Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART

This calling Sandhill Crane image was created on our snowstorm day with the tripod-mounted Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4G ED VR lens (Black), the Nikon TC-14E II 1.4x Teleconverter for D-AF-S & AF-I Lenses only, and the Nikon D7100 . ISO 400. Matrix metering +1/3 stop in Av mode. AF-C AF mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: David W. Klein.

Who is Dave Klein?

Dave Klein is a dentist and dental educator who lives in Bloomington, Minnesota, a suburb of Minneapolis near where my buddy Jim Neiger (author of the great eGuide, Flight Plan) grew up. In recent years Dave has begun to feel that he is a photographer trapped inside a dentist’s body.

All of the images here are courtesy of and copyright 2013: David W. Klein.

This image was made with the hand held Nikon 10.5mm f/2.8G ED DX Fisheye Nikkor lens and the Nikon D600. ISO 400. Matrix metering -1/3 stop: 1/500 sec. at f/18 in Av mode. AF-C AF Mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: David W. Klein.

Dave’ e-mail to Denise’s Bosque Group

Hi Everyone and Happy Thanksgiving!

I certainly enjoyed meeting all of you as we shared the joys and struggles of Bosque together. I have been there three times before but never experienced a snow event like the one we enjoyed, nor the mega-blastoffs we witnessed, nor those challenging north winds. I hope that everyone got home safely and didn’t forget anything important like a tripod in New Mexico 🙂 Note: Cheryl Slechta, a moderator on the Out-of-the-Box forum at BirdPhotographer’s.Net, left her tripod on the tour loop road; it was kindly returned to the Visitor’s Center where she was happily re-united with it. Cheryl, Lynn and I had a nice, albeit cold time at the crane pools on the Monday afternoon after the workshop ended and created some nice color blurs at sunset along with images of silhouetted cranes in flight as they arrived at their evening roost. Note: Lynn is Lynn Fulton (aka McFulton), Denise’s good friend and client from Ontario, Canada.

For me personally it was thrill to be with Artie and Denise as I have tremendous respect for the their skill, knowledge, techniques, and mastery. I always feel a bit chagrined to look at my work and theirs but it keeps me motivated to learn and improve. I hope to be able to photograph with them again one day soon and hope that all of you may, too. Enjoy the holidays, Safe travels wherever you go next and please keep in touch. Attached are my five to share – the small bird is a Say’s Phoebe that Lynn and I worked Monday afternoon as we were leaving the refuge for the crane pools. It very cooperative and posed in really sweet light. Thanks for pointing it out to me, Lynn.

Best, Dave

This Say’s Phoebe image was created with the tripod-mounted Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4G ED VR lens (Black), the Nikon TC-14E II 1.4x Teleconverter for D-AF-S & AF-I Lenses only, and the Nikon D7100 . ISO 2000. Matrix metering at zero: 1/2500 sec. at f/9 in av mode. AF-c AF mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: David W. Klein.

Dave’s Comment

On the November 26, 2013 blog post, “Beyond Spectacular Part I,” Dave kindly wrote:

All of these are wonderful and I feel very fortunate to have been there to witness these spectacular and rare moments at Bosque. I can’t imagine the BBC overlooking image #5 – it is amazing and my favorite of all of them; it has a dream-like quality to it. Thanks so much for your company and instruction this past week and for your frequent reminders about exposure values as light and conditions changed constantly. You and Denise worked hard to get us in the best positions for the best opportunities that presented themselves. I wish you, Denise and your IPT group a very Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow and huge success throughout your time at Bosque. I hope our paths will cross again – you and Denise were very generous with your time and knowledge and that made this trip all the more memorable for me.

This image of a pair of silhouetted Sandhill Cranes was created with the tripod-mounted Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4G ED VR lens (Black), the Nikon TC-14E II 1.4x Teleconverter for D-AF-S & AF-I Lenses only, and the Nikon D3x. ISO 1000. Matrix metering +1/3 stop in Av mode: 1/2500 sec. at f/7.1. AF-C AF mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: David W. Klein.

Dave’s Response

After I replied to Dave’s original e-mail he answered as follows:

Thank you for your kind comments on the images. I re-sized them and attached them below. Please let me know if there are any issues with the images. I would be honored if you used them in a blog post. I hope things continue to go well at Bosque for you and Denise and the post-Turkey Day IPT. The blast-off image was made with the Nikon 10.5mm f/2.8 DX fisheye lens pointed directly at the flock taking off. In post I used the lens distortion correction slider in NX2 to stretch the image and to flatten the perspective. That’s about the only way I thought I could get the entire flock in one image. Despite the unfavorable winds and the weather challenges we faced we had some amazing opportunities that I’ve never enjoyed during prior visits to Bosque. Your knowledge of where to be when at Bosque is remarkable.

Dave’s Final e-Mail

In Dave’s final e-mail he wrote in part:

What I liked most about the workshop was the blending of styles that the two of you represent: technical, compositional and creative. Your vast experience with Bosque told us when to be patient with a situation and let the photographic opportunity present itself and when to quickly move on to another location when the circumstances weren’t in our favor. Thanks so much Artie for your dedication to your workshop participants and your readership. I feel privileged to say I am part of both.

Mr. Dave

Who Cares about Dave Klein?

Denise surely does. I surely do. And everyone who met him on the IPT does. His wife and family for sure. And I am betting that all of his patients and students do too.

As for me, I love happy campers. And I love skilled photographers who join our workshops to learn more, to learn to become more creative, and to improve their already considerable skills.

Your Favorite

Which of Dave’s images do you like best? Be sure to let us know why.

8 SPECTACULAR PHOTOGRAPHY DEALS

4 GREAT COMPUTER DEALS

AMAZING I-PAD & TABLET DEALS

14 KILLER PORTABLE HOME ENTERTAINMENT DEALS

Last Year’s Grand Prize winning image by Lou Coetzer

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

The December 21, 2013 closing deadline is fast approaching.

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.

This adult Ross’s Goose image was created with the Gitzo 3532 LS carbon fiber tripod, the Mongoose M3.6 head, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 2x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 400: 1/1600 sec. at f/10 in Manual mode is the equivalent of the standard ISO 400 exposure for brilliant whites in bright sun: 1/2500 sec. at f/8. Central sensor (by necessity) Expand/AI Servo Rear Focus AF on the side of the bird’s breast active at the moment of exposure. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Click on the image to see a larger version.

Your Goose is Cooked…

If you do not know how to identify and age the geese at Bosque

There are several goose species at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in San Antonio, New Mexico. Snow Geese. often numbering in the tens of thousands, predominate. There are two morphs or forms of Snow Goose at Bosque, the white morph, by far the most abundant in New Mexico, and the blue morph, much less common here. Note: in some wintering locations the flocks may be 50-50, half white snows and half blues. At Bosque blue morph snows make up less then 2% of the Snow Goose populations in a given year. The next most abundant goose is Ross’s Goose, smaller than snows and much more agile fliers. Ross’s numbers vary from year to year. This year is a very good year with probably more then 5% of the white geese being Ross’s. For me, this makes Ross’s a more difficult and rewarding subject than the more common and far more numerous white morph Snow Goose. But you cannot photograph what you cannot see. 🙂 There is a blue morph Ross’s but it is exceedingly rare; I have never seen one anywhere. Many folks have no clue as to how to separate adult white Snow Goose from adult Ross’s Goose. See item next.

As a bird photographer, learning to ID and age the species you encounter is a big plus. There were many folks trying to pick off single birds from the huge flock floating on still blue water yesterday afternoon–a rather rare occurrence at Bosque BTW; most had no idea that they had many of the rarer Ross’s right in front of them.

This adult Snow Goose (white form or morph) image was created with the Gitzo 3532 LS carbon fiber tripod, the Mongoose M3.6 head, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 2x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 400: 1/1600 sec. at f/10 in Manual mode is the equivalent of the standard ISO 400 exposure for brilliant whites in bright sun: 1/2500 sec. at f/8. Central sensor (by necessity) Expand/AI Servo Rear Focus AF on the bottom of the bird’s long neck active at the moment of exposure. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Click on the image to see a larger version.

Ross’s Goose vs Snow Goose ID Tips

The key to separating these two species is the size and shape of the bill. Snow Goose has a much larger bill with, as you can see in the images above, a large grinning patch, the long black shape that separates the upper and lower mandible. Ross’s Goose has much shorter, stubbier bill. To me they look stub-nosed. Bill coloration is usually all pink for snow, pink with greenish or grayish warts or tubercles at the base. The Snow Goose in the image above has a bit of an atypical yellow tinge to it. The differences in coloration of the bills can be seen only with good optics or in close-up images like those here. With practice it is easy to learn to pick out the Ross’s Geese in flight by both there stub-nosed look and their faster, more acrobatic flight. It is not uncommon to see the turn upside down in flight.

This resting juvenile Snow Goose (white form or morph) image was created with the Gitzo 3532 LS carbon fiber tripod, the Mongoose M3.6 head, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 2x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 400: 1/1250 sec. at f/10 in Manual mode. Central sensor (by necessity) Expand/AI Servo Rear Focus AF on the bottom of the forward flank active at the moment of exposure. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Click on the image to see a larger version.

Juvenile Snow Goose

Young of the year Snow Goose is a gray version of the adult with a darker bill (not seen in the image above. Most of the grayish geese that you see in flight, on the ground, or in the water are snows. Juvenile Ross’s are quite similar but for their smaller size and stub-nosed bills.

Exposure Question

Why did I go with a 1/3 stop slower shutter speed to come up with a perfect exposure for the juvenile white Snow Goose in the image above.

This adult Blue Goose image was created with the Gitzo 3532 LS carbon fiber tripod, the Mongoose M3.6 head, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 2x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 400: 1/1250 sec. at f/10 in Manual mode. Central sensor (by necessity) Expand/AI Servo Rear Focus AF on the bottom of the forward flank active at the moment of exposure. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Click on the image to see a larger version.

Adult Blue Goose

Adult Blue Geese are extraordinarily handsome. And that is exacerbated at Bosque where they are uncommon at best. “Incoming Blue Goose” is an oft-heard call at the cornfields. Though the blues with their dark bodies and white heads are largely similar to each other it is hard to find two that are identical.

Exposure Question

Why did I go with a 1/3 stop slower shutter speed to come up with a perfect exposure for the adult Blue Goose in the image above.

This juvenile Blue Goose image was created with the Gitzo 3532 LS carbon fiber tripod, the Mongoose M3.6 head, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 2x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 400: 1/1640 sec. at f/10 in Manual mode. Central sensor (by necessity) Expand/AI Servo Rear Focus AF on the bird’s upper back just behind the head active at the moment of exposure. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Click on the image to see a larger version.

Juvenile Blue Goose

Young of the year Blue Geese are dark, a sort of indigo blue. Interestingly enough, Snow Goose genetics are pretty neat. The gene for blue is a recessive trait. Though the odds are long against it, two white snows might have 3 blue young, or any combination of white and blue young. Similarly, two blue snows might have only white young.

Exposure Question

Why did I go with 1 1/3 stops more light to come up with a perfect exposure for this juvenile white Blue Goose? If the exposure questions baffle you or even if you cannot answer them instantly and correctly, you need to get yourself copies of both ABP and ABP II and study the sections on exposure.

Other Species

Canada Goose is the only other regularly occurring goose species at the refuge. Several hundred are usually present each season. A decade ago they were commonly seen feeding near the Flight Deck but now the best chance to view them is as fly-overs. In my 19 years of visiting Bosque in late fall I have seen only two White-fronted Geese though this species is quite abundant in other parts of its wintering range.

Your Favorite?

Take a moment to let us know which of the images above you like best. And why. Which do you think is my favorite? Why do you think?

8 SPECTACULAR PHOTOGRAPHY DEALS

4 GREAT COMPUTER DEALS

AMAZING I-PAD & TABLET DEALS

14 KILLER PORTABLE HOME ENTERTAINMENT DEALS

Last Year’s Grand Prize winning image by Lou Coetzer

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

The December 21, 2013 closing deadline is fast approaching.

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.

This Sandhill Crane image was created with the Gitzo 3532 LS carbon fiber tripod, the Mongoose M3.6 head, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 1.4x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 800. Evaluative metering +1 stop off the white frosted grasses: 1/1600 sec. at f/5.6 in Manual mode. One sensor to the left of the central sensor/AI Servo/Surround Rear Focus AF on the spot where the near wing hits the bird’s upper back–active at the moment of exposure. Click here to see the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Click on the image to see a larger version. This is a small crop from behind and below from the original. Wings Up

Wings Up/Wings Down

My two favorite wing positions, illustrated nicely here, are wings up (above) and wings down (below). Take a moment to leave a comment and let us know if you have a general preference for either wings up or wings down. And whatever your preference, let us know which of the two images here you like best. What are the strong points and weak points of each image? Is there anything that you love? Anything that bugs you?

This Sandhill Crane image was the third frame in a sequence of about six. It was created in the same second as the image above, also with with the Gitzo 3532 LS carbon fiber tripod, the Mongoose M3.6 head, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 1.4x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 800. Evaluative metering +1 stop off the white frosted grasses: 1/1600 sec. at f/5.6 in Manual mode. One sensor to the left of the central sensor/AI Servo/Surround Rear Focus AF just caught the top of the bird’s neck just behind the head–active at the moment of exposure. Click here to see the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Click on the image to see a larger version. This is the full frame original capture. Wings Down

Crane Pool News

Activity at both crane pools has been picking up the last day or two. Both Harry’s Crane Pool and Ed Cranepool have been seeing a lot more activity both mornings and afternoons but still crane numbers at these traditional locations are below average.

For details on how to photograph at both of these great locations see the Bosque Site Guide. If you can’t make an IPT getting the site guide is the best way to share my 19 years of experience. Learn to photograph Bosque like a pro on your very first day there.

Bosque Short Version IPT

Not Too Late to Join Us

For information on the version of the 2013 Bosque IPTs please scroll down here. Please shoot me an e-mail if you would like to join us. Please call Jim at 863-692-0906 or e-mail for late registration discount info or to enter.

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.

This image was created yesterday, November 23, 2013 at Bosque del Apache NWR in San Antonio, New Mexico with the hand held Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens, the Canon 1.4x EF Extender III (Teleconverter) (at 210mm), and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital camera body ISO 400. Evaluative metering +1 stop: 1/80 sec. at f/8 in Av mode. One below and three sensors to the right of the central sensor/AI Servo Rear Focus/Suround AF active at the moment of exposure. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a larger version.

Attempted Murder or a Great Bosque Happening?

In the image above, it looks as if Assistant Refuge Manager Aaron Mize just might be attempting to end the life of his boss, new Refuge Manager Kevin Kobble.

Not to worry….

Actually, Aaron and Kevin were removing some mostly old-sunflower brush to improve sightlines to a channel that has been filled with many thousands of Mallards with a sprinkling of pintails, coots, and a very few wigeons. And the ducks have conveniently been blasting off every 30 minutes or so.

While co-leading Denise Ippolito’s A Creative Adventure Bosque Workshop we have been enjoying some very good photography while battling constant strong north winds with gusts exceeding 40mph.

Here is how it all came about

After a nice fly-out of Snow Geese just past the Two Tree Window we headed up to the crane pools. At Ed Crane-pool we found a good sized flock of white geese, mostly snows with quite a few Ross’s. They left in the always-disappointing dribs and drabs. When all were gone I was approached by Bosque’s Assistant Refuge Manager, Aaron Mize. He asked how I thought conditions at the refuge were this season.

For details on the locations mentioned above and tons more on learning to photograph at Bosque, please see the info on my Bosque Site Guide here. For some creative inspiration, see Denise’s “Impressions of Bosque here.

As expected, I answered candidly:

Overall things are very good to excellent. There are zillions of geese blasting off regularly and flying around in huge groups. Strangely, crane numbers seem low and the numbers of cranes at the two crane pools each morning is astoundingly low. Despite the lengthy federal closure the staff and volunteers did a great job of getting the refuge ready for the birds, for the general public, for the Festival of the Cranes, and for the thousands of serious photographers who will be visiting the refuge this winter.

There are, however, a few things that could be improved and one or two things that shocked me. I mentioned one or two locations where ten minutes work clearing a bit of brush could drastically improve both photographic and viewing conditions. As for the shocked I mentioned an area of the refuge where many new of the familiar blue and white flying goose “Area Closed/Do Not Enter” signs had been placed well back from the water’s edge thus making photography from previous hot spots either difficult or impossible. The signs drive people to compete for spots on the Flight Deck where over-crowding has been an ever-increasing problem. In addition, most photographers, desperate to get a lens on the 20,000 geese flying over the distant plateau, will disregard the signs in the pre-dawn blackness thus giving the general public the impression that nature photographers are criminals. As the purpose of the signs is to keep folks from walking out among the cranes,it would be great if new signs could be moved back to the water’s edge.

Aaron agreed. We were then joined by Refuge Manager Kevin Kobble. We spoke about the upcoming re-building of the Flight Deck and potential plans for the North Railroad Pool. Aaron asked me if I would be willing to put in my two cents on the plans for the new Flight Deck and of course, I told him that I would be thrilled.

Then Aaron asked if we would be willing to do a short video on current conditions at Bosque. Same answer. Aaron was taping us on his cell phone but an incoming call ruined the first take. Harold Klein agreed to shoot the video with his tripod-mounted Nikor 70-200. Lastly we agreed to meet on Monday–yikes, that’s tomorrow, to do a ride-around and point out some things that could be done to make a fabulous place even better for photography.

We said our good-byes, made a pit-stop for the group, and were shocked to find Aaron and Kevin ahead of us clearing the brush at the new duck spot…. After the clean-up, Aaron interviewed participant Harold Klein for the Bosque Facebook page. Harold was amazing. I asked to see his SAG membership card. You can see the video on the here.

I sent them the following e-mail that night:

Dear Aaron and Kevin,

Hope that all is well, that we get six inches of snow tonight, and that the refuge is open tomorrow Smile emoticon.

Thanks a stack for your openness and help this morning. Paraphrasing a very dear friend, “It has been tough to deal with ten years of uninspired, uncaring management. I am thrilled to the core that so many of us will be able to work together with both of you and to return the refuge to its former place of prominence as one of if not the (with the demise of Ding Darling) crown jewel(s) of the national wildlife refuge system….

What happened this morning–you two men taking 15 minutes out of your busy day to help a bunch of photographers–is a prime example of what is possible. As you saw, a few small changes can turn a situation from a so-so opportunity to a spectacular opportunity. I cannot tell you how many letters I have written over the past decade that were basically ignored…. In short, I am thrilled for the future.

Kudos on flopping the entrance and exit of the temporary tour loop; it is another small change that will make life easier and better for the thousand of folks with long lenses who visit the refuge annually, and for the countless visitors who come simply to enjoy the geese and the cranes.

We will come looking for either Aaron or hopefully both of you between 10:30 and 11:00am on this coming Monday for a ride-around. Please rsvp on that. And think about lunch on us at the Buckhorn Grill.

later and love, artie & denise

Mallard blast-off. Canon 100-400 hand held with the EOS-1D Mark IV. Image courtesy of and copyright 2103: Denise Ippolito/A Creative Adventure

By the Way….

The weather forecast was wrong. We had only 4 inches of snow. Sunday was by far my best ever day at Bosque. It was so good that we never went back for lunch. It seemed that all 77,000 geese on the refuge were in front of us in the cornfield blasting off every ten minutes. The blast-offs were so spectacular that I think that there is a good chance that at lease one of the 2028 images that I made today turns out to be BBC-worthy image…. Stay tuned for lots of great images from our day in the snow.

Bosque IPTs/Late Registration Discounts Increased

It’s Getting Late!

Register now; apply a $1000 discount to the 7-DAY IPT!

For information on both the 7-Day and the recently announced short version of the 2013 Bosque IPTs please scroll down here. If you would like to join us for the first 3 or 4 days of this IPT please shoot me an e-mail. Please call Jim at 863-692-0906 or e-mail for late registration discount info.

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.

Air Travel With Big Lenses: Dealing With Puddle Jumpers

Traveling with barely legal roll-aboards with twenty to thirty thousand dollars of camera gear can be difficult, and for some, a quite scary deal, especially when one or more legs of your flight is on a puddle jumper, a small jet with tiny overheads nowhere large enough to take your rolling bag.

Most folks (but not me) are aghast at the thought of gate-checking the roll aboard or backpack that holds their lenses including their largest super-telephoto, several other lenses, two or more camera bodies, tele-converters, extension tubes, and a set of filters.

Important Note

As an Amazon Associate I earn a small percentage from qualifying purchases when you purchase from Amazon using the links below.

Carhartt Men’s Knit Cuffed Beanie

Most folks know that I have been protecting my gear with Carhartt Watch Caps for decades. They are far less costly than the LensCoat stuff, offer far more protection in terms of absorbing shock during travel by air or by car, and better protection against moisture as well. I double the hats for my camera bodies. You can buy thinner, cheaper watch caps, but they simply do not do the job. Best of all, the beanies come in 17 colors; well-organized folks can color-code their gear by using one color for TCs, a different one for camera bodies, etc., etc., etc.

When rain threatens, I make sure to have an extra cap in my fanny pack. If it starts to drizzle or rain, I simply place the beanie over my camera body. They are thick and in addition, they repel the raindrops. I have never had a problem with a lens in the rain. Camera bodies, you ask? Well yes. But never when protected by a Carhartt beanie 🙂

What to do?

The first step is to start with a great bag. I own and use both the ThinkTank Airport Security TM V2.0 and the slightly smaller Airport International TM V2.0 rolling bag. Both are fabulous roll-aboard carry-ons: they are roomy and sturdy and will protect your gear if you are forced to check your camera gear on small aircraft. You can learn more here by following the links.

The next step is to pack your gear properly. At present I use a combination of my wool watch caps and a sewed up hockey sock or two that will protect your gear far better than the LensCoat stuff. Check out the wool hat solution here.

You land at a major airport only to learn that to get to Podunk your next leg will be on a puddle jumper. The first thing that I do is to ask, How full is this flight? If there are more than a few empty seats, your chances of getting your gear on board are increased. If, at any time the gate agent states that you need to put a plane side or gate check tag on your rolling bag, accept it graciously and affix it to your bag. The last thing that you want to do is alienate someone who might be in a position to help.

Most times there will be baggage ground crew folks to grab your tagged bag. The airlines plan is that they grab your bag, stow it in the luggage hold, and when the plane lands, you reclaim your rolling bag. That is usually exactly what happens when you gate check your bag. But when flying puddle jumpers in Alaska, such as when going to Kodiak for a Bear Boat IPT, beware of ERA; they will consistently tell you that you can grab your gate-checked item plane-side when you land but the fact is that they throw the gate-checked bags onto a cart with all the checked bags and deliver them on the conveyor. Obviously this is not the best thing that could happen. BTW, if you put several of those bright red FRAGILE stickers on your roll-aboard that seems to ensure that the bag will be thrown higher and farther than it usually would be….

When the bag man says, “I’ll take that,” your reply is, “Thanks. I spoke to the gate agent (I usually do that) and she said that it would be OK (they usually but not always say “OK”) to try and get it on the plane either under an empty seat or in the crew locker.

I have never had a problem getting past the bag man.

The next step is crucial. When the flight attendant greets you as you get on board, you say, with your biggest smile, “Good morning. I need your help. I am traveling with (fill in the correct amount) thousands of dollars of fragile camera gear. May I try to get it under the seat in front of me or, better yet, under the seat in front of an empty row?” (The latter of course if the flight is not full.) If that does not pan out, you can ask, “Is there any chance of stowing my bag in the crew locker?”

Most of what happens next has 100% to do with the flight attendant. Guys tend to have better luck with female flight attendants, women with male flight attendants. Either way I believe that it there some sort of macho thing going on….

Here are the two extremes. I once had a female flight attendant take her bag from the crew locker and gate check it so that I could get my bag in the storage closet. How nice is that I got her e-mail address and sent her a print.

On another puddle jumper flight, to somewhere in Ohio, I think, the flight attendant was a male and the flight was empty; there were about a dozen empty seats on a 29-seater. At first he was amenable to my suggestions. I was thrilled that there were two empty seats on the left side of the plane all the way in the back. It took some maneuvering to get my bag under the seats in front of that row, and I turned it sideways. I walked forward and took my assigned seat thinking that all was well.

Two minutes later, the guy approached me and said, “Come with me.” We walked to the back of the row and he pointed at my bag and said, “Your bag is obstructing the aisle. You need to gate-check it.” I said, “It’s sticking out perhaps 1/2 inch from under the seat and this is not an emergency row aisle. Nobody will be walking back here. He said, “Your bag is obstructing the aisle. You need to gate-check it.”

This time I replied. “Thanks a lot. It is obvious that you are a bitter unhappy person wearing a uniform. I’ll be glad to gate-check my bag. I did, secure in the knowledge that Karma was on my side and that all of the gear would be OK when I picked it up plane-side at the destination airport. And that is exactly what happened.

Sometimes you just gotta love it.

When it becomes obvious that you are not gonna get your gear bag on the small plane, some folks use a different strategy. They remove their big lens, grab a camera body or two, stuff a sweatshirt into the bag for extra padding, gate check the rolling bag or back pack, simply carry the gear on board. Wearing a great vest like my custom-made X-trahand Vest, makes things a lot easier in these situations. And a great vest can help similarly overseas where you are often busted for the weight of your carry-on rather than the size. Strangely enough they never mind that you are hand carrying six additional items on board as long as the weigh of the bag does not exceed their maximum….

Yesterday morning en route to Albuquerque on a small United Express puddle jumper I had the good fortune to run into a very nice flight attendant named Janel. On the line to board the plane I met and old birding/photography friend from Pennsylvania, a Brit by the name of Adrian Binns. He had a smaller rolling bag and he too was anxious to avoid the dreaded gate check and get it on the plane. The flight was nearly full. The flight attendant kindly allowed Adrian to put his bag under the seat in front of him. I waited and was happy to see the next-to-last two seats on the left side of the plane unoccupied. Perfecto. It was a hassle getting it under the seats but it worked, and there was lots of room for my feet.

Then, just a moment before the door shut, a couple got on. They were sitting together in guess what row… I wrestled my bag out and walked forward unsure of what to do besides gate-check it. Then I noticed that the seat next to Adrian was empty. He kindly took my bag and since it was impossible to get it under the seat without extensive maneuvering simply stood it up in front of the seat next to him. I was a bit concerned that the flight attendant would hassle us and justifiably so. But she walked up and down for her pre-flight checks and did not utter a sound.

I got her e-mail address and will be sending her a print of my windblown Monet/Dahlia blur. Sometimes you just gotta love it.

Bosque IPTs/Late Registration Discounts Increased

It’s Getting Late!

Register now; apply a $1000 discount to the 7-DAY IPT!

For information on both the 7-Day and the recently announced short version of the 2013 Bosque IPTs please scroll down here. If you would like to join us for the first 3 or 4 days of this IPT please shoot me an e-mail. Please call Jim at 863-692-0906 or e-mail for late registration discount info.

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.

This image of a hunting Cheetah was created with a Wimberley V-2 head atop a Todd-Pod-mounted Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 3200. Evaluative metering +1 stop: 1/640 sec. at f/8 in Manual mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: Dennis Behn

…..

This is a second frame from the cheetah hunt series; it was created 7 seconds before the image above. Gear and exposure were all the same. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: Dennis Behn

Denny Behn

Denny Behn and his lovely wife Connie joined Todd and me for last summer’s Tanzania photo-safari-both sweet as sugar. Connie made some point and shoot images, shot some video, and otherwise simply enjoyed Africa. And Denny was eager to learn to make better images; I have never seen anyone improve so much in the space of two weeks. Denny showed what’s possible if you stay close, ask a ton of questions, and take advantage of the informal computer sessions that are offered every day. Thanks a stack to Denny for sharing his safari story with us in today’s blog post.

This image of a Leopard with its Thomson’s Gazelle prey was created with the Wimberley V-2 head atop a Todd-Pod-mounted Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 3200. Evaluative metering +1 1/3 stops: 1/320 sec. at f/5.6 in Manual mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: Dennis Behn This image should look familiar to regular readers. When we find something great on safari we strive to get all of our vehicles in position to make great images. That’s just what we did here. Then Denny did his job by applying what he had learned in only a few days. And he created a superb image.

My Safari Experience, by Denny Behn

Our trip to Tanzania this year with Artie and Todd Gustafson was amazing to say the least! Organization of the trip was perfect; hotels, travel, everything went off without a hitch. And our safari vehicles were the best setup I have ever seen for photography. This trip was first class in every way. And as for game sightings we could not have asked for more. I had hoped above all hope to see a cheetah or a lion hunt, and we saw both. And perhaps we might see a wildebeest crossing, and we saw many, or a leopard in a tree with a kill, saw that… it was unbelievable!

This tight image of Wildebeests crossing the Mara River was created with the Wimberley V-2 head atop a Todd-Pod-mounted Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 3200. Evaluative metering -1/3 stop: 1/1600 sec. at f/5.6 in Manual mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: Dennis Behn

You go on a trip like this to get photos you cannot get in any other way. But for me, the constant instruction was invaluable. There was no question asked that did not get thorough attention until one worked it out. Instruction was hands on, but even more than that there was much to be learned by simply watching two pros at work. It doesn’t get any better than that.

Here, Denny got a great image of a lioness chasing a large snack. With flamingos in the background. This image was created with the Wimberley V-2 head atop a Todd-Pod-mounted Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 800. Evaluative metering at zero: 1/5000 sec. at f/7.1 in Manual mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: Dennis Behn

I learned a lot about light and composition, and how to look for a photo and actually get the shot. Artie and Todd usually had several good photos taken before I could get around to it. I teased Todd that he was the only photographer I know of with a “zoom” 600mm f4, as he was able to change teleconverters faster than anything I have ever seen! I also learned to look for a photograph and not just shoot pictures.

These Spotted Hyenas with the head of a lion-killed Wildebeest were photographed with a Wimberley V-2 head atop a Todd-Pod-mounted Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 1.4x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 800. Evaluative metering =2/3 stop: 1/4000 sec. at f/5.6 in Av Manual mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: Dennis Behn

In the evenings, Artie sat by his computer and showed many of his shots from the day, what he planned to keep and what he would throw away, and why. He also showed us how to optimize a photo of our own and that was an incredible learning experience as well. Artie is a Photoshop wizard and after seeing his own personal optimized shots it was easy to see why he is the best at what he does.! I am forever grateful for the trip of a lifetime.

This Common Shrike image was created with a Wimberley V-2 head atop a Todd-Pod-mounted Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 2x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 1600. Evaluative metering -1/3 stop: 1/400 sec. at f/8 in Manual mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: Dennis Behn

Denny and the Shrikes

On the first few days of the safari, Denny was obsessed with the shrikes. If he saw a shrike anywhere, he would shout “Stop” to the driver guide. We patiently explained to him that by stopping for distant birds sitting on ugly perches that he was likely missing out on excellent opportunities. I worked with him every day at the computer (while many others grabbed much needed rest). I showed him what a pleasing perch looks like. I explained the benefits of using the 2X III TC with his 600 II when photographing relatively small birds. The image above, a lovely bird, sharp, on a beautiful perch, with a distant sweet background, is the culmination of the time we spent together at my laptop.

Big Cat Chase Photographer

Consider the following: after 8 safaris, I have created exactly zero big cat chase images. Did Denny have good safari luck? Absolutely. But more importantly, he used his newly learned skills to create several great images that leave me a bit envious. But very proud.

2014 Tanzania Summer Safari

This morning I learned of our first sign-up, multiple IPT veteran and all around good guy Jean-Luc Vailant who wrote: Count me in. I’ll mail the check this week. Jluc That is great news. Since we were prepared to go with only a single registrant I can purchase my flights this week! (Note: you can see some of Jean-Luc’s very fine images from the 2013 Galapagos Photo-Cruise in An Eye for Design here.)

If you are interested in joining us in Tanzania next summer please shoot me an e-mail and I will be glad to forward you the PDF with dates, itinerary, and price.

Bosque IPTs/Late Registration Discounts Increased

It’s Getting Late!

Register now; apply a $1000 discount to the 7-DAY IPT!

For information on both the 7-Day and the recently announced short version of the 2013 Bosque IPTs please scroll down here. If you would like to join us for the first 3 or 4 days of this IPT please shoot me an e-mail. Please call Jim at 863-692-0906 or e-mail for late registration discount info.

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.

BAA Bulletin #451

BAA Bulletin #451 is online and can be accessed by clicking here.

• Chilean Patagonia Trip Report
• 300 II or 200-400 with Internal Extender?
• Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens
• BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition
• BAA Site Guide Kudos
• 2014 Tanzania Summer Safari
• Flight Plan
• Alan Murphy Guides
• Affiliate Links
• IPT INFO

Relevant to today’s blog post that begins immediately below is item 2 above (in red) “300 II or 200-400 with Internal Extender?” Best advice: give it a read after perusing today’s post.

Canon/Nikon Rejoinder

Before the Nikon folks go off on a big rant I need them to understand that both systems are superb, that good photographers make good images with whatever gear they have in their hands, that great photographers make great images with whatever gear they have in their hands, and that two of my best friends and two of the most talented photographers that I know use Nikon gear. Below I attempt to be as honest and as objective as possible. I am fine if you wish to disagree with me by leaving a civil comment. 🙂

This image shows my gear in the back of my Toyota Sequoia in 2008. When I am photographing from the car it looks much the same today but for a different set of lenses and bodies. Do understand that making good photographs has much more to do with what is in your head, your heart, your soul, and your gut–can you say “determination”? than it has to do with what’s in your gear bag….

Big Lens Choices for Canon and Nikon–As I See Them….

The 600 & 800mm Lenses

If you love to do birds, especially small wild birds, and especially birds that are ridiculously tame, and you are capable of carrying a heavy lens and are willing to work on a sturdy tripod nearly all of the time, your choices are fairly obvious. You will want either a 600mm f/4L IS or VR lens or the 800mm f/5.6L IS or VR lens.

Here are the basics for these great lenses:

Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens

Weight: 8.65 lbs Current B&H price: $12,799

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4G ED VR AF lens

Weight: 11.16 lbs Current B&H price: $9,799

Analysis: aside from price, the advantage goes to Canon. Most folks will overlook the following: many Canon users (including and especially me) successfully use the Canon 2x EF Extender III (teleconverter) with their f/4 super-telephoto lenses. Very few Nikon folks have had success using the Nikon TC-20E III 2x Teleconverter for AF-S & AF-I lenses with their big lenses. Nearly all report sharpness issues. Most but not all Nikon folks who use the Nikon TC-17E II 1.7x Teleconverter for AF-S & AF-I lenses have no trouble creating sharp images with the 1.7 TCE. For folks with excellent sharpness techniques the huge advantage here goes to Canon as 1,200mm is a far cry from either 840mm or 1020mm….

Canon EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM Autofocus ens

Weight: 9.86 lbs Current B&H price: $13,249

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR lens

Weight: 10.12 lbs Current B&H price: $17,896.95

Analysis: I loved my Canon 800 for its incredible sharpness, fast focusing, and the great 4-stop IS system. I have never seen a Nikon 800mm or spoken to anyone who owns a copy; though the prices seems prohibitive I am sure that it is a killer lens. I eventually sold my 800 as the 600 II used with either TC gave me much more versatility. For more on the topic of 600 vs. 800 click here or here.

The 500mm f/4 Lenses

Those who want a long super-telephoto lens, would like to hand hold all or some of the time, and know that a 600mm is not right for them, need to consider one of the great 500mm f/4 lenses.

Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM lens

Weight: 7.04 lbs Current B&H price: $10,399

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4G ED VR II AF lens (Black)

Weight: 8.54 lbs Current B&H price: $8,399

Analysis: again the price advantage goes to Nikon but it is all downhill from there. With Canon’s 1 1/2 pound weight advantage comes easier hand hold-ability. And again the Canon’s 2X TC sharpness superiority comes into play. Remember that the size of the subject in the frame is a function of the square of the focal length….
The 500mm f/4 super-telephotos have long been extremely popular choices.

The 400mm f/2.8 Lenses

Though the current Canon and Nikon versions are super sharp I have long dismissed the 400 f/2.8 lenses as being a great choice as a prime lens for bird photography. They are great lenses for folks who do large mammals (think out west or Africa for starters) or for folks who do lots of close range work at bird feeders but for most bird photographers choosing a 400 f/2.8 as their workhorse super-telephoto lens simply does not make sense to me.

Just for the record books:

Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens

Weight: 8.49 lbs Current B&H price: $10,999

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8G ED VR AF lens (Black)

Weight: 10.16 lbs Current B&H price: $8,999

Analysis: again the price advantage goes to Nikon but again it is all downhill from there. With Canon’s more than 1 1/2 pound weight advantage comes easier hand hold-ability. And again the Canon’s 2X TC sharpness superiority comes into play.

The 200-400 f/4 and the 300mm f/2.8 Lenses

If you like to do birds and if you like to hand hold and/or if you travel to places with lots of tame birds and large and small wildlife, then one of the two lenses in this group might be perfect for you. Let’s take a look.

Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Lens with Internal 1.4x Extender

Weight: 7.98 lbs Current B&H price: $11,799

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II Lens

Weight: 7.4 lbs Current B&H price: $6,749

Analysis: In spite of the small weight advantage and huge price advantage for Nikon, I still have to give the nod to the Canon 200-400 solely because of the revolutionary (at least for a dSLR lens) Built-in 1.4X Extender technology. From my Canon Digital Learning Center Focus On feature here:

There are many advantages to the internal TC. At about one second, set up is nearly instantaneous. For really skilled folks who store their TCs in a pocket without the front and rear caps, adding or removing an external TC might take as little as 10 seconds. Otherwise, 30 to 60 seconds or more would be the norm for most. You can add another 10 seconds or so for those who, as they should, turn the camera off and on to prevent dust from entering the system. With the internal TC, dust is of no concern at all. After working with the lens for an hour or two, sliding the lever down to engage the internal TC became second nature; the lever mechanism is smooth and painless. There is also a locking mechanism that some might find useful. I never use it and when I hit it accidentally and do not realize it, I find myself wishing that it was not there. Additionally, there is no need to rebalance the lens in the clamp as you should do when adding or removing an external TC; that saves another 10-15 seconds.

In the wildlife photography sense of time, even fractions of a second can be of huge importance. When a safari vehicle comes to a quick stop, you need to be ready to shoot now. Anticipating the framing is done as you are approaching the animal; the time saved by being able to simply flick the lever, as compared to adding or removing an external TC, is often the difference between making a great image and walking away empty handed. Being able to go wide in an instant allows you to create small in the frame/environmental type images without having to bother to change lenses.

In short, the EF 200-400mm f/4 L IS USM Extender 1.4x’s internal TC is a huge advantage.

Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens

Weight: 5.19 lbs Current B&H price: $6,799

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens

Weight: 6.39 lbs Current B&H price: $5,799

Analysis: With the two Canon lenses here the 200-400 had the edge over the 300 in terms of versatility and maximum reach (784mm with both the internal and an external 1.4X TC > 600mm) but the 300 has a substantial weight advantage and is much more easily hand held than the 2-4. That said, despite the fact that the 200-400 weighs nearly a pound more than the 500 II and only 2/3 of a pound less than the 600 II, I find that the 2-4 is much easier to hand hold than the 500 II because of its smaller overall size and its more compact design. But the lighter weight and ease of hand holding may be the deciding factor for those who for a variety of reasons choose not to go the 500/600 f/4 route. Do understand that as much as I love the 200-400 that I do not bring it with me on all trips. On most trips where I need the reach of the 600II/2X III TC the 2-4 stays in the air conditioned garage….

With Nikon the analysis is similar and the lack of an internal TC does not make much of a difference for folks who are committed to the black side. The 1.2 pound weight advantage for the 300 makes it the clear choice for those who do lots of hand held flight photography. The Nikon 200-400 is a great lens for Africa whether or not you travel with a super-telephoto lens. And, just as the Canon 200-400, it would serve folks well on Galapagos or Southern Oceans trips.

Questions?

As always, folks with specific gear questions are invited to shoot me an e-mail.

Canon/Nikon Rejoinder II

As above, before the Nikon folks go off on a big rant I need them to understand that both systems are superb, that good photographers make good images with whatever gear they have in their hands, that great photographers make great images with whatever gear they have in their hands, and that two of my best friends and two of the most talented photographers that I know use Nikon gear. Below I attempt to be as honest and as objective as possible. I am fine if you wish to disagree with me by leaving a civil comment. 🙂

Canon Lens Specifications

Canon folks are invited to click here for a chart that contains most of the relevant specifications for big lenses including all of the original (i.e., older) super-telephotos.

Bosque IPTs/Late Registration Discounts Increased

It’s Getting Late!

For information on both the 7-Day and the recently announced short version of the 2013 Bosque IPTs please scroll down here. If you would like to join us for the first 3 or 4 days of this IPT please shoot me an e-mail. Please call Jim at 863-692-0906 or e-mail for late registration discount info.

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

2014 Tanzania Summer Safari

If you are interested in joining us in Tanzania next summer please shoot me an e-mail and I will be glad to forward you the PDF with dates, itinerary, and price.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.

The original for this optimized Yellow-billed Pintail image was created with the Gitzo 3532 LS carbon fiber tripod, the Mongoose M3.6 head, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens, the Canon 2x EF Extender III (Teleconverter), and the Canon EOS-1D X. ISO 400. Evaluative metering +1/3 stop: 1/640 sec. at f/11 in Manual mode. Central sensor (by necessity) Expand/AI Servo Rear Focus AF on the upper breast just above the waterline active at the moment of exposure. Click here to see the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Click on the image to see a larger version.

“Editing Practice/Yellow-billed Pintail: Keep One or Both?” Update and Reasoning

In the November 9, 2013 blog post (Editing Practice/Yellow-billed Pintail) here, folks were asked, “keep One or both?”

At first glance I was sure that the answer was Image B for the reasons given by multiple IPT veteran Alan Lillich (along with lovely wife Pat) who wrote in part, I would keep the second one. The bird’s pose and sharpness is the same in both. The second has a little more room above the head to the dark line of water. It also has more room to the first dark dot in front of the bird, more comfortable cloning space for me. I would crop it into a pano. Cut off the left just in front of the leftmost dark dot that the tail points to. Cut off the bottom just above the higher bit of reflection showing some yellow. Cut off the top just below the upper dark water, keeping the lowest semi-dark line and some lighter above it. Take nothing off the right, I like the circular waves.

But, however, a funny thing happened on the way to the Phorum. (Note: Phorum is not a typo :)).

After taking a close look at the two images, I realized that I liked the taller head and the elongated neck better in Image A as suggested by Ken Kovak who swam against the tide when he wrote (again in part), I am going to go against the trend of what is posted so far and select the first image. What decided for me is in the first(number 2894)image the duck’s neck is slightly more elongated and pleasing to me.

The Image Optimization

To create the optimized image that opens this blog post I went with image A and used the Patch Tool and the Clone Stamp Tool at 40% hardness to eliminate all the cruddy brown spots. You can check out the clean-up work and the crop in the animated GIF above. Be sure to give it a few moments to play.

Though Alan Lillich’s suggested crop would have worked well, I decided to place the bird near the upper left third because I really liked the white swirlies along the lower frame edge. The crop therefore, was from the left and the top.

All of my clean-up tools and techniques are described in detail in our in Digital Basics File, an instructional PDF that is sent via e-mail. It includes my complete digital workflow, dozens of great Photoshop tips, several different ways to expand canvas, all of my time-saving Keyboard Shortcuts, Quick Masking, Layer Masking, and NIK Color Efex Pro basics, and tons more.

Insane Deal on One of My Very Favorite Lenses

This amazing offers expires soon!

Right now B&H is offering one of my very favorite lenses, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens, at the ridiculously low price of only $1899.00 The regular price is $2499.00. They are offering a limited quantity as follows: after clicking on one of the BAA affiliate links here proceed to checkout to receive the $2199.00 price. Follow that up with the mail-in-rebate $300.00. When the smoke clears you will own this great lens for only $1899. The rebate is good only for US purchasers. The $1899 is the lowest ever price anywhere. Get one today and earn a free contest entry.

Note: the rebate is good only for US purchasers. If you missed this blog post, ” Scenic, Wildlife, & B-roll Versatility,” click here. It featured a variety of images created at Torres del Paine with my 70-200 II,

I have this lens with me on every trip. I use it as above for scenics and habitat images. I use it to create bird scapes and images of groups of birds, for flight images of single birds with either TC and often with the 1.4X III TC for flocks in flight and for blast off blurs. It is a great travel and all purpose nature and wildlife lens. It is rare that I am in the field without having the 70-200 II on my shoulder via the Black Rapid S-7 strap.

…..

Bosque IPTs/Late Registration Discounts Increased!

For information on both the 7-Day and the recently announced short version of the 2013 Bosque IPTs please scroll down here. If you would like to join us for the first 3 or 4 days of this IPT please shoot me an e-mail. Please call Jim at 863-692-0906 or e-mail for late registration discount info.

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

2014 Tanzania Summer Safari

If you are interested in joining us in Tanzania next summer please shoot me an e-mail and I will be glad to forward you the PDF with dates, itinerary, and price.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.

This image was created at Torres del Paine National Park, Chile with the hand held Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens, the Canon 1.4x EF Extender III (Teleconverter) (at 155mm), and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital camera body ISO 400. Evaluative metering at zero: 1/640 sec. at f/8 in Manual mode. Two sensors below the central sensor/AI Servo Rear Focus/Suround AF as framed active at the moment of exposure. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a larger version.

Scenic Image Versatility

Wherever on the planet I am photographing I find the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens to be a perfect adjunct to whatever big lens I am using. It fits perfectly with the 500mm II/a>, the 600II, and with the 200-400 with Internal 1.4X TC.

The image above shows the three Paine Towers with Condor Nest on our right. The towers are one of the park’s two iconic formations. We stopped when we noticed a bit of golden light on the two left-hand towers. While wide angle lenses often work well for landscape photography (see here) I often go to an intermediate telephoto lens to achieve much tighter and often more dramatic and detail revealing framing. That the 70-200 is capable of creating professionally sharp images with either the 1.4X III or the 2X III TC makes this fast lens even more versatile.

The image above was created from one of the RAW files that went into creating an in-camera HDR Art Vivid JPEG; I went with the RAW for two reasons: the color in the Art Vivid JPEG was a bit over the top and hand holding in the high winds resulted in a fine black outlining of the peaks. I used both Color Efex Pro and Viveza to punch up the image while trying to avoid over-doing things. I am happy with the result.

You can learn everything that you need to know about creating in-camera HDRs and Multiple Exposures with your 5D III in our 5D Mark III User’s Guide. This great e-Guide also covers all menu items and Custom Function settings, details the great AF system, and includes my custom Case setting for photographing birds in flight and in action.

This 3-frame in-camera Natural HDR image was also created at Torres del Paine National Park, Chile with the Gitzo 3532 LS carbon fiber tripod, the Mongoose M3.6 head, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens, the Canon 1.4x EF Extender III (Teleconverter) (at 205mm), and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital camera body ISO 1600. Evaluative metering +1 1/3 stops yielded a base exposure of 1/125 sec. at f/5.6 (+/- 2 stops) in Av mode. Two sensors to the right of the central sensor/AI Servo Rear Focus/Surround AF as framed active at the moment of exposure. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a larger version.

HDR and 10,000 K for Black and White

On a seemingly boring white sky morning I went in tight with the 70-200/1.4X TC combo to dramatize the shapes and textures of the rocks. To get as close as possible to a B&W and to eliminate the huge blue cast of the heavily overcast morning I set the color temperature to K 10,000. I use the Q button to the right of the rear LCD screen to make color temperature and many other changes quickly and easily. Again, as described in detail in our 5D Mark III User’s Guide. And again, I used both Color Efex Pro and Viveza to enhance the tones and textures of the rocks.

Here we have a good view of Los Cuernos, “The Horns,” the park’s other iconic rock formation. One of our two guides, Cristina Trugeda, let us know that the dark rock is sedimentary rock and that the lighter rock is granite. As the shutter speed for the lightest image here was 1/30 sec. being on a tripod was mandatory to prevent any outlining problems caused by misalignment. Note the fine high ISO performance of the 5D Mark III.

This Guanaco image was created from an opened jeep window with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens, the Canon 1.4x EF Extender III (Teleconverter) (at 280mm), and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital camera body ISO 800. Evaluative metering +2/3 stop: 1/320 sec. at f/4 in Av mode. Three sensors up from the central sensor/AI Servo Rear Focus/Surround AF on the upper section of the animal’s neck active at the moment of exposure. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a larger version.

Wildlife Versatility

My standard practice is to try to have the 70-200/1.4X TC combo available whenever I am afield. While searching for subjects by vehicle in Chile this rig rested on the floor. While tooling around in my own vehicle it sits on the passenger seat. And when I am walking down a beach it hangs most times over my right shoulder via a Black Rapid S-7 strap.

Note here that by working wide open at f/4 with ISO 800 that I had enough shutter speed (1/320 sec.) so that it was not necessary to go to ISO 1600. Both Denise and I wished that we had spent more time photographing the Guanacos that are actually a type of camel. Again Cristina educated us: the Guanacos are free and wild animals from which the domesticated Llama arose. In northern Chile the free and wild Vicuna gave rise to the domesticated Alpaca.

This image of Denise Ippolito at work with her 600 II was created with the hand held Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens (at 135mm) and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital camera body ISO 400. Evaluative metering +1 stop: 1/320 sec. at f/9 in Av Mode. Image courtesy of and copyright 2013: Rodrigo Moraga. Central sensor/AI Servo Rear Focus/Surround AF on Denise’s upper back and re-compose. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a larger version.

“B-roll Versatility”

At Torres del Paine our main focus was on birds, wildlife, and landscape photography. In the trade vernacular, anything else is B-roll stuff, images of non-target subjects that help to tell the story: people, buildings including lodges and hotels, food, vehicles, and just about anything that will help fill in the blanks. If you missed the Torrential Miracle blog post that detailed our heart-stopping experience with a beautiful family of Torrent Ducks, you can see it here. You can see Denise’s images from that memorable morning here along with a few others.

Insane Deal on One of My Very Favorite Lenses

Right now B&H is offering one of my very favorite lenses, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens, at the ridiculously low price of only $1899.00 The regular price is $2499.00. They are offering a limited quantity as follows: after clicking on one of the BAA affiliate links here proceed to checkout to receive the $2199.00 price. Follow that up with the mail-in-rebate $300.00. When the smoke clears you will own this great lens for only $1899. The rebate is good only for US purchasers. The $1899 is the lowest ever price anywhere. Get one today and earn a free contest entry.

Note: the rebate is good only for US purchasers.

I have this lens with me on every trip. I use it as above for scenics and habitat images. I use it to create bird scapes and images of groups of birds, for flight images of single birds with either TC and often with the 1.4X III TC for flocks in flight and for blast off blurs. It is a great travel and all purpose nature and wildlife lens. It is rare that I am in the field without having the 70-200 II on my shoulder via the Black Rapid S-7 strap.

Image Questions

Which of the four images above is your favorite? Please let us know why you made your choice.

Bosque IPTs/Late Registration Discounts Increased!

For information on both the 7-Day and the recently announced short version of the 2013 Bosque IPTs please scroll down here. If you would like to join us for the first 3 or 4 days of this IPT please shoot me an e-mail. Please call Jim at 863-692-0906 or e-mail for late registration discount info.

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

2014 Tanzania Summer Safari

If you are interested in joining us in Tanzania next summer please shoot me an e-mail and I will be glad to forward you the PDF with dates, itinerary, and price.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.

This 3-frame in-camera Art Vivid HDR image was created at Torres del Paine National Park, Chile with the tripod-mounted Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM Autofocus lens (at 16mm) and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital camera body ISO 400. Evaluative metering +1/3 stop yielded a base exposure of: 1/200 sec. at f/16 in Av mode (+/- 2 stops). Central sensor/AI Servo Rear Focus AF on the far end of the pond and recompose. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a larger version. When even the remotest possibility of doing some serious land-scape or bird-scape work with a short lens exists, I make sure to have a Wimberley P-5 plate and my Giottos MH 1302-655 Ballhead in my vest. It takes less than two minutes to mount the plate on the camera body, spin off the Mongoose M3.6, and replace it with the tiny ballhead.

Go Ultra-wide With Dramatic Skies

With dramatic skies, pointing the lens up to make the clouds the most prominent feature in the image is often the best way to go. When doing so, the clouds seem to radiate from the vanishing point thus adding to the drama. Be sure to use either a double-bubble level in your camera’s hot shoe or the electronic level if your camera has one to ensure an image that is square to the world with a level horizon.

This 3-frame in-camera Art Vivid HDR image was created at Puerto Natales, Chile with the hand held Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM Autofocus lens (at 19mm) and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital camera body ISO 400. Evaluative metering +1/3 stop yielded a base exposure of: 1/200 sec. at f/8 in Av mode (+/- 2 stops). Central sensor/AI Servo Rear Focus AF on the far edge of the large yellow rock and recompose. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a larger version.

Point the Camera Down With Relatively Boring Skies

With plain skies and an interesting subject (in this case the old fishing boat), look for something interesting in the foreground (in this case the large boulder lower left) and point your camera down. Get close to the foreground object and move left or right to balance the composition. I recently began setting the 4X6 viewfinder grid on both my 5D III and my 1D X bodies. When hand holding this makes it easier to ensure a level horizon and it can do the same thing when you are photographing birds or animals.

This 3-frame in-camera Art Vivid HDR image was created at Torres del Paine National Park, Chile with the tripod-mounted Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM Autofocus lens (at 16mm) and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital camera body ISO 400. Evaluative metering +1 2/3 stops yielded a base exposure of: 1/80 sec. at f/16 in Av mode (+/- 2 stops). Central sensor/AI Servo Rear Focus AF on the far shoreline of the pond and recompose. Click here if you missed the latest version of the Rear Focus Tutorial. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a larger version. When even the remotest possibility of doing some serious land-scape or bird-scape work with a short lens exists, I make sure to have a Wimberley P-5 plate and my Giottos MH 1302-655 Ballhead in my vest. It takes less than two minutes to mount the plate on the camera body, spin off the Mongoose M3.6, and replace it with the tiny ballhead.

Look for Ovals

With all scenic images placing a large oval shape in the foreground can help to create a powerful composition. A Frans Lanting Galapagos Tortoise image drove that point home when I first saw the photograph about 25 years ago. First I moved to my right so as to angle the pond in the frame and I got as close as possible to my oval shape while still fitting the whole pond in the frame. Finally I squared the image to the world using the electronic level in my 5D Mark III. (Note: as detailed in the 5D Mark III User’s Guide I set the Info button to exclusively activate the level so that I do not have to scroll through the other options each time.)

Other Wide Angle Lens Options

Whatever camera system you are using and whether you are using a full frame camera or a crop body you can find the best wide angle lens for you by clicking here and scrolling down. To check out wide angle lenses the are currently being offered with rebates, click here.

To search for a specific wide angle lens simply use the B&H link on the side bar of the blog or click here.

More on Using Wide Angle Lenses

Click on either of the two links below to learn more about using wide angle and ultra wide angle lenses.

“10 Tips on Using a Wide Angle Lens” at Views Infinitum here.

“Using Wide Angle Lenses” at Cambridge in Colour here.

Image Questions

Which of the three images above is your favorite? Why? In the third image would you have moved to your left or to your right to explore the possibility of creating a stronger image? Why?

Bosque IPTs/Late Registration Discounts Increased!

For information on both the 7-Day and the recently announced short version of the 2013 Bosque IPTs please scroll down here. If you would like to join us for the first 3 or 4 days of this IPT please shoot me an e-mail. Please call Jim at 863-692-0906 or e-mail for late registration discount info.

BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition

Learn more and enter the BIRDS AS ART 2nd International Bird Photography Competition here. Twenty-five great prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize and intense competition. Bring your best.

2014 Tanzania Summer Safari

If you are interested in joining us in Tanzania next summer please shoot me an e-mail and I will be glad to forward you the PDF with dates, itinerary, and price.

Support the BAA Blog. Support the BAA Bulletins: Shop B&H here!

We want and need to keep providing you with the latest free information, photography and Photoshop lessons, and all manner of related information. Show your appreciation by making your purchases immediately after clicking on any of our B&H or Amazon Affiliate links in this blog post. Remember, B&H ain’t just photography!

Amazon

Everyone buys something from Amazon, be it a big lens or deodorant. Support the blog by starting your search by starting your search by clicking on the logo-link below. No purchase is too small to be appreciated; they all add up. Why make it a habit? Because I make it a habit of bringing you new images and information on an almost daily basis.

Typos

In all blog posts and Bulletins feel free to e-mail or leave a comment regarding any typos, wrong words, misspellings, omissions, or grammatical errors. Just be right. 🙂

IPT Info

Many of our great trips are filling up. You will learn more about how to make great images on a BAA IPT than anywhere else on the planet. Click here for the schedule and additional info.