Which two of today’s nine featured images are your favorites? Why do you like each one?<\/p>\n
Thanks to the many who commented at the last post. The majority picked the first images as best while admitted that they loved the second image, the goofy looking crane colt staring right at me. I will follow up Cliff Beittel’s excellent suggestion that I lighten the irises of the colt in the vertical. <\/p>\n
In the face of tariff concerns, there is lots online about possible huge price increases for photography equipment — cameras and lenses and more. There was one doomsday report on Facebook stating definitively that a $700 price increase on the Sony 400-800 lens is already in place. That is pure BS. When Dr. Cliff Oliver posted that he ordered one on Wednesday from Bedfords using the BIRDSASART discount code, received the lens on Friday for the current price — $2898.00, got his BAA discount and free second-day air Fed Ex shipping, his comment was of course deleted.<\/p>\n
I spoke to Steve Elkins last week and he stated that as long as Sony does not raise the prices on future delivered stock items that he will honor the currently posted prices. If Sony jacks up the current prices, buyers will be notified of the price increase and asked if they would like to go through with their purchase.<\/p>\n
B&H states clearly that if you place an order at a given price, they will honor that price when your item or items are delivered even if Sony raises the price. And the same, of course, goes with backordered stuff including and especially the Sony a-1 ii and the 400-800.<\/p>\n
So, if you are considering purchasing a Sony a-1 ii, a Sony 400-800, or any camera, lens, or accessory, my advice at this minute is to stop what you are doing and place your order right now (using one of my two affiliate links of course). Or risk paying appreciably more at some point. Please remember that you only live once.<\/p>\n
As noted the other day, the pipeline on the a-1 ii is beginning to open up and you can get a 400-800 soon with a bit of luck. <\/p>\n
Very recently Patrick Sparkman, Geri Georg, Charlie Curr, and Bryan Love received their a-1 ii bodies and Cliff Oliver and Ramona Boone got their 400-800s, all from Bedfords. Bedford’s wait lists are always shorter than the B&H lists. <\/p>\n
Friday morning on the Osprey boat was fabulous with a brisk east wind and some sweet light. Saturday morning began well but when the wind died, so did the action. Clemens Van der Werf joined Anita North and me both days. <\/p>\n
In the very early mornings when I am done trying to create a good pleasing blur or two, I go to either the 300mm f\/2.8 GM or the 400mm f\/2.8 GM when I start trying to create sharp images. Those often with the 1.4X TC in place. But as soon as it is bright enough to work with my favorite new lens, I grab the 400-800 and get to work. Be sure to check out the amazing variety of images that can be made with Sony’s fabulous new monster zoom. <\/p>\n
On Sunday morning Anita and I headed down to Lake Walk-in-Water to check on the baby cranes and lots more. A flock of about 80 Black-bellied Whistling Ducks flew in left of the pier very early; we got some nice stuff on them in the low light before they flew off. Last year this species provided a ton of action in May and early June and things are looking very positive for a 2025 repeat. Neighbor Ron told us weeks ago that the had seen eleven young cranes this year. I did not believe him until this morning when I saw all eleven! We photographed several pairs of chicks and small colts. <\/p>\n
Today in Monday 28 April 2028. We will, of course, be heading down to the lake in the dark to see what’s around. Whatever you opt to do, I hope that you too choose to have a wonderful and productive day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com<\/a>. <\/p>\n If an item \u2014 a Delkin flash card or a Levered-clamp FlexShooter Pro — 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 any price. Please remember also to use my B&H affiliate links or to earn 3% cash back at Bedfords 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.<\/p>\n If you are interested in changing your life and becoming a better photographer by joining me on an Extended IPT at Sebastian Inlet for Ospreys and more (SEPT 25 to NOV 24, 2025) or in San Diego for Pacific-race Brown Pelicans and more (JAN 6 to FEB 2, 2026), please e-mail<\/a> for dates, rates, terms, and additional information. Or shoot me a text to 863-221-2372. Both offerings include options for shared AirBnB lodging and ground transportation during your stay.<\/p>\n I am currently available for morning BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field sessions on the following dates: April 29-30 and at least the first half of May. Please e-mail<\/a> for costs and additional information. Or, shoot me a text to 863-221-2372. <\/p>\nngg_shortcode_0_placeholder\n Bild Expo is back! Join us at The Javits Center in New York City for an unforgettable event featuring 100+ expert speakers, 250+ exhibitors, hands-on experiences, and the world\u2019s greatest creative community. B&H\u2019s incredible show specials will be the icing on the cake! Whether you\u2019re a seasoned pro, an enthusiast, or a beginner, at Bild you will get inspired, learn, meet like-minded people, and celebrate being part of this amazing world of creativity.<\/p>\n Click here<\/a> or on the logo link above for more information.<\/p>\nDon’t Just Shoot: Learn<\/h3>\n
Indian Lake Estates BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field Sessions<\/h3>\n
BILD EXPO Presented by B&H<\/h3>\n
Why Attend? Speakers, Gear, Deals, and More!<\/strong><\/h2>\n