but right now, November is wide open. Check out the opportunities below and then change your life by joining me this fall. Feel free to e-mail me or to call or text — 863-221-2372 with any questions or concerns.

Yesterday I completed a third edit of the Sebastian OCT-NOV 2024 folder. It is always fun to discover some really good images that never caught your attention before. Below I share three Osprey images that got me excited on my third trip through what was a great month at Sebastian in 2024. Do understand that in 2026 the top Sebastian location, the South Jetty, is scheduled to be closed for major reconstruction next season. That is why I am all in for 2025!

In the Last Blog Post

In the last blog post, my very favorite image was #3, the Red Light District skimmer. The rest were tied for second place 🙂 Huge surprise: several folks (besides me) actually liked two of the three blurs. (I liked them all.)

What’s Up?

On Monday after, the departure of the Auto Train from the Lorton, VA Station was delayed due to electrical problems. After an excellent flatiron steak dinner, some sleep, and a blessedly uneventful ride, we de-trained at Sanford, Florida at 10:50am on Tuesday morning, two hours late. I made it home by 1:30pm. It was good to sleep in my own bed that night.

Today is Wednesday 10 September 2025. I just got back from a short trip down to the lake to see what’s up and about. The usual suspects were present but I did not make a single photo from my SUV. I was not going to take a rig on my sun walk on the pier but when I spotted a Great Blue Heron on the railing, I grabbed the 300mm f/2.8 GM lens with the 1.4X TC and an a-1 ii. I got close to the GBH and wound up making some decent head and neck portraits. I have two appointments in town this afternoon and need to get some shopping done as well. Whatever you opt to do, I hope that you too choose to have fun and enjoy the day.

As I have some fabulous new tips and techniques to share, I will soon begin work on the Digital Basics IV Video Series. Covered will be the use of the masking feature in Adobe Camera Raw (thanks to Anita North), the use of the Point Color eye dropper to tame super saturated colors during raw conversions (discovered in tandem with Anita), and a fabulous new Remove Tool trick that makes my favorite Photoshop Tool even more amazing — that one discovered by me 🙂

If an item — a Delkin flash card or reader, a Levered-clamp FlexShooter Pro, or a Wimberley lens plate or low foot — for example, that is available from B&H and/or Bedfords, is also available in the BAA Online Store, it would be great, and greatly appreciated, if you would opt to purchase from us. We will match or beat any price. Please remember also to use my B&H affiliate links or to earn 3% cash back at Bedford by using the BIRDSASART discount code at checkout for your major gear purchases. Doing either often earns you free guides and/or discounts. And always earns my great appreciation.

Gear Questions and Advice

Too many folks attending BAA IPTs and dozens of photographers whom I see in the field and on BirdPhotographer’s.Net, are — out of ignorance — using the wrong gear, especially when it comes to tripods and more especially, tripod heads. And the same is true in spades when ordering new camera bodies or lenses. My advice will often save you some serious money and may help you avoid making a seriously bad choice. Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. If you are desperate, you can try me on my cell at 863-221-2372. Please leave a message and shoot me a text if I do not pick up.

Don’t Just Shoot: Learn

If you are interested in changing your life and becoming a better photographer by joining me on the Extended IPT at Sebastian Inlet for Ospreys and more (SEPT 25 to NOV 24, 2025), in San Diego for Pacific-race Brown Pelicans and more (JAN 6 to FEB 2, 2026), or for Roseate Spoonbills at Stick Marsh (March 2026), please e-mail for dates, rates, terms, and additional information. Or shoot me a text to 863-221-2372. Some offerings include options for shared AirBnB lodging and meals. Ground transportation during your stay is a possibility at times.

This image was created on 30 October 2024 on a Sebastian Inlet Extended IPT. Seated on a large rock next to the shore, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter and the Sony a-1 (now replaced by the Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera). Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel: ISO 5000. 1/3200 sec. at f/4 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was 1/3-stop too dark. AWB at 8:22:12am on a cloudy morning. Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly. Image #1: Osprey struggling with fish in its talons Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART

Wishing, Hoping, and Praying

When an Osprey dives and winds up floating on the surface of the water with its wings spread, you know that it has a fish in its talons, and is catching its breath and securing its grip on its quarry. As a photographer, you are talking to the fish quietly: please do not let this one go!. I am not sure if last year was typical, but it seemed that more than half the time my prayers were not answered; the fish hawk would take flight without a fish in its talons. Better luck this year!

This image was created on 5 November 2024 on a Sebastian Inlet Extended IPT. Standing at full height, Robus RC-5570 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripod/Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro-mounted Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter and the Sony a-1 (now replaced by the Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera). ISO 2000. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel: 1/3200 sec. at f/5.6 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was 1/3-stop too dark. AWB at 9:20:05am on a cloudy morning. Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly. Image #2: Osprey carrying Yellowfin Menhaden using the two-talon grip Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART

A White Sky Exposure Tip for All Systems on Cloudy Days

When correctly doing flight photography on cloudy, white sky days, you should set your shutter speed and ISO so that you are reading at least +2 stops off the sky. It goes without saying that you should be using the wide open aperture. For best results, you will want a shutter speed of at least 1/3200 second. You must not be afraid using high ISO settings! There are times when working at plus two stops off the sky that when the raw file is examined in RawDigger, that the image will be under-exposed; +2 1/3 or + 2 2/3 stops would have been better.

A Sunny Day Exposure Tip for All Systems

Be aware that on sunny days your approach is completely different; you will be using much lower ISOs and need to be sure not to over-expose the shiny sides of the often silver fish. Join me at Sebastian to learn more about exposure than you ever imagined.

This image was created on 20 November 2024 on a Sebastian Inlet Extended IPT. Standing at full height, Robus RC-5570 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripod/Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro-mounted Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter and the Sony a-1 (now replaced by the Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera). Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel: ISO 1000. 1/3200 sec. at f/5.6 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was 1/3-stop too dark. AWB at 9:24:12am on a cloudy bright morning. Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly. Image #3: Osprey pulling Yellowfin Menhaden out of the water Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART

Yellowfin Menhaden

For several years I have mistakenly been using Yellow-tailed Menhaden when referring to the Osprey’s favorite November catch. I learned just this morning that the correct name for this fish species is Yellowfin Menhaden (Brevoortia smithi). In September, finger Mullet make up the bulk of the diet of Ospreys fishing the inlet.

Yellowfin Menhaden have silver bodies with greenish or bluish backs, golden yellow caudal (tail) fins, and a single black or purple spot behind the gill cover. This species is considered migratory, though its movements are less extensive than those of Atlantic Menhaden. Instead of long north/south coastal migrations, Yellowfin Menhaden typically move seasonally between inshore and offshore waters for feeding and spawning. In November, the adults make their way through the inlet to head offshore to spawn; peak spawning occurs from November through March. After hatching at sea, the larval fish are carried back into the estuaries by currents. The juveniles spend their first year growing in these estuarine nursery areas before joining the adult offshore migration in the fall.

This image was created on 27 October 2023 at Sebastian Inlet State Park. Standing at full height, I used the Robus RC-5570 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripod/Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro-mounted Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter, and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless Digital Camera.. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel: ISO 800; 1/3200 second at f/5.6 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 8:29:59 am on a mostly sunny morning. Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version. Osprey with Yellow-tailed Menhaden Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART

Viewing the Sebastian Composites below

Be sure to click on each composite to see a larger, inexplicably sharper high res version.

From upper left clockwise around to center: Osprey with fish at dawn; Osprey with menhaden; Osprey with Mullet; Mullet school under attack from below; Wood Stork landing; Tarpon jumping; Reddish Egret landing; Osprey turning to begin dive; Osprey with Yellow-tailed Menhaden. Click on the composite to see a larger, inexplicably sharper high res version. All images copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART

Sebastian Inlet in Fall

Sebastian Inlet in the fall attracts schools of migrating saltwater fish that in turn attract dozens of Ospreys — we’ve counted 61 in the air at once, along with hordes of hungry birds including Brown Pelican, Royal Tern, and Laughing Gull. Other species of birds feed on smaller baitfish; those include Wood Stork, Reddish Egret, Snowy Egret, Great Egret, Great Blue heron, Little Blue Heron, and White Ibis. Sanderling and Ruddy Turnstone are easily photographed. American Avocet is an uncommon visitor. Rare gulls have included Lesser Black-backed Gull (all ages), Franklin’s Gull (first winter), and in 2024, a spectacular young Sabine’s Gull that remained for several weeks.

As this location provides world class action for at least two months each year, bird photographers travel to Florida’s East Coast from all over the planet. You are invited not only to join me but to learn a ton about bird photography. Remember that the more time you spend at great locations, the more chance you have to enjoy perfect weather conditions and opportunities that leave you in awe.

The shared AirBnB approach has proven to be tremendously popular and is hugely beneficial to learning.

From upper left clockwise around to center: Osprey with fish at dawn; Osprey with menhaden; Sanderling flock bird-scape blur; Royal Tern with large baitfish; Brown Pelican diving silhouette; 1-second breaking wave blur; Osprey with Yellow-tailed Menhaden blur; Osprey in flight/full downstroke; Snowy Egret/double overhead wingstretch. Click on the composite to see a larger, inexplicably sharper high res version. All images copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART

2025 BIRDS AS ART Sebastian Inlet Ospreys and More In-the-Field Sessions

Available Dates: Friday 26 September (arrive on Thursday 25 September) thru the morning session on Mon 24 November 2025.
Limit: four photographers.

In 2024, I had an AirBnB in Vero Lake Estates for 26 nights. I had so much fun and enjoyed so many great opportunities that I am returning next fall for two full months; the AirBnB is just 22 minutes from the inlet.

Getting There

You can fly to Orlando International Airport (MCO) and rent a car or fly to Melbourne International Airport (MEL) and explore the possibility of airport pick-up and drop-off or a taxi or uber ride to and from the AirBnB. Rides with me are available for $15/day on a space available basis. Folks who ride with me do not need to purchase a park pass but will need to kick in $2.00/day when we are charged.

From upper left clockwise around to center: Osprey diving; Osprey with menhaden; Brown Pelican with Yellow-tailed Menhaden in bill pouch; Sabine’s Gull/juvenile top shot; Osprey landing on Cabbage Palm stump; Wood Stork sunrise silhouette; American Avocet running with wings raised; Osprey diving with talons outstretched; Peregrine with wings fully raised. Click on the composite to see a larger, inexplicably sharper high res version. All images copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART

What You Will Learn

1- First and foremost you will learn to become a better flight photographer. Much better.

2- You will learn to shoot flight hand held and off the tripod.

3-You will learn the basics and fine points of digital exposure. Nikon and Canon folks will learn to get the right exposure every time after making a single test exposure, and SONY folks will learn to use Zebras so that they can be sure of making excellent exposures before pressing the shutter button.

4- You will learn to work in Manual exposure mode even if you fear it.

5- You will learn to evaluate wind and sky conditions and understand how they affect bird photography, especially (but not limited to) the photography of birds in flight.

6- You will learn to select the best shutter speeds for all types of bird photography, from flight and action to pleasing blurs.

7- You will learn how to approach free and wild birds without disturbing them.

8- You will learn to spot the good and the great situations.

9- You will learn to understand and predict bird behavior.

10- You will learn to design pleasing images by mastering your camera’s AF system.

11- You will learn to choose the best perspective.

12- You will learn to see and control your backgrounds.

13- You will learn to see and understand the light.

14- You will learn to see and create pleasing blurs in pre-dawn situations.

15- You will learn to be ready for the most likely event.

16- You will learn pro level tripod handling tips

17- During our image review sessions, you will learn the factors that separate insta-deletes, keepers, and family jewels. With general bird photography those include head angle, subject-to-sensor plane orientation, choice of perspective, the quality of the light, the quality of the background, image sharpness, and the image design. When evaluating photos of birds in flight, you must — in addition to the above, consider wing positions and flight poses.

18- You will improve your image optimization skills by leaps and bounds and will return home with a collection of image optimization videos.

The very best news is that you will be able to take everything you learn home with you so that you will be a better photographer wherever you are and whenever you photograph.

From upper left clockwise around to center: Osprey with Yellow-tailed Menhaden; Osprey overhead with bunker; Osprey with Yellow-tailed Menhaden; Osprey chase; Great Egret with pinfish; Osprey emerging with flounder; Great Egret taking flight; Osprey kiting; 1/8 second sunrise Atlantic Ocean blur. Click on the composite to see a larger, inexplicably sharper high res version. All images copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART

Trip Costs and Booking Details

Change Your Life

Book any 3-6 Days: Lodging is $175/night. Instruction is $600/day. There is a morning session every day. Afternoon sessions average every other day. Image review and Photoshop sessions are usually daily.

Please note: Folks who sign up for an odd number of days of instruction will enjoy half + 1 afternoon sessions (more are possible if conditions are good) Those who sign up for an even number of days will enjoy at least 1/2 that number of afternoon shooting sessions (more are possible if conditions are good)

Book any 7-10 Days: Lodging is $160/night. Instruction is $575/day. There is a morning session every day. Afternoon sessions average every other day. Image review and Photoshop sessions are almost daily.

Book any 11-14 Days: Lodging is $150/night. Instruction is $550/day. There is a morning session every day. Afternoon sessions average every other day. Image review and Photoshop sessions are almost daily.

Book any three weeks: Lodging is $130/night. Instruction is $525/day. There is a morning session every day. Afternoon sessions average every other day. Image review and Photoshop sessions are almost daily.

Stay for one month (28 nights): Lodging is $120/night. Instruction is $500/day. There is a morning session every day. Afternoon sessions average every other day. Image review and Photoshop sessions are almost daily.

Stay two months (60 nights): Lodging is $100/night. Instruction is $475/day. There is a morning session every day. Afternoon sessions average every other day. Image review and Photoshop sessions are almost daily.

Brunch is on me. Dinners are provided for $20/day. I am an excellent chef and the food both healthy and of high quality.

Please note: your day of arrival is not a day of instruction.

Deposit Information

Payment in full is due now. Please make the check out to:

BIRDS AS ART

And send it via US Mail to

BIRDS AS ART
PO Box 7245
Indian Lake Estates, FL 33855

I hope to spend some quality time with you at Sebastian Inlet in the fall of 2025 and to change your life. If you have any questions, please get in touch via e-mail or with a text to 863-221-2372.

Typos

With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.