Which of today’s two featured crane colt images is the strongest? Why did you make your choice?
What’s Up?
On Wednesday morning there were several vultures chowing down on the skinless carcass of a very large, very dead eel. They were soon joined by a young Crested Caracara. I created more than 5500 images; Anita made about twice that many. Our favorites were of the occasional squabbles between the Turkey Vultures and the caracara. Occasionally, the small pier family colts wandered by to have their photos taken.
On Thursday morning I put out a Mottled Duck carcass that I found last week on the pier after it had been beheaded by one of the local Bald Eagles. I defrosted it on Wednesday afternoon. While waiting for the action to develop, we photographed two families of baby cranes by the South Canal. Later on, one of the families made its way to the pier and obliged us by feeding in the shallows along the edge of the lake. Then the vultures came to feast; the caracara never showed its face. Vulture pix here soon.
Both mornings were virtually without a breath of air.
Today is Friday 25 April 2025. Anita and I have scheduled four morning pontoon boat trips on Lake Blue Cypress beginning this morning so we will be up early. Another of my top former students, Clemens Van der Werf, will be joining us for at least the first morning. 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.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Don’t Just Shoot: Learn
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 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.
Indian Lake Estates BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field Sessions
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 for costs and additional information. Or, shoot me a text to 863-221-2372.
BILD EXPO Presented by B&H
Why Attend? Speakers, Gear, Deals, and More!
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’s greatest creative community. B&H’s incredible show specials will be the icing on the cake! Whether you’re 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.
Click here or on the logo link above for more information.
To ensure that I get credit for your B&H purchases, you can always click here. The tracking is invisible but greatly appreciated. And, you can use your PayBoo card. You must use the website to order. You cannot get your free guides if you make a phone order. Once you have an item in your cart, you must complete the order within two hours. Huge thanks!
Bedfords Simplified
Click here to start your search. Choose standard shipping, and when you get to the payment page, enter BIRDSASART in the discount code box and hit apply. You will be upgraded to free second day air Fed-Ex and receive 3% cash back on your credit card once your stuff ships. Either is greatly appreciated by yours truly.
B&H
Many folks have written recently stating that they purchased a Sony a1 from B&H and would like their free membership in the Sony 1 Info and Updates Group, a $150.00 value. But when I check my affiliate account, their orders have not been there. When I let them know that they get credit for B&H purchases only if they use one of the many B&H affiliate links on the blog or begin their searches with this link, they are always disappointed. If in doubt, please contact me via e-mail and request a BH link. I am always glad to help and to guide you to the right gear.
Bedfords Amazing BAA Discount Policy
Folks who have fallen in love with Bedfords can now use the BIRDSASART coupon code at checkout to enjoy a post-purchase, 3% off-statement credit (excluding taxes and shipping charges) on orders paid with a credit card. The 3% credit will be refunded to the card you used for your purchase. Be sure, also, to check the box for free shipping to enjoy free Second Day Air Fed-Ex. This offer does not apply to purchases of Classes, Gift Cards, prior purchases.
Visit the Bedfords website here, shoot Steve Elkins an e-mail, or text him on his cell phone at (479) 381-2592.
Gear Questions and Advice
Too many folks attending BAA IPTs and dozens of photographers whom I see in the field and on BPN, 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.
This image was created on 24 April 2025 right down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Seated on the sand beach left of the pier with my eye at the viewfinder, I used the hand held Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II Lens (at 152mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 500: 1/3200 second at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 7:38:58am on a still, sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #1: Sandhill Crane small colt high stepping
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Avoiding the Intersecting Horizon Line
Rather than work off the tilted rear screen with my reading glasses on, I opted to work with my eye to the viewfinder to avoid having some sort of horizon line cut through the bird and to eliminate the chance of having to deal with the pier in the background. As I was seated, the perspective was low enough for me. And I like the strip of green along the upper frame edge.
This image was created on 24 April 2025 right down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Seated on the sand beach left of the pier and working off titled vertical rear screen with the camera held just inches above the ground, she used the hand held Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II Lens (at 142mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 500: 1/3200 second at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 7:39:12am on a still, sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #2: Sandhill Crane small colt standing tall
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Does the Grass Behind the Colt’s Body Bother You?
Why or why not?
Super-Narrow Depth of Field
Note that with the colt’s left leg pulled back slightly the left leg is not covered by the f/2.8 depth of field. The young bird’s right leg (on our left) is in sharp focus.
Image #2A: IEDT Viewer Screen Capture showing AF point
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Trusting a-1 ii AF
When you are working off the tilted rear monitor, either horizontally or vertically, you must learn to trust the AF system unless you have superman vision. As my eyes are generally at least 14 inches from the monitor, I am unable to see the tiny green eye tracking AF box — even with my readers on. I must, therefore, trust the AF system. That is rather easy to do with the a-1 ii.
Note that I added a bit of canvas all around to create the optimized version.
As A7 INFO does not support the a-1 ii, I turned to Viewer in Sony’s Imaging Edge Desktop app. It is a real shame, heck, almost criminal, the Sony does not allow users to examine the raw file data and determine what AF method they were using for a given image. Both Canon and Nikon make it easy in their respective apps. When speaking with a Sony Pro Support rep last week, I could not stop laughing when he stated that the reason that users cannot learn the AF method after the fact was because Sony was protecting it Intellectual Property. Have you ever hear anything that ludicrous? I asked him how users were supposed to learn the intricacies of their camera’s AF systems without knowing the AF pattern they were using. He was stumped.
Please note that at times, the team as Sony Pro Support can be amazingly helpful.
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don’t deal in lies,
Or, being hated, don’t give way to hating,
And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise;
If you can dream—and not make dreams your master;
If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with triumph and disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to broken,
And stoop and build ’em up with wornout tools;
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: “Hold on”;
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings—nor lose the common touch;
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run—
Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,
And—which is more—you’ll be a Man, my son!
What can I say? Kipling had a way with words. By the way, his first name was Joseph. Rudyard was actually his middle name. Please note that the poem is in the public domain.
In the Last Blog Post
In the last blog post, Teacher & Student Burrowing Owl Successes at Cape Coral, here, thanks to the very few folks who left a comment. I loved #4, the alarmed baby owl for the posture and the wide-eyed look. #2, “The Lineup” was very special as well. As was Pat’s image. Perhaps my very favorite was #5, Burrowing Owl large chick stretching one wing; I love the wing stretch, the composition-balancing stalk in the upper right, and the overall softness of the image. Everyone I’ve shared the image had a very positive reaction to this photo. Thus, I was quite surprised that one commenter went out of her way to state this about Image #5: … doesn’t do a lot for me.
I guess that there is no accounting for taste.
What’s Up?
We had a fabulous Monday morning with Pat Fishburne at Cape Coral. I was headed home, exhausted, to ILE before 11:00am. Tuesday morning at ILE was quite excellent as well. We saw seven of the nine young cranes and photographed six of them. We also got to photograph two Cattle Egrets standing in the water along the shore of Lake Walk-in-Water (AKA Lake Weohyakapka) along with a very handsome juvenile Crested Caracara.
The a-1 ii pipeline is opening up a bit. I was glad to learn yesterday that Rupert (Charlie) Curry and Geri Georg got their a-1 ii bodies from Bedfords. The previous week Larry Master and Robin Roberts got theirs from B&H. I spent lots of time updating my a-1 ii bodies to Firmware 2.01 and my remaining a-1 body to Firmware 3.01. I also got a bit more work done on the BAA 400-800mm Lens Guide (free to all who use one of my two affiliate links to purchase their 4-8; otherwise, $101.43 via PayPal to e-mail.) Right now, it is very difficult to get your hands on either a 400-800 or an a-1 ii. Be sure to use one of my two affiliate links to earn your free lens or camera guide. The latter includes my settings in the form of a .DAT file, instructions on getting that onto your camera, a Button and Dials Guide, and a detailed INFO sheet.
This rather short blog post took more than two hours to create including the time spent on the image optimizations.
Today is Wednesday 23 April 2025. We will be headed down to the lake in the dark to practice shooting the baby cranes at ISO 25600. No kidding. Then, I will be working on the Buttons and Dials Guides and the INFO Sheets for both the a-1 and a-1 ii Firmware updates. 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.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Don’t Just Shoot: Learn
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 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.
Indian Lake Estates BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field Sessions
I am currently available for morning BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field sessions on the following dates: April 24, 29-30, and at least the first half of May. Please e-mail for costs and additional information. Or, shoot me a text to 863-221-2372.
These two image were created on 22 April down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Standing on the slope leading down to the South Canal, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 320. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/2500 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 8:11:22am on a variably sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #1: A Two-frame Composite
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Wide Autofocus Tip For All (especially Mirrorless) Systems
I am pretty sure that all high-end mirrorless and most of the more recent dSLR camera bodies offer some sort of broad or wide AF patterns that cover nearly all of the frame. In addition, most of the bodies mentioned previously have some smaller zone AF coverage choices. In the situation that I was faced with above — one bird on my right and two on my left, the trick to getting the camera to focus where you want it to is to place the desired subject or subjects in the center of the frame, acquire focus, and then recompose.
I was using Wide AF-C with Bird Face-Eye enabled. As the single bird on my right was slightly closer to me than the adult and the large chick on my left, I first centered the single large chick on my right in the center of the frame (and thus in the center of the AF coverage), half-pressed the shutter button to acquire focus, and then moved the lens to the left so as to include the other two birds in the frame. That of course is the image on our left above.
Then I had a brilliant thought — focus on the two birds on the left and create an image that could be focus stacked with the first image. So I followed the same procedure as above: I first centered the two cranes on my left in the middle of the frame (and thus in the center of the AF coverage), half-pressed the shutter button to acquire focus, and then moved the lens to the right so as to include the single young bird in the frame. That of course is the image on our right above.
This image was created from the two images above — a sort of crude, two-frame focusing stacking. Be sure to click on the image to view the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #2: Sandhill Crane adult feeding one of its two chicks
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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The Image Optimization
I converted both images using the same settings (via Apply Previous Settings, of course). Then I painted a Quick Mask of the single bird, the sky, and the foreground grass in _DSC2519 and moved it roughly into place atop _DSC2522. After fine tuning the placement, I added a Regular Layer Mask and brushed away some of the upper layer to minimize the depth of field mismatch in the foreground grass. After flattening the top two layers, I ran a 65-pixel Gaussian Blur on a new layer, hid that with an Inverse (Hide-all, or Black) Mask, and incrementally painted in some blur on the grasses in front of the sharp bird. I was more than happy with the result.
Note that I added a bit of out of focus greenery to the left of the feeding to balance the image design. I used the Remove Tool to eliminate a very few sharp blades of grass. The whole image optimization process will be part the Digital Basics IV Video Series that will hopefully be available at the end of May. 2025.
Compare the two originals and note that because I was hand holding, the framing of the two images was different.
h2>Image #3: A 100% crop of the Sandhill Crane adult feeding one of its two chicks image
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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You Gotta Be Kidding Me
This tight, 100% crop of the feeding shows the incredible detail that comes with every sharp Sony a-1 ii raw (ARW) file.
Should You Upgrade to or Purchase a Sony a-1 ii?
I received my second a-1 ii two weeks ago. I continue to be amazed by speed and accuracy of the Bird Face-Eye tracking in AF-C and the overall performance of the camera.
Aside from the improved ergonomics as compared to the a-1, other nice features include the fact that the rear screen tilts both ways. Pre-capture has proven to be a huge plus; in my opinion, the Speed Boost feature is a total waste for bird photography. In addition, the resolution on the rear monitor has been improved dramatically (not that I would notice). Bird Face-Eye tracking on the a-1 ii is vastly improved as compared to both the a-1 and the a9 iii and the 51MP files are to die for.
So, the big question is, is the a-1 ii “worth” a gear upgrade. Remember that I can never know whether or not something is worth it to for someone else. I can say that I was not floored when first using my a-1 ii. The differences between the a-1 ii and the original a-1, seemed to be neither huge nor eye-opening. But over time, I came to realize that I was 100% wrong.
The huge difference between the new camera body and the older a9 iii is, of course, the 51MP a-1 raw files (as compared to the 24MP files rendered by the a9 iii). That said, Pat’s image above stood up quite well to a rather substantial crop from below and from our left.
With the price of a brand new a-1 having recently dropped $1500.00 to $4,998.00, the decision for new Sony buyers is a tough one. The a-1 ii sells new for $6,498.00. And the price of used a-1 bodies will continue to drop (but surely not as much as I had thought before using the a-1 ii). But for me, the a-1 ii is clearly far superior to the original a-1 for bird photography.
If you do purchase an a-1 ii, be sure to use one of my two affiliate links so that you will receive my a-1 ii settings (in the form of a CAMSEa1ii.DAT file), the Buttons and Dials Guide, and an Info Sheet. Folks who do not purchase their new a-i ii using my B&H link or from Bedfords here and entering the BIRDSASART discount code at checkout will be able to purchase the a-1 ii guide for $227.43. If you are at all confused and do not want to screw up your order, please get in touch via e-mail.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
I lucked out on Saturday morning by finding a flock of about 200 Red Knots feeding on a west-facing Gulf shore at Fort DeSoto. About 30% of the birds were molting in their spectacular alternate (breeding) plumage, and some were almost there. I ignored a large flock of Black Skimmers but when the knot flock flew off to the east, I worked some Royal Terns. Many pairs were copulating right down sun angle but I was not able to isolate any of them.
On Saturday afternoon, I met up with Pat Fishburne. We worked on tripod handling skills and then headed out to find a decent Burrowing Owl nest or two. We found one decent nest with several chicks and worked them for more than an hour. After an early start, Sunday morning started off slowly. We returned to a nest we had found earlier, got into position, and got lucky with the family in Image #2. As Pat was having some trouble getting consistent exposures when working in Manual mode, I got her set up in Shutter Priority mode with AUTO ISO and Exposure Compensation on the Thumb Dial. She worked at +0.7 before the sun came up and +0.3 with sun on the birds. With the relatively light-toned birds and the consistently light-toned subject, her exposures were quite consistent.
Sincere thanks to Pat for inviting Anita North and me for a great salmon dinner on Sunday afternoon at her home at Shell Point in Fort Myers. Shell Point is a CCRC, one of the top continuing care retirement communities in the US.
Today is Monday 21 April 2025. We are meeting Pat early again for our last session and then heading back to ILE. Whatever you opt to do, I hope that you too choose to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
Yesterday, I did some more work on the BAA 400-800mm Lens Guide (free to all who use one of my two affiliate links to purchase their 4-8; otherwise, $101.43 via PayPal to e-mail.) Right now, it is very difficult to get your hands on either a 400-800 or an a-1 ii. Be sure to use one of my two affiliate links to earn your free lens or camera guide. The latter includes my settings in the form of a .DAT file, instructions on getting that onto your camera, a Button and Dials Guide, and a detailed INFO sheet.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Don’t Just Shoot: Learn
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 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.
Your Call
Which of today’s five featured Burrowing Owl images do you think is the strongest? Warning: they are all pretty darned good. Please let us know why you made your choice.
Indian Lake Estates BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field Sessions
I am currently available for morning BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field sessions on the following dates: April 22-24, 29-30, and the first half of May. Please e-mail for costs and additional information. Or, shoot me a text to 863-221-2372.
Fresh caught Alaskan seafood caught sustainably. Save $20 on your first order by clicking here.
Wild Alaska Salmon and Seafood Company
Ever since my two daughters sent me a big box of salmon filets and sea scallops from Wild Alaska Salmon and Seafood Company for my birthday a few years ago, I have been ordering salmon and scallops from them. Now that Junior’s Fish Market in Lake Wales is closing, I will be depending on Wild Alaska every month. I always order Sockeye filets and the Sea Scallops. The stuff comes frozen solid, is easy to prepare, and tastes pretty much as good as the fresh stuff would.
You can save $20 on your first order by clicking here. Eating wild caught seafood is about as healthy as you can go. The scallops are a real treat. When you sear them, be sure to cook them in the liquid that comes in the bag and be sure not to overcook them. I bake or broil the lightly seasoned salmon filets skin side down in olive or coconut oil.
Buy Direct from the Fisherman
Captain Tony has been fishing in Alaska since 1990. Wild Alaska is famous for their wild caught Sockeye and King Salmon! All of our other fish, including Ahi Tuna, Shrimp, Scallops, Cod, etc., are responsibly sourced, caught the right way and closely inspected by Capt. Tony to meet our high standards of quality and freshness. They catch and process all 5 species of wild pacific salmon, and source our other seafood products from high quality sustainable fisheries.
The stuff tastes great and is good for you. Internet orders to the continental United States are shipped from their fulfillment center in the Midwest allowing their seafood products to reach US customers in perfect condition. The flavor and texture of their salmon and other products remain fresher than fresh is because the stuff is frozen the same day it is caught.
Note
Nutritionally, if you are eating farm-raised salmon, you might as well be eating pop tarts. Sockeye salmon has the highest amount of Omega 3 of any fish with approximately 2.7 grams per 100-gram portion. Therefore, just one serving of Alaska salmon per week can help to lower cholesterol and the risk of heart disease. Scallops are widely considered one of the healthiest seafoods. Made up of 80% protein and sporting a low fat content, they can help you feel fuller longer and are rich in vitamins and minerals. They are also a great source of antioxidants. Dr. Morris 🙂
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the high-res version.
Image #1: Burrowing Owl adult yawning
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Sleepy 1200mm Success
Though the Sony 600mm f/4 with the 2X TC is incredibly sharp and AF performance (especially with the a9 ii) is superb, very few folks who own the 600 opt to work with the 2X TC. I use this combination quite often in quest of clean, tight, and graphic. I got lower than standing to move the background farther from the subject; that approach worked quite well. I created dozens of head portraits but when the bird yawned, I was quite happy. The bird held the yawn for several seconds so I was confident that my shutter speed of 1/250 second had been fast enough.
Tracking: Spot XS/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the high-res version.
Be sure to click on the image to view a larger high res version.
Image #2: Burrowing Owl family pano
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Rare for Me: Stopping Down 2 1/3 Stops
We got low and advanced slowly on our butts into position for the family portrait so as not to have any of the chicks dive into the burrow. Seeing that I would be doing a group shot I had already removed the 2X TC to work at 600mm. The owls changed position frequently and blessed us with many nice arrangements. On rare occasion, they all opened their eye at the same time. I stopped down 2 1/3 stops (seven clicks) to have enough depth of field to cover all four birds. It worked! And by being low, we still got to enjoy smooth, defocused backgrounds. As I have written here often, When you are trying to create smooth, distraction-free backgrounds, the distance from the subject to the background is a more important factor than the aperture.
A Note On Photographing Burrowing Owls
Cape Coral, Florida is home to an estimated 1,000 nesting pairs of Burrowing Owls, making it the largest population of this species in the state. A 2024 census counted more than 5,000 owls!
It is easy to drive around Cape Coral and find dozens of Burrowing Owl nest complexes without much effort. Nearly all of the burrows are marked and surrounded by white PVC posts and wooden crosses. The trick is to recognize the superb situations and visit them at the best times: early sun, late sun, or cloudy. We were very lucky during our first two sessions to find one great afternoon nest on Saturday and one great morning nest on Sunday. If you will be visiting Cape Coral soon and would like directions to the two great locations we have found, please send a PayPal for $20 to birdsasart@verizon.net with the words APRIL 2025 CAPE CORAL BURROWING OWL INFO.
This image was created on 20 April 2025 at Cape Coral, FL by 87-year old Pat Fishburne, longtime friend and multiple IPT veteran (with beloved late husband Stokes). Seated on dry grass behind her lowered tripod topped by a Mongoose M3.6.1, she used her Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) with the Sony FE 2x teleconverter and the ridiculously amazing Sony a9 III Mirrorless Camera. Multi-metering +0.7 stops in Shutter Priority mode with Exposure Compensation (EC) on the Thumb Dial. AUTO ISO set ISO 400: 1/1600 sec. at f/5.6 (wide open) in Manual mode. AWB at 6:01:40am early on a very hazy morning.
Tracking: Expand Spot AF/C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #3: Two large Burrowing Owl chicks
Image courtesy of and copyright Patricia Fishburne
Image optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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One of Pat’s Best
We called the bird on the left “Perky.” It was active, very curious, and almost always wide-eyed. For obvious reasons, we named the bird on our right “Sleepyhead.” With the light-toned birds and backgrounds, Pat did much better exposure-wise working in Shutter Priority with AUTO ISO and EC on the Thumb Dial that she did working in Manual mode with ISO on the Thumb Dial.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the high-res version.
Image #4: Burrowing Owl wide-eyed juvenile
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Woof Woof!
A blonde lady was walking a huge mastiff on the road by the nest we were working. The dog was pulling her down the street while barking at us; the owls reacted. One parent bird flew off and two of the three youngsters dove into one of the nest holes; the brave bird pictured in Image #3 stood its ground but was very obviously distressed. Isolating a single large chick, however, was no longer a problem.
Within a few minutes, the gang was back together. Above ground.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the high-res version.
Image #5: Burrowing Owl large chick stretching one wing
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Sunday Afternoon
After our wonderful dinner on Sunday at Pat’s wonderful home, I reviewed a few of Pat’s images from our morning session, picked one of my favorites, and created a Camtasia video of the image optimization. Then we drove back to the best Saturday afternoon nest. The birds were not nearly as active as they had been the day before. And the young ones sat in front of a fairly large, rather unattractive rock that sat right being their favorite nest hole.
As the light was fading fast, I saw the possibility of a 1200mm vertical of the one chick that had moved ever-so-slightly to out right of the rock. I decided to switch to Shutter Priority with Exposure Compensation (EC) on the Thumb Dial and AUTO ISO so that I did not have to keep raising the ISO every two minutes. And with little light, I went down to 1/250 second to save on ISO.
Then, I got lucky. I had placed the subject on the left side of the frame in order to include the stalk to our right of the young bird in the image. When the plump little bird stretched its right wing, I quickly decided not to recompose and made a series of images with the young owl looking out of the frame on my left. When the bit held the pose and turned its head to look to my right, I was a very happy man.
Should You Upgrade to or Purchase a Sony a-1 ii?
I received my second a-1 ii two weeks ago. I continue to be amazed by speed and accuracy of the Bird Face-Eye tracking in AF-C and the overall performance of the camera.
Aside from the improved ergonomics as compared to the a-1, other nice features include the fact that the rear screen tilts both ways. Pre-capture has proven to be a huge plus; in my opinion, the Speed Boost feature is a total waste for bird photography. In addition, the resolution on the rear monitor has been improved dramatically (not that I would notice). Bird Face-Eye tracking on the a-1 ii is vastly improved as compared to both the a-1 and the a9 iii and the 51MP files are to die for.
So, the big question is, is the a-1 ii “worth” a gear upgrade. Remember that I can never know whether or not something is worth it to for someone else. I can say that I was not floored when first using my a-1 ii. The differences between the a-1 ii and the original a-1, seemed to be neither huge nor eye-opening. But over time, I came to realize that I was 100% wrong.
The huge difference between the new camera body and the older a9 iii is, of course, the 51MP a-1 raw files (as compared to the 24MP files rendered by the a9 iii). That said, Pat’s image above stood up quite well to a rather substantial crop from below and from our left.
With the price of a brand new a-1 having recently dropped $1500.00 to $4,998.00, the decision for new Sony buyers is a tough one. The a-1 ii sells new for $6,498.00. And the price of used a-1 bodies will continue to drop (but surely not as much as I had thought before using the a-1 ii). But for me, the a-1 ii is clearly far superior to the original a-1 for bird photography.
If you do purchase an a-1 ii, be sure to use one of my two affiliate links so that you will receive my a-1 ii settings (in the form of a CAMSEa1ii.DAT file), the Buttons and Dials Guide, and an Info Sheet. Folks who do not purchase their new a-i ii using my B&H link or from Bedfords here and entering the BIRDSASART discount code at checkout will be able to purchase the a-1 ii guide for $227.43. If you are at all confused and do not want to screw up your order, please get in touch via e-mail.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
Nine of this year’s ten young cranes continue to survive, flourish, and grow. The two 2-chick families on the South Peninsula continue to cooperate beyond all expectations. On Wednesday morning past, the two fairly large colts at the north end did the same. Even the very oldest largest colt at the south end is becoming easier to work with on some mornings.
Wanted to Buy
I have a friend looking to purchase a used Sony a9 iii. If you have one in excellent or better condition sitting on a shelf somewhere doing nothing and would like to get a fair price for it, please get in touch with me via e-mail. And if you are looking for a piece of used gear, do the same and LMK what gear you are seeking.
Sony Alpha 1 (a-1) Mirrorless Camera Body
Multiple IPT veterans and longtime BAA friend Pat Fishburne is offering a rarely used Sony a-1 (ILCE-1) mirrorless camera body in excellent plus condition for a BIRDS AS ART record low $3,298.00. This body has been updated to Firmware 3.00 that reportedly improves Bird Face-Eye tracking to levels attained by the a1-ii. The camera has my current a-1 set-up on it. The sale includes the current Buttons and Dials Guide and the Info Sheet, the original product box, one battery, the charger, the camera strap, and insured ground shipping via major courier to lower-48 US addresses only. Your item will not ship until your check clears unless other arrangements are made.
I used Sony a-1 bodies as my workhorse cameras for more than three years. They produce stunning 51MP files with vivid natural colors. The AF system is superb. They are rugged and dependable and 30 frames per second is nothing to sneeze at. With a brand new A-1 ii going for $6498.00, you can save an even $3200.00 by grabbing Pat’s nearly as good as new a- copy ASAP. Right now, B&H is offering a used Sony a-1 in 9+ condition for $$4,507.95 (here). Prices of some used gear items are actually rising in anticipation of the tariff wars coming.
artie
What’s Up?
On Thursday morning, photography at ILE continued to be excellent. All of the record nine young cranes are doing fabulously well. After we did the chicks we had an Osprey on a branch near its natural nest devouring a huge crappie. Several bold and brazen Fish Crows were attempting to steal scraps of fish from the rather large by comparison raptor. Just as I took my eye from the viewfinder for a moment to scratch my ear, a crow swooped in from above; Anita created a wonderful series of images depicting the theft.
On Friday morning, older daughter Jennifer and her husband Erik and younger daughter Alissa along with her younger son Idris joined Anita North and me for a very early morning sail on Lake Blue Cypress. The weatherman lied again. The forecast called for an east wind at 5 mph. Instead, we had death on bird photography conditions: a NW wind at about 10mph that had all the Ospreys landing away from us. Being out on the lake early, however, was wonderfully peaceful as the lake is gorgeous. Despite the very tough conditions Anita and I made a very few good images. Amazingly, my son-in-law Erik, photographing birds for the first time in 30 years, hand held my Sony 200-600 with an a-1 ii and made three very excellent photos. Yes, with only a modicum of instruction.
After a BBQ chicken pool deck brunch with a big salad and Anita’s fabulous homemade cole slaw, Anita and I drove to the Brandon Mall to visit the Apple Store where we each had a genius bar appointment. Each of our MacBook Pros had a single sticking key. Both of our keyboards were cleaned and my”1″ key was replaced. With clear blue skies, bright sun, and a brisk east wind, we took the afternoon off rather than head to Tampa for an afternoon at the North Tampa Rookery.
Today is Saturday 19 April 2025. We will wake early and head to Fort DeSoto to see if things there have improved after the last two big hurricanes. Then it is on to Cape Coral for two days of In-the Field Instruction with longtime friend and student Pat Fishburne and the Burrowing Owls. Whatever you opt to do, I hope that you too choose to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
Yesterday, I did some more work on the BAA 400-800mm Lens Guide (free to all who use one of my two affiliate links to purchase their 4-8; otherwise, $101.43 via PayPal to e-mail.) Right now, it is very difficult to get your hands on either a 400-800 or an a-1 ii. Be sure to use one of my two affiliate links to earn your free lens or camera guide. The latter includes my settings in the form of a .DAT file, instructions on getting that onto your camera, a Button and Dials Guide, and a detailed INFO sheet.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Don’t Just Shoot: Learn
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 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.
Your Call
Which of today’s six featured baby crane images do you think is the strongest? Warning: they are all pretty darned special. Please let us know why you made your choice.
Indian Lake Estates BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field Sessions
I am currently available for morning BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field sessions on the following dates: April 22-24, 29-30, and the first half of May. Please e-mail for costs and additional information. Or, shoot me a text to 863-221-2372.
This image was created on 15 April 2025 down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Seated on dry sand, I used the heel pod technique with the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 1250. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/1250 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:39:34am early on a partly cloudy morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #1: Sandhill Crane chick foraging in heaven (no pier)
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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The Pier Chicks
I am pretty sure that the chicks from the crane family that hangs out by the ILE pier were the last to hatch. They have been incredibly tame, even curious, since day one. In Image #1, I think that the chick is about three weeks old, perhaps less a very few days.
The big challenge with photographing the chicks and colts is controlling the background. A big consideration there is how low you position the lens. We strive to avoid any sort of sharp horizon line bisecting the subject or subjects.
This image was created on 16 April 2025 on the North Field down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Seated on damp grass, I used the knee-pod technique with the hand held Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 800. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/2000 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:42:11am on a sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #2: Sandhill Crane colt stretching near wing
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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The North End Colts
There a two handsome colts at the north end of the North Field. As they spend a lot of time in the various backyards, it was a real pleasure to find them foraging in the open field last Wednesday morning early on when the light was gorgeous. I barely fit this bird in the frame when it stretched its wing. The chest and a foot of one of the parents was in the upper right corner of the frame. I eliminated the adult bird, expanded canvas all around, and spent 20 minutes trying to smooth the background in the upper right corner. Without success. Anita North saved the day by suggesting that I used the mask feature in Adobe Camera Raw to get the job done.
Is there any sound evidence in the optimized version above of the presence of the adult in the original frame? If yes, what are you seeing?
This image was also created on 16 April 2025 on the North Field down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Seated on damp grass, I used the toe-pod technique with the hand held Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 800. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/2500 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:42:52am on a sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #3: Sandhill Crane colt running with wings raised
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Sony 400mm f/2.8 Bokeh
The background here is 100% natural. I love the softness surrounding the bird below and above. As the bird was on a slight rise and the lens nearly on the ground, the foreground is beautifully blurred.
This image was also created on 16 April 2025 on the North Field down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Seated on damp grass, I used the toe-pod technique with the hand held Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 800. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/2500 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:42:52am on a sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #4: Sandhill Crane colt stretching far wing
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Speed Demon with Sky in the Background
It is hard to believe that Image #4 was created a mere three seconds after Image #3, but the EXIF never lies. In that time, I needed to re-frame, acquire focus, re-level the shot, and press the shutter button. I guess that you might say that I was quick on my toes. The speed of initial focusing acquisition with the a-1 ii was an important factor in pulling off the second image. Note that there is some sky in the background because the bird in Image #4 was closer to me than in the previous image and thus the lens was angled up a bit more.
This image was created on 17 April 2025 on the South Peninsula down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Standing on the slope that leads down to the South Canal, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 4000. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/640 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:02:23 am early on what would become a sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #5: Sandhill Crane chick biting sibling’s head
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Squabbling Chicks
When the crane chicks are small, they squabble often. Getting two halfway decent head angles is a huge challenge. Wide AF grabbed the head of the biting bird and since they were very close to being on the exact same plane, the faces of both birds are sharp. In the extreme low light conditions (ISO 4000 at f/2.8!), I was glad to create a sharp image at only 1/640 second.
Part of the key to the success of this image was lightening the iris of the parent bird using Tim Grey Dodge and Burn.
This image was also created on 17 April 2025 on the South Peninsula down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Standing on the slope that leads down to the South Canal, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 4000. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/2500 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:12:01am early on what soon became a sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #6: Sandhill Crane chick running toward adult
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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f/2.8 and Be There
Note that each of today’s featured images was created with a super-fast telephoto lens wide open at f/2.8. For nearly the past 43 years I have been working at the wide open aperture and focusing on the bird’s eye with zero regard for the narrow depth of field. This tack has served me so well that I have no reason to consider changing now. When working at point blank range I will stop down a bit if I have sufficient light to do so.
a-1 ii AF
Image #6 was my slight favorite from a 40-frame burst that saw the tiny green eye-tracking box squarely on the chick’s left eye. That as verified in Viewer, part of Sony’s Imaging Edge Desktop application.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
I have a friend looking to purchase a used Sony a9 iii. If you have one in excellent or better condition sitting on a shelf somewhere doing nothing and would like to get a fair price for it, please get in touch with me via e-mail. And if you are looking for a piece of used gear, do the same and LMK what gear you are seeking.
Sony Alpha 1 (a-1) Mirrorless Camera Body
Multiple IPT veterans and long time BAA friend Pat Fishburne is offering a rarely used Sony a-1 (ILCE-1) mirrorless camera body in excellent plus condition for a BIRDS AS ART record low $3,298.00. This body has been updated to Firmware 3.00 that reportedly improves Bird Face-Eye tracking to levels attained by the a1-ii. The camera has my current a-1 set-up on it. The sale includes the current Buttons and Dials Guide and the Info Sheet, the original product box, one battery, the charger, the camera strap, and insured ground shipping via major courier to lower-48 US addresses only. Your item will not ship until your check clears unless other arrangements are made.
I used Sony a-1 bodies as my workhorse cameras for more than three years. They produce stunning 51MP files with vivid natural colors. The AF system is superb. They are rugged and dependable and 30 frames per second is nothing to sneeze at. With a brand new A-1 ii going for $6498.00, you can save an even $3200.00 by grabbing Pat’s nearly as good as new a- copy ASAP. Right now, B&H is offering a used Sony a-1 in 9+ condition for $$4,507.95 (here). Prices of some used gear items are actually rising in anticipation of the tariff wars coming.
artie
In the Last Blog Post
I the last blog post, Robus MonoPodding With the Sony 400-800 G Lenshere, the few folks who commented liked Image #2, Great Egret breeding plumage adult with stretched wing best. Because of the elegance and the lovely reptilian green lores, I would have to agree. For me, Image #1, Great Egret breeding plumage adult with twig for nest, was a very close second.
BTW, the stretched wing in the background of Image #2 did not belong to the subject bird; we are seeing the covert feathers on the dorsal surface of an egret wing. That stretched wing was the wing of the subject bird’s mate.
What’s Up?
Photography for the last two mornings at ILE has been excellent. All nine of the record young cranes are doing fabulously well. On Tuesday, Anita North and I had a first-ever for me at ILE Solitary Sandpiper; I was thrilled to create a sharp image of the bird jumping forward at 1200mm off the BLUBB. On Wednesday, we concentrated on the super-cuddly orange colts at the north end of the North Field; they are getting larger every day. I went with the 400mm f/2.8 hand held while sitting on the ground and was more than happy with what I got. Some of those images here soon.
I will be down to the lake early to see what’s around. Whatever you opt to do, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
Yesterday, I sent the updated BAA 300mm Lens Guide PDF to all on the list. If you did not receive yours, please shoot me an e-mail and let me know. In addition, I began work on the BAA 400-800mm Lens Guide (free to all who use one of my two affiliate links to purchase; otherwise, $101.43 via PayPal to e-mail.)
Right now, it is very difficult to get either a 400-800 or an a- ii. Be sure to use one of my two affiliate links to earn your free lens or camera guide. The latter includes my settings in the form of a .DAT file, instructions on getting that onto your camera, a Button and Dials Guide, and a detailed INFO sheet.
On Friday morning, older daughter Jennifer and younger daughter Alissa along with her younger son Idris will be joining Anita North and I for a very early morning sail on Lake Blue Cypress. After that, we head to Tampa for an afternoon at the North Tampa Rookery and Saturday morning at Fort DeSoto. From there, I head to Cape Coral for two days of In-the Field Instruction with longtime friend and student Pat Fishburne and the Burrowing Owls.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
This image was created on 15 April (Fabulous Wednesday) by Anita North down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Seated on the sand beach left of the pier and working off the rear monitor with the camera held just inches above the ground, she used the hand held Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II Lens (at 148mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 640: 1/1000 second at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 7:40:02am on a cloudy morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #1: Sandhill Crane small chick with mayfly and ILE pier
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025: Anita North
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Anita North ILE Crane Chick & Pier Without Peer
One of the two crane families with two still small chicks often hangs out on the sand beach south of the ILE pier. We usually strive to avoid having the pier in the backgrounds of our images. When Anita shared this one with me on her laptop, I was floored by her creativity. Including the angled, completely defocused wooden structure as a major element of the composition was a stroke of brilliance. Anita often shoots low angle perspectives by lying on her back. For this one, however, she sat and hand held her 70-200 just an inch or two above the sand (working of course, off the tilted rear monitor). She says that the key to the success of her relatively short lens/super-low perspective images is trusting Wide AF with the Sony a-1 ii.
The relatively sharp line of grasses adds a lot. And the super-sharp mayfly in the chick’s bill is the cherry on top.
Your Thoughts?
What are your thoughts on this image? Would you chance anything at all?
The BAA Middle of Florida Photographic Site Guide
You can purchase your copy here in the BAA Online Store.
The BAA Middle of Florida Photographic Site Guide
126 pages, 87 photographs by Joe Przybyla and Arthur Morris.
The PDF for this e-Guide is an electronic download sent via e-mail.
I had thought about doing a guide to some of the great but little-known photo hotspots around central Florida for about a decade, but those plans never came to fruition. I met Joe online in the Avian Forum at BirdPhotographer’s.Net about two years ago. Joe’s photography has improved tremendously over the past few years; he credits the BAA blog, my books and PDFs, and his participation on BPN. The one thing that I learned right from the get-go about Joe is that he is a hard and tenacious worker, always striving to improve his skills and to grow his knowledge base. As he knew of more than a few good spots in central Florida, I broached the idea of us doing a photographic site guide that covered many of the little-known photographic hotspots from Brandon to Lakeland to Joe Overstreet Road to Indian Lake Estates (my Florida home for the past 20 years or so). After more than many, many dozens of hours of effort, The BIRDS AS ART Middle of Florida Photographic Site Guide is now a reality. Thanks to Joe’s wife Dottie for her review of our writing. We all learned once again that writing is a process, a back-and-forth process. All thanks to the white pelicans of Lakeland. Below are the locations that are detailed in this e-Guide. Please note that last season, Gatorland did not offer a Photographer’s Pass.
Indian Lake Estates: Sandhills Cranes with chicks and colts, lots of vultures, and Ospreys up the kazoo!
Gatorland, Kissimmee: Learn to make great images of wading birds in a cluttered rookery. Note: Gatorland no longer offers a Photographer’s Pass.
The Brandon Rookery: Great for nesting Wood Storks, Great Egrets, and more.
Circle Bar B Reserve, Lakeland: Here you will find a great variety of avian subjects in a great variety of habitats.
Lake Morton, Lakeland: There are lots of silly tame birds here including and especially American White Pelican during the colder months.
Lake Mirror, Lakeland: Tame Anhingas, Limpkins, and a zillion White Ibises at times.
West Lake Parker, Lakeland: Here, if you are lucky, you will have a chance for two difficult birds: Snail Kite, and Purple Gallinule.
Joe Overstreet Road, Kenansville: Crested Caracara, meadowlarks, Loggerhead Shrike, and much more on the fenceposts and barbed wire.
Each location includes a map, a detailed description of the best spots, best season, light and time of day instructions, the expected species, and an educational and inspirational gallery that is designed to open your eyes as to the possibilities.
You can purchase a copy here in the BAA Online Store.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
In the last blog post, Why Photograph Boat-tailed Grackle?here, I could not pick a favorite; I love them both for the action they depict and the sharpness. Not to mention that Pre-Capture on the Sony a-1 ii is the bomb!
Your Call?
Which of today’s five featured images do you feel is the strongest? Why did you make your choice?
What’s Up?
Photography at ILE in the mornings has been very good. All nine young cranes continue to survive and grow. There are flocks of feeding Cattle Egrets in the fields; some are looking pretty spiffy. And the two fledged Bald Eagles have provided a few good chances as well.
Today is Tuesday 15 April 2025. I will be down to the lake early to see what’s around. Whatever you opt to do, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
Yesterday, I finished updating the BAA 300mm Lens Guide. Today, I will send the greatly improved revision to those who used my link to purchase their Sony 300mm GM using one of my two affiliate links and to those who purchased the guide. Right now, it is very difficult to get either a 400-800 or an a- ii. Be sure to use one of my two affiliate links to earn your free lens or camera guide. The latter includes my settings in the form of a .DAT file, instructions on getting that onto your camera, a Button and Dials Guide, and a detailed INFO sheet.
On Friday morning, older daughter Jennifer and younger daughter Alissa along with her younger son Idris will be joining Anita North and I for a very early morning sail on Lake Blue Cypress. After that, we head to Tampa for an afternoon at the North Tampa Rookery and Saturday morning at Fort DeSoto. From there, I head to Cape Coral for two days of In-the Field Instruction with longtime friend and student Pat Fishburne and the Burrowing Owls.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
BILD EXPO Presented by B&H
Why Attend? Speakers, Gear, Deals, and More!
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’s greatest creative community. B&H’s incredible show specials will be the icing on the cake! Whether you’re 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.
Click here or on the logo link above for more information.
To ensure that I get credit for your B&H purchases, you can always click here. The tracking is invisible but greatly appreciated. And, you can use your PayBoo card. You must use the website to order. You cannot get your free guides if you make a phone order. Once you have an item in your cart, you must complete the order within two hours. Huge thanks!
Bedfords Simplified
Click here to start your search. Choose standard shipping, and when you get to the payment page, enter BIRDSASART in the discount code box and hit apply. You will be upgraded to free second day air Fed-Ex and receive 3% cash back on your credit card once your stuff ships. Either is greatly appreciated by yours truly.
B&H
Many folks have written recently stating that they purchased a Sony a1 from B&H and would like their free membership in the Sony 1 Info and Updates Group, a $150.00 value. But when I check my affiliate account, their orders have not been there. When I let them know that they get credit for B&H purchases only if they use one of the many B&H affiliate links on the blog or begin their searches with this link, they are always disappointed. If in doubt, please contact me via e-mail and request a BH link. I am always glad to help and to guide you to the right gear.
Bedfords Amazing BAA Discount Policy
Folks who have fallen in love with Bedfords can now use the BIRDSASART coupon code at checkout to enjoy a post-purchase, 3% off-statement credit (excluding taxes and shipping charges) on orders paid with a credit card. The 3% credit will be refunded to the card you used for your purchase. Be sure, also, to check the box for free shipping to enjoy free Second Day Air Fed-Ex. This offer does not apply to purchases of Classes, Gift Cards, prior purchases.
Visit the Bedfords website here, shoot Steve Elkins an e-mail, or text him on his cell phone at (479) 381-2592.
Gear Questions and Advice
Too many folks attending BAA IPTs and dozens of photographers whom I see in the field and on BPN, 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.
YouTube Video: Tips and Thoughts on Using a Monopod with Big Glass
After 39 years, I finally tried using a monopod with a big lens for the first time in July 2022, more than three years ago. Pretty much everything that I share in the video remains accurate. Sadly, Joe Pryzbyla passed away about two years ago. This 6 1/2-minute video was created by Anke Frohlich. I talk about setting up, using, and carrying a monopod and cover lots of the positives and negatives in the video. I did forget to mention one problem when using a monopod at the beach: if you want to use the knee-pod, ankle-pod, or foot-pod techniques, you may have a hard time finding a place to put the monopod. You can order your Wimberley MonoGimbal head here. Note that in the video I was using the Robus RCM-633, the 6-section version. Today, I far prefer the Robus RCM-439, the 4-section model.
To learn more about using a monopod, check out the Tips and Thoughts on Using a Monopod with Big Glass. And a Compendium: Everything you wanted to know about using a monopod but were afraid to ask blog post here.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #1: Great Egret breeding plumage adult with twig for nest
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Robus MonoPodding With the Sony 400-800 G Lens
As regular readers know, I have never been a huge fan of monopods. But I brought my Robus RCM-439 4-Section Carbon Fiber Monopod, 65 topped by a Wimberley MonoGimbal Head and gave it a whirl with my new favorite lens, the relatively slow and relatively heavy Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E). It turned out to be a match made in heaven. Working in the shade at 1/500 hand held in the vicinity of 800mm would yield spotty results in terms of sharpness. But with the monopod, most every image at 1/500 second is sharp but for rapid subject movement.
When your lens is too heavy to hold in place for more than a few seconds and you need to be maneuverable, a monopod is clearly the best option. And the Robus RCM-439 is clearly the best on the market. Not to mention that a Robus Monopod/Wimberley MonoGimabl head rig weighs only a small fraction of a sturdy Robus tripod topped by a Levered-clamp FlexShooter Pro setup.
Monopod Stability Tip
When working with a monopod on a boardwalk, stabilize the monopod by placing it strategically against the railing. At the St. Augustine rookery, there are fenceposts every few inches; it was easy to wedge the monopod between adjacent posts to further increase stability.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #2: Great Egret breeding plumage adult with stretched wing
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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The Robus Monopod Twist Leg Locks
Like the Robus tripods that I love and use every day, both Robus monopods feature twist leg locks that are thicker and grippier and stickier (they tighten more snugly) than the legs locks on competing brands. So what’s good about that? They are far easier to loosen and tighten than then slimmer, more slippery-slidey legs locks of other brands. With just a quick flip of the wrist, the locks loosen and tighten instantly without your have to exert undo pressure. Older folks with hand and wrist strength or arthritic problems will find the Robus grips a blessing. Anita North struggles mightily with the leg locks on Induro and Gitzo tripods but has zero problems with Robus leg locks.
Younger, fitter folks will enjoy the speed and ease involved when shortening or lengthening the leg sections on a Robus monopod. As with the Robus tripods, the sturdy construction of the monopods stands up well to rain, sand and other grit, and even salt spray. A quick rinse with fresh water after exposure to the latter is of course advised.
Wing Question
Does the wing in the background belong to the subject bird? How do you know?
This image was created on 12 April 2025 down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Standing at the bottom of a slope that leads down to the South Canal I used the Robus RCM-439 4-Section Carbon Fiber Monopod, 65/Wimberley MonoGimbal Head-supported Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 800mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 1250: 1/320 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 7:59:52am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #3: Sandhill Crane 8-week old colt in the shade on a sunny day
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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The Monopod Saves the Day
With the shy colt in the shade and working at 800mm, I needed the relatively slow shutter speed of 1/320 second to come up with a decent exposure. The ground on the slopes is quite uneven and broken after being visited relentlessly by ILE’s brush hog machine. Setting up a monopod in such conditions takes only a moment. While a tripod is surely sturdier in the long run than a monopod, setting one up on a slope on rough ground is a time-consuming chore even for those with superb tripod-handling skills.
This image was created on 12 April 2025 down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Standing at the bottom of the slope that leads down to the South Canal I used the Robus RCM-439 4-Section Carbon Fiber Monopod, 65/Wimberley MonoGimbal Head-supported Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 615mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 1250: 1/1250 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 8:06:37am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #4: Sandhill Crane 8-week old colt
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Superior Monopod Mobility
When the colt moved into the sunlight, it was far easier for me to move well to my right to stay on sun angle than if I had been working with a tripod.
It quickly extends to a eye level for me with three simple turns of the twist-locks. The 4-section design provides a strong platform with no bending or bowing and the sturdy, smooth sliding 10x carbon fiber tubes offer rigidity and strength for a stable platform. It supports equipment weighing up to 39 pounds and comes with interchangeable rubber and spiked feet. I use only the rubber foot. This model folds down to 21.1″ for easy portability and storage. It weighs only 1.22 pounds and sells for a ridiculously low $139.95.
This 6-section design seems lighter than the 4-section model above as the tubes are thinner, but in fact, it tips the scales at 1.27 pounds, just a bit more than the RCM-439. I would recommend this model only for folks who are dressed for packing space as it offers a smaller collapsed size. The maximum height and low price are the same as with the 4-section model.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #5: Bald Eagle in fresh juvenal plumage with wings raised
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Setup Speed
When speed is of the essence (as is often the case with bird photography), you can set up a monopod more quickly than you can set up a tripod. With my tripod in the trunk right next to the monopod, that is why I went with the monopod when I got out of my SUV to do the perched baby eagles. The action began a moment after I got set up and in position. Note that proper technique had me leaning slightly back against the door of my car to increase stability.
The Wimberley MonoGimbal Head
Kudos to Clay Wimberley on the brilliantly clever design of the Wimberley MonoGimbal Head. With Clay’s gimbal design, lens flop is a thing of the past and lens handling is a dream. I strongly recommend placing the clamp on your right. With the 400-800, this allows easy access to both the zoom ring and the focusing ring. From where I sit, nothing– even those priced two to three times more, even qualifies for second place.
More On Monopods
Here are some facts, “artie-facts” if you would. (Thanks, Gill Arden.)
1- A tripod will always be more stable than a monopod.
2- When seated, using the knee-pod technique is at least as stable a using a shortened monopod.
3- When using a monopod to keep your lens on this or that subject for extended periods, the monopod supports the weight of your lens and camera body. Note, however, that fatigue will become a factor over time as it requires some effort on your part to stabilize the rig, to hold the monopod and keep it in the same spot. Lactic acid will build up, especially in your left arm. With a tripod the three legs provide the support needed to keep the lens in the exact same spot with no effort required on your part.
4- You cannot shoot at ground level with a monopod.
5- Unlike a tripod, you cannot use your monopod as a clothes horse on which to hang your vest (if you wear one). In the same vein, simple tasks that are easily done when working on a tripod are more difficult to execute when working on a monopod. These tasks include adding or removing teleconverters, switching cards, or changing a battery. Why? You need to hold onto the monopod while executing the chore. You do not need to hold a tripod.
6- If you are doing flight photography at the beach with the monopod and you want to switch to the knee-pod technique, finding a good spot for the monopod can be difficult. I just plunk mine down in the sand without any ill effects.
7- If you are close to your vehicle and waiting for action in an otherwise static situation, say at an eagle or Osprey nest, for example, choosing a monopod over a tripod is insanity (unless you are pressed for time or keen on experimenting with the former).
8- (Former) blog regular Adam posted this comment at the original monopod post: I returned to the redtail nest the next day with a big lens and a monopod — I didn’t want to drag the tripod through the overgrown field. I regretted every moment of as one of the fledglings kept making high speed passes at me; tracking the bird was problematic with the lens on the monopod. Once I went to handholding, there was no problem keeping the bird in the viewfinder.
Adam is 100% correct. If you are capable of hand holding a big lens (or an intermediate telephoto lens for that matter) for short periods of time, most folks will generally do a lot better handholding than working off a monopod or a tripod. But, here are the buts:
a- Many folks are simply not capable of handholding a 600mm f/4 lens, even the latest greatest lightest versions, for even a few moments.
b- Most folks, including all mortals, handholding a big lens for extended shooting sessions is simply not possible. You will never see folks like Arash Hazeghi using a monopod as at present, he is more than strong enough to hand hold a 600 f/4 for hours of flight photography.
9- Here is the great news. I have developed a new technique for shooting flight with big glass on a monopod. It’s like handholding with the lens on a sky hook. It is much easier to shoot flight off the monopod using this method than it is when working off a tripod. At places like Jacksonville, where the flight photography is nonstop, but you want and need to be light and mobile, this new technique will be a Godsend. I used this setup and technique every morning at Jacksonville. Be sure to watch the YouTube video that opens this post.
10- Folks who work with intermediate telephoto lenses who walk and stalk and point and shoot (can you say warblers and songbirds?) and have trouble with the weight of their rigs, may very well do much better with a monopod than with straight handholding. They too will benefit from the information in the Monopod/Monoball Video.
11- I have removed the hand strap from my Robus RCM-439 4-Section Carbon Fiber Monopod, 65 because I have no use for it and it occasionally gets in the way. On a related note, if you have a camera strap on your camera body when using any telephoto lens, ditch it fast.
12- When doing pure flight, I lengthen the monopod so that the viewfinder is right at eye-level.
13- The Robus RCM-439 4-Section Carbon Fiber Monopod, 65 is 65 inches tall. It should be good for flight for folks as tall as about 6-foot 3 or 4 inches tall. The only viable option that I can find for super-tall folks is the Gitzo GM4552L Series 4 Carbon Fiber Monopod. At nearly 75 inches tall, this one would work for flight for all but the very tallest NBA players, those over 7-foot 1 or 2 inches tall. It is, however, a Series 4 model that weighs 1.6 pounds, 1/2-pound heavier than the recommended Robus model. And it cost $300.88 more than the RCM-439 4.
Additional Monopod Comments
I forgot to mention that if you are using a ballhead atop your monopod rather than the Wimberley MonoGimbal Head you are making your life very difficult. For no reason at all.
It is obvious that you can get lower when using the toe-pod or foot-pod techniques and working off the tilted rear monitor than you can when working off a shortened monopod. In addition, I feel using the knee-pod technique is more stable than using a shortened monopod. At DeSoto, I will explore the possibility of using a hybrid technique: the shortened monopod/knee-pod technique. The big advantage there (if it wires!) would be that you do not have to find a parking spot for your monopod.
The Monopod Calming Effect
One thing seems perfectly clear to me: approaching a bird is a lot easier with a monopod-mounted lens than it is with a tripod-mounted lens. Most of the Great Blue Herons that sit on the pier railings at ILE do not allow a close approach. They tend to fly off when you are a mile away. Perhaps the monopod/monoball combo has some sort of tranquilizing effect on the birds at ILE.
Conclusion
I will not be selling my Robus tripods or my Levered-clamp FlexShooter Pros any time soon. I will continue to use a tripod for most of my bird photography when I am not hand holding. I have learned, however, as noted several times above, that the Robus RCM-439 4-Section Carbon Fiber Monopod (65″) is the often the best tool for the job at hand. I look forward to doing more Robus MonoPodding at places like Jacksonville, Fort DeSoto, and San Diego.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
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 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.
Your Call
Which of today’s featured extreme images do you like best? Why did you make your choice?
In the Last Blog Post
In the last blog post, Drizzly Morning Baby Cranes and a Colt at ILEhere, Image 2, 3, and 4 were my favorites with 5 & 6 right behind them. Several folks really dug Image #3 for the perspective.
What’s Up?
As noted in the last post, photography at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm was challenging as expected, and, as is usual at wading bird rookeries, extremely difficult; there is no better place to make thousands of very bad images. I still have 2300 images to get through. As those include some very good ones, you will see some of the images here soon. As I was able to put together a small group at the last moment, we were able to enter at 7:00am, one hour before the masses. Thanks Pat Fishburne! One hour of soft light each morning before the blasting sun rose came over the trees was a huge blessing I made it back to ILE on the afternoon of Friday 11 April exhausted and promptly took a two hour nap.
Today is Saturday 11 12 April 2025. Despite the death forecast for morning bird photography — NW at 8mph with clear skies, I will be heading down to the lake early to check on the five Sandhill Crane families.
Maury Neipris
I first met Maury on numerous calls to the Camera Bits (Photo Mechanic) help line; he worked there for nearly three years. He was always knowledgeable and helpful and would go out of his way to help you solve problems where others might have said, “That’s a Mac problem …” or offered another lame excuse. He left Camera Bits about a year ago to continue his education and to pursue new employment. Since then, I have called him numerous times with a sticky Photo Mechanic problem. I have yet to stump him. Maury and his Dad visited ILE last May for a pool deck dinner. Aside from his birds, Maury is an excellent photographer. You can see some of his fine work here.
A e-Mail from Maury
Hi Artie,
I’ve attached my resume.
I am not sure of any specific roles or titles that match what I am looking for at this time. Most of my career has been in photography but am open to roles that may be a good fit for me. I have experience in technical support, digital asset management, content management systems, Linux operating systems, and command line.
I would like to work with people. I have worked remote since COVID lockdowns in 2020. While I prefer the “no long commute” aspect, I recognize now that I thrive with more enjoyable human interaction at work whether that’s in person, a reasonable amount of video call meetings or personable coworkers to talk to via direct messages. I value collaboration, teaching, and working with other people.
As you know, I love photography. It is a skill and a passion that allows me to create art and document moments and experiences. I love creating and sharing images of people and seeing that person enjoy the photo of themselves. I appreciate the thoughtful design, engineering, and ergonomics that goes into quality, professional equipment, created by people for people that rely on their gear day after day. I also value using digital asset management for image files. It is important to assign metadata like AP style captions and keywords to image files so that the images are searchable and usable later on.
I am also interested in information and communication technology. I passed the Cisco Certified Network Associate exam on August 13, 2024. I wanted to learn how computer networking works in more detail for many years. I am more interested in a collaboration/communication/teaching role within IT than an operations role, though I recognize having operations experience will provide credibility in the collaboration/teaching role.
Collaborative information and communication technology professional with 3 years of technical support and 10+ years of customer service experience through photography. Avid learner and creative problem solver who enjoys teaching others.
EXPERIENCE
Freelance Photographer, Self August 2024-Present
· Portrait and athletics event photography for the University of Portland Pilots Athletics De-partment
· Tag student-athletes in images uploaded to OpenDorse, a DAM and Name, Image, Like-ness (NIL) platform
Information Technology Trainee, Self March 2024-Present
· Studied for the Cisco Certified Network Associate(CCNA) certification, completed Aug. 13:
o Topics include: TCP/IP Networking, LAN, WLAN, IPv4/IPv6 Addressing and Routing, Security and IP Services, Network Architecture, and Network Automation
· Massive Open Online Courses completed:
o RH094x: Fundamentals of Ansible
o Introduction to IT Asset Management (ITAM)
Technical Support Representative, Camera Bits May 2021 – March 2024
· Provided guidance and problem solved with customers via email tickets, phone calls, and re-mote screen-sharing with setup, activation, and troubleshooting of photo software – Photo Mechanic
· Assisted in the creation and updating of support articles for web-based knowledge base
· Developed workflows for working photographers to help speed up their culling process as well as quickly assigning metadata such as captions and keywording for digital asset manage-ment
· Served as liaison between customer and development team by attempting to replicate re-ported software bugs and submitting software bug reports
· Tested bug fixes and feature additions
· Used Figma to create mockups of potential features
Information Technology Trainee, Self September 2020 – April 2021
· Worked through The Odin Project’s Ruby Programming and Databases paths.
· Massive Open Online Courses completed:
o Linux Foundation: Introduction to Linux
o Red Hat: Fundamentals of Red Hat Enterprise Linux
o Red Hat: Fundamentals of Containers, Kubernetes, and Red Hat OpenShift
Photographer/Media Specialist II, University of Tennessee Athletics Aug 2018 – Aug 2020
· Photographed sporting events and live transmit images via FTP for use in social media and post-game stories
· Ingested image files, added metadata and keywords, edited in Adobe Creative Suite soft-ware, and uploaded to Asset Bank, the University of Tennessee’s digital asset management software
· Researched and implemented networking infrastructure needs for live transfer of photos dur-ing events
· Managed scheduling and photographer assignments using Atlassian’s Trello Kanban board
· Maintained Tennessee Orange branding by ensuring proper white balance and color editing
· Helped recruit and teach student photographers
· Collaborated with graphic design, social media, and VFL Films on creative projects
Owner, Maury Neipris Photography LLC Feb 2017 – Ju-ly 2018
· Completed freelance contracts for sports, portraits, and event photography
· Clients included: Nova Southeastern University Athletics, Florida State University Athletics, and The Seminole Tribune
Co-Owner, Whereable Prints Company Nov 2017 – Aug 2018
· Manipulated digital images of South Florida landscapes into graphic patterns in PhotoShop for use in a line of eco-friendly athletic apparel
· Leggings were made from Repreve, a yarn made from recycled plastic bottles
· Coordinated orders with a fabric supplier and a local printing-and-sewing company
· Designed and managed e-Commerce website using Shopify
· Organized and sponsored intracoastal waterway cleanups in partnership with local paddle board rental business
Photographer, Broward College Athletics Oct 2016 – Feb 2017
· Posed teams for individual and group portraits
· Photographed Seahawks athletic games
Digital Media, South Beach Photobooth Co. Dec 2015 – Feb 2016
· Created imagery of events for marketing
· Designed modern, responsive WordPress CMS site for sister company
· Developed email marketing content for sister company
Cisco Certified Network Associate 08/13/2024-08/13/2027
FAA Remote Pilot (Commercial UAS) Certificate 12/23/2024-12/23/2026
EDUCATION
Degree: B.S., Information & Communication Technology, 2015
Florida State University
This image was created on 12 March 2025 at Lakeland, FL. Working from the front seat of my SUV, I used the BLUBB-supported Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter, and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel: ISO 1600; 1/4000 second at f/5.6 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 7:40:59am just before sunset.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #1: Boat-tailed Grackle taking flight at sunset
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Why Photograph Boat-tailed Grackle?
Boat-tailed Grackle is a dirt bird. There are hundreds of them down by the lake every day. They are abundant along all southeastern coasts and inland as well. They are often seen foraging in gas stations and 7-11 parking lots.
Why photograph them? Even better, why should you photograph any very common bird species?
Here’s why:
1- Pushing the shutter button is fun.
2- It is possible to create superb photographs of all bird species.
3- Photographing common birds gives you a chance to hone your skills in the following areas:
a- exposure
b- shutter speed choices and sharpness techniques
c- image design
d- autofocus and pre-capture choices and settings
e- camera and lens handling
f- understanding bird behavior
4- Doing so will make you a better bird photographer
This image was created on 28 March 2025 on a Stick Marsh Extended IPT. Seated on a pillow atop a sturdy milk crate, 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 Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 4000. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/4000 sec. at f/4 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 8:51:33am on a partly sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #2: Boat-tailed Grackle male taking flight
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Sony a-1 ii Pre-Capture
Pre-capture was 100% responsible for creating both of today’s featured images. Pre-capture, however, does not do a thing for you unless you have the right settings, are actively focusing (by keeping the shutter button half-presses), and fully understand the process. In both situations, when I felt that a take-off was imminent, I took a moment to increase the Pre-Capture time from my default setting of 0.2 sec. to a full 1.0 sec. And in both cases, I was late pressing the shutter button due to my slow reflexes and reaction time, yet having mastered the skills needed to take advantage of this amazing technology, I got the shot. Heck, with the second image I created a second stellar image.
Amazingly, the a-1 ii nailed the bird’s eye in both of today’s featured images. How does the system detect the eye of a bird in silhouette or a grackle’s dark eye on a black head? Beats me. I you purchase an a-1 ii or any other new gear, please write for advice and my affiliate links. Tanks for that.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
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 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.
Your Call
Which of today’s six featured extreme images is your favorite? Why did you make your choice?
In the Last Blog Post
In the last blog post, Going to Extremes, here, I asked “Which of today’s three featured extreme images is your favorite. Why did you make your choice? Which one do you consider the most extreme? Why?”
Thanks to the many who left comments. My favorite image was Anita’s wide angle crane family image because of its uniqueness. Who would think to try to photograph a crane family with a wide angle zoom lens? Here was also the most extreme for me for the same reason. That said, I was thrilled to get one sharp one of the Anhinga with the bass and loved creating the preening spoonbill image hand held at 1120mm with the 400-800 and the 1.4X TC.
What’s Up?
As always, the rookery at St. Augustine Alligator Farm (and all other rookeries, as well), is a very tough place to shoot: clutter, whitewash, and tough shooting angles. And all of those problems are exacerbated when the sun is shining. Yikes. I almost forgot the wires that have been installed above the top of the boardwalk railing. More on those when I post some images.
Pat Fishburne joined me for an In-the-Field Session and we worked on dealing with everything above. In addition, we went over the shutter speed basics for her when hand holding her Sony 300mm f/2.8 GM lens (with and without the 1.4X TC). I added that primer to the Sony 300mm Lens Guide along with several dozen new images. I still have a few days work to do before I start on the 400-800 guide. Big time thanks to Paul Sher who ordered his 4-8 with Bedford yesterday.
Today is Thursday 10 April 2025 and I will be headed back to the rookery boardwalk early this morning to look for some more neat birds and some cool shooting angles. Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Indian Lake Estates BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field Sessions
I am currently available for morning BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field sessions on the following dates: April 12-17, 19-24, & 29-30. The first half of May should be ideal as well. Please e-mail for costs and additional information. Or, shoot me a text to 863-221-2372.
This image was created down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake on 8 April 2025 on a BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field instructional session with Joe Norton. Crouching a bit and working off the tilted rear monitor, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 12,800. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/250 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:29:05am on a cloudy, overcast, sometimes drizzly morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #1: Sandhill Crane chick body shot
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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A Brilliant Move and a Huge Success
Accomplished shooter Joe Norton signed up for a Stick Marsh In-the-Field session for Tuesday 8 April but I got in touch with him on Monday and let him know that the weather forecast for Fellsmere and the spoonbills was terrible — cloudy dark with drizzle. I suggested that we meet at Indian Lake Estates and do the baby cranes instead. He jumped at the chance and was glad that he did. He was astounded when we sat on the wet grass and two of the five crane families, those with the 1-day old chicks, walked right up to us.
To deal with the extreme low light conditions, we both went with our Sony a- ii bodies and our 300mm f/2.8 lenses. That done, we began using ridiculously high ISOs. From where I sit, Image #1 made at ISO 25,800, looks quite acceptable in all regards including noise.
This image was created down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake on 8 April 2025 on a BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field instructional session with Joe Norton. Crouching a bit and working off the tilted rear monitor, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 5,000. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/250 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:31:17 am on a cloudy, overcast, sometimes drizzly morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #2: Photographer Joe Norton and pair of crane chicks
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Too Close to Focus
Here, two 10-day old chicks walk within six feet of Joe who is crouching steeply on the bank that leads down to the South Canal.
Via Text from Joe Norton
Art, thanks so much for sharing your Sandhill Crane Colts with me at Indian Lake yesterday morning. It was a blast! Can’t wait to slowly review all the images when I get home. I safely made it to Cordele, GA last night, and begin the second leg of my trip home shortly which will take me to Paducah, KY.
This image was created down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake on 8 April 2025 on a BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field instructional session with Joe Norton. Working from well down on the slope that leads to the canal, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 2500: 1/500 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:56:23am on a cloudy, overcast, sometimes drizzly morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #3: Sandhill Crane chick twins
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Autofocus Problem Leads to Fine Result
When the two chicks posed near momma’s legs as dad flew off to tilt at windmills, I framed the shot. Though it was slightly farther away, I wanted the bird between the adult’s leg sharp. While using Wide, however, I noticed that the AF point was going from the eye of one chick to the eye of the other. I grabbed the sharp chick on our right and the adult’s leg and belly using a Quick Mask, brought it into the image with the chick on our left sharp, positioned it carefully, warped the selection a bit using the Transform Command, and refined the mask using a Regular Layer mask. The result — a somewhat crude form of focus stacking that produced an image with two razor sharp chicks. That despite the fact that they were on different planes at the moment of exposure.
This image was created down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake on 8 April 2025 on a BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field instructional session with Joe Norton. Crouching a bit and working off the tilted rear monitor, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 3200: 1/500 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 8:05:36am on a cloudy, overcast, sometimes drizzly morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #4: Sandhill Crane chick standing tall
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Hating Sitting on Wet Grass
To avoid sitting down on the wet grass and having to get back up off the ground again, I used the vertical tilt screen while holding the camera down at thigh levels. Note that as this is not the most stable of hand held shooting methods, I raised the shutter speed from 1/250 to 1/500 second to ensure a sharp result.
This image was created down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake on 8 April 2025 on a BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field instructional session with Joe Norton. Crouching a bit, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 3200: 1/640 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 8:32:33am on a cloudy, overcast, sometimes drizzly morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #5: Sandhill Crane chick with foot raised in a light drizzle
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Working Down the Slope
By making my way down the slope that leads to the South Canal, I am able to get at eye level with the crane chicks. As we have seen here previously on many occasions, the single raised foot is a huge plus.
This is a 100% crop of Image #5A.
Image #5A: Rain droplets on the head of the Sandhill Crane chick in the previous image
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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A 100% Crop
To me, the sharpness of the water droplets — AKA light rain — is wonderful. Especially since the wide open aperture of f/2.8 was used.
This image was created down by the lake near my home at Indian Lake on 8 April 2025 on a BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field instructional session with Joe Norton. Seated in the driver’s seat of my SUV (Joe was right behind me), I used the BLUBB-supported Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens with The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 2500: 1/800 sec. at f/4 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 8:53:43am on a cloudy, overcast, sometimes drizzly morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #6: Sandhill Crane colt about 7 weeks of age
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The Elusive Colt
This is the colt that survived for three weeks unseen by me. I was shocked two weeks ago when I saw it at the south end of the South Peninsula, looking fit and healthy. Joe and I got to photograph it out in the open for the first time since I relocated it. Anita was envious. It is one shy guy. Or gal.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
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 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.
Your Call
Which of today’s three featured extreme images is your favorite. Why did you make your choice? Which one do you consider the most extreme? Why?
In the Last Blog Post
In the last blog post, Totally Blessed in Many Ways and Loving Lifehere, I wrote: Which two of today’s 10 very excellent featured images do you think are the strongest? Why? Which is the weakest/most ordinary of the lot? My answers are crystal clean and will be shared with you on the next blog post.
First off, thanks to the many who left a comment. For me, the two strongest photos were Image #8: Roseate Spoonbill head and neck flight portrait, and Image #10: Great Egret wrestling with vine for nest. The former for the bird’s bright breeding colors, the uniqueness of a flight head shot (along with the accompanying difficulty), and the incredible sharpness; the latter for the dramatic white on blue color scheme (with a bit of greenery), the perfect head angle, and the interesting behavior. For me, the Wood Stork image as a close third. The weakest/most ordinary image was clearly #9, the GBH head portrait.
Thanks to the many who commented. The Great Egret shot was a crowd favorite. Strange that until Cliff Beittel’s late comment, nobody mentioned my pick of the litter, #8. Except for Milinda Nonis who singled out #8 and 8A as the weakest (in her option). Several folks were appreciative of Image #7, Roseate Spoonbill in flowers. Cliff, and Bob Eastman, both accomplished photographers, agreed with me on the Great Blue Heron head shot being the most boring 🙂 Anthony Ardito and David Policansky (Dr. Fish) agreed that they would have deleted Image #4, Roseate Spoonbill in flight with nesting material/body crop. I loved the creative, out of the box crop and that orange/copper tail.
What’s Up?
On Monday morning, I met Mishael Voisin for an In-the-Field session at Stick Marsh. A very sweet and fit young man, he was born in Trinidad, lives north of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, and has an extensive kit of Canon gear. As is usually the case, he needed lots of help — with exposure, wind direction and sky conditions, bird behavior, and sun angle. With a south wind — less than ideal for the spoonbills, we enjoyed a fair morning of bird photography but a stellar morning of bird photography education. He was hampered in part by the difficulty of zooming in an out with the Canon 100-500. I am unsure as to how such a clunker of a lens is so popular. Not to mention the absence of Zebra technology. Mishael signed up for brunch and an image review session and as you might have suspected, he wound up with several stellar images.
Midday on Monday, I did some more work on the revision of the Sony 300mm GM Lens Guide and then checked out of my AirBnB a day early and drove back to Indian Lake Estates. I was thrilled to learn that dear BAA friend, the irascible Bill Schneider, sold his used/like-new Sony a-1 for $3500.00 only days after it was listed.
Today is Tuesday 8 April 2025. I am meeting accomplished photographer Joe Norton for a morning Baby Crane In-the-Field session here at ILE. Early this afternoon, Anita North and I head up to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm for a four morning busman’s holiday. Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Indian Lake Estates BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field Sessions
I am currently available for morning BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field sessions on the following dates: April 13-17, 19-24, & 29-30. The first half of May should be ideal as well. Please e-mail for costs and additional information. Or, shoot me a text to 863-221-2372.
The Sony 400-800mm G Zoom Lens — Slow, a Bit on the Heavy Side: But With More Spectacular Results!
I did not think that I would like this lens — too heavy, too slow. Instead, I have fallen in love with it.
I learned three new things about Sony’s big zoom on Monday:
1- It is the first and, as far as I know, the only Sony G lens to offer a Direct Manual Focus (DMF) switch. This is a huge plus as it allows you to pre-focus manually with the AF switch set to AF. All GM super-telephotos have a DMF switch. The 200-600 G lens does not have a DMF switch.
2- Sony switched the design of the mounting holes on the new lens. It will take some research to come up with a suitable low foot. Note: the lower the foot, the better the performance of the lens on a tripod topped by a Levered-clamp FlexShooter Pro.
3- Optically, the 4-8 with the 1.4X TC is superb. At f/11, this is of course a very slow combination, but on sunny days, brilliant results can be achieved. Note that at 1/500 second, I needed ISO 2000 to come up with a perfect exposure, that despite the abundance of sunshine.
I’ve continued to use the new 4-8 more and more at Stick Marsh whenever the sun comes out. Working in Manual mode, I need to be at f/8 to avoid any exposure screw-ups. The high shutter speeds needed for flight and action find me working with ISOs ranging from 1600 to 2500 even in bright conditions. It goes without saying, however, that the relatively low maximum aperture of f/8 is a handicap in cloudy conditions. But the images are the payoff. Be sure to see Image #3 made at 1120mm! Hand held!
Huge thanks to Anita North, Larry Master, and Pamela Viale, who each used A BAA affiliate link to order their Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lenses. Pam is pairing her 4-8 with her 300mm f/2.8 (plus both TCs); that seems like a perfect marriage to me. Each of them and everyone else who uses either my B&H link or the BIRDSASART discount code at checkout with Bedfords to purchase their 400-800 will receive a free lens guide in approximately three weeks. If you are confused as to using the links, please e-mail for details.
Those who do not use a BAA affiliate link to purchase their 400-800s will be able to purchase the 400-800 lens guide by sending a PayPal for $101.43 to birdsasart@verizon.net. I am bringing my 400-800 to the Alligator Farm and will be using it on a tripod for the first time. For now, the Wimberley P-35 Plate is the best option.
Supporting My Efforts Here
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, are all set for gear, or live overseas, consider leaving a BAA Blog Thank You Gift here.
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, please consider using one of my affiliate links when purchasing new gear. It will never cost you a single penny. To support my effort here, please order from B&H by beginning your search here. Or, click here, to order from Bedfords and enter the discount code BIRDSASART at checkout to receive 3% cash back to your credit card and enjoy free Second-Day Air Fed-Ex shipping. It is always best to write for advice via e-mail.
Thanking me for the previous 4373 educational blog posts by using one of my two affiliate links could not be any easier and will not cost you one penny. Please shoot me your e-mail receipts for major purchases.
In many cases, I can help you save some serious dollars. And/or prevent you from purchasing the wrong gear from the wrong shop.
This image was created on 28 March 2025 on a Stick Marsh Extended IPT. Seated on a pillow atop a sturdy milk crate, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 1000: 1/125 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:15:19am with the sun behind a fog bank.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #1: Anhinga with small Largemouth Bass
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Extremely Slow Shutter Speed for a Swimming Bird
I was working on creating some pleasing blurs of incoming Roseate Spoonbills when I noticed an Anhinga to my right with a speared Largemouth Bass. I increased the shutter speed several times clicks and increased the ISO until I had some Zebras on the water. When I began reviewing my images, I was dismayed to note that I had only gotten to 1/125 second. 1/250 would have been much better. I was however, thrilled to see that I made one sharp image. Though the head angle of the bird is less than ideal the body angle of the fish was perfect! Sometimes it pays to be lucky. Remember that the best stabilization system in the world cannot correct for motion blur due to subject movement.
This image was created by Anita North on 7 April 2025 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Sitting on damp grass and working off the titled rear monitor, she used the hand held Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II lens (Sony E) (at 31mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 3200: 1/2000 sec. at f/3.2 (stopped down /3 stop) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:20:28am with the sun behind some clouds in the eastern sky.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #2: Sandhill Crane pair with two chicks
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025 Anita North
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An Extremely Wide Angle Bird-scape
Kudos to Anita for envisioning a wide angle image of a crane family. The birds are both trusting and curious. For this image, Anita sat down on the grass with her wide angle lens and waited for the family to feed their way to her. Such images are extremely challenging; she created several thousand photos with just a few keepers. Her best advice: You’ve got to trust your AF system.
This image was created on 7 April 2025 on a Stick Marsh In-the-Field session at Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter (at 1120mm!) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 2000: 1/500 second at f/11 (wide open!) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 7:29:05am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #3: Roseate Spoonbill preening
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Extremely Long Focal Length for Hand Holding
The incoming flight action ended rather early on Monday morning. There were several nice spoonbills standing on the jetty rocks preening so I figured, What the heck. And for the first time ever for me, I added the 1.4X TC and went to work. We usually do not recommend using f/11 wide open for bird photography, but in this case, it was the perfect set-up. I went with a borderline shutter speed of 1/500 second; most but not all of the images were more than sharp enough. This strategy opens up whole new worlds when working relatively static subjects with the 400-800 on sunny days.
This is an unsharpened 100% crop of Image #3
Image #3A: Roseate Spoonbill preening
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Extremely Sharp for Hand Held at 1120mm
Sony G lenses are not supposed to be as sharp as GM lenses. But for me, this 100% crop of an image made at 1120mm handheld looks mighty fine to me.
Yes, the new 400 -800 is relatively slow and relatively heavy, but it is a heck of a lot easier to hand hold than the 600mm f/4 and its versatility and zoom range are stunning.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
Which two of today’s 10 very excellent featured images do you think are the strongest? Why? Which is the weakest/most ordinary of the lot? My answers are crystal clean and will be shared with you on the next blog post.
Don’t Just Shoot: Learn
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 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.
This Just In!
It is 8:44am here in Florida. I just got back from the lakeshore. I am amazed to report that there are now nine very young Sandhill Cranes down by the lake at ILE. Those include a pair of five day old chicks, a pair of eight day old chicks, a pair of three week old chicks, a pair of small colts, and a single large colt. The latter is a bird that I was sure had perished as I did not see it for three full weeks in March.
I am presently available for morning BAA Baby Crane In-the-Field sessions on the following dates: April 13-17, 19-24, & 29-30. The first half of May should be ideal as well. Please e-mail for costs and additional information. Or, shoot me a text to 863-221-2372.
Totally Blessed in Many Ways and Loving Life
With my 79th birthday about five weeks away, I am thrilled to be doing more photography than ever before. Since 25 October 2024 — the day that Bob Eastman arrived, I have missed perhaps five morning photo sessions, and three of those were traveling to and from Homer, AK. My many blessings include the following:
1- Two loving, healthy daughters and their families.
2- Though I have a few of the expected aches and pains, I can still get up and down off the ground without killing myself.
3- I am strong enough to hand hold the 400-800 for extended shooting sessions.
4- I’ve been making many fabulous images on an almost daily basis.
5- I enjoy the image optimization process as much as I do being afield and creating new and exciting photographs. And viewing the final images full screen is the icing on the cake.
6- I have a large number of client/friends and the number of folks joining IPTs continues to increase.
7- I have zero financial worries.
8- I have two Sony a- ii bodies!
9- Great friends like Anita North, Bob Eastman, and too many more to name.
10- Having two great affiliate partners — B&H Photo & Izzy Flamm and Bedfords & Steve Elkins.
11- Some excellent bird photography at Indian Lake Estates when I am home — see This Just In immediately above for more on that topic!
Note: Bob headed back to Wisconsin by truck on 9 February 2025.
What’s Up?
The Family Affair Extended Stick Marsh IPT was a huge success. Though the spoonbill action at Stick Marsh slowed down just a bit, everyone enjoyed a ton of flight action for three consecutive mornings. And best of all, learning was rampant, not only in the field but during our extensive image review sessions at our Vero Lake Estates AirBnB.
Huge thanks to 81-year old multiple IPT veteran and dear friend Carolyn Johnson (CJ) for arranging the trip and allowing me to become part of her extended family for three wonderful days. To show my appreciation, I loaned CJ my 300mm f/2.8 GM lens for our final morning shoot. She fell in love instantly. That last morning session ended with a spectacular fly-in Great Egret that grabbed a long vine before leaving the scene.
We ended our Saturday morning session a bit early as the family, led by CJ, had a 3-hour drive to Crystal Springs, Florida and a 1:15pm reservation to swim with the manatees (Manatee Adventures). Next was a two hour drive back to an Orlando hotel for a short night’s rest. CJ, Marni, and Katie have a 6:00am Sunday morning flight back to California while Cousins Kate and Kim begin their drive back to Virginia.
That afternoon, I got lots of work done on revising the Sony 300mm GM Lens Guide and should be sending out the redone document within a week. Then I drove back to ILE for dinner and a swim and a night’s sleep in my own bed. There are now six crane chicks, the one very shy colt, and at least one tiny Killdeer chick.
Today is Sunday 6 April 2025 and I will be headed down to the lake quite early to see what’s up and about. Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
The Sony 400-800mm G Zoom Lens — Slow, a Bit on the Heavy Side: But With More Spectacular Results!
I’ve been using the new 4-8 more and more at Stick Marsh whenever the sun comes out. Working in Manual mode, I need to be at f/8 to avoid any exposure screw-ups. The high shutter speeds needed for flight and action find me working with ISOs ranging from 1600 to 2500 even in bright conditions. It goes without saying, however, that the relatively low maximum aperture of f/8 is a handicap in cloudy conditions. But the images are the payoff. The last eight of today’s ten images were created with the 4-8 and those include my two top picks.
Huge thanks to Anita North, Larry Master, and Pamela Viale who each used A BAA affiliate link to order their Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lenses. Pam is pairing her 4-8 with her 300mm f/2.8 (plus both TCs); that seems like a perfect marriage to me. Each of them and everyone else who uses either my B&H link or the BIRDSASART discount code at checkout with Bedfords to purchase their 400-800 will receive a free lens guide in approximately three weeks. If you are confused as to using the links, please e-mail for details.
Those who do not use a BAA affiliate link to purchase their 400-800s will be able to purchase the 400-800 lens guide for $101.43.
Supporting My Efforts Here
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, are all set for gear, or live overseas, consider leaving a BAA Blog Thank You Gift here.
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, please consider using one of my affiliate links when purchasing new gear. It will never cost you a single penny. To support my effort here, please order from B&H by beginning your search here. Or, click here, to order from Bedfords and enter the discount code BIRDSASART at checkout to receive 3% cash back to your credit card and enjoy free Second-Day Air Fed-Ex shipping. It is always best to write for advice via e-mail.
Thanking me for the previous 4373 educational blog posts by using one of my two affiliate links could not be any easier and will not cost you one penny. Please shoot me your e-mail receipts for major purchases.
In many cases, I can help you save some serious dollars. And/or prevent you from purchasing the wrong gear from the wrong shop.
This image was created at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge on 1 April 2025. Seated in the driver’s seat of my SUV, I leaned over the console and shot out the passenger side window with the door frame supported Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter, and the Latest, Greatest Sony Flagship body, the -a-1 ii Mirrorless Camera. ISO 2000. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel: 1/1000 second at f/5.6 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 8:34:39am on cloudy morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the high-res version.
Image #1: Green Heron adult on perch
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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One Good One
My goal at every photo session is to make one good one, one image that makes me happy. On my recent visit to Black Point Wildlife Drive at Merritt Island NWR, things were not looking good. We were in the perfect spot for sunrise but there were no birds in the pools. On our second trip around, I spotted this lovely Green Heron on a nice perch with a distant green background. I leaned far over the console and rested the lens hood on the passenger side door frame. I squared things up using the in camera level and chose a fast enough shutter speed to overcome my very awkward shooting position. One is way better than none.
This image was created on 2 April 2025 on the second Stick Marsh Extended IPT. Seated on a pillow atop a sturdy milk crate, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 800: 1/4000 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:44:56am just as the sun was breaking through the distant fog bank.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #2: Roseate Spoonbill dropping twig in flight
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Looking for Different I
With today’s amazing mirrorless camera bodies and lightweight intermediate telephoto and telephoto zoom lenses, even spectacular incoming flight shots of the spoonbills at Stick Marsh are becoming borderline blasé. I learned on my recent extended visit that when the birds take flight with nesting material — almost always away from us as they head for one of the two rookery islands to the northwest, they will occasionally drop the twig or vine they were carrying. As above, this can lead to some unusual and exciting poses. It pays therefore, to be aggressive when shooting the take-offs as you never know what to expect. I fanned on more than a few birds that dropped the nesting material and immediately made a U-turn and returned to land again.
This image was created on 2 April 2025 on an Extended Stick Marsh IPT at Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 800mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 2500: 1/3200 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 7:58:34am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #3: Wood Stork with nesting material
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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A First and a Beauty
I had never seen a Wood Stork fly into the spit next to the airboat ramp to gather nesting material. Until last Wednesday. If I had had the 300mm lens in my hands, I would have gotten some great incoming flight shots of the bird braking to land. But with the big zoom, I had some great opportunities for head shots as the bird adjusted its grip on the leafed branch.
This image was created on 2 April 2025 on an Extended Stick Marsh IPT at Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 400mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 2500: 1/4000 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 8:09:07am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #4: Roseate Spoonbill in flight with nesting material/body crop
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Looking for Different II
Even zoomed out to 400mm, the 400-800 was way too much lens for the take-off shot. As a result, I chopped off the poor bird’s head. I could not, however, resist the urge to find a crop that would showcase both the bird’s bright, copper-orange tail and the dried vegetation that it had collected for its nest.
This image was created on 3 April 2025 on an Extended Stick Marsh IPT at Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 800mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 1600: 1/4000 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 8:37:28am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #5: Roseate Spoonbill incoming flight/vertical original!
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Not for the Faint of Heart
Shooting vertical original flight shots with lenses as light as the 70-200mm f/2.8s is difficult enough. With the 5.45 pound 400-800, creating vertical originals is a huge challenge. A vertical grip would help, but I opt not to use one to save weight. The lens, however, is just light enough and manageable enough so that I had some really good chances late each morning.
Note: most vertical flight images are created from horizontal originals.
This image was created on 3 April 2025 on an Extended Stick Marsh IPT at Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 493mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 1250: 1/1600 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 9:08:34am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #6: Boat-tailed Grackle male ruffling
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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A Tough Exposure
I knew that I needed to add lots of light to reveal detail in the grackle’s dark iridescent feathers. The images that I made with lots of Zebras on the rock perch all went in the trash as the highlights were not recoverable. Those that I made with some Zebras on the rock perch were perfect. Teed up on the “pointy rock” this bird put on quite a show for several minutes.
This image was created on 4 April 2025 on an Extended Stick Marsh IPT at Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 450mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 2500: 1/3200 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 7:50:47 am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #7: Roseate Spoonbill in flowers
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Kudos to Anita North
We arrived at Fellsmere on 25 March on a rainy afternoon. Anita and Vasili Chernishof headed right to Stick Marsh for an exploratory visit. For the past few years, there was an expanse of black plastic mesh along the edge of the bank that ruined most images of birds on the ground. Anita attacked the mesh with a pair of very sharp clippers and after more than an hour of hard work, had eliminated all visible traces of it. More recently, she put on her waders and went into the water in the predawn with a rake and a pair of clippers. Covered by biting mosquitos, she cleaned up the background right behind the stand of flowers in Image #7. If you have been recently and made some nice images of spoonbills on the ground, you owe her a big thank you. Thus, I say, Thanks a stack, Anita.
This image was created on 4 April 2025 on an Extended Stick Marsh IPT at Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 800mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 2500: 1/3200 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 7:51:13am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #8: Roseate Spoonbill head and neck flight portrait!
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Flight Head Shots with the 400-800
I’ve tried images like this with the tripod mounted 600mm f/4, the 1.4X TC, and the a-1. I’ve made a few decent ones. But none nearly as good as Image #8. I struggle a bit with the framing of these tight shots with 400-800 at 800mm with the a-1 ii, but when I am able to get the bird’s head in the middle of the frame the AF performance is astounding.
This is an unsharpened 100% crop of Image #8.
Image #8A: Roseate Spoonbill head and neck flight portrait!
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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How Sharp are Sony G Lenses?
I am often asked how much sharper the Sony GM lenses like the 600mm f/4, the 400mm f/2.8, and the 300mm f/2.8 are than the far less expensive G lenses like the 200-600 and the 400-800. My answer: they are not any sharper.
This image was created on 4 April 2025 on an Extended Stick Marsh IPT at Fellsmere, FL. Standing at full height at The Point, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 750mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 1600: 1/4000 second at f/9 (stopped down 1/3-stop) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 8:42:22am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #9: Great Blue Heron head portrait with crest blowing
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Patience and Persistence Pay Off
With extreme care, I was able to approach this Great Blue Heron to within about 10 yards, more than close enough for some head shots. The problem was that the bird was looking slightly away from me for more than ten minutes. I made all kinds of squeaking noises in an attempt to have the bird turn its head toward me, but nothing worked. And the 400-800 is not a lens that you want to hold aloft for any length of time without a tripod or a monopod. Anyhoo, as another photographer came up behind me the bird finally gave me a decent head turn. The blowing crest is a plus.
This image was created on 5 April 2025 on an Extended Stick Marsh IPT at Fellsmere, FL. Standing at full height, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 800mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel. ISO 1250: 1/5000 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect. AWB at 8:25:07am on sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #10: Great Egret wrestling with vine for nest
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Another Rare Airboat Ramp Visitor
Though there are at least a dozen pairs of Great Egrets building nests at Stick Marsh, they only rarely come to the airboat ramp. As with Image #3, the Wood Stork head shot, I had way too much lens in my hands as this handsome bird flew in. But the 400-800, again at 800mm, opened up some unique opportunities. In any case, I made the most of the situation.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
Wednesday morning at Stick Marsh was mega-productive, one of the best mornings ever. I created 7000 images and kept 209 after the first edit. Thursday morning was the first for the Carolyn Johnson family group. We had a ton of incoming birds early; inexplicably, things slowed down by 8:15am despite the perfect conditions. Everyone is loving the AirBnB concept and my cooking! And everyone absolutely loved our lengthy image review sessions before and after dinner.
Today is Friday 4 April 2025, Day 2 for CJ, Marni, Katie, and Kate. Kudos to Kate’s sister Kim for her help as sous chef, assistant vine puller, and all the rest! It turns out that Kate and Kim are huge John Prine fans so we spent some time listening to a few of our favorites. They introduced me to the music of the Avett Brothers and I have been listening ever since. Whatever you opt to do, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Sony Alpha 1 (a-1) Mirrorless Camera Body
Used Gear Page regular, IPT veteran, and dear BAA friend Bill Schneider is offering a Sony a-1 (ILCE-1) mirrorless camera body (Firmware v1.32) in like-new condition for a ridiculously low $3,498.00. The sale includes the original product box and everything that came in it, and insured ground shipping via major courier to lower-48 US addresses only. As this was Bill’s back-up a-1, it was used only rarely.
Please contact Bill via e-mail or by phone at 1-262-269-8628 (Eastern time zone).
I used Sony a-1 bodies as my workhorse cameras for three years. They produce stunning 51MP files with vivid natural colors. The AF system is science-fiction-like. They are rugged and dependable and 30 frames per second is nothing to sneeze at. With a brand new a-1 ii going for $6498.00, you can save $3000.00 by grabbing Bill’s pretty much as good as new copy ASAP. Currently, B&H is offering a used a-1 in 9+ (like-new condition) for $4,507.95. That makes Bill’s a- an absolute steal. artie
BILD EXPO Presented by B&H
Why Attend? Speakers, Gear, Deals, and More!
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’s greatest creative community. B&H’s incredible show specials will be the icing on the cake! Whether you’re 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.
Click here or on the logo link above for more information.
To ensure that I get credit for your B&H purchases, you can always click here. The tracking is invisible but greatly appreciated. And, you can use your PayBoo card. You must use the website to order. You cannot get your free guides if you make a phone order. Once you have an item in your cart, you must complete the order within two hours. Huge thanks!
Bedfords Simplified
Click here to start your search. Choose standard shipping, and when you get to the payment page, enter BIRDSASART in the discount code box and hit apply. You will be upgraded to free second day air Fed-Ex and receive 3% cash back on your credit card once your stuff ships. Either is greatly appreciated by yours truly.
B&H
Many folks have written recently stating that they purchased a Sony a1 from B&H and would like their free membership in the Sony 1 Info and Updates Group, a $150.00 value. But when I check my affiliate account, their orders have not been there. When I let them know that they get credit for B&H purchases only if they use one of the many B&H affiliate links on the blog or begin their searches with this link, they are always disappointed. If in doubt, please contact me via e-mail and request a BH link. I am always glad to help and to guide you to the right gear.
Bedfords Amazing BAA Discount Policy
Folks who have fallen in love with Bedfords can now use the BIRDSASART coupon code at checkout to enjoy a post-purchase, 3% off-statement credit (excluding taxes and shipping charges) on orders paid with a credit card. The 3% credit will be refunded to the card you used for your purchase. Be sure, also, to check the box for free shipping to enjoy free Second Day Air Fed-Ex. This offer does not apply to purchases of Classes, Gift Cards, prior purchases.
Visit the Bedfords website here, shoot Steve Elkins an e-mail, or text him on his cell phone at (479) 381-2592.
Gear Questions and Advice
Too many folks attending BAA IPTs and dozens of photographers whom I see in the field and on BPN, 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.
This image was created by Kate Romero on 3 April 2025 on the first morning of the second 2025 Stick Marsh Extended IPT. Seated on a milk crate topped by a pillow ,she used the hand held Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS lens (at 441mm) and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless digital camera. ) The exposure was determined using Zebra technology with ISO on the Thumb Dial. ISO 2000. 1/2000 second at f/6.3 (wide-open) in Manual Mode. AWB at 7:37:17am on a sunny morning.
Tracking: Zone AF-C with Bird Face/Eye Detection performed perfectly. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #1: Roseate Spoonbill adult preening
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025: Kate Romero
Image Optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Kate Romero
Kate is Carolyn Johnson’s (CJ’s) first cousin once removed. She is a micro-biologist for Quest Diagnostics and lives in Warrenton, VA. Over the years she has done several photography trips with the family using some older Nikon dSLR gear. Thursday morning was her first time using Sony gear and her first time photographing birds in flight.
In short, Kate is a bird photography beginner.
This image was created by Katie Nagy on 3 April 2025 on the first morning of the second 2025 Stick Marsh Extended IPT. Seated on a milk crate topped by a pillow, she used the hand held Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter (at 280mm) and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless Digital Camera.. The exposure was determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Dial. ISO 1250: 1/60 sec. at f/5.6 (stopped down 1-stop in error) in Manual mode. AWB at 7:07:39am several minutes before the time of sunrise.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #2: Roseate Spoonbill Roseate Spoonbill — landing blur
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025: Katie Nagy
Image Optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Katie Nagy
Katie is CJ’s granddaughter. She is a senior at Trabuco Hills High School in Trabuco Canyon, CA. She has done a lot of photography on family trips with her I-phone. She borrowed her grandma’s Sony gear in Africa for “ten minutes” but liked her phone better. Thursday morning was her first ever bird photography experience and her first serious session using Sony gear.
In short, Katie is a bird photography beginner.
This image was created by Katie Nagy on 3 April 2025 on the first morning of the second 2025 Stick Marsh Extended IPT. Seated on a milk crate topped by a pillow, she used the hand held Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter (at 280mm) and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless Digital Camera.. The exposure was determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Dial. ISO 5000: 1/2000 sec. at f/5.6 (stopped down 1-stop in error) in Manual mode. AWB at 7:26:44am just before the sun hit the birds.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #3: — bird of the year braking to land
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025: Katie Nagy
Image Optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Luck of the Draw
Katie was using my 70-200 and CJ’s back-up a-1. Kate was using my 200-600 and my remaining a-1. The 200-600 is a lot of lens for someone who has never used a telephoto lens. Today, the girl’s will swap lenses.
This image was also created by Katie Nagy on 3 April 2025 on the first morning of the second 2025 Stick Marsh Extended IPT. Seated on a milk crate topped by a pillow she, used the hand held Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter (at 280mm) and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless Digital Camera.. The exposure was determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Dial. ISO 3200: 1/2000 sec. at f/5.6 (again stopped down 1-stop in error) in Manual mode. AWB at 7:30:46am on a sunny morning.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #4 Roseate Spoonbill — adult in flight with nesting material
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025: Katie Nagy
Image Optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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My Long-Held Premise
I have stated here often, If you put some Sony gear in the hands of a beginning bird photographer with an a-1 that is properly set up for bird photography and give them a modicum of instruction, they can begin start making quality images in the first five minutes. Q.E.D.
Q.E.D. is a Latin abbreviation, “quod erat demonstrandum,” used to signal the end of a logical proof.
With four photographers and lots of vines to take care of, I can assure you that both Kate and Katie received a bare minimum of instruction on Thursday morning.
We all began doing blurs in the low light of pre-dawn. At first I called out the exposure settings for them. Then I explained Zebra technology; both caught on instantly. When things brightened up, we switched to sharp. That was about it. After reviewing their images on Thursday afternoon, I will be in better position to help them on Friday morning. And I am 100% sure that they will both improve quite a bit tomorrow. Hard to believe, but true.
Apologies to Nikon and Canon folks: Sony is by far the easiest system to learn on. Provided that the camera body is set up properly. And bit of good instruction is at hand.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
Join me for one, two, or three mornings of Roseate Spoonbill photography on April 6, 7, and or 8. I have room for you at the Vero Lake Estates AirBnB from April 5, 6, and 7. Baby cranes at Indian Lake Estates would be do-able on the mornings of April 6 and 7. If interested, please contact me immediately e-mail or by text to 863-221-2372 for a price quote. Out of town folks might wish to arrange a flight to Melbourne (airport pick-up is possible). Riding with me is also possible.
Your Call
Which is the strongest of the five very excellent spoonbill images? Why did you make your choice?
What’s Up?
On Monday morning artie and the three ladies had a wonderful morning photographing the two baby cranes on the South Peninsula at ILE. On Tuesday morning we let the AirBnB at 5:15 and headed to Merritt Island NWR in Titusville in hopes of a glorious red sunrise like the one I shared with Jim Dolgin several years ago. Instead, we were fogged out. Once it got light we traversed Black Point Wildlife Drive twice and saw fewer birds than I’d ever seen in my previous three dozen trips. On our second time around, we had our best chance with a perched adult Green Heron. Other than that there was only a smattering of Snowy and Reddish Egrets, Great Blue and Little Blue Heron, along with a kingfisher and an Anhinga or two and a smattering of shorebirds.
Today is Wednesday 2 April 2025. We are headed back to Stick Marsh for the first group’s last shot at the spoonbills. Judy and Colleen head home this afternoon. It’s been great. Multiple IPT veteran Carolyn Johnson, her daughter Marni, her granddaughter Katie, and two cousins from Virginia will be getting to the AirBnb today at varying times and joining me for three mornings of spoonbill photography. Whatever you opt to do, I hope that you too choose to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Used Induro GIT 505 XL Tripod Bargain
Price reduced $50.00 on 2 April 2025
Your truly, Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART, is offering a rarely used Induro Stealth GIT 505XXL in like new condition for $475 (was $525.00). This is the monster of all tripods. It offers maximum strength and rigidity and can support 88.2 pounds of gear with ease. It stands 81.3″ tall with the legs fully extended. It is perfect for folks desiring maximum stability in windy conditions, those working from a fixed position with very slow shutter speeds, and in situations where you need to ge very tall such as when working a tree nest possibly while standing on a ladder. This is not a tripod that you want to be carrying around in the field unless you are Superman. The sale includes only the legs and insured ground shipping to your lower 48 address. Please contact artie via e-mail. I could not find a single one for sale anywhere in the world. I paid B&H $802.50 for it when purchased new in 2021.
Sony Alpha 1 (a-1) Mirrorless Camera Body
Used Gear Page regular, IPT veteran, and dear BAA friend Bill Schneider is offering a Sony a-1 (ILCE-1) mirrorless camera body (Firmware v1.32) in like-new condition for a ridiculously low $3,498.00. The sale includes the original product box and everything that came in it, and insured ground shipping via major courier to lower-48 US addresses only. As this was Bill’s back-up a-1, it was used only rarely.
Please contact Bill via e-mail or by phone at 1-262-269-8628 (Eastern time zone).
I used Sony a-1 bodies as my workhorse cameras for three years. They produce stunning 51MP files with vivid natural colors. The AF system is science-fiction-like. They are rugged and dependable and 30 frames per second is nothing to sneeze at. With a brand new a-1 ii going for $6498.00, you can save $3000.00 by grabbing Bill’s pretty much as good as new copy ASAP. Currently, B&H is offering a used a-1 in 9+ (like-new condition) for $4,507.95. That makes Bill’s a- an absolute steal. artie
This image was created on 28 March 2025 on the 2025 Stick March Extended IPT by multiple IPT veteran Vasili Chernishof. Seated on a pillow on a jetty rock, he used the hand held Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens with the Canon Extender RF 1.4x (at 280mm) and the remarkable Canon EOS R1 Mirrorless Camera. ISO 8000: 1/2500 sec at f/4 (wide open) in Manual mode. AWB at 7:27:6am on a cloudy morning.
Image #1: Roseate Spoonbill touching down
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025: Vasili Chernishof
Image Optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Touch Down!
Kudos to Vasili for nailing this spoonbill just as it was about to land. I love the soft light, the swept back wings, the feet just touching the rocks, and the rocks themselves. Kudos also for zooming out to 280mm to ensure getting the whole bird in the frame.
Vasili’s Mistake
Vasili should have listened to his teacher. I told him to leave the 1.4X TC off for early morning/low light flight photography. Had he listened, he could have been at 280mm at f/4 at ISO 4000 or, even better, at 280mm at f/2.8 at ISO 2000. That said, the image is quite lovely. Note that there would have been pretty much no difference in the depth of field at f/2.8 as compared to f/4.
This image was created on 29 March on the 2025 Stick March Extended IPT. Seated on a pillow atop a sturdy plastic milk crate, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 1250. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/2000 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:34:32am on a partly cloudy morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #2: Roseate Spoonbill turning in flight
Image 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Always Go For The Higher Bird!
There are often two or three or four incoming spoonbills at a given moment. My advice is that folks always pick the higher bird. Why? It is always easy to determine the flight path of the typically low-flying spoonbills. On the other hand, birds approached the tiny spit of land that are 20 40 feet in the air are far more likely to twist and turn in flight as they make their final approach. Like the bird in Image #2.
My Mistake
I absolutely should have been at 1/3200 second at ISO 2000. The result of this error was a bit of motion blur on the spoonbills head.
This image was created on 29 March by Anita North on the 2025 Stick March Extended IPT. Lying in the grass on her back, she used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 1250. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel; 1/400 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:16:39am on a partly cloudy morning.
Tracking Zone/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #3: Roseate Spoonbill with vine for nest
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025 Anita North
Image optimization by Anita North
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Lying on Her Back?
Yes, Anita North often lies flat on her back on the ground with here feet pointed toward the subject to create stunning low-perspective images. She often winds up covered with bug bites and her technique would not work for most folks as it requires great core strength and bending your neck awkwardly to get your eye to the viewfinder. But the super-low perspectives are a great way to reduce clutter and produce intimate portraits of birds and animals. The strand of vine and the perfect head angle here make for a superb image.
This image was created by Judy Stepenaskie on 30 March on the 2025 Stick March Extended IPT. Seated on a pillow atop a sturdy plastic milk crate, she used the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z Lens (Black, Canon RF) with the Canon Extender RF 1.4x and the impressive Canon EOS R6 Mark II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined using the in viewfinder histogram and confirmed after evaluation of blinkies on the JPEG. AWB at 8:04:06m on a cloudy morning. ISO 2000: 1/3200 sec. at f/4.
Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #4: Roseate Spoonbill taking flight
Image Courtesy of and Copyright 2025: Judy Stepenaskie
Image Optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
Bingo!
Both Judy and the r6 ii did a fine job that led to this lovely image of a spoonbill taking flight. that without pre-capture! Way to go Judy.
No mistakes with this one.
This image was created by Colleen O’Connor on 30 March on the 2025 Stick March Extended IPT. Seated on a pillow atop a sturdy plastic milk crate, she used the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z Lens (White, Canon RF) with the Canon Extender RF 1.4x and the Canon EOS R5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined using the in viewfinder histogram and confirmed after evaluation of blinkies on the JPEG. AWB at 7:57:04am on a cloudy morning. ISO 1250: 1/2000 sec. at f/4.
Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #5: Roseate Spoonbill landing
Image Courtesy of and Copyright 2025: Colleen O’Connor
Image Optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
Nailed by the R5 ii
Kudos to Colleen who arrived in San Diego last January without a clue. She has worked hard to master the basics of bird photography in a relatively short time.
Colleen’s Error
Colleen made the exact same mistake with this image that I made with Image #3; she should have been at 1/3200 sec. at ISO 2000 in the low light.
Be sure to click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #6: California Sea Lions in breaking wave — one jumping
Image Courtesy of and Copyright 2025: Colleen O’Connor
Image Optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
Why Not Spoonbills?
Colleen made this amazing image on the San Diego IPT this past January. As she did not stay with the group in the AirBnB, I did not get to see or optimize it before doing the blog post that featured images from the rest of the group. I was 100% sure that I had run it on the blog but was 100% wrong so I decided to add it to today’s post. With apologies.
Photographing the jumping sea lions is a huge challenge as you never know when one will jump. Getting the right exposure is a huge challenge as one second you might have a sea lion — a dark subject, in the dark face of a breaking wave and an instant later have the same animal in the bright white of a breaking wave. I suggested to the group that they try Shutter Priority mode with AUTO ISO with the Exposure Compensation (EC) set to +2/3 stop noting that it would be the best option in an almost impossible exposure situation. Colleen listened to my advice and nailed the shot.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
This image was created on 22 February on a 2025 Homer Bald Eagle IPT by my friend Steve Shore. He used the handheld Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter (at 207mm) and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless Digital Camera.. The exposure was determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Dial. ISO 64: 1/20 sec. at f/5.6 (stopped down one stop) in Manual mode. AWB at 1:26:05pm on a cloudy afternoon.
Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #1: Bald Eagle striking blur
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025: Steven B. Shore
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An Unsolicited e-Mail from Multiple IPT Veteran Steve Shore
Hi Artie,
In the past year, I’ve had the pleasure of spending five weeks with you photographing at four different locations: Fort DeSoto, Jacksonville, Sebastian Inlet, and Homer, Alaska. The growth in the quality of my images in the past year has been extraordinary and I owe it to you. When I wanted to upgrade to a mirrorless camera system, you loaned me some of your Sony gear to try before I made any purchases. While making pictures, you constantly provided guidance on how to improve the photographs and better understand the camera’s functionality. Each evening, you conducted image review and Photoshop sessions that have contributed greatly to my growth as a nature photographer. The recent trip to Homer to photograph Bald Eagles was an unforgettable adventure particularly because of the constant energy you put into ensuring that our photography improved each day. I wanted you to know this, and I look forward to our future adventures.
Steve S., Dallas, TX
Thanks Steve!
Thanks Steve! I began my day by receiving your lovely note. Please give a hug to Elisabeth for me. You did a great job with the pleasingly blurred eagle image above. Getting a sharp eye at 1/20 second is not easy! And thanks for being open to trying new techniques and working hard to get better and better.
with love, artie
What’s Up?
The wind and sky conditions have continued to be excellent in the mornings at Stick Marsh. We said goodbye to multiple IPT veteran Vasiili Chernisfhof on Sunday afternoon as he left for his flights to LAX. He said, “This trip was even more amazing than I had expected it to be and by staying close to you, I continue to learn more and more.” By being more selective Vasili has gone from creating 40-50,000 images a day to creating 20-25,000. He is still taking far too many bad ones “just to practice,” but his good ones are getting better and better.
The work of both multiple IPT veterans Judy Stepenaskie and Colleen O’Connor is improving daily. And Anita North continues to make great images every single day. On Sunday evening, we did a long image review session and then created a Camtasia image optimization video as I proceessed one image from each of the ladies.
Today is Monday 31 March 2025. The three aforementioned ladies and I will be headed to Indian Lake Estates to check on and photograph the four baby cranes and possibly the single colt at the end of the South Peninsula. The latter bird surprised me by showing up after I had not seen it for three weeks. I presumed that it had perished. Only about half the crane chicks that hatch survive to fledging. Whatever you opt to do, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Sony Alpha 1 (a-1) Mirrorless Camera Body
Used Gear Page regular, IPT veteran, and dear BAA friend Bill Schneider is offering a Sony a-1 (ILCE-1) mirrorless camera body (Firmware v1.32) in like-new condition for a ridiculously low $3,498.00. The sale includes the original product box and everything that came in it, and insured ground shipping via major courier to lower-48 US addresses only. As this was Bill’s back-up a-1, it was used only rarely.
Please contact Bill via e-mail or by phone at 1-262-269-8628 (Eastern time zone).
I used Sony a-1 bodies as my workhorse cameras for three years. They produce stunning 51MP files with vivid natural colors. The AF system is science-fiction-like. They are rugged and dependable and 30 frames per second is nothing to sneeze at. With a brand new a-1 ii going for $6498.00, you can save $3000.00 by grabbing Bill’s pretty much as good as new copy ASAP. Currently, B&H is offering a used a-1 in 9+ (like-new condition) for $4,507.95. That makes Bill’s a- an absolute steal. artie
Be sure to click on the image to see the larger high-res version.
Image #2: Fastball hitting catcher’s mitt
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025: Bruce Dudek
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Via e-Mail from Bruce Dudek
Hello Artie:
It has been a cold/wet/raw spring here in upstate NY. But with college baseball starting up, true spring can’t be far off (and I’ll soon get back to photographing birds). I recall your baseball history and affinity, so I thought you might enjoy this photo.
Bruce
My Reply
Wow That is a great image. I love it. Talk about throwing smoke! Thanks for thinking of me.
artie
Throwing Smoke!
I last saw Bruce in Iceland in July 2023. I talked with him on the phone for a bit on Sunday afternoon. I asked him about the dirt in the image. He told me that he had noticed that the catcher had been using his open mitt to balance himself between pitches and that when a fastball hit the mitt, the flying dirt looked like brown smoke. While seated on dirt along the first base line, he used a lowered monopod topped by the Wimberley MH-00 MonoGimbal Head. Today’s featured image is a relatively large crop. You can see more of Bruce’s fine wildlife, scenic, and sports photography here on Flickr. Bruce is a Professor of Psychology and an Adjunct Professor of Biology at The University at Albany. He photographs college sports for the athletics department.
The Photographic Process
It does not matter what you photograph. The process is the same:
1- See the shot that excites you.
2- Pick the gear that will get the job done.
3- Plan the execution: perspective, shutter speed, and exposure.
4- Create a series of images and select the best one.
5- Crop and process the photo.
Thanks to Bruce for sharing the image with me via e-mail and allowing me to publish it here on the blog.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
Which two of today’s seven featured images are you favorites? Please be so kind as to let us know why you made your choices.
What’s Up?
We’ve had two straight excellent mornings with the spoonbills on the Extended Stick Marsh IPT. On Friday, San Diego IPT veteran Colleen (Irish Lass) O’Connor joined multiple IPT vets Judy Stepenaskie, Vasili Chernishof, Anita North and me for a great morning session. I continued to experiment with the new Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens, learned a lot more, and made some very fine images.
I was glad to learn that Used Gear Page veteran Robert Hollyer sold his Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens in Like-New condition for a BAA record low $8998.00! (was $9,998.00) I late March. BAA friend Kevin Hice purchased my last used Induro GIT 304 L by phone on Friday.
Today is Saturday 29 March 2025. The five of us will be up early to head over to Indian Lake Estates to check on the baby Sandhill Cranes and lots more. Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
The Sony 400-800mm G Zoom Lens — Slow, a Bit on the Heavy Side: But With Spectacular Results!
I used the new 4-8 a good deal on both of our Stick Marsh mornings. After a while, I felt the weight. Sitting on a milk crate allowed me to support my left forearm and the weight of the lens in a rest position. Working in Manual mode, I needed to be at f/8 to avoid any exposure screw-ups. As there was a lot more sun on Thursday, I found the lens a lot more useful for flight than on Friday when we had some early clouds come in. It goes without saying, however, that the relatively low maximum aperture of f/8 is a handicap in cloudy conditions. But the images are the payoff.
Huge thanks to Anita North, Larry Master, and Pamela Viale who each used A BAA affiliate link to order their Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lenses. Pam is pairing her 4-8 with her 300mm f/2.8 (plus both TCs); that seems like a perfect marriage to me. Each and them and everyone else who uses either my B&H link or the BIRDSASART discount code at checkout with Bedfords to purchase their 400-800, will receive a free lens guide in approximately three weeks. If you are confused as to using the links, please e-mail for details.
Those who do not use a BAA affiliate link to purchase their 400-800s will be able to purchase the 400-800 lens guide for $101.43.
Supporting My Efforts Here
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, are all set for gear, or live overseas, consider leaving a BAA Blog Thank You Gift here.
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, please consider using one of my affiliate links when purchasing new gear. It will never cost you a single penny. To support my effort here, please order from B&H by beginning your search here. Or, click here, to order from Bedfords and enter the discount code BIRDSASART at checkout to receive 3% cash back to your credit card and enjoy free Second-Day Air Fed-Ex shipping. It is always best to write for advice via e-mail.
Thanking me for the previous 4395 educational blog posts by using one of my two affiliate links could not be any easier and will not cost you one penny. Please shoot me your e-mail receipts for major purchases.
In many cases, I can help you save some serious dollars. And/or prevent you from purchasing the wrong gear from the wrong shop.
This image was created on 26 March 2025 at Stick Marsh, Fellsmere, FL. Crouching, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) at 800mm and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with exposure compensation (EC) on the thumb dial. Multi-metering +2.3 stops. AUTO ISO set ISO 20,000 (yes, 20,000 is not a typo): 1/200 sec. at f/8 (wide open) in Shutter Priority mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was about one stop under. AWB at 7:47:11pm right about the time of sunset.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #1: Anhinga calling
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Pushing The Envelope
The relatively slow 400-800 lens was not a great choice for this shot. But I was experimenting with my new toy so I made the best of things. Note the ISO of 20,000! With the EC at +2.3 stops, this image was almost a stop too dark. I had hoped the 1/200 sec. shutter speed would yield a fairly sharp face while blurring the flapping wings. As expected, very few of the photos in the 35-frame sequence were sharp.
This image was created on 27 March 2025 at Stick Marsh, Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 418mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 2500: 1/2500 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 7:52:12am on sunny morning.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #2: Roseate Spoonbill braking to land in early morning light
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Unexpectedly, the Sony 400-800 Does Stick Marsh
When I was exploring the possibility of getting a 400-800 loaner from Sony, I did not envision using it much at Stick Marsh because the 300mm f/2.8 is perfect for the incoming flight. But on my first morning there, I grabbed the big zoom when the sun came out. The first thing that I learned was that by zooming out to the short end, it was pretty good for incoming flight (Image #2). That should not have surprised me because I had used the 400mm f/2.8 GM lens in that same exact situation and done quite well. But the long end of the zoom range enable me to create some new and different stuff. As below.
This image was created on 27 March 2025 at Stick Marsh, Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 800) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 1600: 1/3200 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 8:18:47am on 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.
Image #3: Roseate Spoonbill in flight — landing head shot!
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Sorry, But This One is Amazing
Yes, this bird is actually in flight and coming in for a landing. I’ve made a few successful flight head shots with the tripod-mounted 600mm lens and the 1.4X TC but framing such images is a huge challenge. Being able to hand hold the smaller, somewhat lighter 400-800 at 800mm makes framing a lot easier. Not easy for sure, but ea-si-er.
This image was also created on 27 March 2025 at Stick Marsh, Fellsmere, FL. Seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 800) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 1600: 1/3200 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 8:18:47am on 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.
Image #4: Roseate Spoonbill flat 747-like flight
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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The 747 Look
As you have seen in several recent blog posts, I love flat flight shots with the bird flying directly at me with both eyes visible, the 747 look. Being able to go from 418mm (Image #1) to 800mm with a simple twist of the wrist quarter turn of the zoom ring is a boon to the tremendous versatility of the Sony 400-800 G lens.
This image was also created on 28 March 2025 at Stick Marsh, Fellsmere, FL. Seated again on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 800) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 3200: 1/250 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 7:26:03am on cloudy morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #5: Roseate Spoonbill adult preening tail with chin — body shot
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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He Who Hesitates Can Be Saved By Photoshop
This bird was standing behind a rock preening. Thus, the somewhat odd body-crop (as I could not see the feet anyway). I tried some horizontals and some verticals. The best tack in such situations is often to zoom out and crop as needed. But I was greedy for pixels on the subject. The optimized version above was created from a vertical original in which I cut off fold of the wing. So, I expanded canvas and borrowed the wing of the same bird from a previous frame.
This image was also created on 28 March 2025 at Stick Marsh, Fellsmere, FL. Still seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 450mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 3200: 1/320 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 7:26:57am on cloudy morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #6: Roseate Spoonbill adult stepping to the next rock
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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High Stepping
When photographing birds, a raised foot can elevate an image from ordinary to special.
This image was also created on 28 March 2025 at Stick Marsh, Fellsmere, FL. Still seated on a sturdy plastic milk crate topped with an old pillow, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) (at 800mm) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 3200: 1/500 second at f/8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was perfect. AWB at 7:31:19am on cloudy morning.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #7: Roseate Spoonbill adult boxy crop
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Grass Framed
With yet another 800mm image — I absolutely love the reach at the long end of the 400-800 and the out-of-focus green vegetation on each side of the bottom of the frame is a nice touch.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
In the last blog post, Head Hunting w/the Hand Hold-able Sony 600mm f/5.6,here, I originally liked Image #1 best because of the diagonal placement of the bill. But over time, however, Image #2 grew on me and wound up being my first pick as I loved the wider crop, the view of the primaries, and the great look at the tertial feathers.
The Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens
From Sony and from artie
The farthest reaching Sony E-mount lens yet, the FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens from Sony is a super-telephoto powerhouse lens that’s primed to be the dominant choice for capturing wildlife, nature, and sports. With this addition to the G Series, Sony continues to blur the lines between G and GM lenses, offering its users exceptional quality at a reduced cost. This lens features internal zoom for improved functionality as well as dual linear motors for smooth, quick AF performance. Optical SteadyShot stabilization includes three distinct modes, along with a focus limiter and three focus hold buttons for advanced control. For increased lens stability and sharper imagery, a fixed, rotating tripod foot is included on the lens. Sony.
The lens is very sharp as expected. The internal zoom mechanism is superb as it is on the 200-600 — a mere quarter turn of the zoom ring gets you quickly from 400 to 800mm. At $2,898.00 it is priced quite attractively. The big consideration, as it is with all mirrorless telephoto zoom lenses from each of the three major camera system manufacturers, is the lack of speed — f/8 wide open at 800mm presents some challenges. artie
Unprecedented Range
Not only is this the first Alpha zoom to reach 800mm, but its compatibility with 1.4x and 2x teleconverters extends the maximum focal length to 1120mm and 1600mm respectively, making this an elite choice for birding and wildlife as you’ll be able to keep a safe distance from your subjects. Complementing its impressive reach is a zoom ring that offers smooth, precise rotation that is made to help prevent accidental focal length changes. Sony.
With the previously noted f/8 aperture wide open at 800mm, the last thing most folks would want to do is add a light-robbing teleconverter. Working on a tripod in bright light on a sunny day with the 1.4X TC, however, will surely produce some sharp images as the quality of the optics is impeccable. artie
Prioritizing Functionality & Usability
Poised to outshine Sony’s FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS, this super-telephoto provides longer range and better overall lens performance while weighing just slightly more at 5.45 lbs. Featuring a short rotational throw, this lens allows you to make swift focal adjustments while capturing.
This zoom accepts screw-in filters on the front lens element, expanding your ability to create in various lighting conditions.
Multiple function switches are built into the lens barrel that allow you to make rapid settings adjustments, including a switch for AF/MF, OSS, and focus limiting. Sony.
The 200-600 will continue to be a valuable tool both for folks who use it as an auxiliary telephoto zoom lens or for those who use it as their workhorse telephoto lens. At 4.65 lbs., the 2-6 is 12.8 ounces lighter than the 4-8. With its easily removable lens foot, the 2-6 is several ounces lighter than that. The lens foot of the 4-8 is not easily removable.
That brings us to hand-hold-abilty. With it smaller size and weighing nearly a pound less, it would seem that more folks would be comfortable hand holding the 2-6 for extended shooting sessions than they would doing the same with the 400-800. But with the weight of the beautifully designed 4-8 well to the rear of the lens, I have barely noticed a difference. That said, most folks would find the 2-6 more suitable for flight photography than the 400-800. The exception would be stronger folks working relatively distant subjects on sunny days. In general, if the birds are within range, a smaller, faster, lighter lens is always to be preferred to a larger, slower, heavier lens. For folks moving up to a super-telephoto lens for the first, or those doing an African safari, the 400-800 would make a great and affordable workhorse lens. Anita North tried mine on Tuesday afternoon and ordered one from Bedfords on Wednesday.
artie
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strong>Cutting-Edge Optical Design
Six ED lens elements significantly reduce flare and ghosting in backlit conditions and help control chromatic aberration in images. An 11-blade circular diaphragm produces smooth and rich bokeh, ensuring effective subject isolation and blurred background when capturing with a narrow depth of field. A complex optical configuration of 27 elements in 19 groups allows the lens to reproduce fine details and create high-contrast images. Sony.
As expected, the lens is sharp. And with distant backgrounds, the bokeh is lovely as expected. The relative distance from the subject to the background is far more important than either the size of the aperture or the bokeh of the lens.
Built to Last
Equipped with a dust- and moisture-resistant design, the FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS maximizes reliability in the field, regardless of inclement weather conditions. The front lens element features a fluorine coating that repels water and oil. This coating also makes the lens glass easier to clean.
A robust lens hood with a lock button adds significant protection and features a filter opening for quick and convenient filter adjustment. Sony.
I have never had a problem with light rain or dust with any of my Sony telephoto lenses.
High-Level Stabilization & Control
A 400-800mm zoom range demands exceptional lens stability, which is provided by Sony’s Optical SteadyShot image-stabilization system. OSS utilizes a gimbal mechanism and an algorithm to effectively counteract camera shake by shifting the entire lens unit and sensor. When using a tripod, the lens’s fixed mount foot can be easily rotated for horizontal or vertical capturing. Located around the lens barrel at 90° increments are three focus hold buttons, allowing maximum access in any orientation. These buttons can also be assigned to your preferred functions for making specific settings changes more quickly. Sony.
Some folks will need to use this lens on a tripod at all times because of its size and weight. Unfortunately, the manufacturer of the 4th GD CRX-5 replacement foot seems to have disappeared from the face of the earth. I will be exploring other low foot options. Anyhoo, as far as I know and understand, it is not the lens’s fixed mount foot that is rotated (as noted above); it is the lens barrel that rotates within the built in tripod collar to go from horizontal to vertical and vice versa.
The OSS (Optical Stabilization System of the lens with the a-1 ii is superb as expected.
During the last few years of my four-decade-plus-long career, I have been doing more and more of my work hand held. There is no way around it, tripods are cumbersome. After two days of working with the 400-800, I am thrilled to report that I find it eminently hand hold-able. Thanks a stack again to Sony Imaging Pro Support for arranging the loan.
What’s Up?
Thanks to the generosity of Sony Imaging Pro support especially Kishore Sawh, I got a chance to play with the new Sony 400-800mm G lens for the first time on Tuesday past. As with the a-1 ii, the specs on paper did not seem anything to get too excited over. But as with the new camera body, using it has been quite rewarding. All five of today’s featured images were created with the new lens the first morning that I used it. I learned a lot and made some very good images. it is incredibly versatile and hand holding it was much easier than I expected as it is so nicely balanced with all the weight in the rear. Learn more about the 400-800 below and check out the images. Those who use either my B&H link or the BIRDSASART discount code at checkout with Bedfords to purchase their 400-800 will receive a free lens guide in approximately three weeks. If you are confused, please e-mail for details.
Though we photographed zero spoonbills on the first day of the Extended Stick Marsh IPT, we had a fabulous morning. With a gentle wind from the NW in the forecast, we opted, on the advice of the leader — yours truly, to drive over to Indian Lake Estates. If I do say so myself, it turned out to be a brilliant move. Not only did we get to photograph both crane families each with two chicks, but we also had Red-shouldered Hawk and Turkey Vulture perched nicely, a juvie Little Blue Heron, a perched adult Bald Eagle, a perched Osprey, a fly-by one year old Bald Eagle, and some gorgeous adult Sandhill Cranes including a reddish-toned bird and another dressed feathered in gold.
I committed a grievous error by failing to replace a 49% battery when we began. We were on the two smallest chicks when the male flew to the north to scrap with another pair. Anita ran down to the far end of the field to try for the fight that she had missed the morning before. Judy Stepenskie and Vasilli Chernishoff, both multiple IPT veterans opted to stay with the chicks that stood motionless between the mother cranes legs. The father crane chased the intruding pair into the air and they flew toward us over the lake. I called out “flight shots coming our way. Set a fast shutter speed. After a burst of 20 images, I was aghast to see “battery exhausted.” I had neglected to put on my battery pack and did not have an extra battery in my packet as I usually do. Then to my horror the father crane flew directly at his family. Despite having the perfect settings for incoming flight, I stood there dead in the water with the perfect lens in my hand, the 400-800. When Anita saw the bird fly directly at me she could not understand why I never raised my lens. A dead battery will do you in every time.
My second a-1 ii today arrived on Wednesday and will take its maiden voyage in the morning. Jim headed home early on Wednesday so if you need to place an order by phone, please call him on Monday at 863-692-0906.
Today is Thursday 26 March 2025 and we will be early headed to Stick Marsh with a perfect forecast. Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Supporting My Efforts Here
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, are all set for gear, or live overseas, consider leaving a BAA Blog Thank You Gift here.
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, please consider using one of my affiliate links when purchasing new gear. It will never cost you a single penny. To support my effort here, please order from B&H by beginning your search here. Or, click here, to order from Bedfords and enter the discount code BIRDSASART at checkout to receive 3% cash back to your credit card and enjoy free Second-Day Air Fed-Ex shipping. It is always best to write for advice via e-mail.
Thanking me for the previous 4395 educational blog posts by using one of my two affiliate links could not be any easier and will not cost you one penny. Please shoot me your e-mail receipts for major purchases.
In many cases, I can help you save some serious dollars. And/or prevent you from purchasing the wrong gear from the wrong shop.
B&H Simplified
To ensure that I get credit for your B&H purchases, you can always click here. The tracking is invisible but greatly appreciated. And, you can use your PayBoo card. You must use the website to order. You cannot get your free guides if you make a phone order. Once you have an item in your cart, you must complete the order within two hours. Huge thanks!
Bedfords Simplified
Click here to start your search. Choose standard shipping, and when you get to the payment page, enter BIRDSASART in the discount code box and hit apply. You will be upgraded to free second day air Fed-Ex and receive 3% cash back on your credit card once your stuff ships. Either is greatly appreciated by yours truly.
B&H
Many folks have written recently stating that they purchased a Sony a1 from B&H and would like their free membership in the Sony 1 Info and Updates Group, a $150.00 value. But when I check my affiliate account, their orders have not been there. When I let them know that they get credit for B&H purchases only if they use one of the many B&H affiliate links on the blog or begin their searches with this link, they are always disappointed. If in doubt, please contact me via e-mail and request a BH link. I am always glad to help and to guide you to the right gear.
Bedfords Amazing BAA Discount Policy
Folks who have fallen in love with Bedfords can now use the BIRDSASART coupon code at checkout to enjoy a post-purchase, 3% off-statement credit (excluding taxes and shipping charges) on orders paid with a credit card. The 3% credit will be refunded to the card you used for your purchase. Be sure, also, to check the box for free shipping to enjoy free Second Day Air Fed-Ex. This offer does not apply to purchases of Classes, Gift Cards, prior purchases.
Visit the Bedfords website here, shoot Steve Elkins an e-mail, or text him on his cell phone at (479) 381-2592.
Gear Questions and Advice
Too many folks attending BAA IPTs and dozens of photographers whom I see in the field and on BPN, 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.
This image was also created on 25 March 2025 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Seated in the driver’s seat of my SUV I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) at 760mm and the The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with exposure compensation (EC) on the thumb dial. Multi-metering +2.7 stops. AUTO ISO set ISO 6400; 1/400 sec. at f/8 (wide open) in Shutter Priority mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead-solid perfect. AWB at : 7:46:37 am on a cloudy morning.
Tracking: Spot XS/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #1: Boat-tailed Grackle displaying males
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Hello High ISOs
I really pushed the shutter speed when creating the image above. I would have been far more comfortable working at 1/1000 second than at 1/400th. But I got really lucky with two sharp, open eyes in Image #1. But with the f/8 wide open aperture I was reluctant to go beyond ISO 6400. With my double-noise reduction technique, I no longer worry about high ISOs. For INFO on that, see Digital Basics II and the Digital Basics III Video series.
This image was also created on 25 March 2025 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Crouched while standing on a slope alongside the South Canal, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) at 715mm and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with exposure compensation (EC) on the thumb dial. Multi-metering +0.7 stops. AUTO ISO set ISO 3200; 1/800 sec. at f/8 (wide open) in Shutter Priority mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead-solid perfect. AWB at 8:17:00 am on a partly sunny morning.
Tracking: Spot XS/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #2: Sandhill Crane 4-day old chick with flower crown
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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400-800 Minimum Focusing Distances (MFDs)
The new super-telephoto zoom lens focuses down to an impressive 5.6 feet at the short end and to 11.5 feet at 800mm. The latter is somewhat disappointing as compared to the 200-600 — 7.87 feet at 600mm. Note that the 600mm f/4 GM lens focus only down to 14.8 feet so either of the telephoto zooms offer a lot more magnification than the much faster big gun.
For Image #2, I was surely very close to the MFD.
This image was also created on 25 March 2025 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Standing on a slope alongside the South Canal, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) at 486mm and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with exposure compensation (EC) on the thumb dial. Multi-metering +1.7 stops. AUTO ISO set ISO 3200; 1/1000 sec. at f/7.1 (wide open) in Shutter Priority mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead-solid perfect. AWB at 8:22:56am on a mostly sunny morning.
Wide /AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #3: Sandhill Crane adult walking on the South Peninsula with 4-day old chick in tow
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Incredible Versatility
It goes without saying that the 400-800 may be one of if not the most versatile ever super-telephoto zoom lenses. For Image #3, I zoomed out quickly and efficiently to create the bird-scape that includes the far shoreline of Lake Walk-in-Water.
This image was also created on 25 March 2025 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Crouched while standing on a slope alongside the South Canal, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) at 800mm and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with exposure compensation (EC) on the thumb dial. Multi-metering +1.0 stops. AUTO ISO set ISO 4000; 1/800 sec. at f/8 (wide open) in Shutter Priority mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead-solid perfect. AWB at 8:30:23am on a variably cloudy morning.
Tracking: Zone AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #4: Sandhill Crane 4-day old chick head and neck portrait
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Head Hunting with the 400-800
As we saw with Image #2,, the 800mm reach of the 4-8 combined with its decent MFD make it an ideal lens for head hunters like me. The soft defocused background (even at f/8) is a function of how close I was to the chick and the relatively substantial distance to the background.
This image was also created on 25 March 2025 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Crouched while standing on a slope alongside the South Canal, I used the hand held Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS lens (Sony E) at 584mm and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with exposure compensation (EC) on the thumb dial. Multi-metering +1.3 stops. AUTO ISO set ISO 6400; 1/800 sec. at f/7.1 (wide open) in Shutter Priority mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead-solid perfect. AWB at 8:32:41am on a variably cloudy morning.
Tracking: Zone AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #5: Sandhill Crane adult feeding 4-day old chick
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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An Aperture-related Technical Error
As it clouded over, shutter speed became more of an issue. Already at ISO 6400, I was reluctant to go beyond 1/800 sec. when the chick lunged for the bug, that was not fast enough to freeze the action. The head of the chick exhibited lots of motion blur that was improved to some small degree. All of the preceding the result of the slow f/8 aperture.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
In the last blog post, A You Tube Video: Taking a Second Look at Images from Not-So-Great Morning at Fort DeSoto Park,here, my very favorite image was #1, Great Egret perched on Red Mangrove roots. I love the soft light and the pattern of the roots — a lovely environmental portrait. Two folks mentioned my favorite as the worst of the lot. Images 3, 4, 5, & 6 were all tied second place for me. Note that three of those four were “just portraits.” I thought that Image #2 was the weakest of the lot.
What’s Up?
On Sunday morning Dr. North and I headed back to The Celery Fields in Sarasota in hopes of having some good chances with the single Sandhill Crane chick that she had photographed on Friday morning. Our hopes were realized. The two crane chicks that had hatched here at Indian Lake Estates during the last week of February perished in early March within days of each other. I’ve been hoping for at least one more nest to hatch. On Monday morning, that hope was realized when I discovered a pair of 3-4 day old crane chicks at ILE. We did very well again.
On Sunday evening, Anita went down to the lake and found a second crane family with two somewhat larger chicks! Will miracles never cease?
I was happy to learn that Tim Griffy purchased the better of my two Induro GIT 304L Stealth tripods.
Today is Tuesday 24 March 2025. We will be driving over to Vero Estates for almost two weeks of Roseate Spoonbill photography at Stick Marsh. I will be there from 24 March through the morning of Tuesday 8 April. All In-the Field Sessions are sold out until the morning of April 6th. I have room for at least two folks at the AirBnb for the nights of the 5th, 6th, & 7th. If you would like to join me for a morning or three of Stick Marsh In-the-Field instruction please LMK via e-mail.
Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Supporting My Efforts Here
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, are all set for gear, or live overseas, consider leaving a BAA Blog Thank You Gift here.
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, please consider using one of my affiliate links when purchasing new gear. It will never cost you a single penny. To support my effort here, please order from B&H by beginning your search here. Or, click here, to order from Bedfords and enter the discount code BIRDSASART at checkout to receive 3% cash back to your credit card and enjoy free Second-Day Air Fed-Ex shipping. It is always best to write for advice via e-mail.
In many cases, I can help you save some serious dollars. And/or prevent you from purchasing the wrong gear from the wrong shop.
Peter Kes is job hunting
Peter Kes
Peter Kes, friend of 3 decades and longtime BAA blog webmaster, is a brilliant IT (information technology) and computer expert. He is currently running a Bushveld Farm in Dinokeng Game Reserve, Pretoria, Gauteng, RSA (Republic of South Africa) and is looking to re-locate. You can learn more about Peter and check out his impressive resume at his LinkedIn profile page here. You can contact Peter via e-mail.
Used Induro Tripod Bargains at Give-away Prices/One Sold on Day One
Your truly, Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART, is offering the following used Induro tripods for sale as below. Each includes only the legs and insured ground shipping to your lower 48 address. Please contact artie via e-mail.
Induro Stealth GIT 304L Tripod
Price reduced $25.00 on 25 March 2025
Induro Stealth GIT 304L in very good to excellent condition: a steal at $250.00 (was $275.00) as this one is also in perfect working condition. The 304L was my go-to tripod for more than eight years. It is perfect for big lenses for folks as tall as 6 feet or so.
Induro Stealth GIT 505XL Tripod
Price reduced $50.00 on 25 March 2025
Induro Stealth GIT 505XXL (used only very rarely) in like new condition: an absolute steal at $475.00 (was $525.00). This is the monster of all tripods. It offers maximum strength and rigidity and can support 88.2 pounds of gear with ease. It stands 81.3″ tall with the legs fully extended. It is perfect for folks desiring maximum stability in windy conditions, those working from a fixed position with very slow shutter speeds, and in situations where you need to get very tall such as when working a tree nest possibly while standing on a ladder. This is not a tripod that you want to be carrying around in the field unless you are Superman.
I could not find a single one for sale anywhere in the world. I paid B&H $802.50 for this one when it was purchased new in 2021.
This image also was created on 22 March 2025 at Fort DeSoto Park, Tierra Verde, FL. Seated on damp sand, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) with the Sony FE 2x Teleconverter and the Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 640: 1/2000 sec. at f/8 (stopped down one stop) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 9:01:31am on a sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #1: Royal Tern in breeding (alternate) plumage
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Head Hunting on My Own
Much as it had been on Thursday morning, North Beach was deader than dead at dawn when we returned on Saturday (only there were even fewer birds). I left early for my favorite morning backup spot as it had been pretty good on Thursday. But there were very few birds around so I headed back to North Beach to look for Anita. On the way up Outback Key, I ran into a small group of Royal Terns resting along the shoreline on a small sandbar. I knew that I could get close but I also knew that I did not want to sit down in the cold water to get on sun angle. So, I walked them away from the shoreline onto the sandbar just with a good sized tidal pool just beyond that. I eased onto the ground perhaps ten or twelve feet from the birds. The small flock re-shuffled but they did not fly. Once that I was on the ground, I knew that I had it made in the shade.
I butt-crawled a bit forward and a bit to my left trying to get the handsomest bird, the one with the raised crest, right on sun angle. That done, I bent forward at the waist to get a bit lower. The tidal pool made for a gorgeous blue background. After about ten minutes all the birds up and down the beach took flight at once. I am not sure what scared them; it might have been a raptor.
If I had been with another photographer, I am pretty sure that I would not have been able to duplicate my stealthy actions; sometimes, shooting by your lonesome pays large dividends.
This image also was created on 22 March 2025 at Fort DeSoto Park, Tierra Verde, FL. Seated on damp sand, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) with the Sony FE 2x Teleconverter and the Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 640: 1/2000 sec. at f/8 (stopped down one stop) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 9:02:41am on a sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #2: Royal Tern in breeding (alternate) plumage
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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If Possible, Stop Down When Working at Point Blank Range
Understand that with more than 99% of my bird photography, I am working at the wide open aperture so that I can use fast shutter speeds in conjunction with relatively low ISOs. When I am working close to the minimum focusing distance of a lens, however, I will stop down for some additional depth-of-field. When working relatively distant subjects with a telephoto lens, it is never necessary to stop down as depth of field increases exponentially as the distance to the subject increases.
With today’s Royal Tern head portraits, I worked at 1/2000 sec. at f/8 (stopped down one stop). An option would have been to go with 1/1000 sec. at f/16 (stopped down two stops).
Which is the Stronger Image
When selecting the two images for today’s blog post, one of today’s featured images really caught my eye. But in retrospect, I am not so sure which one I like best. What do you like about Image #1? What do you like about Image #2? Which one do you like best and why?
The Sony 300mm f/2.8 GM Lens
The more I used this lens either alone or with either TC, the more I have come to love it. It is fast, sharp, versatile, small, light, and eminently hand hold-able by pretty much everybody. Getting onto the terns with any lens on a tripod simply would not have worked as tripods are cumbersome and awkward to use. In short, if you need to get close they will scare the birds. A hand hold-able 600mm f/5.6 lens is nothing to sneeze at. Nor is a 300mm f/2.8 or a 420mm f/4, the latter my favorite flight rig when the birds are fairly close.
For those who did not use my link to purchase their Sony 300mm f/2.8 GM lens, you can order your copy here for $209.93.
Click on the image to enlarge and to be able to read the fine print.
The BAA Sony 300mm f/2.8 Lens Guide
Impressed by my Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) images? Use either my Bedfords or B&H affiliate link to purchase your Sony 300mm f/2.8 GM lens and shoot me your receipt via e-mail and request a copy of the first-ever BAA Lens Guide. I thought that it would take only minutes to create this guide, but I was dead wrong. In the process of creating it, I learned a ton about the lens. And even better, I discovered a simple yet potentially fatal flaw that was resulting in sporadically unsharp flight images. The set-up fix is simple. Be sure to use one of my affiliate links so that you get the guide for free.
If not, you can purchase a copy here for $209.93. Yes, it never hurts to use my links and it never costs you one penny more. And if you contact me via e-mail before you make a major purchase, I can often save you some money.
BILD EXPO Presented by B&H
Why Attend? Speakers, Gear, Deals, and More!
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’s greatest creative community. B&H’s incredible show specials will be the icing on the cake! Whether you’re 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.
Click here or on the logo link above for more information.
Which of today’s six featured images from a not-so great Thursday morning at Fort DeSoto Park do you like best? Why?
In the Last Blog Post
In the last blog post,The Top Two Tips for Shooting in Harsh Sunlight,
here, I thought that all three images were pretty darned good (as is usually the case). I was the odd man out however, as my favorite image was #2, the saluting White Ibis with the yellow background. I loved the pose, the soft light, the high level of skill involved (though that should not matter), and best of all, the yellow background that pretty much nobody else liked. No worries there as judging images is 100% subjective.
What’s Up?
We nearly froze to death on Friday morning at the Celery Fields in Sarasota. Most of the birds were hunkered down with from the strong north wing. Anita North persevered and got some nice images of a 4-day old Sandhill Crane chick. That afternoon we did very well at my favorite afternoon spot at Fort DeSoto with a variety of the usual suspects shorebird species. Some bathing! On Saturday morning North Beach at DeSoto was a bad as I’ve ever seen it, actually it was the second worst ever morning there. That despite our early arrival, clear skies, and a nice breeze from the east northeast. After a stealthy approach to within ten feet, I did get some nice head shots of a breeding plumage Royal Tern with its crest blowing in the wind. On Saturday afternoon, we headed up to the North Tampa Rookery, arrived a bit late, and had many excellent opportunities.
Today is Sunday 23 March 2025 and we are headed back to the Celery Fields as Anita wants another crack at the baby crane. Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Supporting My Efforts Here
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, are all set for gear, or live overseas, consider leaving a BAA Blog Thank You Gift here.
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, please consider using one of my affiliate links when purchasing new gear. It will never cost you a single penny. To support my effort here, please order from B&H by beginning your search here. Or, click here, to order from Bedfords and enter the discount code BIRDSASART at checkout to receive 3% cash back to your credit card and enjoy free Second-Day Air Fed-Ex shipping. It is always best to write for advice via e-mail.
Thanking me for the previous 4391 educational blog posts by using one of my two affiliate links could not be any easier and will not cost you one penny. Please shoot me your e-mail receipts for major purchases.
In many cases, I can help you save some serious dollars. And/or prevent you from purchasing the wrong gear from the wrong shop.
B&H Simplified
To ensure that I get credit for your B&H purchases, you can always click here. The tracking is invisible but greatly appreciated. And, you can use your PayBoo card. You must use the website to order. You cannot get your free guides if you make a phone order. Once you have an item in your cart, you must complete the order within two hours. Huge thanks!
Bedfords Simplified
Click here to start your search. Choose standard shipping, and when you get to the payment page, enter BIRDSASART in the discount code box and hit apply. You will be upgraded to free second day air Fed-Ex and receive 3% cash back on your credit card once your stuff ships. Either is greatly appreciated by yours truly.
B&H
Many folks have written recently stating that they purchased a Sony a1 from B&H and would like their free membership in the Sony 1 Info and Updates Group, a $150.00 value. But when I check my affiliate account, their orders have not been there. When I let them know that they get credit for B&H purchases only if they use one of the many B&H affiliate links on the blog or begin their searches with this link, they are always disappointed. If in doubt, please contact me via e-mail and request a BH link. I am always glad to help and to guide you to the right gear.
Bedfords Amazing BAA Discount Policy
Folks who have fallen in love with Bedfords can now use the BIRDSASART coupon code at checkout to enjoy a post-purchase, 3% off-statement credit (excluding taxes and shipping charges) on orders paid with a credit card. The 3% credit will be refunded to the card you used for your purchase. Be sure, also, to check the box for free shipping to enjoy free Second Day Air Fed-Ex. This offer does not apply to purchases of Classes, Gift Cards, prior purchases.
Visit the Bedfords website here, shoot Steve Elkins an e-mail, or text him on his cell phone at (479) 381-2592.
Gear Questions and Advice
Too many folks attending BAA IPTs and dozens of photographers whom I see in the field and on BPN, 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.
Learn a Ton from a Not-So-Great Morning at Fort DeSoto Park with Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
Sit beside me on my laptop as I take a second look at my keepers from the morning of 20 March 2025 at Fort DeSoto. You will learn a lot about what makes one image better than the next. In part two of this video I examine the best of more than 2500 images of a handsome Laughing Gull that stood in the same spot at the edge of the surf for more than ten minutes. You can see the original for all of todays’ featured images in the video above.
This image was created on 20 March 2025 at Fort DeSoto Park, Tierra Verde, FL. Crouching a bit in Hidden Lagoon, I used the hand held Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS lens (at 404mm) and the and The Latest Greatest Flagship Body, the Sony a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 4000: 1/160 sec. at f/6.3 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:41:56am in the shade on what would become a sunny morning. Tracking: Spot XS/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #1: Great Egret perched on Red Mangrove roots
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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a-1 ii Improved Optical Stabilization System (OSS)
Where I come from, making a tack sharp image at 1/160 second at 404mm while crouching is nothing to sneeze at.
This image was also created on 20 March 2025 at Fort DeSoto Park, Tierra Verde, FL. Standing at full height, I used the hand held Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS lens (at 474mm) and the and The Latest Greatest Flagship Body, the Sony a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 4000: 1/2500 sec. at f/6.3 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 7:53:08am on a sunny morning.
Tracking: Set XS/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #2: Laughing Gull breeding plumage flapping after bath
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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AF for Bathing Birds
Regardless of your system or your camera body, you must choose your AF method (pattern) for bathing birds with care. With the original a-1, I always went with Tracking: Zone for bating birds. With the a-1 ii, I noticed that it was more likely to grab the water droplets or the water in front of the bird so I tried Tracking: Spot XS (extra small) and have been nailing both the bathing shots and the after bath flaps.
When shooting bathing birds, experiment with both wide area and spot settings with your gear so that you can best take advantage of these exciting opportunities.
This image was also created on 20 March 2025 at Fort DeSoto Park, Tierra Verde, FL. Seated on damp sand, 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 Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 800: 1/2000 sec. at f/4 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 8:57:33am on a then cloudy morning.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #3: Laughing Gull breeding plumage in surf in soft light
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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This image also was created on 20 March 2025 at Fort DeSoto Park, Tierra Verde, FL. Still seated on damp sand, I again used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter and the Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 320: 1/4000 sec. at f/4 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 9:05:07am on a then sunny morning.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #4 Laughing Gull breeding plumage preening primary feather
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Does a Bird Need Eyes and a Head for an Image to Work?
Wile the chin and bill are visible above, the bird’s face and eye are not. Does this image work for you? Why or why not?
This image also was created on 20 March 2025 at Fort DeSoto Park, Tierra Verde, FL. Still seated on damp sand, I again used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter and the Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 320: 1/4000 sec. at f/4 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 9:05:53am on a then sunny morning.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #5 Laughing Gull breeding plumage with foot raised
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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The Man Loves Clouds
As much as I love the rich, golden light of early mornings and late afternoons, I love working on cloudy days and in the shade just as much. You can shoot all day long if you wish and you never have to worry about shadows, harsh or otherwise. And by properly exposing to the right your images will feature rich glorious colors.
This image also was created on 20 March 2025 at Fort DeSoto Park, Tierra Verde, FL. Seated on damp sand, I again used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) with the Sony FE 2x Teleconverter and the Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. Exposure determined via Zebras with ISO on the Thumb Wheel. ISO 800: 1/3200 sec. at f/5.6 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead solid perfect: AWB at 9:32:54am on a sunny morning.
Wide/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Image #6: Red Knot beginning molt to breeding plumage
Image copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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A Real Grab Shot
Anita North, Tom Redd (who recently purchased one of my a-9 iii bodies), and I were standing around chatting. I glanced behind me and saw that eight red Knots had landed on the edge of the surf. I got on the ground, switched the .4X for the 2X TC, and went to work for two minutes before the small flock moved off.
For those who did not use my link to purchase their Sony 300mm f/2.8 GM lens, you can order your a copy here for $209.93.
Click on the image to enlarge and to be able to read the fine print.
The BAA Sony 300mm f/2.8 Lens Guide
Impressed by my (or Pat’s) Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) images? Use either my Bedfords or B&H affiliate link to purchase your Sony 300mm f/2.8 GM lens and shoot me your receipt via e-mail and request a copy of the first-ever BAA Lens Guide. I thought that it would take only minutes to create this guide, but I was dead wrong. In the process of creating it, I learned a ton about the lens. And even better, I discovered a simple yet potentially fatal flaw that was resulting in sporadically unsharp flight images. The set-up fix is simple. Just be sure to use one of my affiliate links and get the guide for free.
If not, you can purchase a copy here for $209.93. Yes, it never hurts to use my links and it never costs you one penny more. And if you contact me via e-mail before you make a major purchase, I can often save you some money.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
Which of today’s three featured WHIB images do you like best? Why? Which background color do you prefer, the dark green or the light yellow? Which raised wing photo is the strongest, #2 or #3? Why? Each and every comment is greatly appreciated.
In the Last Blog Post
In the last blog post, A Very Unusual Morning Photo Sessionhere, my favorite image was #1, the AWPE with the Cypress Tree trunk. That despite the fact that I wished that the pelican’s head were turned just a bit more towards me. Kudos to multiple IPT veteran Warren Robb for being the first to nail that. I also loved Image #2 for the same reason that lots of other folks did.
What’s Up?
On Wednesday afternoon Anita North and I enjoyed lots of action at the Brandon Rookery. Thursday morning was my first at DeSoto in since the spring of 2024 I cannot believe that I did not visit last fall. Anyhow, most of North Beach was dead but two of my backup spots saved the morning with lots of Willets, Red Knots, Ruddy Turnstones, Great and Snowy Egrets, and handsome breeding plumage Laughing Gulls.
We took the afternoon off and had an early dinner at Pia’s Trattoria in Gulfport. We were saddened to see that Neptune Grill is boarded up. They are currently closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene and are awaiting permits and FEMA approval to begin to rebuild and reopen, but do not have an anticipated timeline yet. It seems that I have had a zillion great IPT lunches/image review and optimization session there; the grilled fish tacos were the bomb! I’d get three and discard two of the tortillas.
If you are seriously interested in exploring the possibility of joining me next fall to do the Ospreys and tons more at Sebastian Inlet, please get in touch via e-mail. I have an AirBnb and will be staying there for two whole months, from 25 September until 24 November 2025. Multiple IPT veteran Eugen Dolan will be joining me for the first month.
Today is Friday 21 March 2025. We will head down to the Celery Fields in Sarasota as we have heard that there are several active pairs of Least Bitterns there. I have never been. We will be meeting 26-time IPT veteran — yes, 26 is not a typo — Lou Newman. It will be great to see him again. Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Supporting My Efforts Here
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, are all set for gear, or live overseas, consider leaving a BAA Blog Thank You Gift here.
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, please consider using one of my affiliate links when purchasing new gear. It will never cost you a single penny. To support my effort here, please order from B&H by beginning your search here. Or, click here, to order from Bedfords and enter the discount code BIRDSASART at checkout to receive 3% cash back to your credit card and enjoy free Second-Day Air Fed-Ex shipping. It is always best to write for advice via e-mail.
Thanking me for the previous 4391 educational blog posts by using one of my two affiliate links could not be any easier and will not cost you one penny. Please shoot me your e-mail receipts for major purchases.
In many cases, I can help you save some serious dollars. And/or prevent you from purchasing the wrong gear from the wrong shop.
Used Induro Tripod Bargains at Give-away Prices
Your truly, Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART, is offering the following used Induru tripods for sale as below. Each includes only the legs and insured ground shipping to your lower 48 address. Please contact artie via e-mail.
Induro Stealth GIT 304L in excellent plus condition: a steal at $325.00. The 304L was my go-to tripod for more than eight years. It is perfect for big lenses for folks as tall as 6 feet or so. B&H is offering one in the same condition here for $441.95 (plus tax).
Induro Stealth GIT 304L in very good to excellent condition: a steal at $275.00 as this one is also in perfect working condition. The 304L was my go-to tripod for more than eight years. It is perfect for big lenses for folks as tall as 6 feet or so.
Induro Stealth GIT 505XXL (used only very rarely) in like new condition: an absolute steal at $525.00. This is the monster of all tripods. It offers maximum strength and rigidity and can support 88.2 pounds of gear with ease. It stands 81.3″ tall with the legs fully extended. It is perfect for folks desiring maximum stability in windy conditions, those working from a fixed position with very slow shutter speeds, and in situations where you need to ge very tall such as when working a tree nest possibly while standing on a ladder. This is not a tripod that you want to be carrying around in the field unless you are Superman.
I could not find a single one for sale anywhere in the world. It sold new for $809.95 when it was in production. I paid B&H $802.50 for it when purchased new in 2021.
B&H Simplified
To ensure that I get credit for your B&H purchases, you can always click here. The tracking is invisible but greatly appreciated. And, you can use your PayBoo card. You must use the website to order. You cannot get your free guides if you make a phone order. Once you have an item in your cart, you must complete the order within two hours. Huge thanks!
Bedfords Simplified
Click here to start your search. Choose standard shipping, and when you get to the payment page, enter BIRDSASART in the discount code box and hit apply. You will be upgraded to free second day air Fed-Ex and receive 3% cash back on your credit card once your stuff ships. Either is greatly appreciated by yours truly.
B&H
Many folks have written recently stating that they purchased a Sony a1 from B&H and would like their free membership in the Sony 1 Info and Updates Group, a $150.00 value. But when I check my affiliate account, their orders have not been there. When I let them know that they get credit for B&H purchases only if they use one of the many B&H affiliate links on the blog or begin their searches with this link, they are always disappointed. If in doubt, please contact me via e-mail and request a BH link. I am always glad to help and to guide you to the right gear.
Bedfords Amazing BAA Discount Policy
Folks who have fallen in love with Bedfords can now use the BIRDSASART coupon code at checkout to enjoy a post-purchase, 3% off-statement credit (excluding taxes and shipping charges) on orders paid with a credit card. The 3% credit will be refunded to the card you used for your purchase. Be sure, also, to check the box for free shipping to enjoy free Second Day Air Fed-Ex. This offer does not apply to purchases of Classes, Gift Cards, prior purchases.
Visit the Bedfords website here, shoot Steve Elkins an e-mail, or text him on his cell phone at (479) 381-2592.
Gear Questions and Advice
Too many folks attending BAA IPTs and dozens of photographers whom I see in the field and on BPN, 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.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the high-res version.
Image #1: White Ibis breeding plumage adult with wings raised
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Happy on the Railing
There is a small observation deck at the Brandon Rookery. As the light is relatively harsh in the early afternoons Anita and I arrived at 5:15pm. As we were the first to arrive, we found some White Ibises on the railing of the deck. With the time of sunset at 7:40pm that day, the light was still plenty harsh when we arrived. That brings us here:
The Number One Tip for Shooting in Harsh Sunlight
My number one tip for shooting in bright sun is to use your longest lens and strive to get perfectly on sun angle with your shadow pointed directly at the subject’s head to eliminate most dark or black shadows. That done it was just a matter of getting some good head angles. The raised wings here were a bonus. It is probable that the somewhat bedraggled look of this individual was the result of a recent bath.
A Note on Sony Zebras
Note the three perfect exposures. With Sony’s Zebra technology properly set up and employed, you know you have a perfect exposure before you press the shutter button whether you are working in full sun (Image #) or in total shade (Images #2 and #3). And there is never a need to create and evaluate a test image.
Tracking: Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the high-res version.
Image #2: White Ibis breeding plumage adult — single wing salute
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The Number Two Tip for Shooting in Harsh Sunlight
My number two tip for shooting in harsh sunlight is to find subjects in the shade. Even better is to find a subject in the shade with the background lit by the sun. With Images #2 & #3, the combination of a shaded subject and sunlit vegetation produced the spectacular look that included the sweet yellow background. Note that the background in the first image — distant vegetation, is exactly the same as the background in the next two images. Hard to believe, but true.
Note the soft tones in the whites and again, the perfect head angle. The raised wing salute was a big plus. This bird was not wet so it much have been showing off. I’ve never before seen the pink blush on the breast of a White Ibis.
The same bird took two small steps forward on the railing. Two more and I would have been blocked by vegetation is I was very happy when it stopped where it did. This time, it raised both wings and posed for about two seconds. As I had forgotten to reset Pre-Capture from one full second back to 0.2 seconds, that meant 60 raw files.
A Note on the Shutter Speed
I decided not to go any higher than 1/200 second so that I would not need to go beyond ISO 2000. The was somewhat of a gamble as all of the images made while the bird was moving its head were not sharp. But with these last two images, the subject kindly stood completely still. I am glad it liked showing off.
The BAA Middle of Florida Photographic Site Guide
You can purchase your copy here in the BAA Online Store.
The BAA Middle of Florida Photographic Site Guide
126 pages, 87 photographs by (the late) Joe Przybyla and Arthur Morris.
The PDF for this e-Guide is an electronic download sent via e-mail.
I had thought about doing a guide to some of the great but little-known photo hotspots around central Florida for about a decade, but those plans never came to fruition. I met Joe online in the Avian Forum at BirdPhotographer’s.Net about two years ago. Joe’s photography has improved tremendously over the past few years; he credits the BAA blog, my books and PDFs, and his participation on BPN. The one thing that I learned right from the get-go about Joe is that he is a hard and tenacious worker, always striving to improve his skills and to grow his knowledge base. As he knew of more than a few good spots in central Florida, I broached the idea of us doing a photographic site guide that covered many of the little-known photographic hotspots from Brandon to Lakeland to Joe Overstreet Road to Indian Lake Estates (my Florida home for the past 20 years or so). After more than many, many dozens of hours of effort, The BIRDS AS ART Middle of Florida Photographic Site Guide is now a reality. Thanks to Joe’s wife Dottie for her review of our writing. We all learned once again that writing is a process, a back-and-forth process. All thanks to the white pelicans of Lakeland. Below are the locations that are detailed in this e-Guide. Please note that last season, Gatorland did not offer a Photographer’s Pass.
Indian Lake Estates: Sandhills Cranes with chicks and colts, lots of vultures, and Ospreys up the kazoo!
Gatorland, Kissimmee: Learn to make great images of wading birds in a cluttered rookery. Note: In 2024, this theme park eliminated its Photographer’s Pass Program that allowed for early entry.
The Brandon Rookery: Great for nesting Wood Storks, Great Egrets, and more.
Circle Bar B Reserve, Lakeland: Here you will find a great variety of avian subjects in a great variety of beautiful habitats.
Lakeland: There are lots of silly tame birds in the various lakes here including and especially American White Pelican (AWPE) during the colder months.
Lake Mirror, Lakeland: Tame Anhingas, Limpkins, and a zillion White Ibises at times.
West Lake Parker, Lakeland: Here, if you are lucky, you will have a chance for two difficult birds: Snail Kite, and Purple Gallinule.
Joe Overstreet Road, Kenansville: Crested Caracara, meadowlarks, Loggerhead Shrike, and much more on the fenceposts and barbed wire.
Each location includes a map, a detailed description of the best spots, best season, light and time of day instructions, the expected species, and an educational and inspirational gallery that is designed to open your eyes as to the possibilities.
You can purchase a copy here in the BAA Online Store.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
Which of today’s two featured AWPE images do you like best? Why?
In the Last Blog Post
In the last blog post, Three Very Good Days at Stick Marsh & A Big Editing Tip,here, my favorite image was Image #1, Incoming Roseate Spoonbill in early morning light, because of the sweet soft light and the perfectly illuminated underwings. Tied for second were Image #2, Roseate Spoonbill flat incoming flight because of the down the barrel stare, the 747 flight pose, and the background of suffused green, and Image #7, Roseate Spoonbill preening, as I was able to make a lovely image despite being about 30° off sun angle and come up with a perfect background with the square crop and the perfect preening head angle.
For me the two weakest images were #2, Roseate Spoonbill in flight (tight vertical) as I wish that the bird’s spatulate bill was centered between its legs, and Image #4, Roseate Spoonbill with stick for nest, as I was unable to preserve the small patch of delicate feathers on the upper breast. Otherwise, I find #4 to be spectacular.
Thanks to those who left a comment, especially Anthony Ardito who appreciated the creative crops by comparing the original images in the video to the optimized images that accompanied the blog post and to Monte Brown who like them all :-).
Used Induro Tripod Bargains at Give-away Prices
Your truly, Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART, is offering the following used Induru tripods for sale as below. Each includes only the legs and insured ground shipping to your lower 48 address. Please contact artie via e-mail.
Induro Stealth GIT 304L in excellent plus condition: a steal at $325.00. The 304L was my go-to tripod for more than eight years. It is perfect for big lenses for folks as tall as 6 feet or so. B&H is offering one in the same condition here for $441.95 (plus tax).
Induro Stealth GIT 304L in very good to excellent condition: a steal at $275.00 as this one is also in perfect working condition. The 304L was my go-to tripod for more than eight years. It is perfect for big lenses for folks as tall as 6 feet or so.
Induro Stealth GIT 505XXL (used only very rarely) in like new condition: an absolute steal at $525.00. This is the monster of all tripods. It offers maximum strength and rigidity and can support 88.2 pounds of gear with ease. It stands 81.3″ tall with the legs fully extended. It is perfect for folks desiring maximum stability in windy conditions, those working from a fixed position with very slow shutter speeds, and in situations where you need to ge very tall such as when working a tree nest possibly while standing on a ladder. This is not a tripod that you want to be carrying around in the field unless you are Superman.
I could not find a single one for sale anywhere in the world. It sold new for $809.95 when it was in production. I paid B&H $802.50 for it when purchased new in 2021.
What’s Up?
The forecast for Monday morning was for a strong NW wind with clear skies and bright sun. Wherever you live, this is usually a death forecast for bird photography. When Anita and I got down to the lake, however, clouds were beginning to build and soon it was totally cloudy. So, we were able to shoot flight with our lenses pointed to the east; we killed on Cattle Egrets taking off into the northwest wind. When things brightened up a bit, we did the same with the addition of some nice backlight. We both used the hand held 300mm f/2.8 GM lens with the 1.4x TC and the Sony a-1 ii.
On Tuesday morning, conditions were a bit better with the wind from the north and some nice light. We had an Osprey on The Perch II. We started working on BLUBBs at 840mm as the bird finished chowing down on a small crappie. Then we went wider by removing the TCs in hopes of getting some nice take-off shots thanks to planning and a-1 ii Pre-Capture. We sat on the bird and concentrated hard for nearly an hour but when it finally took flight, it headed away from us so all we got were butt shots. After trying for some grackle take-off shots at another perch off the South Peninsula, we returned to find that the Osprey had returned to its original perch. After thirty more minutes of laser focus the bird again took flight to the northwest resulting in more take-off butt shots.
If you are seriously interested in exploring the possibility, of joining me next fall to do the Ospreys at Sebastian Inlet, please get in touch via e-mail.
Today is Wednesday 19 March 2025. Happy Birthday to my older daughter Jennifer. Anita and I will be heading down to the lake early this morning to see what’s up and about. This afternoon we are headed over to Fort DeSoto for four days of photography as I have not been since the park re-opened after the last big hurricane. Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Supporting My Efforts Here
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, are all set for gear, or live overseas, consider leaving a BAA Blog Thank You Gift here.
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, please consider using one of my affiliate links when purchasing new gear. It will never cost you a single penny. To support my effort here, please order from B&H by beginning your search here. Or, click here, to order from Bedfords and enter the discount code BIRDSASART at checkout to receive 3% cash back to your credit card and enjoy free Second-Day Air Fed-Ex shipping. It is always best to write for advice via e-mail.
In many cases, I can help you save some serious dollars. And/or prevent you from purchasing the wrong gear from the wrong shop.
Fresh caught Alaskan seafood caught sustainably. Save $20 on your first order by clicking here.
Wild Alaska Salmon and Seafood Company
Ever since my two daughters sent me a big box of salmon filets and sea scallops from Wild Alaska Salmon and Seafood Company for my birthday a few years ago, I have been ordering salmon and scallops from them. Now that Junior’s Fish Market in Lake Wales is closing, I will be depending on Wild Alaska every month. I always order Sockeye filets and the Sea Scallops. The stuff comes frozen solid, is easy to prepare, and tastes pretty much as good as the fresh stuff would.
You can save $20 on your first order by clicking here. Eating wild caught seafood is about as healthy as you can go. The scallops are a real treat. When you sear them, be sure to cook them in the liquid that comes in the bag and be sure not to overcook them. I bake or broil the lightly seasoned salmon filets skin side down in olive or coconut oil.
Buy Direct from the Fisherman
Captain Tony has been fishing in Alaska since 1990. Wild Alaska is famous for their wild caught Sockeye and King Salmon! All of our other fish, including Ahi Tuna, Shrimp, Scallops, Cod, etc., are responsibly sourced, caught the right way and closely inspected by Capt. Tony to meet our high standards of quality and freshness. They catch and process all 5 species of wild pacific salmon, and source our other seafood products from high quality sustainable fisheries.
The stuff tastes great and is good for you. Internet orders to the continental United States are shipped from their fulfillment center in the Midwest allowing their seafood products to reach US customers in perfect condition. The flavor and texture of their salmon and other products remain fresher than fresh is because the stuff is frozen the same day it is caught.
Note
Nutritionally, if you are eating farm-raised salmon, you might as well be eating pop tarts. Sockeye salmon has the highest amount of Omega 3 of any fish with approximately 2.7 grams per 100-gram portion. Therefore, just one serving of Alaska salmon per week can help to lower cholesterol and the risk of heart disease. Scallops are widely considered one of the healthiest seafoods. Made up of 80% protein and sporting a low fat content, they can help you feel fuller longer and are rich in vitamins and minerals. They are also a great source of antioxidants. Dr. Morris 🙂
This image was created on 12 March 2025 at Lakeland, FL. Standing at full height, I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 800: 1/500 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead-solid perfect. AWB at 7:54:49am before the got onto the birds.
Tracking: Spot XS/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Be sure to click on the image to see a larger, inexplicably sharper high res version.
Image #1: American White Pelican and Cypress Tree trunk
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Seeing the Shot I
As I mentioned in a previous post, when we arrived well before the sun got on the birds at Lakeland on March 12, I wanted to stay in the vehicle to finish a blog post. When I glanced out, however, I saw the bird in the image above sitting next to a Cypress Tree. I grabbed the 300 f/2.8 with the a-1 ii, got where I wanted, and made perhaps thirty quick images. Once I got the head turn that I needed, I knew that I had the shot so I got back in the car and finished posting the day’s offering.
When I exited my SUV to go to work, I learned from Anita that the two Canon ladies had scared most of the pelicans off the bulkhead so we drove to a nearby lake to look for some tame Anhingas or Limpkins.
Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #2: American White Pelican resting
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Seeing the Shot II
After striking out at the nearby lake, we headed back to our first location where I spotted the same or another pelican resting next to the Cypress trunk. Again when I saw the image I wanted I grabbed the 600 with the 1.4X TC. I started looking at a horizontal but the back of the bird was in the sun so I went vertical. You can see a sliver of backlight on the right frame-edge where the upper mandible disappears into the feathers of the bird’s back. During this short session I made only about twenty images before I knew that I had one that was perfect.
A Very Unusual Morning Photo Session
Since Bob Eastman arrived at my home in late October 2024, I have been photographing pretty much every morning. During most every one of those am sessions, I have created between 1700 and 7000 images averaging about 4,000 images per morning photo session. I am quite proud of the fact that on the morning of 12 March I created about fifty images and came up with two very sweet images.
BILD EXPO Presented by B&H
Why Attend? Speakers, Gear, Deals, and More!
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Click here or on the logo link above for more information.
Which are the two strongest images? Which are the two weakest images? Why did you make those choices?
The Last Blog Post
The times they are a’ changing …
In the last blog post, Important Rerun: Field Etiquette for Nature Photographers, here, I was a surprised that only a single reader, David Policansky (Dr. Fish), left a comment that was on point. When the article was first published on the blog 23 years ago, there were 17 comments.
Have we gotten so used to lots of photos, ten-second IG reels, and whatever goes on at TikTok (I have never visited) that a 2500 word essay is simply too much to handle? If you have any ideas as to why only one person had a story to share, please do tell.
Dr. Fish made a good point. If you keep your eyes open you can often use the behavior of oblivious folks to make a great image simply be getting ready for the take-off shot! They scare the bird or birds and you make a great image or two.
Used Induro Tripod Bargains at Give-away Prices
Your truly, Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART, is offering the following used Induru tripods for sale as below. Each includes only the legs and insured ground shipping to your lower 48 address. Please contact artie via e-mail.
Induro Stealth GIT 304L in excellent plus condition: a steal at $325.00. The 304L was my go-to tripod for more than eight years. It is perfect for big lenses for folks as tall as 6 feet or so. B&H is offering one in the same condition here for $441.95 (plus tax).
Induro Stealth GIT 304L in very good to excellent condition: a steal at $275.00 as this one is also in perfect working condition. The 304L was my go-to tripod for more than eight years. It is perfect for big lenses for folks as tall as 6 feet or so.
Induro Stealth GIT 505XXL (used only very rarely) in like new condition: an absolute steal at $525.00. This is the monster of all tripods. It offers maximum strength and rigidity and can support 88.2 pounds of gear with ease. It stands 81.3″ tall with the legs fully extended. It is perfect for folks desiring maximum stability in windy conditions, those working from a fixed position with very slow shutter speeds, and in situations where you need to ge very tall such as when working a tree nest possibly while standing on a ladder. This is not a tripod that you want to be carrying around in the field unless you are Superman.
I could not find a single one for sale anywhere in the world. It sold new for $809.95 when it was in production. I paid B&H $802.50 for it when purchased new in 2021.
What’s Up?
Anita North and I headed back to Stick Marsh on Sunday morning and enjoyed another excellent session. With a fairly brisk wind from the southeast, things were different but the results were excellent. I created 1600 photos, about half the images that I made on each of our three previous 2025 visits, but wound up with 140 keepers after the first edit. Those included a few that I really like.
Today is Monday 17 March 2025. The forecast is for partly cloudy with a WNW wind so we will be heading down to the lake early despite the less than favorable wind direction, hoping — of course, for more clouds than sun. Whatever you plan on doing, I hope that you too opt to have a wonderful day. Do remember that happiness is a choice — Byron Katie, The Work.Com.
If an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — 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.
Supporting My Efforts Here
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, are all set for gear, or live overseas, consider leaving a BAA Blog Thank You Gift here.
If you enjoy and learn from the blog, please consider using one of my affiliate links when purchasing new gear. It will never cost you a single penny. To support my effort here, please order from B&H by beginning your search here. Or, click here, to order from Bedfords and enter the discount code BIRDSASART at checkout to receive 3% cash back to your credit card and enjoy free Second-Day Air Fed-Ex shipping. It is always best to write for advice via e-mail.
In many cases, I can help you save some serious dollars. And/or prevent you from purchasing the wrong gear from the wrong shop.
Amazing Stick Marsh Spoonbills
Sit with me at my laptop as I comment on selected keeper images from three pretty good days with the Roseate Spoonbills at Stick Marsh. Learn that while picking your keepers it is very important to consider the potential crops and to visualize a plan for the image optimizations. In this 20 minute video I share my thoughts on exactly what I am looking for in the field and the gear I am using — mostly the Sony 300mm f/2.8 GM and the incredible a-1 ii. You will learn what I am looking for when I pick my keepers and why your vision for the crop and the image optimization process are vitally important as you are deciding which images to keep and which to trash.
Stick Marsh
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The Stick Marsh Site Guide Subscription Service
The Site Guide Subscription Service currently consists of seven e-mails:
Stick Marsh Site Guide e-Mail #1: The Basics. It includes specific directions to the site, and a map of the rookery with specific instructions on wind direction, light, and where-to-be advice. There are lots of photographers at Stick Marsh most days. Many are skilled at hand-holding 500 and 600mm f/4 telephotos lenses. But with all due respect, none of them can come anywhere near me when it comes to analyzing the photo opps at a given location. With the exception of a very nice and very helpful man I met, Fred Vaughn, every single photographer got to their favorite spot and never moved. We moved around a lot and had great and different chances all day long.
The six e-mails that follow detail additional photographic discoveries and shooting recommendations with annotated maps and lots of images. I did not send any updates in 2024 or 2025 as the first seven e-mails cover all the relevant situations. I will be sending a March 2025 Update soon.
To sign up for the Stick Marsh Site Guide Subscription Service, send a PayPal for $100.00 to us at birdsasart@verizon.net and be sure to include the words Stick Marsh Site Guide. Or, call Jim MON thru THURS at 1-863-692-0906 to pay by credit card.
I fully understand that you can go to Google Maps, find Stick Marsh without much trouble, visit, and likely make some good or great images. You might think, I can do fine just without artie’s advice. But you will do a whole lot better with it. Please contact me via e-mail to explore the possibilities of a morning In-the-Field Instructional Session or two at Stick Marsh.
This image was created on 7 February 2025 at Stick Marsh. Seated on a milk crate and two pillows, I used the I used the hand held Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens (Sony E) and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a1 II Mirrorless Camera. ISO 800: 1/4000 sec. at f/2.8 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead-solid perfect. AWB at 7:08:48am on a cloudy-bright morning.
Zone/AF-C with Bird Eye/Face Detection enabled performed perfectly.
Be sure to click on the image to see a larger, inexplicably sharper high res version.
Image #1: Incoming Roseate Spoonbill in early morning light
Image courtesy of and copyright 2025 Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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A Dime a Dozen
With today’s amazing mirrorless camera bodies, images like this, though perhaps not as perfect as Image #1 above, have become relatively commonplace for folks who visit Stick Marsh regularly. The sweet early morning light, the bits of green, and the perfectly illuminated underwings with zero shadows make this one very special for me. As I have been so often and have many dozens if not hundreds of similar images, I have recently been grabbing the 600mm f/4, often with the 1.4X TC, in an effort to come up with some new and different stuff.
Made for Stick Marsh
The Sony 300mm f/2.8 GM lens was made for Stick Marsh. With dozens of incoming birds early every morning with the right winds, the focal length is perfect and the fast f/2.8 aperture enables you to transition early on from pleasing blurs to sharp. It was also my go-to lens on the 2025 Homer Bald Eagle IPTs.
While Nikon has been introducing some fabulous telephoto lenses recently, including several super-telephoto lenses with built in teleconverters, the huge hole in their lens line-up is a lightweight Z 300mm f/2.8. The Sony version weighs 3.25 pounds and is easily hand-holdable for most folks. The most recent Nikon version, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II, weighs a whopping 6.38 pounds. Similarly, Canon does not offer a lightweight RF 300mm f/2.8 lens. Their most recent version, the EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens, tips the scale at a rather embarrassing 5.29 pounds. Vasili Chernikoff’s favorite lens, the versatile Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens (Canon RF), comes in at a hefty 5.7 pounds.
Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #2: Roseate Spoonbill flat incoming flight
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Right Down the Lens Barrel
As you saw with more than a few of my Homer Bald Eagle images, I am a sucker for birds flying directly at me while staring right down the barrel of the lens. With 840mm of reach, the bokeh of distant backgrounds could not be any sweeter. Different is good.
The Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro
It goes without saying that the Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro is by far the cream of the current tripod crop. This counter-balanced ballhead (say goodbye to ballhead flop) acts like a gimbal is smooth and lightweight. Flight photography with long lenses is a dream. Simply put, there is nothing out there close to it. If yo are trying to use a Really Wrong Stuff BH-55 ballhead with any telephoto lens use it is a fishing sinker for deepwater codfish instead and get yourself a Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro.
In addition, there is no longer a need to travel with one tripod head for super-telephotos and another for scenic photography. How so? The Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro features a bi-directional clamp.
Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #3: Roseate Spoonbill in flight (tight vertical)
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Incredible Mirrorless AF
Autofocus with the high end mirrorless camera bodies is so good that I encourage folks to keep shooting even when the bird is well beyond filling the frame. Be sure to compare the optimized version above with the original in the video to see how I cropped this one and added lots of canvas at the top.
Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #4: Roseate Spoonbill with stick for nest
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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I Just Could Not Do It
Check out the original in the video and you will see that the wing of a young spoonbill was in the background and merged with the neck of the subject. I tried and tried and tried to preserve the fluffy feathers on the neck just above the upper breast, but could not manage it. So, I cropped most of them away from below and eliminated the rest of them with the Remove Tool. Bummer.
Tracking: Spot XS/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #5: Roseate Spoonbill (tight) flap
Image copyright 2025: Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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The Dreaded Water Hyacinth
As you saw in the video, the bird was bathing quite close to the ramp and the leaves of water hyacinths at the bottom of the frame were problematic at best. Thus, the somewhat pano crop for Image #5.
This image was also created on 15 February 2025 at Stick Marsh. Standing at full height I used the hand held Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens and The Latest Greatest Sony Flagship Body, the a-1 II Mirrorless Camera. The exposure was determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel — ISO 500. 1/4000 second at f/4 (wide open) in Manual mode. RawDigger showed that the exposure was dead-solid perfect. AWB at 8:44:29am on a clear sunny morning.
Tracking: Spot XS/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the high-res version.
Be sure to click on the image to view a larger, high res version.
Image #6: Roseate Spoonbill bathing
Image Optimization by Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
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Decent at Last
There were lots of folks photographing the bathing spoonbill so space was at a premium, especially as I was somewhat late to the party. I was much too tight at 840mm so I removed the TC and was delighted that the bird bathed a second time. As he was a bit farther from the shoreline, I only had to remove only a single hyacinth leaf. Again, we were fighting the leaves at the bottom of the frame because they were quite distracting.
Zone/AF-C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy the larger, inexplicably sharper high-res version.
Image #7 Roseate Spoonbill preening
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Why a Square?
As you saw in the video, the reflection of a large white sign in front of the South Island Rookery in the upper left portion of the frame that necessitated the square crop. Remember that it is important to consider all the cropping possibilities before marking a given image for the trash bin.
The BIRDS AS ART Current Workflow e-Guide (Digital Basics II).
You can order your copy from the BAA Online Store here, by sending a PayPal for $40 here, or by calling Jim or Jennifer weekdays at 863-692-0906 with your credit card in hand. Be sure to specify Digital Basics II.
The BIRDS AS ART Current Workflow e-Guide (Digital Basics II)
The techniques mentioned above and tons more great Photoshop tips and techniques — along with my complete digital workflow, Digital Eye Doctor Techniques, and all my personalized Keyboard Shortcuts — are covered in detail in the BIRDS AS ART Current Workflow e-Guide (Digital Basics II), an instructional PDF that is sent via e-mail. Note: folks working on a PC and/or those who do not want to miss anything Photoshop may wish to purchase the original Digital Basics along with DB II while saving $15 by clicking here to buy the DB Bundle.
Please note: the Divide and Conquer technique was inadvertently omitted from DB II. It is detailed in a free excerpt in the blog post here.
Folks who learn well by following along rather than by reading can check out the complete collection of MP 4 Photoshop Tutorial Videos by clicking here. Note: most of the videos are now priced at an amazingly low $5.00 each.
You can learn how and why I converted all of my Canon digital RAW files in DPP 4 in the DPP 4 RAW Conversion Guide here. More recently, I became proficient at converting my Nikon RAW (NEF) files in Adobe Camera Raw. About three years ago I began converting my Nikon and Sony RAW files in Capture One and did that for two years. You can learn more about Capture One in the Capture One Pro 12 Simplified MP4 Video here. The next step would be to get a copy of Arash Hazeghi’s “The Nikon Photographers’ Guide to Phase One Capture One Pro e-Guide” in the blog post here. Today, I convert my Sony raw files in Photoshop with Adobe Camera Raw.
You can learn advanced Quick Masking and advanced Layer Masking techniques in APTATS I & II. You can save $15 by purchasing the pair.
The Digital Basics III Video Series
The Digital Basics III Video Series
I realized two years ago that my digital workflow had changed significantly and was toying with the idea of writing a Digital Basics III. More recently, I learned and begun working with two great new Photoshop Tools, the Remove Tool and the Luminance Targeted Adjustment Tool. The former is like a smarter Spot Healing Brush Tool on steroids and the latter is a step up from the fabulous Color Mixer Tool. During that same time frame, I came up with a new and improved 2-step noise reduction technique. I still use Divide and Conquer, Quick Masks, Layer Masks, an expanded array of personalized keyboard shortcuts, and tons of other stuff from both versions of Digital Basics.
As soon as I realized that I did not want to take on another large writing project, I realized that by creating a series of videos I could much more easily share all the details of my current digital workflow and much more easily incorporate additional new tips, techniques, and tools as I went. And so, The Digital Basics III Video Series was born.
You can order the five videos in Volume I by clicking here. The videos will be most valuable for folks using the latest version of Photoshop (2024) or Lightroom along with Topaz DeNoise AI and Topaz Sharpen AI.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.