I spent some time down by the lake on the morning of Sunday, 31 MAY 2020 but photographed only a single dragonfly. Then I found what was for me a new species of wildflower in a drainage ditch on Toronja, as sidestreet not far from my home. The drainage ditch system here at ILE is extensive and many of the ditches are treasure troves of wildflowers. I was able to photograph the single yellow blossom on a tall stalk with both white-sand and green-vegetation backgrounds simply by raising and then lowering my tripod.
My Saturday swim was cut short by a big thunderstorm so I plan on swimming earlier today.
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as immediately below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
Eugen Dolan with his SONY gear at The Rookery, Saunders Island, The Falklands
Eugen Dolan
Eugen Dolan and his wife Marietta attended the 2018 UK Puffins and Gannets IPT, and Eugen joined me on the 2018-19 Land-based Falklands IPT. On the latter trip, he used SONY gear and I did my best to help him. But I was still using Nikon gear exclusively. As I was baffled by the menu system, I am pretty sure that I was not able to help him much with his a9.
When I met the UK group at the Edinburgh Airport in late June 2018, Anita North just about fainted when she saw Eugen — she had no idea that he was on the trip and had not seen him for 28 years! Eugen had been a Staff Neurosurgeon ar Toronto General, and when Anita was in training as a Resident, she rotated through the hospital.
Via e-Mail from Eugen
Artie, I got your SONY Camera User’s Guide & Video last week. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.
I got as much Sony A9 information as I could prior to the Falklands trip, but it ( was NOWHERE near as helpful as your new e-Guide. I struggled mightily on the that trying to master the Sony a9. I did get the Exposure settings checking the nearly correct by checking the Histogram and juggling the Monitor/Finder Brightness levels. (I did NOT then know about Zebras.)
Once I learned about Zebras, I did work out settings that worked for me. Coincidentally or not, they matched Patrick’s suggested value and settings. The advice to put ISO on the Control wheel, however, was absolutely game-changing. The section on “Initial Focus Acquisition Problems with Telephoto Lenses” (pp22-23) would have saved me some heartwrenching moments in the Falklands when the AF system would suddenly not work.
And the section on the “Mysterious Viewfinder Blackout Problem” (pp32-330) alone should be worth the cost of the Guide to ANY Sony user. This problem drove me NUTS in the Falklands. And I had NEVER heard of the issue with the monitor being slightly ajar but I am SURE that some of my problems were due to this – as it would sometimes get got fixed when I played with the Monitor (while wasting time instead of shooting) …
Your e-Guide would have saved me hours of set-up time and saved many hours of frustration during my early days of using Sony – especially with the Monitor Blackout issue.
Thanks again to you and to Patrick Sparkman for your detailed guide.
Eugen
78 sold to rave reviews.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
Flexible Spot (S) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and did a fine job. Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
White Peacock
Subject Blindness
On Saturday morning I was glad to find the crane-baby family well and healthy but as they were in a less than ideal setting, I passed on them and went in search of some wildflowers. It was still early when I spotted a White Peacock butterfly perched perfectly along the edge of the marsh. I go back to the car quickly, grabbed my SONY butterfly rig, the 100-400 lens with the 1.4X TC and the a7r iv, and went to work stalking the small butterfly as it flitted from spot to spot, posing with its wings spread each time it landed. Best of all, it let me get close. And it looked like a perfect specimen. But as it turned out, I had been subject to what I call subject-blindness. You see a seemingly gorgeous subject in a good situation and you fail to note a serious defect. After creating more than two dozen images, I was surprised when checking the photos to note that the bottom of each hindwing was torn.
After scouting around a bit more, I got back in my SUV and was about to pull away when I noted another White Peacock posing in the same general area. I assumed that it was the same butterfly but figured that it would be best to check. It was not — it was very close to a perfect specimen. I created a few frames with the subject lit by the sun but did not like the glare on the leaf. So I moved very slowly to my left, shaded the subject with my own shadow, lowered the shutter speed, and increased the ISO until I noted significant Zebras on the silver portions of the wings. I moved the Flexible Spot (S) AF point up from the center so that by placing the AF point on the spot where the butterfly’s head and thorax met, I could create the composition that I wanted. But when I attempted to frame the shot the butterfly was moving erratically in the frame (even though it was just sitting there). That is when I realized that I had been bitten by a gremlin switch …
Overlooking an Important Basic …
We are all familiar with gremlin switches, switches that change position without our ever having touched them … When I was having problems framing the subject, it dawned on me that the optical stabilization switch had been set by a gremlin to off. I moved the switch to the On position; that calmed the image down completely in the frame and allowed me to create a fine image.
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
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Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
After a good session on Friday morning, I left DeSoto a day early and headed home. Here’s why: As expected, I was ten days too late to catch the Red Knots. Most of the shorebirds had left. I experienced two mornings of respiratory distress from red tide toxins in the air at North Beach. And I wanted to check on the crane babies.
Be sure to scroll down all the way to see the optimized image.
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as immediately below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
The original
The Situation
I saw two Royal Terns on the beach standing a bit away from a larger group. They were acting amorously, so I hustled to get on sun angle. I set the ISO and fired off about fifteen frames. Though the image above was far from being artistically perfect: The birds were too centered. The image was not quite level. There were some large specular highlights. And there was some whitewash on the beach. The image, however, was sharp and the exposure was right-on. I knew that with some TLC that it had the makings of a very strong image.
Before you scroll down to see the optimized version, ask yourself what you would have done with this image.
Relevant e-mail conversation with Fred Innamorato
am: Hey Fred, re:
FI: I am thinking about purchasing a Sony a7r iv camera.
am: I love mine!
FI: I own a Nikon D850 already and wanted to know your opinion and briefly contrast it with the Sony a7 IV.
am: They are both great camera bodies. For me, the SONY system with its great AF with and without TCs is superior to anything out there — Nikon or Canon, and getting the right exposure is far easier with SONY once you learn to use Zebras properly. At present, SONY is what is best for me.
FI: The Nikon D850 is pretty good with the new Nikkor 500mm f/5.6 PF ED VR lens for warblers at close range. Considering that I own some SONY lenses and the Sony a9 ii, do you think buying the Sony a7 IV and selling the Nikon D850 is a waste of money? Can the pictures really get much better with the Sony a7r iv?
am: The quality of the images depends much more on the person holding the gear than on the camera or lens. Sharp image files from either camera are superb. But I can never know what is worth it for you …
Remember that I was using Nikon and SONY at the same time and decided to give SONY an exclusive 3-month test run. The experiment lasted about one month …
FI: I have a Canon Mark 5D Mark IV, a 400mm DO IS II, 300mm f/2.8 II, and a Canon 1DX ii that I could sell. I am not sure if they would even sell or if they would just sit on the Used Gear Page unsold??
am: You can sell them all for the right price. Which would be better: having $8-10K or more in your pocket — I did not do the math — or having your Canon gear sit on a shelf until they put you in a box?
FI: All of the Canon stuff is in excellent condition with the original boxes and accessories. I ask if they would sit unsold because you have so many of them listed.
am: Most of the Canon stuff sells in time as there are lots of folks using Canon gear for nature photography, especially the stuff that you mention. I am pretty sure that none of the items you mention above are currently listed. And I learned on Friday that the sale of the long-listed Canon 400mm f/2.8L IS II lens is pending. Right now, note that the prices of used Nikon gear are dropping as well.
I will send you the Items for Sale Info e-mail.
With love, artie
77 sold to rave reviews.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
Recent Comments
From Ian Newton via e-mail:
After struggling with the Sony menu system, the SONY e-Guide has saved me weeks of frustration with my new a9. Thank you!
From Frank Sheets via e-mail:
I did not like using Zebras but I tried the suggestions in the guide and now I am geting every exposure right-on with the data all the way to the right! Great job guys.
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
Tracking Small Flexible Spot AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and held focus on the male’s head as the birds moved quickly to my right.
Click on the image to see a larger, sharper version.
Rapture: Royal Terns copulating
The Image Optimization
After converting the RAW file in Capture One, I brought the image into Photoshop. The first thing that I did was expand and fill in the canvas above and right using the Croop Tool with Content Aware-Fill. Next was to level the image with the Ruler Tool and Image > Rotate > Arbitrary. Then I cropped the image from the rear to the original proportion. I used the Patch Tool, Content-Aware Fill, and the Spot Healing Brush for the clean-up work. Then I used my patented Gaussian Blur background smoothing technique to deal with a bit of smudging from the clean-up. Bingo!
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
Be sure to like and follow BAA on Facebook by clicking on the logo link upper right.
Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
I did see six fly-by Red Knots at Fort DeSoto on Wednesday morning. They never stopped. There have been some shorebirds around, but they have been too spread out to offer any good photo opps. I’ve seen Wilson’s, Snowy, Semipalmated, and Black-bellied Plovers, Willet, Ruddy Turnstone, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Dunlin, Short-billed Dowitcher, Marbled Godwit, and American Oystercatcher. Waders have included Great, Snowy, and Reddish (dark & white morph) Egrets, Great-blue and Little Blue Heron, White Ibis, Wood Stork, and a single Roseate Spoonbill. I did have a good chance on Wednesday afternoon with a pair of copulating Royal Terns. I will be sharing that rapturous photo with y’all here soon.
Om Thursday morning I went out loaded for bear with the 600 GM, the 200-600, one a9 ii, my 7riv, and both teleconverters; pickings were slim on a very hazy, very hot, and very humid morning. I’ve been walking three-plus miles per day — twice up and back to the Least Tern colony. Please remember, when you visit a protected, roped-off tern colony, be sure to stand very still or sit without moving around much to minimize any possible disturbance.
I created some very different Snowy Egret images this morning at about 10:00am by following my own advice for shooting bright whites birds late in the morning on sunny days: find a bird in the shade. That is generally not easy to do at the beach. But I managed 🙂 Story and photos soon.
I have been missing my daily swim and the two, too-cute and very tame crane chicks …
77 sold to rave reviews.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
Recent Comments
From Ian Newton via e-mail:
After struggling with the Sony menu system, the SONY e-Guide has saved me weeks of frustration with my new a9. Thank you!
From Frank Sheets via e-mail:
I did not like using Zebras but I tried the suggestions in the guide and now I am geting every exposure right-on with the data all the way to the right! Great job guys.
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
Center Zone AF-C was active at the moment of exposure.
Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
Happy lady frolicking in surf with Snowy Egrets
Dancing at the Beach
There was a pair of Snowy Egrets chasing bait and each other in the surf and I thought that a wide shot with some waves in the frame made from a long way off might be interesting. When the birds passed a young woman walking in the surf, I pressed the shutter button.
Selling Your Used Photo Gear Through BIRDS AS ART
Selling your used (or like-new) photo gear through the BAA Blog is a great idea. We charge only a 5% commission. One of the more popular used gear for sale sites charged a minimum of 20%. Plus assorted fees! Yikes. They went out of business. And e-Bay fees are now up to 13%. Please understand that e-Bay prices are bogus. And the same is true of the prices of used gear including my dear friends at B&H and the other mega-outfits. They offer you pennies and then try to sell the stuff to ignorant folks for ridiculously high prices. With their huge international exposure, they occasionally find someone …
The minimum item price here is $500 (or less for a $25 fee). If you are interested please shoot us an e-mail with the words Items for Sale Info Request cut and pasted into the Subject line :). Stuff that is priced fairly — I offer pricing advice to those who agree to the terms — usually sells. With the pandemic and the down economy the market is somewhat dpressed. That said, the prices of used phoo gear only go one way: down. The longer you wait, the less you will get for your gar. Period. Over the past year, we have sold many many hundreds of items. Do know that prices on some items like the EOS-1D Mark IV, the 5Ds and 5Ds R, the old Canon 500mm, the EOS-7D, the Canon 200-400 with internal extender, and the original 400mm DO lens have been dropping steadily. Most recently the price of used Canon 600mm f/L IS II lenses have been dropping like a rock with the introduction of the 600 III. The prices garnered for used Canon gear has tanked completely as demand has dropped tremendously. It is ironic that for decades Canon gear had very strong resale value …
Note: all BAA Used Gear sales include insured ground shipping via UPS to lower 48 US addresses only. Others who live elsewhere are invited to e-mail the seller for shipping surcharge info. Sellers should charge you only the difference between shipping to the farthest US location from their home and the charge to a non-lower-48 address.
Recent Sales
Anita North sold her Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED (Macro) lens in like-new condition but for a barely-visible tiny (less than 1/16 inch) crescent-shaped scratch on the front element for the BAA record-low by-far price of $ $396.95, a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $996.95, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $1196.95 a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $1,346.95, and a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $546.95, all within a day of listing.
Jim Lewis sold his Canon EOS-1D X in near-mint condition with extras for a BAA record-low $1,500.00 (was $1,895.00) in early MAY 2020.
Kevin Spencer sold his Canon EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM lens in excellent condition for $6,799.00 to a local buyer in early MAY 2020.
BPN friend Ravi Hirekatur is sold his Canon EF Extender 1.4X II (the 1.4X II teleconverter) in excellent condition for the ridiculous, you-might-as-well-give-it-away price of $89.00 (was $179.00) in early MAY.
Gary Meyer sold his Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6 VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $3096.95 and a Nikon AF-S Teleconverter TC-14E III in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $226.95, both on the first day of listing in early MAY 2020.
Jerry Barrack sold his Canon EF 70-300mm 1:4.5-5.6 L IS USM zoom lens (the white version) in near-mint condition for the BAA record-low price of $459.00 (was $699.00) in early MAY 2020.
New Nikon Listings
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR Lens
Patrick Hogue is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR lens in near mint condition for a BAA low $3450.00. The sale includes the original box, the lens bag, the front and rear lens caps, 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.
Please contact Patrick via e-mail or by phone at 1-760-898-6770 (Pacific time zone). .
The 500 PF was my favorite Nikon lens; I hated giving it up. It is easily handheld by most folks; It kills for flight and does well with the 1.4X teleconverter. It is still hard to find a new one. Save $502.00 and get yours soon. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR Lens
Sold first day of listing
Patrick Hogue is offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens in near-mint condition for a BAA record-low $1195.95. The sale includes the original box, the front and rear caps, the lens bag, 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.
Please contact Patrick via e-mail or by phone at 1-760-898-6770 (Pacific time zone).
This practically tiny telephoto lens is great for tight work, especially birds in flight at close range. It weighs practically nothing (1.66 lbs) and is deadly with the TC-14E. As this sells new for $1996.95 you can save a neat $801.00 by being the one to grab Patrick’s lens. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Lens
Patrick is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens in excellent plus condition for a very low $896.95. The sale includes the original box, the front and rear caps, the lens bag, 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.
This was my first Nikon lens. It is an incredible value. It is sharp and versatile and inexpensive. And it does well with the TC-E14 when the sun is out. As this one sells new for $1,256.95 you can save an even $501.00 by being the first one to grab Patrick’s lens. artie
Nikon D500 DSLR Camera w/16mm-80mm F2.8-4.0 VR Nikkor Zoom Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Patrick Hogue is also offering a Nikon D500 DSLR Camera in excellent condition and a 16mm-80mm F2.8-4.0 VR Nikkor zoom lens in near-mint condition for a BAA record-low $1,196.95. The sale includes the original box, the front body, cap, the battery charger, the strap, both caps for the lens, 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.
Please contact Patrick via e-mail or by phone at 1-760-898-6770 (Pacific time zone).
The D500 is Nikon’s top-of-the-line crop factor body. It multiplies your focal length by 1.5X. Joe Przybyla and Dan Kearl, both excellent photographers on Bird Photographer’s.Net, use the D500 as their workhorse camera bodies. Joe, the co-author of The BAA Middle of Florida Photographic Site Guide, was after this old dog for a long time to try a D500. The zoom is a quality wide-angle with dozens of uses. The pair sells new for $2,593.90 so you can save a small fortune — $1,396.95 — by taking this real deal. artie
Nikon Fire Sale Price Drops
Many multiple IPT veteran and dear friend Anita North is selling a load of great Nikon lenses cheap. BIRDS AS ART is handling the shipping. That’s me. And yes, Anita switched to SONY and loves it.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price! Price reduced $200.00 on 5-28-20
Anita North is offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED VR lens in excellent condition for a BAA record-low $9065.95 (was $9265.95). The front element is immaculate, the finish on the hood is dinged up pretty good but is functionally perfect, and the body of the lens is excellent plus. The sale includes the lens trunk, the strap, the front cover, the rear lens cap, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
In all systems, the 600 f/4 lenses are the weapons of mass destruction when it comes to birds and wildlife. I loved my Nikon 600 both alone and with the 1.4X teleconverter. If you use Nikon gear and have been dreaming of moving up to the big leagues, do get in touch with me ASAP to save $3,231.00. This lens sells new for $12,296.95. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price! Price reduced $50.00 on 5-28-20
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR lens in excellent plus condition for a BAA record-low $3045.95 (was $3095.95). The sale includes the original box, the front and rear lens caps, thee lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
The 500 PF was my favorite Nikon lens; I hated giving it up. It is easily handheld by most folks; It kills for flight and does well with the 1.4X teleconverter. It is still hard to find a new one. Save $551.00 and get yours soon. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price! Price reduced $50.00 on 5-28-20
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens in near-mint condition for a BAA record-low $746.95 (was $796.95). The sale includes the original box, the front and rear caps, the lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This was my first Nikon lens. It is an incredible value. It is sharp and versatile and inexpensive. And it does well with the TC-E14 when the sun is out. As this one sells new for $1,256.95 you can save an even $550.00 by being the first one to grab Anita’s lens. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price! Price reduced 50.00 on 5-28-20
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $1,045.95 (was $1,095.95). The sale includes the original box, the lens bag, the front and rear caps, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This was my workhorse lens on the memorable Emperor Penguin trip. It is amazingly sharp and versatile. And it does well with the TC-E14 when the sun is out. As this one sells new for $2,,096.95 you can save an incredible $1,051.00 by being the first to grab Anita’s lens. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED Lens
Sold/strong>
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $796.95 (was $896.95). The sale includes the original box, the lens bag, the front and rear caps, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This is Nikon’s state of the art wide-angle zoom lens. It sells new for $1596.95 — get in touch ASAP to save an amazing 800.00. artie
Nikon AF-S Fisheye NIKKOR 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED Lens
Sold
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S Fisheye NIKKOR 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $696.95 (was $746.95). The sale includes the original box, the front and rear caps, thee lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
I owned the Canon 8-15mm. I call lenses in this class “circle lenses. They are great fun and give you a chance to be really creative. The Nikon 8-15 sells new for $1,246.95 — get in touch to save $550.00. artie
The Last of artie’s Nikon Gear
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price! Price reduced $50.00 on 5-28-20
Arthur Morris is offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $746.95 (was $796.95). The sale includes the front and rear caps, the original box and lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This lens is smaller and lighter and costs a lot less than the f/2.8 version. It is relatively fast, very sharp, and extremely versatile. It pairs well with the TC-14E. It sells new right now for $1,396.95. Grab it now to save $650.00 artie
Nikon D850 DSLR Camera (Body Only)
BAA Record-low Price! Price reduced on 100.00 5-28-20
Arthur Morris is also offering a Nikon D850 DSLR Camera (Body Only)in excellent plus to like-new condition for a BAA record-low $1,895.95 (was $1995.95). The sale includes the front body caps, the original box, the strap, the charger, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
The D850 was my very favorite Nikon body. I sold my D5 and bought a 2nd D850. It produces superb image files. The AF system kills on birds in flight — be sure to use Group (grp) AF. It sells new for $2,996.95 so you can save a very lovely $101.00 by grabbing my D850. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price! Price reduced $50.00 on 5-28-20
Arthur Morris is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $496.95 (was $546.95). The sale includes the front and rear caps, the original box and lens pouch, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
I have always loved the lenses in this class. The Nikon version was a lot sharper than the Canon 24-105. It is a versatile multi-purpose lens with a thousand uses. I keep my SONY 24-105 on the front seat of my SUV every day and use it often. The 24-120 sells new right now for $1,096.95. Grab Artie’s pretty much new lens to save a cool $600.00! artie
At ILE on Tuesday morning, I did some nice stuff on adult cranes on the South Peninsula while the sun was out early (and briefly). I got back home very early, did my cardio-bursts, swam my 60 lengths, packed the Sequoia, and drove the two hours fifteen minutes to my Gulfport AirBNB. It was a bit strange being on the road again. I left my place a bit after 5pm. Despite having left the windows open a good six inches, the temperature in the car read 110 degrees F. Yikes. It was cool at the beach with a south wind.
The forecast for the morning of Wednesday, 27 MAY 2020, was not good for flight photography: sun turning to partly cloudy with gentle southwest winds. NG! The birds will be flying, landing, taking off, and facing directly away from the sun … Nonetheless, I headed to the park at 6:20am.
DeSoto
If you would like a guided tour of the Least Tern colony and are interested in some inexpensive In-the-Field Instruction (with social distancing), please get in touch with me ASAP via e-mail. The weather forecast for Thursday morning is perfect …
76 sold to rave reviews.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV Digital Camera
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV Digital Camera
BAA Record-low price
Patrick Hogue is offering a Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV Digital Camera in near-mint condition for a BAA record-low $998.00. The sale includes the original box and everything that came in it, the dual battery charger upgrade, a UV filter, the front lens cap, 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.
Please contact Patrick via e-mail or by phone at 1-760-898-6770 (Pacific time zone).
This is a versatile, do-everything, travel, sports, and wildlife camera with a built-in 24-600mm lens. The AF system, borrowed from a9 series bodies, is a huge improvement from the AF system in the previous version, the Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III Digital Camera. AF with the IV tracks perfectly at 24 frames per second (silent shooting!) The 4.5 stop stabilization is amazingly effective at the long end of the focal length range. The video capabilities of this camera are equally amazing. It sells new for $1,598 so you can save $600.00 by grabbing Patrick’s camera. Click here to learn more about this amazing camera and be sure to scroll down and watch the video. artie
A good friend started posting incredible photos of beautiful scenes and awesome closeups, and we had to inquire about what camera he was using. And it was the RX10 IV! From the moment we opened the box we knew that we made a great purchase! It is easy to use and not to have to change lenses to get the shot that we want. We look forward to continuing to learning how to use more of its amazing features! Online Review by Paul
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as immediately below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
357 RAW files plus one optmized image
357 RAW files + plus one optimized image …
There were few birds at DeSoto. And lots of people on the sandbar. I did not find any Red Knot — I had figured that most would be gone by very late May. I did find some Royal Terns doing the nasty but was too lazy to sit in the muck. Then I came upon a treasure: a large, roped-off Least Tern colony. With the wind from the south and the sun going down in the west conditions were good but not perfect. I was having trouble acquiring and holding focus on the small, erratically-flying speedsters. Out of desperation, I tried something new; it worked like a charm. But Least Terns in flight are such challenging subjects that I managed only 35 keepers out of 357 tries. But those included eight green-tagged family jewels.
Even though the thumbnails are tiny, you can see how many wings I clipped. Not to mention images with no bird at all in the frame. It was a tough situation, but my new technique helped me create a few very good ones. Do understand that all of the clipped wings and total whiffs a result of operator error …
Center Zone AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed beyond perfection (even as seen here with backgrounds other than sky).
Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
Image Least Tern returning to nest
My Favorite?
Above is one of the eight green-tagged family jewels images. I had a hard time picking the best one … I added just a bit of canvas above.
My New Least Tern AF-Trick!
My new trick will likely work well only in very limited situations: when photographing small, fast-flying birds in flight at close range. It will likely work well only with the 600mm f/4 lenses. It killed with the SONY 600 GM at 840mm and at 600mm. I am not sure how much it would improve things with either the Canon or the Nikon 600s, but it will likely work …
If you already own the SONY e-Guide that I did with Patrick Sparkman, click here and I will send the tip along via e-mail.
If you own a 600 f/4 — SONY or otherwise — and would like to learn what I did, please send a Paypal for $10.00 to e-mail and then send a copy of the transaction to me here. Please include the words Least Tern AF Trick in your Paypal.
If you would like to learn the exact location of the DeSoto Least Tern colony, please send a Paypal for $8.00 to e-mail and then send a copy of the transaction to me here. Please include the words Least Tern Colony Info in your Paypal. Note: At times, Least Tern colonies suffer catastrophic failure.
An unsharpened 100% crop of today’s featured image
a9 ii AF at 840mm
What can I say about SONY AF? The keepers (and nearly all of those that I deleted), were razor-sharp on the eye. I would call this frame astoundingly sharp.
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
Be sure to like and follow BAA on Facebook by clicking on the logo link upper right.
Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
Monday was rain, rain, and more rain followed at times by heavy rain with brief periods of drizzle. I started the day by setting up a new perch along the lakeshore and quickly realized that it is much too tall and thin. As I was working on erecting it, I felt several bites on my right hand. They felt like ant bites but I did not see any ants on my hand. Nonetheless, my hand was red and terribly itchy for the rest of the day. And night. On Tuesday morning I can clearly see two bites on my still-itchy hand. From now on, I will wear gloves!
Next were the crane babies, now about 16 days old and getting bigger every day. Then I drove around exploring and looking for wildflowers. I found one nice new one but it was raining too hard to photograph so I continued exploring. When it let up a bit, I returned to the site and spent about 30 minutes with the Sigma 150 macro (for Nikon)/Vello Adapter rig and was able to create one that I liked. I am not sure of the species. I find wildflower identification to be as challenging as photographing them. I have an excellent book but comparing the photos in the book to my images is not working well, and in many cases, I am 100% sure that the flower I am looking for is not in the book. It does not help that I have zero knowledge of wildflower basics, but I am studying …
The weather forecast for this morning is mostly cloudy. I will be headed down to the lake for a short drive-around before packing up for my drive across the state this afternoon.
Since yesterday was Memorial Day, some might enjoy the tribute to my Dad that I mention in the V-log video. You can access it in the blog post here.
DeSoto
I am heading over to Fort DeSoto this afternoon and will be returning home after a morning photo session on Saturday 30 MAY. I am hoping to find some Red Knots in full breeding plumage, and some nice Royal and Sandwich Terns doing the nasty. And I am excited about finding some nice beach wildflowers that I have never noticed before. If you are interested in some inexpensive In-the-Field Instruction (with social distancing), please get in touch with me ASAP via e-mail.
76 sold to rave reviews.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV Digital Camera
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV Digital Camera
BAA Record-low price
Patrick Hogue is offering a Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV Digital Camera in near-mint condition for a BAA record-low $998.00. The sale includes the original box and everything that came in it, the dual battery charger upgrade, a UV filter, the front lens cap, 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.
Please contact Patrick via e-mail or by phone at 1-760-898-6770 (Pacific time zone).
This is a versatile, do-everything, travel, sports, and wildlife camera with a built-in 24-600mm lens. The AF system, borrowed from a9 series bodies, is a huge improvement from the AF system in the previous version, the Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III Digital Camera. AF with the IV tracks perfectly at 24 frames per second (silent shooting!) The 4.5 stop stabilization is amazingly effective at the long end of the focal length range. The video capabilities of this camera are equally amazing. It sells new for $1,598 so you can save $600.00 by grabbing Patrick’s camera. Click here to learn more about this amazing camera and be sure to scroll down and watch the video. artie
A good friend started posting incredible photos of beautiful scenes and awesome closeups, and we had to inquire about what camera he was using. And it was the RX10 IV! From the moment we opened the box we knew that we made a great purchase! It is easy to use and not to have to change lenses to get the shot that we want. We look forward to continuing to learning how to use more of its amazing features! Online Review by Paul
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
Bored of Crane Chicks? V-log Video
As regular readers know, I was blessed by the arrival of two tiny tame Sandhill Cranes chicks that hatched right around Mother’s Day. I was getting a bit bored at one point, but — as you will see in the video — that can change quickly … I wound up sitting on the ground behind my tripod and having a ton of fun. Best of all? There is plenty to learn about bird photography in this 11-minute 43- second video. The video shows several examples of operator error when using Tracking FLlexible Spot (M) …
I keep forgetting to mention that when I am creating horizontal images of one of the adults brooding the two chicks, the adult will often stand up without warning startling the two chicks; they have a what-just-happened? look on their faces. Instinctively, I rotate the lens barrel to vertical but am always too close to fit the adult in the frame with my fixed lens, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM. As I need the speed (at f/4) in low light, the only solution would be to move farther away from the birds …
Your Pick?
Of the 36 images in the video, a single one stands out as clearly best to me. I would love to hear which one is your favorite. And why you like it. I recommend that you do not view the video full screen as the quality is not there. When you see an image that you like, you can pause the video, go to full screen, and jot down the last four digits of the file number. Then go back to the smaller view.
When you are finished, you can rewind to compare your favorites, decide on your absolute favorite, and leave a comment. The first person to pick my favorite as their favorite will receive a Photoshop MP.4 video of their choosing.
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
Be sure to like and follow BAA on Facebook by clicking on the logo link upper right.
Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
On Saturday morning I photographed the two-week-old crane chicks for a bit in the early morning light. I had a few good chances on a pair of caracaras, but struck out. Then I did some Black Vulture heads against green (grass) and gray (mud) backgrounds. It clouded over and the wind dropped to nothing so I went looking for wildflowers. I found one nice Florida Sensitive Brier blossom. I worked hard but wound up making one simple mistake that ruined all of the images. The funny thing is that there is a parallel when photographing groups of birds. In any case, I simply blew my chance.
Sunday morning dawned still and cloudy-dark. I visited the crane family but never even got my gear together. Instead, I went looking for wildflowers on Lakeview, a side street two blocks from my home. Most easy breezes are blocked on the sidestreets as they are wooded on each side. I found seven nice wildflower species to photograph. I find that finding new and different flowers is tremendously exciting A photographing them well is tremendously challenging. Again, I found some very nice Florida Sensitive Brier blossoms. This time I was able to correct the previous errors I had made when photographing these beautiful, pink, ball-shaped flowers. Image and mistake revelation here soon.
I spent an hour on the phone with Patrick Sparkman on Saturday discussing the fine points of checking your exposures with RawDigger. Man oh man, my eyes were opened and I learned a ton … Can you say RawDigger e-Guide?
It is raining here at ILE early this morning — Monday 25 MAY 2020. And the forecast is for rain all day followed by thunderstorms this afternoon … Nonetheless, I will likely get out to do some photography at some point. I’ve recently upped my swim to 60 lengths (88 to the mile) and will try to get in the pool earlier than usual to avoid getting fried. I’ve missed only two swims during the last two months.
DeSoto
I am heading over to Fort DeSoto on Tuesday afternoon and will be returning home after a morning session on Saturday 30 MAY. I am hoping to find some Red Knots in full breeding plumage, and some nice Royal and Sandwich Terns doing the nasty. And I am excited about finding some nice beach wildflowers that I have never noticed before … If you are interested in some inexpensive In-the-Field Instruction (with social distancing), please get in touch with me ASAP via e-mail.
Free Sandhill Crane Chick Grass Blade Removal Video Offer
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
I surely drove right past these beautiful flowers many dozens of times over the past 18 years without noticing them. I finally noticed them a few days ago right on the edge of the marsh in Old Gnarly’s neck of the woods. As it was a fairly still morning, I picked a single blossom and used a Plamp attached to a spare tripod to secure it and positioned it so that I could enjoy a distant green background. In this exact situation, I had no qualms about picking one blossom as with the lake level so low, I knew that the guys who cut the fields would be mowing the edge of the wetlands as always.
I was quite lucky to create one sharp image of this flower at 1/13 sec. as there was a breeze. And as I have worked with my new macro set-up, I have come to realize that I will need to keep the flowers completely still. I will be sharing many more Plamp Tips with you here in future blog posts.
My Macro Plan …
A month ago, I knew that I was getting interested in photographing wildflowers. The SONY 100-400 with or without the 1.4X TC is fine for larger flowers and I still use it often for the bigger blossoms. But I needed a lens for small flowers. The longest SONY macro lens is 100mm (at 1:1). Laowa makes a 100mm macro for SONY that gets down to 2:1. But I like the longer focal lengths — 180 and 200mm — with macro as they provide narrow angles a view. At some point, I mentioned to Mr.Sparkman that I still had the Sigma APO Macro 150mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens for Nikon F. He suggested that I get the Vello Select Nikon F Lens to Sony E-Mount Camera Auto Lens Adapter (Firmware Ver. 6) and see if that would work.
So I started trying to create some images with that set-up. As the adapter acts in part as an extension tube, the effective aperture varies with the focusing distance and that is noted by the camera. With distant subjects, the wide-open aperture is f/3.5. As you focus on closer subjects, that changes to f/4, f/4.5, f/5.0, and f/5.6 (at or close to 1:1). When you are working wide open the electronics are fine and Zebras are accurate. After that, things start to get very strange. Let’s say for example that you are wide open at 1/200 sec. at f/5.0 and you stop down three clicks to f/7.1. You would expect that slowing the shutter speed three clicks to 1/100 sec. would yield a perfect exposure. Not. The image will be two stops too dark … Then you need to raise the ISO
At first, I was pretty much ready to quit. But with practice and experimentation, I am beginning to learn to make some decent images as long as there is little or no wind or I can somehow keep the flower completely still. I have been in touch with the folks at GradusGroup and they are getting in touch with the developers. In all fairness, the Sigma 150 for Nikon is not on the compatible list. In general I do not recommend using adapters with Nikon or Canon lenses as AF suffers badly. But I’ve made an exception for macro as everything is manual focus.
Free-to-all SONY e-Guide Update: Focus Magnification. Time
Here is a free update for those using Manual Focus Toggle and Focus Magnifier (as detailed in the SONY Camera User’s e-Guide). I had been confused when the Focus Magnifier turned off while I was focusing. I thought that it might be happening because I touched the focusing ring. Then I had a thought: could there be a timer when using Focus Magnifier? Bingo. On the 7r iv, on Focus Assist Menu (14/15), the second item is Focus Magnif. Time. After I set that to No Limit, Focus Magnifier stays on until you re-press the center button, With everything now down pat, I am able to focus with extreme accuracy. Every time. Now I am a macro machine!
70 sold with rave reviews.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
The Art of Flower Photography by Denise Ippolito and Arthur Morris
You can learn everything e about this e-book here, or order your copy here.
Video: The Art of Flower Photography
In this B&H Event Space video, two of the world’s premier photographers of flora and fauna — Arthur Morris and Denise Ippolito — share the techniques they use to create dramatic, sharp, well-composed, properly exposed images of flowers and flower fields. Denise does great things with the Canon 100mm f/2.8 L IS lens, while artie often goes to longer focal lengths—he has been seen photographing tulips at Keukenhoff Gardens, Holland, with a 600mm lens and a teleconverter. In addition to standard techniques, the video ends with Ippolito and Morris showing a wide range of abstract floral images and describing a variety of creative artistic effects such as multiple exposures, sharp/soft blending, texture overlays, warping a flower, creating zoom/twirls, in-camera blurs, and many others.
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
Be sure to like and follow BAA on Facebook by clicking on the logo link upper right.
Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
I began Friday morning with the dependable and tame crane chicks in early light but nothing great. By 8:00am it was cloudy-bright and still so I did some flowers. My macro plan is not working out too well; details soon. Friday afternoon marked two days in a row with thunderstorms but the rain was not as heavy as it was on Thursday (as seen in today’s two featured images. Speaking of which, do let us know which of the two images you feel is the stronger image and why.
There was another big mayfly hatch on Friday. The cranes were chowing down along with several 20-30 bird flocks of White Ibises and a few Great and Cattle Egrets.
Activity on the Used Gear Page continues to increase with many sales and pending sales (including five of Anita North’s NIKKOR lenses and Sandra Calderbank’s Canon 400mm f/2.8L IS II, all for BAA record-low prices). See the great Nikon Firesale listings here.
Free Sandhill Crane Chick Grass Blade Removal Video Offer
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
70 sold with rave reviews.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
The Sony Camera User’s e-Guide (and Videos)
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
Tracking Flexible Spot (S) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed quite well.
Click on the image to see a larger version.
Image #1: Sandhill Crane, adult standing in heavy rain
Photographing Birds in Heavy Downpours During Thunderstorms
I love photographing birds in heavy downpours during thunderstorms. But I pretty much hate the lens raincoats. I have tried the most expensive (complex) ones and the simple ones and find them all cumbersome and difficult to use. On a Southern Oceans trip about ten years ago I trashed two Canon EOS-1D Mark IV bodies during a heavy downpour somewhere on South Georgia. I will still photograph on foot in a heavy drizzle but not in a big storm with heavy rain. When it is raining lightly and I am away from my vehicle I will simply place a woolen watch cap over my camera and peek under it to make some images. I have never had a lens damaged by rain no matter how torrential.
When I lived in Deltona I did lots of photography at Gatorland. Now? Not so much. I cannot remember the last time I was up there. IAC, when there was a chance for an afternoon thunderstorm I would bring a large golf umbrella, an Umbrella Clamp Rig, and my flash stuff. What fun. I never owned a Nikon flash and I do not own a SONY flash. The only times I miss not having a flash are when I am photographing strongly backlit/rim-lit subjects and when shooting in the rain (when the flash makes the raindrops no the subject sparkle!)
Learn how to photograph in a driving rainstorm by scrolling down to the item next.
This image was also created on 21 MAY 2020 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. Still working from the driver’s seat of my SUV, I used the FlexShooter Mini-mounted Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens and the 61-MP Sony Alpha a7R IV Mirrorless Digital Camera Body. ISO 1250. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear dial: 1/320 sec. at f/4 in Manual mode. AWB at 6:22pm during a thunderstorm.
Tracking Flexible Spot (S) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed quite well.
Click on the image to see a larger version.
Image #2: Sandhill Crane brooding two chicks during rainstorm
Working From Your Vehicle in Heavy Downpours During Thunderstorms
In central Florida, you pretty much know that when the wind picks up a thunderstorm is likely to follow. That and the blackening skies. Working from your vehicle keeps your gear dry for the most part, and offers protection from lightning. The trick is to angle your vehicle so that the wind is blowing at the passenger side (with those windows shut of course). That places you in the lee so that you and your gear stays dry. 99% of the time I will be using a big f/4 lens on a tripod set up inside my SUV (or car). Why are fast lens so valuable in a rainstorm? The extra stop or more of light saves you three or four clicks of ISO when the skies are dark and the light is low.
There was a nasty GREEN cast in the feathers of the bird’s chin. I selected those feathers with the Lasso Tool and reduced the Saturation 45 points. Voila!
As far as shutter speed when it is raining, I have found that intermediate shutter speeds in the range of from 1/200 to 1/400 sec. will usually produce pleasing rain streaks with not-too-distant subjects. Do you prefer the rain streaks in Image #1 or the rain streaks in Image #2?
Despite the faster shutter speed with Image #2, why might the rain streaks be larger and more obvious in Image #2 than in Image #1. Me-thinks there are two reasons …
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.
The BIRDS AS ART Current Workflow e-Guide (Digital Basics II)
Several ways of dealing with color casts — along with all of my personalized Keyboard Shortcuts and dozens of great Photoshop tips and techniques, are detailed in the BIRDS AS ART Current Workflow e-Guide (Digital Basics II), an instructional PDF that is sent via e-mail. Learn more and check out the free excerpt in the blog post here. While the new e-Guide reflects my Macbook Pro/Photo Mechanic/DPP 4/Photoshop workflow, folks using a PC and/or BreezeBrowser will also benefit greatly by studying the material on DB II. 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.
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: all 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 two years ago I began converting my Nikon and Sony RAW files in Capture One Pro 12 and continue to do so today.
You can learn advanced Quick Masking and advanced Layer Masking techniques in APTATS I & II. You can save $15 by purchasing the pair. Folks can learn sophisticated sharpening and (NeatImage) Noise Reduction techniques in The Professional Post Processing Guide by Arash Hazeghi and edited by yours truly. Please use this link to purchase NeatImage.
To introduce folks to our MP.4 videos and the basics involved in applying more NeatImage noise reduction to the background and less on the subject, I’d be glad to send you a free copy of the Free Noise Reduction Basics MP.4 Video. Simply click to shoot me an e-mail to get your free copy.
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
Be sure to like and follow BAA on Facebook by clicking on the logo link upper right.
Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
On Thursday morning, I worked with the chicks for a while in the early light. Soon it clouded over and the wind dropped to nothing so I spent more than an hour doing wildflowers. I swam at about 3pm and after my second meal it got dark and windy soo I drove down to the lake hoping to find momma crane brooding the chicks. She was right where I thought she would be. The chicks did not peek out at the right time, but I got some neat stuff of both adults in the downpour.
What can I say? I love photography.
If you missed the great buys on used Nikon gear, be sure to click here. Three of Anita North’s NIKKOR lenses sold on Day One.
Please take a moment to let us know which of today’s two featured images is your favorite. And do let us know why you made your choice.
Free Sandhill Crane Chick Grass Blade Removal Video Offer
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
70 sold with rave reviews.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
The Sony Camera User’s e-Guide (and Videos)
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure.
Image #1: Black-necked Stilt adult foraging
ILE: It Ain’t Just Crane Chicks!
Though I have been concentrating on the still-small, super-tame Sandhill Crane chicks, there are often other interesting subjects around. With the low water levels, there has been some decent shorebird photography. Other subjects have included both vultures, Cattle Egret, Great and Great Blue Herons, White Ibis, Boat-tailed and Common Grackles, Osprey, mayflies, and a wide variety of wildflowers.
Image #1 was created while standing behind my tripod (at not quite full height). Note that the longer the effective focal length, the shallower the angle of declination; that means that it will appear as if you were lower than you actually were. Getting close to this species at Indian Lake Estates is not easy so I moved very slowly and was lucky that the bird approached me as it foraged.
This image was created on 19 MAY 2020 at Indian Lake Estates. I used the handheld Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens (at at 400mm) and the 61-mega-pixel monster, the Sony Alpha a7R IV Mirrorless Digital camera body. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear dial. ISO 800: 1/125 sec. at f/7.1 in Manual mode. AWB at 8:18am on a cloudy somewhat bright morning.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed almost miraculously with the AF point holding on the adult crane’s head!
Image #2: Passerine chick on road
Don’t Quit Too Soon
Tuesday morning past began cloudy and fairly still. I was going to pass on the crane chicks and do some wildflowers when I spotted one of the adult cranes lying on the grass. I knew what that meant; the chicks had gotten tired of feeding and needed a break. When the adult lies down, the chicks climb into its feathers for some R&R. After a while, they peeked out and soon went back to feeding on bugs and grubs. I stayed with them until almost 8:00am and decided to head home when the sun came out.
At the last second, I decided to turn onto Banyon Drive and see if there was anything to photograph. I did not get far before I came upon a small passerine chick that had fallen out of its nest and parked itself in the middle of the road. By the time I put the a7r iv onto the 100-400, it had clouded over again. Though it was already warm, I threw on a sweatshirt so that I could lie down on the edge of the road comfortably and without having to worry about fire ants.
I am guessing that the chick is a Common Grackle as there have been lots of them in the area. Any thoughts?
Image Questions
Wide-open was f/5.6. Why did I stop down to f/7.1? Why wasn’t I worried about sharpness while handholding at 400mm at only 1/125 sec?
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
Be sure to like and follow BAA on Facebook by clicking on the logo link upper right.
Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II Lens with Extras!
Sale Pending 5-25-2!
Dennis Westover is offering a Nikon 300mm AF-S f/2.8 ED VRII telephoto lens in excellent plus condition along with a Nikon AF-S TC 17E II 1.7X teleconverter in excellent condition and a Nikon AF-S TC 20E III 2X teleconverter, also in excellent condition for the shock-the-world price of $3299.85. The sale includes the original box, the Cordura travel case, the instruction manual, the lens strap, a Really Right Stuff replacement lens foot, the Nikon Cordura front lens cover, a custom hard front lens cap, and the rear lens cap with the lens. Both TCs include the front and rear caps. Insured ground shipping via major courier to lower-48 US addresses only is also included. Your items will not ship until your check clears unless other arrangements are made.
Please contact Dennis via e-mail or by phone at 1-206 605-0404 (Pacific time zone).
This is a gem of a lens; super-sharp, hand-holdable for almost everyone, great for flight and action photography, and great as well with all three teleconverters for portraits and for flight. It has long been the favorite focal length of the world’s best hawk photographers. I did well with the 1.7X TC on my 500 PF VR and my 600 f/4 VR lenses and I did make some sharp images with the Nikon 2X III and the 600mm f/4 VR lens. The 2X should do even better on the 300mm f/2.8. The three items sell new for $6390.85 so you can save an incredible $3,091.00 dollars on this great package. artie
Anita North at Rockhopper Penguin colony with Nikon gear on Bleaker Island, The Falklands
Nikon Fire Sale
Many multiple IPT veteran and dear friend Anita North is selling a load of great Nikon lenses cheap. BIRDS AS ART is handling the shipping. That’s me. And yes, Anita switched to SONY and loves it.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Anita North is offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED VR lens in excellent condition for a BAA record-low $9265.95. The front element is immaculate, the finish on the hood is dinged up pretty good but is functionally perfect, and the body of the lens is excellent plus. The sale includes the lens trunk, the strap, the front cover, the rear lens cap, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
In all systems, the 600 f/4 lenses are the weapons of mass destruction when it comes to birds and wildlife. I loved my Nikon 600 both alone and with the 1.4X teleconverter. If you use Nikon gear and have been dreaming of moving up to the big leagues, do get in touch with me ASAP to save $3,031.00. This lens sells new for $12,296.95. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR lens in excellent plus condition for a BAA record-low $3095.95. The sale includes the original box, the front and rear lens caps, thee lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
The 500 PF was my favorite Nikon lens; I hated giving it up. It is easily handheld by most folks; It kills for flight and does well with the 1.4X teleconverter. It is still hard to find a new one. Save $501.00 and get yours soon. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR Lens
Sale Pending first day of listing
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $1196.95. The sale includes the original box, the front and rear caps, the lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This practically tiny telephoto lens is great for tight work, especially birds in flight at close range. It weighs practically nothing (1.66 lbs>) and is deadly with the TC-14E. As this sells new for $1996.95 you can save a neat $800.00 by being the one to grab Anita’s lens. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens in near-mint condition for a BAA record-low $796.95. The sale includes the original box, the front and rear caps, the lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This was my first Nikon lens. It is an incredible value. It is sharp and versatile and inexpensive. And it does well with the TC-E14 when the sun is out. As this one sells new for $1,256.95 you can save an even $500.00 by being the first one to grab Anita’s lens. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $1,095.95. The sale includes the original box, the lens bag, the front and rear caps, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This was my workhorse lens on the memorable Emperor Penguin trip. It is amazingly sharp and versatile. And it does well with the TC-E14 when the sun is out. As this one sells new for $2,,096.95 you can save an incredible $1,001.00 by being the first to grab Anita’s lens. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $1,346.95. The sale includes the original box, the front and rear caps, the lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
Thee 70-200mm f/2.8s are among the pro’s very favorite lenses. They are fast, sharp, and extremely versatile and pair well with any teleconverter. This lens sells new for $$2,146.95. You can save a very nice $800.00 by grabbing Anita’s lens. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR Lens
Sale Pending first day of listing
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $546.95. The sale includes the front and rear caps, the original box and lens pouch, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
I have always loved the lenses in this class. The Nikon version was a lot sharper than the Canon 24-105. It is a versatile multi-purpose lens with a thousand uses. I keep my SONY 24-105 on the front seat of my SUV every day and use it often. The 24-120 sells new right now for $1,096.95. Grab Anita’s pretty much new lens to save a cool $550.00! artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR Lens
Sale Pending first day of listing
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $996.95. The sale includes the front and rear caps, the original box and lens pouch, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This is a landscape photographer’s dream lens. It currently sells new now for $1,896.95. Grab Anita’s pretty much new lens to save a very sweet $900.00! artie
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED (Macro) lens in like-new condition but for a barely-visible tiny (less than 1/16 inch) crescent-shaped scratch on the front element for the BAA record-low by far price of $ $396.95. The sale includes the front and rear caps, the lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
I never owned this one but I (and Denise Ippolito) always loved our Canon 100mm macro lenses. This lens sells new right now for $806.95 so you are practically getting it for free. 🙂 artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $896.95. The sale includes the original box, the lens bag, the front and rear caps, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This is Nikon’s state of the art wide-angle zoom lens. It sells new for $1596.95 — get in touch ASAP to save $700.00. artie
Nikon AF-S Fisheye NIKKOR 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED Lens $1,246.95 like new $746.95
Nikon AF-S Fisheye NIKKOR 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Anita North is also offering a Nikon AF-S Fisheye NIKKOR 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $746.95. The sale includes the original box, the front and rear caps, thee lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
I owned the Canon 8-15mm. I call lenses in this class “circle lenses. They are great fun and give you a chance to be really creative. The Nikon 8-15 sells new for $1,246.95 — get in touch to save $500.00. artie
The Last of artie’s Nikon Gear
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Arthur Morris is offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $796.95. The sale includes the front and rear caps, the original box and lens bag, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
This lens is smaller and lighter and costs a lot less than the f/2.8 version. It is relatively fast, very sharp, and extremely versatile. It pairs well with the TC-14E. It sells new right now for $1,396.95. Grab it now to save $600.00 artie
Nikon D850 DSLR Camera (Body Only)
BAA Record-low Price!
Arthur Morris is also offering a Nikon D850 DSLR Camera (Body Only)in excellent plus to like-new condition for a BAA record-low $1995.95. The sale includes the front body caps, the original box, the strap, the charger, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
The D850 was my very favorite Nikon body. I sold my D5 and bought a 2nd D850. It produces superb image files. The AF system kills on birds in flight — be sure to use Group (grp) AF. It sells new for $2,996.95 so you can save a very lovely $1001.00 by grabbing my D850. artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR Lens
BAA Record-low Price!
Arthur Morris is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $546.95. The sale includes the front and rear caps, the original box and lens pouch, 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.
Please contact artie via e-mail or on his cell at 863-221-2372 before 4pm Eastern time. Please leave a message or text if no answer.
I have always loved the lenses in this class. The Nikon version was a lot sharper than the Canon 24-105. It is a versatile multi-purpose lens with a thousand uses. I keep my SONY 24-105 on the front seat of my SUV every day and use it often. The 24-120 sells new right now for $1,096.95. Grab Artie’s pretty much new lens to save a cool $550.00! artie
Click on the composite to see a larger version.
Do condsier joining me on the next Land-based Falklands IPT
2020 Land-based Falklands Trip
December 10-26, 2020. $8999.00 per person. Deposit $4000.00. Limit four photographers/openings: 2. Please e-mail for a complete itinerary and complete details.
Fly on a red-eye to Santiago, Chile on WED 9 DEC 2020, arriving there on THURS 10 DEC. We will do an add-on condor trip ($450/per person including lunch) that morning assuming that everyone gets there by about 8am at the very latest. And another add-on morning to Del Mar for Inca Terns and Peruvian Pelicans ($450/per person including lunch) on FRI 11 DEC leaving the hotel very early. We fly to Mont Pleasant on SAT 12 DEC. In the Falklands we will visit Bleaker, the Rookery and the Neck on Saunders, and Pebble. Then two nights at the Malvina House on Stanely with a visit to an amazing rockhopper colony. Fly back to Santiago on SAT 26 DEC. Fly home either that night (red-eyes are hard to get) or the following day.
Photography-wise, foggy and then cloudy Monday was close to a bust … On Tuesday morning (more unsettled weather), I thought as I headed down to the lake, “I might be getting bored photographing the two utterly dependable little crane chicks.” But I was wrong. More crane magic unfolded right in front of me even before I made it to the circular parking lot at the base of the pier. V-log coming soon.
Thanks to the many who ordered the SONY ee-Guide yesterday!
Free Sandhill Crane Chick Grass Blade Removal Video Offer
Those who purchase the BIRDS AS ART Current Workflow e-Guide (Digital Basics II) today or tomorrow will automatically receive a free copy of the Sandhill Crane Chick Grass Blade Removal Video. Only those who place their order before midnight on Thursday 21 MAY 2020 are eligible.
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Used Gear Page Sales
After somewhat of a COVID-19-induced lull, action has picked up a bit on the Used Gear Page.
Jim Lewis sold his Canon EOS-1D X in near-mint condition with extras for a BAA record-low $1,500.00 (was $1,895.00) in early MAY 2020.
Kevin Spencer sold his Canon EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM lens in excellent condition for $6,799.00 to a local buyer in early MAY 2020.
BPN friend Ravi Hirekatur is sold his Canon EF Extender 1.4X II (the 1.4X II teleconverter) in excellent condition for the ridiculous, you-might-as-well-give-it-away price of $89.00 (was $179.00) in early MAY.
Gary Meyer sold his Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6 VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $3096.95 and a Nikon AF-S Teleconverter TC-14E III in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $226.95, both on the first day of listing in early MAY 2020.
Jerry Barrack sold his Canon EF 70-300mm 1:4.5-5.6 L IS USM zoom lens (the white version) in near-mint condition for the BAA record-low price of $459.00 (was $699.00) in early MAY 2020.
Sony a9 Mirrorless Digital Camera Body
BAA Record-low Price!
Used Gear page regular Charlie Curry is offering a Sony a9 Mirrorless Digital Camera body in like-new condition (971 shutter releases) and the Sony (VG-C3EM) Vertical Grip a BAA record-low $2598.00. The sale includes the original battery and charger, the USB cable, the instructional manual, the front lens cover, the a9 camera strap, a rear LCD glass protector, the latest firmware update, and insured ground shipping via major courier (to lower-48 US addresses only). Your item will not ship until your check has cleared the bank unless other arrangements are made. Photos are available upon request.
Please contact Charlie via e-mail (preferred) or by phone at 1-407-448-7797 Eastern time zone.
The SONY a9, the original AF king, offers superb autofocus that absolutely kills for flight photography. Virtually every image is sharp on the eye. Many feel that the AF system on the a9 ii is no better. And the vertical grip gives this body a pro-body type feel. As the a9 II sells new for $4498.00 and the VG-C3EM goes for an additional $348.00 for a total of $4,846, you can save an incredible $2248.00 by grabbing Charlie’s a9 right now! (Note: the a9 sells for $3498.00.)artie
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
The Sony Camera User’s e-Guide (and Videos)
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
Click on the composite to see a larger version.
Before/After Sandhill Crane one-day old chick standing near adult on the nest
Before and After Sandhill Crane one-day old Chick
In the Sandhill Crane Chicks One-a-Day Images. Which Lens is Best for the Tiny Chicks? And the One Negative of the SONY 100-400mm GM … blog post here, many folks liked Image #1 the best. Several asked if I had thought about eliminating the two blades of grass above the chick’s head. I had. Others suggested that the grass should have been removed or that they would have removed it. I originally left the two blades of grass as they only bugged me a little and the image was so endearing with the chick looking up at the adult, actually wanting to get fed. One person wished for a bit more room on our left.
So I opened the master file in Photoshop, expanded canvas just a bit left and above using unframed Content-Aware Crop. Then I eliminated the dark, circular smudge just in front of the chick’s bill. Next, I used the Divide and Conquer technique along with the Patch Tool to eliminate most of the two offending grasses. Then I used a series to small Quick Masks to cover the spots where the grasses intersected the chick’s fuzzy head. Each Quick Mask was warped and shaped using the Transform command and then refined via the addition of a Regular Layer Mask. As working on this area left things just a bit smudged, I used my background blurring technique to smooth everything nicely. That involves adding a layer of heavy Gaussian Blur, covering that with a Hide-all (Inverse or Black) Layer Mask, and then painting in the effect as desired. All in all, not too time consuming, and not bad at all.
I also like that with the canvas expanded, the bird has a bit more room in the frame.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed to perfection.
Version II: Sandhill Crane one-day old chick standing near adult on the nest
Sandhill Crane Chick Grass Blade Removal Video
Sit next to me in Photoshop as I created the second version of the re-optimized image that is featured in today’s blog post. Learn to expand canvas using unframed Content-Aware Crop, to use Divide and Conquer, to create, transform, and refine Quick Masks, and to selectively blur the background with a layer of Gaussian Blur fine-tuned with the addition of a Hide-all (Inverse or Black) Layer Mask. Just $5.00 here in the BAA Online Store.
Super-Bonus Question
The first person to answer this question by leaving a comment will receive a free copy of the Sandhill Crane Chick Grass Blade Removal Video:
What did I miss while doing the image clean-up? Note: there is only one correct answer and I am the only judge 🙂
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.
The BIRDS AS ART Current Workflow e-Guide (Digital Basics II)
All the techniques mentioned above and tons more (with the exception of Capture One RAW Conversions) — along with all of 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. Learn more and check out the free excerpt in the blog post here. While the new e-Guide reflects my Macbook Pro/Photo Mechanic/DPP 4/Photoshop workflow, folks using a PC and/or BreezeBrowser will also benefit greatly by studying the material on DB II. 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.
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: all 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 two years ago I began converting my Nikon and Sony RAW files in Capture One Pro 12 and continue to do so today.
You can learn advanced Quick Masking and advanced Layer Masking techniques in APTATS I & II. You can save $15 by purchasing the pair. Folks can learn sophisticated sharpening and (NeatImage) Noise Reduction techniques in The Professional Post Processing Guide by Arash Hazeghi and edited by yours truly. Please use this link to purchase NeatImage.
To introduce folks to our MP.4 videos and the basics involved in applying more NeatImage noise reduction to the background and less on the subject, I’d be glad to send you a free copy of the Free Noise Reduction Basics MP.4 Video. Simply click to shoot me an e-mail to get your free copy.
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
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Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
It feels really good to get this done. Most telling is that we have sold 58 pre-publication guides and have not received a single query from a confused purchaser or a single “this guide is over-priced!” e-mail. Patrick and I are quite proud of this e-Guide. New stuff that we continue to discover will be published here as Free-to-all SONY e-Guide Updates.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
The Sony Camera User’s e-Guide (and Videos)
Click here to purchase the guide with one Camera Set-up Video. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your camera body so that we can send you a link for the correct video.
Click here to purchase the guide with two Camera Set-up Videos. Be sure to e-mail us by clicking here to specify your two camera bodies so that we can send you links for the correct videos.
Wow, talk about a long time coming … The more Patrick and I worked on the guide, the more we learned. And that continues to this day.
It is hard to believe that we sent out an early draft of the guide for review in early December 2019 after we had been working on it for several months. We thought that it was pretty good at that point but Ellen Anon and her son Josh both commented to this effect: not so fast!. Both took us to task by asking lots of good questions and making dozens of excellent suggestions. They did that for several versions of the guide and for that we are very thankful.
At one point Josh wrote, Remember there are free resources competing with your guide; you need to ensure your paid guide is above and beyond these and worth the money!
Here are the links that he provided:
Sony Alpha Focus Masterclass by Mark Galer, (Sony Ambassador) here.
Sony a9 Bird In Flight/Wildlife Photography Setup and Usage Guide by Mark Smith here
Now, ask yourself why I would be sharing these free resources with you? Some of the advice is halfway decent, some of it is confusing, some of it just plain wrong, and some of it is beyond insane. Good luck trying to figure out which is which … Highlights (lowlights?) include using back-button focus (and release!) and suggested Zebra values that ensure that you will never get anything close to a good exposure. Regular readers here already know that there is never any need to use back-button focus with SONY. If you missed that, the guide clearly explains why.
Later on in the process, Josh sent me another link (one that I can no longer find). IAC, I followed it and found that the creator took you through and explained all the SONY menu items exactly as detailed in the Help Guide, but never once told you what settings he used and why he used them.
In our new guide, we explain virtually every SONY menu item in detail that might be useful in bird, nature, or wildlife photography. And then we explain your options and state clearly which setting we use in different situations and why we go that route. This invaluable advice is based on many hundreds of hours in the field photographing birds and other natural history subjects.
In short, the SONY e-Guide is incredible. While I am proud of all the previously published Camera User’s Guides, my feelings about the SONY guide go far beyond that. The stuff on using Zebras with ISO on the Rear Wheel to get the right exposure every time is all Patrick Sparkman. Without his technical brilliance, this guide would not be nearly as valuable as it is. And like my good friend Dr. Cliff Oliver, Patrick is a superb researcher — if he does not know something, he will find it online very quickly, check it out, and draw his own conclusions. Not only are the SONY menus complex, but they offer a zillion options, many of which are hidden in sub-menus and Custom Settings. Patrick figured many of those out, I discovered a few, and blog regular Craig Elson came up with some incredibly helpful little menu tricks, tricks that solved some thorny problems. Thanks also to the eagle-eyed Dane Johnson who spotted a zillion typos and type-setting errors.
The longer and harder we worked on the guide, the more I wanted to price it at $200.00. But I did not want anyone to faint. The cost of the SONY Guide is $100.00. Your purchase includes the e-Guide itself and one of the four camera-specific videos. Extra camera videos cost $25.00 each. In each video, Patrick and I take you through all the relevant menu items. We urge you to follow along with your camera in hand. Here is short and timely excerpt from the guide:
Before You Begin
With the a7r iv, the a9, and the a9 ii, the last page of My Menu allows you to turn Display From My Menu on and off as needed. It is best to keep this On so that whenever you hit the Menu button on the camera, the last-viewed My Menu page will display. When you are setting up a new camera or working on your settings while following along with this guide, you should turn Display From My Menu to Off so that you do not have to scroll through endless menu items to find what you are looking for. With My Menu Off, hitting the Menu button will return you to the last viewed Menu screen.
Once you have read this far, we urge that you watch the video for your SONY body with the camera in hand while following all the instructions before consulting the remainder of this guide.
SONY Image Galleries with Educational Captions: page 48
The e-Guide is 103 pages. The guide contains 13 sections:
The Introduction — This section contains a bit of the back-story on how the guide came to be.
Important Stuff — This section contains some important stuff 🙂
SONY Help Guides — Here you will find active links to the Help Guides for each camera body. Note: the Camera Manuals are pretty much useless.
Points of Emphasis — In this section, we reinforce and expand upon many of the important concepts that are covered in the video.
Additional Info — Here we cover tons of new stuff that we discovered in the 3 1/2 months after we created the four videos.
Clarifications In this section we detail nineteen fine points and sticky situations.
SONY Workflow In this very short section we outline our SONY workflow. No great shock there!
SONY Image Gallery with Educational Captions (77 images.) This collection of stunning images is meant to inspire, educate, and show folks what is possible with SONY gear. There is tons of AF info in the captions. And lots more.
SONY Zebras Coaching Gallery (14 images.) Here we explain exactly what we did with the Zebras to come up with a perfect exposure.
Tracking Flexible Spot Gallery 8 images.) The images here demonstrate the use of SONY’s most valuable AF Area Mode.
Thanks! Here we thank the many folks who helped us to improve the guide.
About the Authors Learn a bit about artie and Patrick.
The “If-the-World-Does-Not-End” BIRDS AS ART 2020/2021 IPT Schedule. Just in case …
SONY Zebras Coaching Gallery: page 89
So What Does the SONY Guide Cover?
Under Points of Emphasis
Note: items without comment are self-explanatory.
Using Zebras to Get the Right Exposure in Manual Mode Patrick’s technique allows you to make perfect or near-perfect exposures quickly and consistently. Using Zebras to Get the Right Exposure in Manual Mode Illustrated Thanks to an amazingly cooperative crane, this item shows how Zebras are set in an actual shooting situation. A Final Word on Zebras We explain the fine points of using Zebras in bright sun versus using Zebras in the shade. Using Zebras to Get the Right Exposure in Shutter (or Aperture) Priority This technique is used by artie at times when creating pleasing blurs. Mechanical vs Electronic Shutter It is important to know which to use with each camera … Silent Shooting Silent Shooting is closely linked to Mechanical vs Electronic Shutter. Slots 1 & 2 Auto Review Really valuable info here. Focus Areas and Focus Area Limit Along with Zebras, the info here is the meat of the guide. a7r iv vs. a9 ii Comparing these two great bodies. My Menu Learning how and what to place on your My Menus helps folks operate their SONY bodies more efficiently.
SONY Image Galleries with Educational Captions: page 66
Additional Info
Enlarge Initial Position Explains how to see the area of sharpest focus in an image; it only works before the images are downloaded. Telephoto Lens Focus Range Limiter Switch Explains how and why to set this important switch. Initial Focus Acquisition Problems With Telephoto Lenses The tips here and in DMF below might be worth the price of the entire guide. Pre-AF The jury is still out on this one but artie likes it. Direct Manual Focus (DMF) Camera Direct Manual Focus (DMF) An Important AF Note for a9 ii Users Learn about a problematic dial on the a9 ii. Optical Steady Shot (OSS) Optical Steady Shot (OSS) on Telephoto Lenses Diopter-adjustment Dial Firmware Updates Touch Operation Naming Your Camera Bodies Can save you lots of hassles. Saving/Loading Settings Sensor Cleaning Anti-dust Function New to the a9 ii only. Reg. Custom Shoot Set Function Menu Set & the Fn Button Learn to customize the screen that comes up after pushing the Fn button. More on Face/Eye Priority in AF Super-important if you want to use the fabulous Tracking Flexible Spot (M). The SONY Histogram Our comments here will likely surprise you. Display Quality/a7 Series Bodies Saving Settings to the Mode Dial Compressed vs. Uncompressed Image Review with the Control Wheel This was a “duh” moment for artie. When to Turn Off Zebras. Super-important. SONY US Repair Advice Also super-important. Vertical Grip
Tracking Flexible Spot Gallery: page 96
Under Clarifications
Power Save Start Time AEL Button Using SONY with an Adapter The Eye Sensor (Tiny Window Above the Viewfinder). Valuable stuff here … The Mysterious Viewfinder Blackout Problem Dealing with SONY’s most annoying problem. Assigning Finder/Monitor to a Custom Button Another Possible Finder/Monitor Solution Return to Center Bright Monitoring A must for astrophotography. e-Front Curtain Shutter Manual Focus Toggle A fabulous tip for macro photographers (often combined with Focus Magnifier below). The Top Wheels If You Use Rear Button Focus Focus Magnifier Fabulous tips for macro photographers (combined with Manual Focus Toggle above). The Viewfinder Level Changing the Focus and Drive Modes AF Illuminator AF Sensitivity Focus Peaking Shutter Priority for Video
SONY Image Galleries with Educational Captions: page 73
What They’ve Been Saying
From Fred Innamorato via e-mail
Hi Artie, I want to thank you for making the Sony e-Guide and videos available and for the work you put into the blog as well as for your books that teach us how to photograph birds and also for your camera User’s Guides. There is just no possible way I would have been able to get my Sony a9 ii camera settings so technically correct for doing birds in flight on my own without this guide. in my opinion, Sony should pay you for taking on the task of educating their customers. Sony has created an amazing camera but they fail to explain to their customers how to take full advantage of it. I appreciate that you know and have access to some very competent people with the technical backgrounds to assist you in your field experimentation to come up with the best and most practical and useful Menu Settings for bird photography. We all will benefit from your unique ability to pull this together. I am especially happy with your instructions on how to use the Zebra Settings for getting proper exposures. I really can’t thank you enough Artie for making my bird photography hobby so much more enjoyable than it would have been otherwise. My photography brings me great satisfaction. Sharing quality photographs with my family and friends has generated lots of interest in my hobby and why I do it. Life is good!
I highly recommend the purchase of your Sony e-Guide and Video(s). This information is just not available anywhere else. Even from Sony …
Fred Innamorato
Via e-Mail from Jerry Barrack
Hi Art,
I want to thank you again for your help with selling all of my Canon gear. Your advice on pricing was right-on as most items sold very quickly. As much as I loved my Canon equipment, the advances made by Sony with regard to autofocus made it a no-brainer for me to switch.
And thanks also for the SONY e-Guide, the Sony a9 video, and your Capture One Simplified video. After resisting using manual exposure for many, many years, I switched over to Patrick’s and your Zebras system with ISO on the rear wheel. I cannot believe how easy it is. It just shows that you can teach an old dog new tricks! My only complaint is that it now takes a lot longer to edit because nearly all of the images are properly exposed and in focus. The SONY focusing system along with the stuff I learned in the guide continues to amaze me. I just finished shooting Purple Martins and the percentage of sharp ones is unbelievable.
Thanks again for all your help. Stay safe and well.
Jerry
Blog comment by IPT veteran Barry Barfield
I have been actively using the set up from artie’s Sony e-Guide now for about four weeks. With my a9 ii and the 200-600 rig is easy to get the right exposure 99% of the time. I could never have figured out the settings suggested on my own, so thank you artie and Patrick. If you have Sony A9, A9ii, or one of the A7r bodies covered – you should get this guide today. Barry, Australia
From Peter Noyes via e-mail
Artie, In March, I purchased your e-Guide and Camera Set Up Video for the SONY a-7r iv mirrorless camera body. Both were great saving me a lot of time allowing me to spend more time outside enjoying my camera. The guide is surely worth a lot more than the purchase price to me.
Peter
From Thomas Bourne via e-mail
Artie, You and Patrick have done an outstanding job. Even though I own the a7 ii with its limits, I can see how you think and work. The guide was quite helpful to me. At 79 – and in great health, I may have enough time left to get another camera. Stay healthy!
The two crane chicks are doing quite well and are getting bigger every day. They continue to amaze me with their tameness; I created some nice head portraits of the chicks with the 100-400. Though they were the stars of the show, I had some good Great Blue Heron flight chances in the morning and enjoyed an indigo black/blue thunderstorm sky in the afternoon.
The forecast for today is cloudy with SW wind; I will be heading down to the lake at about 7am.
The SONY e-Guide and videos will be in the BAA Online Store tomorrow.
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
The Sony Camera e-Guide (PDF) and Videos Info
Yesterday I prepared the final PDF for the Sony Camera e-Guide. It will not be available in the store until early next week but you can order yours right now. The cost of the SONY e-Guide is $100.00 US and will include one of the four (4) camera set-up videos — we offer one video each for the a7r iii, the a7r iv, the a9, and the a9 ii — and the written guide with the galleries. Additional camera videos are $25.00 each The guide is now done.
If you would like to order the e-Guide now, please send a Paypal for $100 US to birdsasart@verizon.net and be sure to include the words “SONY e-Guide” in the Paypal e-mail along with the name of your camera or cameras so that you can receive the correct video or videos. Note: please add $25 for each camera video after the first. And please be sure to type your e-mail address into your Paypal order. Then be sure to send a copy of the Paypal transaction to me via e-mail.
For your convenience, the SONY e-Guide and videos will be in the BAA Online Store tomorrow.
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
Amazing Front-Yard Discovery! It Ain’t Just Crane Chicks: Dayflower
I was taking my SUV out of the driveway. I am not sure what made me look down but I did, and there, just to my right, were dozens of pretty blue blossoms. The next day was still, so after I got back from the lake I got out my quasi-macro rig — the SONY 100-400 with the 1.4X TC and the a7r iv — and went to work. After screwing up while photographing Yellow Canna flowers down by the lake, I went back to the SONY eGuide, studied the sections on Manual Focus Toggle and Focus Magnifier, and set up my a7r iv as per the guide. Now I was all set to focus manually when doing flowers. Once I had everything down pat and was able to focus with extreme accuracy, I went back to the guide and re-crafted the instructions under Focus Magnifier so that even a second-grader could follow the detailed instructions. Now I am a macro machine!
This blossom was photographed in situ, as it was growing naturally.
I’ve been Face Timing with my friend “Bug” Bob Allen with regards to propagating the salt and pepper bush in our butterfly garden. The butterflies love the small blossoms. I mentioned that it was hard to believe how many small wildflowers I had just started noticing. He said, There is a name for that, it’s called plant blindness.. I think that I will change Bob’s nickname (by one letter) to “Bud” Bob Allen.
RawDigger Screen Capture
More on SONY Exposure …
In the SONY e-Guide, in the SONY Zebras Coaching Gallery, there is a great tip on getting the right exposure for yellow and purple flowers. I followed the advice there and wound up with a pretty much perfect exposure: 3 under-exposed RED pixels and 2 under-exposed BLUE pixels out of 61,000,000. Not bad.
Note also that I went to Shade WB to create today’s featured image. I did that because the color on the rear monitor looked way off. Yes, you can always change the White Balance in post, but for me, it is comforting when what you are seeing on the back of the camera looks a lot like what you are seeing in life.
The Art of Flower Photography by Denise Ippolito and Arthur Morris
You can learn everything e about this e-book here, or order your copy here.
Video: The Art of Flower Photography
In this B&H Event Space video, two of the world’s premier photographers of flora and fauna — Arthur Morris and Denise Ippolito — share the techniques they use to create dramatic, sharp, well-composed, properly exposed images of flowers and flower fields. Denise does great things with the Canon 100mm f/2.8 L IS lens, while artie often goes to longer focal lengths—he has been seen photographing tulips at Keukenhoff Gardens, Holland, with a 600mm lens and a teleconverter. In addition to standard techniques, the video ends with Ippolito and Morris showing a wide range of abstract floral images and describing a variety of creative artistic effects such as multiple exposures, sharp/soft blending, texture overlays, warping a flower, creating zoom/twirls, in-camera blurs, and many others.
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
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Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
On Friday morning I followed the new crane family around for a bit. The birds quickly made their way to the top of the small rise to the right of the parking circle by the pier. Ideal! I worked a bit with the tripod-mounted 600 f/4 and the a9 ii. And when the sun broke through, I added the 1.4X TC. Then I grabbed the 100-400 with the a7r IV from my SUV and went to work. I stayed in on Friday afternoon as it clouded over.
On Saturday morning it was raining at 7:00am. It stopped and I headed down to the lake at 8am. I found the family on the same hill. It started drizzling pretty hard but I kept working with the 600 f/4 and the a7r iv. When the sun came out I decided to give the handheld 200-600 with an a9 ii a chance and was glad that I did. When the chicks began to rest I grabbed the 600 f/4 a7r IV and added the 2X. What fun. It clouded over and the whole family walked out into the marsh, under the pier, and headed back to the nest for a serious rest.
I pulled my car out of the garage at 7:30pm to head down to what looked like a promising sunset only to ear a thump-thump-thump. The AAA was here by 9:30 and he fixed the flat in short order. I was in bed by ten, late for me but very happy. I’d hate to miss a morning session with the crane babies.
Be sure to let us know which of today’s two featured images you like best. And why.
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Paul McCartney Carpool Karaoke from The Late Late Show with James Corden
I had not known much at all about James Corden until I saw him as a guest on Sports Center with Scott Van Pelt (“It’s midnight eastern and I am not tired yet.”) SVP asked him about his carpool karaoke skits and mentioned several including the one with Paul McCartney. I always liked the Beatles but I loved the Four Tops and the Four Seasons. And I was never a huge Paul McCartney. But curious, I did an online search and found the YouTube video above. The video is amazingly done. It is clever and sincere. The music, of course, is plentiful, wonderful, and iconic. And James Corden’s enthusiasm adds a ton. Driving around Liverpool, the duo visited Penny Lane, the house that McCartney grew up in and wrote and played music with John Lennon, and did a sort of flash mob bit in a pub where the Beatles had performed as then-unknown teens. The best part might be where McCartney. — in the sixties — tells of a dream he had of his late-Mom. Reassuring him she said, “It’s gonna be OK. Let it be.”
Paul McCartney might bee the nicest person on the planet — hugs and handshakes for strangers, connecting with folks instantly like Arnold Palmer did — and I am now a huge fan. Diehard McCartney fans will enjoy the David Frost interview (“Still Prancing”) here. I learrned also that James Corden is a pretty cool guy as well.
If you can watch the video without smiling so much that you begin to cry, let me know.
If you do not know George Carlin and are offended by foul language, be advised not to click play on this one. If you want a bunch of good laughs go for it. If you see any connection with what George says and what is going on today, don’t blame me.
This recipe is fast and simple. It serves one. Sautee 1/4 diced onion and two diced Brussells sprouts in extra virgin olive oil in a frying pan. Do not blacken the edges. Shred 3-4 ounces of canned, cooked, or smoked salmon in a mixing bowl, crack in one cage-free range-fed egg, add one ounce of nutritional yeast, and season with ground black pepper and sea salt. Mix in the sauteed veggies. Form into a single patty with a spatula and cook it in the frying pan until golden-brown on each side. Serve with mayo or tartar sauce. Enjoy.
Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
The Sony Camera e-Guide (PDF) and Videos Info
Yesterday I prepared the final PDF for the Sony Camera e-Guide. It will not be available in the store until early next week but you can order yours right now. The cost of the SONY e-Guide is $100.00 US and will include one of the four (4) camera set-up videos — we offer one video each for the a7r iii, the a7r iv, the a9, and the a9 ii — and the written guide with the galleries. Additional camera videos are $25.00 each The guide is now done.
If you would like to order the e-Guide now, please send a Paypal for $100 US to birdsasart@verizon.net and be sure to include the words “SONY e-Guide” in the Paypal e-mail along with the name of your camera or cameras so that you can receive the correct video or videos. Note: please add $25 for each camera video after the first. And please be sure to type your e-mail address into your Paypal order. Then be sure to send a copy of the Paypal transaction to me via e-mail.
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has four SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
This image was also created on 15 MAY 2020 at Indian Lake Estates. Again, I used the handheld Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens (at at 361mm) and the 61-mega-pixel monster, the Sony Alpha a7R IV Mirrorless Digital camera body. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear dial. ISO 500: 1/640 sec. at f/6.3 in Manual mode. AWB at 7:20am on a clear morning.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and again performed perfectly.
Image #1: Sandhill Crane chick looking surprised
Two Too Good
While I was in the field, I knew that both of today’s featured images were really, really good. Any time that you can combine a cute subject in sweet light with an interesting behavior you are gonna be pleased with the results as long as they are sharp. At first, I liked one a lot better than the other. Then I switched teams. I will be interested to see which of the two folks here prefer.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M)
Free-to-all SONY e-Guide Update
One of the reasons that it took so long to finish the SONY e-Guide is that we have continued to learn more about SONY every day. We talk extensively about the various SONY AF Area modes and stress that when working with the amazing Tracking Flexible Spot (M), you need lots of practice to develop the confidence to use it to its fullest potential. Over the past few days, I found myself making failing to check the bottom of the frame to make sure that I was leaving enough room below the chick’s feet. In some cases, I lost great images because of this error. Now that I have been able to verbalize the problem, I find myself checking the bottom of the frame every single time without having to think about it as I design the images in the field. It is becoming second nature.
This image was created on 15 MAY 2020 at Indian Lake Estates. I used the handheld Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens (at at 400mm) and the 61-mega-pixel monster, the Sony Alpha a7R IV Mirrorless Digital camera body. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear dial. ISO 500: 1/800 sec. at f/6.3 in Manual mode. AWB at 7:24am on a clear morning.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed perfectly.
With sharp, 61-million pixel image files you can execute fairly large crops and still wind up with exquisitely detailed master files. Each of today’s images was cropped substantially. With Image #2, 37% of the original pixels were cropped away. The flattened, optimized TIF file is 103.7 MB. And with Image #1, only 44% of the original pixels remain. The flattened, optimized TIF file for this one weighs in at 73.6 MB. That said, I am 100% positive that either would print beautifully well beyond 20 x 30 inches.
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
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As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
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Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
Here are some of my very favorite recent comments.
Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
Blog posts — never more than one every other day — that deal with the current situation in the US (and the world), will include the words Alert: Non-photography-related Post in the title. If you do not wish to read about or discuss the current issues, simply do not open such blog posts. Nobody is forcing you to read the blog. I have lots more important stuff to share and lots more questions to ask. As for those who are disappointed in me or have lost respect for me that is about them. Only I can disrespect myself.
Those who wish to paint me as some sort of conspiracy theorist can keep their heads buried in the sand, ignore solid information from many knowledgeable folks (including doctors), obey all government orders, wait for the COVID-19 vaccine (that is never coming), and line up to have their chips implanted. For those who state that they will never again come to the BIRDS AS ART Blog for the free photography instruction that I have provided for I don’t know how many years — 3044 posts before this one — I wish them only the best.
Adam Rubinstein is a doctor on the front like treating COVID-19 patients.
All I can say is I have first-hand experience, and you are wise to be a skeptic. The lockdown was prudent, albeit too late for an unknown virus with unknown modes of transmission, mortality, etc. The whole intent was to minimize the number of casualties and prevent an overwhelming surge on existing resources. It turns out the virus on first pass targets certain demographic groups, is less deadly than originally projected, and therapies are few and far between. Hydroxy/Azith are still unproven, Resdes has yet to demonstrate efficacy other than shortening the course – no effect on viral load or mortality, and convalescent serum is an unknown.
For those who want to join the crazed pols who want to shut the country down until a vaccine is developed, you may as well kiss your arse goodbye.
Well said Doc.
dhm
Trust science. Trust the experts — Fauci is one. Anyone who doesn’t buy that is promoting needless deaths (and reactionary thinking). End of story.
Yes, Shut up. Be scared. Lock down. Do what we say even if it makes zero sense. And don’t ask any questions. Way to go dhm. Please explain why everyone who shops in Walmart is not dying, causing outbreaks, if you would. Kudos to the gym guy in Belmar, NJ who is opening on Monday despite the governor’s orders.
a
Tilo Samteer
Artie, You don’t subscribe to flu shots. Will you also avoid a covid19 vaccine, should it become available? Wearing a mask protects others, not the wearer. See Andrew Cuomo’s daily presentation.
Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART
Hi Tilo, The only way I will get a COVID 19 “vaccine” is if I am chained down. If you feel that it is important to be injected with carcinogens, toxins, aborted fetal cells, animal DNA, parasites, antibiotics, fungi, insecticides, and disinfectants, that is your choice. Do understand that at present there are ZERO approved vaccines for any of the previous coronaviruses. Heck, maybe you’ll get lucky.
with love, artie
ps: And the jury is still out on masks. If you remember, the CDC originally stated that nobody should wear masks. Right now I believe that all folks should wear masks when they are in fairly close contact with others as when shopping). Do understand that I have gone shopping four times in two months
byron prinzmetal
So whom do you trust from a medical perspective that has national stature that people listen to?
Nobody. I do trust the advice I get from Dr. Cliff Oliver of San Diego.
From LA Mayor Garcetti’s Facebook Page
Los Angeles, CA
On May 13, Los Angeles County health officer Dr. (Barbara) Ferrer said that the stay at home order would stay in place for at least three more months. Yesterday, LA Mayor Eric Garcetti mandated that anyone who goes outside for any reason must wear a mask.
Yesterday, a new order from Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti requires Angelenos to wear masks or “face coverings” whenever they leave home, in an effort to stop the coronavirus from spreading. What about L.A. County? In her daily coronavirus briefing this afternoon, Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer says the county health order is clear: “Masks are in fact mandatory across the entire county when you’re outside of your home, not with members of your household, and in any kind of contact with other people. The reason you wear a cloth face covering is so that you can protect other people from your respiratory droplets.”
Face Masks Pose Serious Risks To The Healthy
In an article posted by Patrick Wood; he wrote, in part:
With the advent of the so-called COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen a number of medical practices that have little or no scientific support as regards reducing the spread of this infection. One of these measures is the wearing of facial masks, either a surgical-type mask, bandana or N95 respirator mask.
When this pandemic began and we knew little about the virus itself or its epidemiologic behavior, it was assumed that it would behave, in terms of spread among communities, like other respiratory viruses. Little has presented itself after intense study of this virus and its behavior to change this perception.
This is somewhat of an unusual virus in that for the vast majority of people infected by the virus, one experiences either no illness (asymptomatic) or very little sickness. Only a very small number of people are at risk of a potentially serious outcome from the infection—mainly those with underlying serious medical conditions in conjunction with advanced age and frailty, those with immune compromising conditions and nursing home patients near the end of their lives. There is growing evidence that the treatment protocol issued to treating doctors by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mainly intubation and use of a ventilator (respirator), may have contributed significantly to the high death rate in these select individuals.
By wearing a mask, the exhaled viruses will not be able to escape and will concentrate in the nasal passages, enter the olfactory nerves and travel into the brain. Russell Blaylock, MD
As for the scientific support for the use of face mask, a recent careful examination of the literature, in which 17 of the best studies were analyzed, concluded that, “None of the studies established a conclusive relationship between mask/respirator use and protection against influenza infection.” Keep in mind, no studies have been done to demonstrate that either a cloth mask or the N95 mask has any effect on transmission of the COVID-19 virus. Any recommendations, therefore, have to be based on studies of influenza virus transmission. And, as you have seen, there is no conclusive evidence of their efficiency in controlling flu virus transmission.
Click here to read the whole article with references.
Dr. Russell Blaylock, a nationally recognized board-certified neurosurgeon, health practitioner, author, and lecturer. He attended the Louisiana State University School of Medicine and completed his internship and neurological residency at the Medical University of South Carolina. For 26 years, he practiced neurosurgery. In addition, he’s had a nutritional practice. He recently retired from his neurosurgical duties to devote his full attention to nutritional research. Dr. Blaylock has authored four books, Excitotoxins: The Taste That Kills, Health and Nutrition Secrets That Can Save Your Life, Natural Strategies for Cancer Patients, and his most recent work, Cellular and Molecular Biology of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
More on Trusting Dr. Fauci
In the Alert: Non-photography-related Post: Trusting Dr. Fauci blog post here, many rose to Dr. Fauci’s defense: “You’ve made mistakes too.” “He changes his position as new data comes in.” “So, you discount all the expertise from a leading epidemiologist because he changed his opinion based on additional information?”
Dr. Fauci in position …
Consider This
Thanks to Cliff Beittel for providing a link to this article From Newsday: Dr. Fauci Backed Controversial Wuhan Lan With US Dollars For Risky Coronavirus Research By Fred Guterl on 4/28/20.
He wrote:
Dr. Anthony Fauci is an adviser to President Donald Trump and something of an American folk hero for his steady, calm leadership during the pandemic crisis. At least one poll shows that Americans trust Fauci more than Trump on the coronavirus pandemic—and few scientists are portrayed on TV by Brad Pitt.
But just last year, the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the organization led by Dr. Fauci, funded scientists at the Wuhan Institute of Virology and other institutions for work on gain-of-function research on bat coronaviruses.
In 2019, with the backing of NIAID, the National Institutes of Health committed $3.7 million over six years for research that included some gain-of-function work. The program followed another $3.7 million, 5-year project for collecting and studying bat coronaviruses, which ended in 2019, bringing the total to $7.4 million.
Many scientists have criticized gain of function research, which involves manipulating viruses in the lab to explore their potential for infecting humans, because it creates a risk of starting a pandemic from accidental release.
SARS-CoV-2 , the virus now causing a global pandemic, is believed to have originated in bats. U.S. intelligence, after originally asserting that the coronavirus had occurred naturally, conceded last month that the pandemic may have originated in a leak from the Wuhan lab. (At this point most scientists say it’s possible—but not likely—that the pandemic virus was engineered or manipulated.)
Dr. Fauci did not respond to Newsweek’s requests for comment. NIH responded with a statement that said in part: “Most emerging human viruses come from wildlife, and these represent a significant threat to public health and biosecurity in the US and globally, as demonstrated by the SARS epidemic of 2002-03, and the current COVID-19 pandemic…. scientific research indicates that there is no evidence that suggests the virus was created in a laboratory.”
The NIH research consisted of two parts. The first part began in 2014 and involved surveillance of bat coronaviruses, and had a budget of $3.7 million. The program funded Shi Zheng-Li, a virologist at the Wuhan lab, and other researchers to investigate and catalogue bat coronaviruses in the wild. This part of the project was completed in 2019.
A second phase of the project, beginning that year, included additional surveillance work but also gain-of-function research for the purpose of understanding how bat coronaviruses could mutate to attack humans. The project was run by EcoHealth Alliance, a non-profit research group, under the direction of President Peter Daszak, an expert on disease ecology. NIH canceled the project just this past Friday, April 24th, Politico reported. Daszak did not immediately respond to Newsweek requests for comment.
The project proposal states: “We will use S protein sequence data, infectious clone technology, in vitro and in vivo infection experiments and analysis of receptor binding to test the hypothesis that % divergence thresholds in S protein sequences predict spillover potential.”
In layman’s terms, “spillover potential” refers to the ability of a virus to jump from animals to humans, which requires that the virus be able to attach to receptors in the cells of humans. SARS-CoV-2, for instance, is adept at binding to the ACE2 receptor in human lungs and other organs.
According to Richard Ebright, an infectious disease expert at Rutgers University, the project description refers to experiments that would enhance the ability of bat coronavirus to infect human cells and laboratory animals using techniques of genetic engineering. In the wake of the pandemic, that is a noteworthy detail.
Ebright, along with many other scientists, has been a vocal opponent of gain-of-function research because of the risk it presents of creating a pandemic through accidental release from a lab.
Dr. Fauci is renowned for his work on the HIV/AIDS crisis in the 1990s. Born in Brooklyn, he graduated first in his class from Cornell University Medical College in 1966. As head of NIAID since 1984, he has served as an adviser to every U.S. president since Ronald Reagan.
A decade ago, during a controversy over gain-of-function research on bird-flu viruses, Dr. Fauci played an important role in promoting the work. He argued that the research was worth the risk it entailed because it enables scientists to make preparations, such as investigating possible anti-viral medications, that could be useful if and when a pandemic occurred.
The work in question was a type of gain-of-function research that involved taking wild viruses and passing them through live animals until they mutate into a form that could pose a pandemic threat. Scientists used it to take a virus that was poorly transmitted among humans and make it into one that was highly transmissible—a hallmark of a pandemic virus. This work was done by infecting a series of ferrets, allowing the virus to mutate until a ferret that hadn’t been deliberately infected contracted the disease.
The work entailed risks that worried even seasoned researchers. More than 200 scientists called for the work to be halted. The problem, they said, is that it increased the likelihood that a pandemic would occur through a laboratory accident.
Dr. Fauci defended the work. “[D]etermining the molecular Achilles’ heel of these viruses can allow scientists to identify novel antiviral drug targets that could be used to prevent infection in those at risk or to better treat those who become infected,” wrote Fauci and two co-authors in the Washington Post on December 30, 2011. “Decades of experience tells us that disseminating information gained through biomedical research to legitimate scientists and health officials provides a critical foundation for generating appropriate countermeasures and, ultimately, protecting the public health.”
Nevertheless, in 2014, under pressure from the Obama administration, the National of Institutes of Health instituted a moratorium on the work, suspending 21 studies.
Three years later, though—in December 2017—the NIH ended the moratorium and the second phase of the NIAID project, which included the gain-of-function research, began. The NIH established a framework for determining how the research would go forward: scientists have to get approval from a panel of experts, who would decide whether the risks were justified.
The reviews were indeed conducted—but in secret, for which the NIH has drawn criticism. In early 2019, after a reporter for Science magazine discovered that the NIH had approved two influenza research projects that used gain of function methods, scientists who oppose this kind of research excoriated the NIH in an editorial in the Washington Post.
“We have serious doubts about whether these experiments should be conducted at all,” wrote Tom Inglesby of Johns Hopkins University and Marc Lipsitch of Harvard. “[W]ith deliberations kept behind closed doors, none of us will have the opportunity to understand how the government arrived at these decisions or to judge the rigor and integrity of that process.”
You can access the article here (complete with the advertisements).
The Newsweek article above seems to support much of the controversial information presented in Plandemic. What do you think?
The rebuttal at ScienceMag.org here began like this: She makes head-scratching assertions about the virus—for instance, that it is “activated” by face masks. Considering what Dr. Blaylock has to say about masks above, that statement would surely have me doubting whatever else the author had to say …
I had planned to be at Fort DeSoto by now for a week or ten days by now, but with the crane chicks that hatched recently, I am not going anywhere. I’ve been living at ILE for nearly two decades and there has never been a crane family with tiny chicks that was 100% accepting of my presence. The opportunity is simply too good and too amazing to drive away from. A nice benefit of the pandemic 🙂
On my Thursday afternoon walk, I had an ILE first-ever Least Tern fly over the boardwalk. That was followed by the first decent sunset in about ten days. While photographing the chicks every morning and most afternoons, I have learned a ton about crane behavior. Most surprisingly is that they wandered more than 200 yards from the nest just one day after the second chick hatched. And yesterday they expanded that to more than 300 yards and wound up in North Field and then in the marsh north of the pier. The nest is in the marsh about 200 yards south of the pier. My thighs are quite sore again as I spent a good deal of time picking up trash left and right of the pier where the new crane family has been hanging out for the past few days.
The forecast for this morning — Friday 15 MAY 2020 is for northeast winds with clouds developing early. That is pretty good for bird photography.
Thanks to the many who continue to order a variety of educational materials and gear & accessories from the BAA Online Store. Your patronage is appreciated in these unique times. This blog post took more than three hours to prepare including the time spent on the image optimizations.
It is a tough call for sure, but do attempt to pick a favorite from among today’s five featured images. And please let us know why you made your pick. Comments on the good and bad of all of the images are welcome.
Important Note
Blog posts — never more than one every other day — that deal with the current situation in the US (and the world), will include the words Alert: Non-photography-related Post in the title. If you do not wish to read about or discuss the current issues, simply do not open such blog posts. Nobody is forcing you to read the blog. I have lots more important stuff to share and lots more questions to ask. As for those who are disappointed in me or have lost respect for me that is about them. Only I can disrespect myself.
Those who wish to paint me as some sort of conspiracy theorist can keep their heads buried in the sand, ignore solid information from many knowledgeable folks (including doctors), obey all government orders, wait for the COVID-19 vaccine (that is never coming), and line up to have their chips implanted. For those who state that they will never again come to the BIRDS AS ART Blog for the free photography instruction that I have provided for I don’t know how many years — 3044 posts before this one — I wish them only the best.
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
The Sony Camera e-Guide (PDF) and videos Info
Yesterday I prepared the final PDF for the Sony Camera e-Guide. It will not be available in the store until early next week but you can order yours right now. The cost of the SONY e-Guide is $100.00 US and will include one of the four (4) camera set-up videos — we offer one video each for the a7r iii, the a7r iv, the a9, and the a9 ii — and the written guide with the galleries. Additional camera videos are $25.00 each The guide is now done.
If you would like to order the e-Guide now, please send a Paypal for $100 US to birdsasart@verizon.net and be sure to include the words “SONY e-Guide” in the Paypal e-mail along with the name of your camera or cameras so that you can receive the correct video or videos. Note: please add $25 for each camera video after the first. And please be sure to type your e-mail address into your Paypal order. Then be sure to send a copy of the Paypal transaction to me via e-mail.
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has five SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed to perfection.
Image #1: Sandhill Crane one-day old chick standing near adult on the nest
May 10 — Day One, the Mother’s Day Miracle
If you missed the Mother’s Day Miracle Crane Chick V-log video, click, here to view it and learn the story of that amazing day of excitement and discovery. It is a rare day that I head down to the lake three times …
This image was created on 11 MAY 2020 at Indian Lake Estates. I used the handheld Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens (at at 277mm) and the 61-mega-pixel monster, the Sony Alpha a7R IV Mirrorless Digital camera body. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear dial. ISO 640: 1/1000 sec. at f/7.1 in Manual mode. AWB at 7:27pm on a sunny afternoon.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed almost miraculously with the AF point holding on the adult crane’s head!
Image #2: Sandhill Crane with 1- and 2-day old chicks.
May 11 — Day Two
I went to the 100-400 in hopes of making a decent image that showed the tiny chicks with one or both parents to illustrate how tiny they are. I did not give myself much chance. To improve the artistic merit of this image, it underwent extensive clean-up. The natural history of the image, however, is unchanged: two tiny chicks walking in the marsh with one of their parents. I will share the before image with you here at some point for comparison.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed to perfection.
Image #3: Sandhill Crane 2- or 3-day old chick wading
May 11 — Day Three
Choosing one of my SONY telephoto lenses with which to photograph the still-tiny chicks is a decision based on many factors. With the chicks so, so tame, the 200-600 is always left in my SUV as the minimum focus distance (MFD) of the 100-400 — .98 meters or just over three feet — is a huge plus. In the very early morning or the late afternoon (as with Image #3), the 100-400 does not work for the close-up work if the sun is out because my shadow will fall upon the subjects. It was a thrill to get this bird wading in the deep blue water. Sometimes I head away from the Sequoia with the 600/1.4X on the tripod and the 100-400 on my shoulder via a Black Rapid Curve Breathe Strap. The best of both worlds!
This image was created on 13 MAY at Indian Lake Estates. I used the handheld Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens (at at 394mm) and the AF King, the Sony Alpha a9 II Mirrorless Digital camera body. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear dial. ISO 1600: 1/250 sec. at f/5.6 in Manual mode. AWB at 6:55am before the sun got on the birds on what would become a clear sunny morning.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure. I placed the AF point on the right-hand chick’s head and re-composed.
Image #4: Sandhill Crane 3- and 4-day old chicks with the adult on a bed of decaying mayfly carcasses
May 12 — Day Four
I have been mentioning the huge mayfly hatches that have left many tens of thousands of dead ones covering exposed mudflats. The adult cranes, perhaps sensing that one or both of the chicks is tired, will often plop down anywhere inviting them to climb into her feathers — usually from the rear — for a short nap. That is exactly what the adult here was doing when it lay down on a bed of mayflies. I am guessing that the chicks were more hungry than tired as they opted for snacking on dead mayflies rather than resting.
This image was created on 14 MAY 2020 at Indian Lake Estates. I used the handheld Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens (at at 382mm) and the 61-mega-pixel monster, the Sony Alpha a7R IV Mirrorless Digital camera body. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear dial. ISO 800: 1/640 sec. at f/6.3 in Manual mode. AWB at 9:41am on a partly cloudy morning.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed perfectly.
Image #5: Sandhill Crane chick tight with 1- and 2-day old chicks.
May 13 — Day Five
I am so, so blessed to have been able to photograph these two tiny, too-cute creatures every day for almost a week now that it is hard to believe. They are so tame that when it is cloudy or the chicks are in the shade, the 100-400 is by far the best lens for the job; partial body images of a tiny chick — are you kidding me? It is 1/3 stop faster than the 200-600 at the long end and the MFD of the 1-4 kills that of the 2-6. In addition, as the family is often moving about, the light weight and the small size of the handheld 100-400 allows me to change position quickly and get down on my butt quickly as needed.
The One Negative of the SONY 100-400mm GM Lens
The one negative of the SONY 100-400mm GM lens is that the zoom mechanism — the lens length changes as you zoom in or out — is not at all smooth. Pretty much every SONY 1-4 that I have handled sticks a bit at about 300mm. It is very difficult to use if you are trying to create a zoom blur. And since the problem has to do with the design of the lens, it cannot be fixed or repaired. The internal zoom mechanism of thee 200-600 G on the other hand, is as smooth as butter.
Note however that the incredibly small minimum focusing distance, the f/5.6 aperture at the long end, and the 100-400’s small size and light weight make it a must-own lens for me. Not to mention flower photography!
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
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Typos
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In the blog post here, Tilo Samter asked thiat in a comment regarding flu and virus vaccines, Why don’t you trust Dr. Fauci?
Here’s why:
May 12, Testifying before members of Congress on Capitol Hill, Fauci said: “What I’ve expressed then, and again, is my concern, is that if some areas, cities, states or what have you, jump over checkpoints, and prematurely open up, without having the capability of being able to respond effectively and efficiently, my concern is that we would start to see little spikes that might turn into outbreaks.”
May 13: Fauci said, “Some sort of mask-like facial covering, I think, for the time being, should be a very regular part of how we prevent the spread of infections. And in fact, the more and more you go outside, like here where I am sitting in Washington, DC, you see many people out there with masks on. This gives me some degree of comfort that people are taking this very seriously.”
March 8: Fauci said, “Right now, in the United States, people should not be walking around with masks. Pointless. There’s no reason people should be walking around with a mask. When you’re in the middle of an outbreak, wearing a mask might make people feel a little bit better, and it might even block a droplet, but it’s not providing the perfect protection that people think that it is.”
January 21: Fauci said, “This (COVID-19) is not a major threat to the people in the United States, not something that the citizens of the United States, right now, should be worried about.
April 7. Fauci said, “I don’t think we should ever shake hands again, to be honest with you, Not only would it be good to prevent coronavirus, it probably would decrease instances of influenza in this country.
Do you trust Dr. Fauci? Is this the person that you would like to see charting the future of the country? (Can you say “total lockdown, massive unemployment, economic collapse, and all schools closed for another 1 1/2 years.”?)
The photography on Tuesday morning was excellent. I spent some quality time with the new crane family. And then, surprisingly, I created a very nice frame or two of the Black-necked Stilts. At one point the female crouched in the water inviting copulation; I was sure that I was gonna be famous as the water was blue and still. But the nearby male was not interested.
On Tuesday afternoon the two chicks were on the grass right next to the pier. They were just standing there, completely tame. So I put the SONY 600 GM on the tripod, added the 2XTC, and concentrated on getting just above the grass but on sun angle and created a few killer head portraits. Both chicks have been feeding ravenously with the adults leading the way; I am thrilled to report that both are doing quite well.
Recently, I had two fly-by wood Ducks and two Semipalmated Plovers; the latter, an ILE first for me.
The comments on the freedom of speech/COVID-19/Plandemic posts continue to pour in. Many are incredibly interesting. I have too many favorites to single any out, but I would suggest that interested folks re-visit. I love the very few folks, who, after 3 posts out of 3019 dealing with freedom of speech and the virus, write that they are never coming back to the blog to learn about bird photography. Man, you gotta love it.
Today’s V-log is about 14 1/2 minutes long. It started at almost 17 minutes and I then spent a half-hour cutting out more than three minutes of throat-clearing, hemming and hawing, and pregnant pauses. There are many, many lessons in the video. As always questions and comments are welcome. Enjoy. And be safe.
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
The Sony Camera e-Guide (PDF) and videos Info
Yesterday I prepared the final PDF for the Sony Camera e-Guide. It will not be available in the store until early next week but you can order yours right now. The cost of the SONY e-Guide is $100.00 US and will include one of the four (4) camera set-up videos — we offer one video each for the a7r iii, the a7r iv, the a9, and the a9 ii — and the written guide with the galleries. Additional camera videos are $25.00 each The guide is now done.
If you would like to order the e-Guide now, please send a Paypal for $100 US to birdsasart@verizon.net and be sure to include the words “SONY e-Guide” in the Paypal e-mail along with the name of your camera or cameras so that you can receive the correct video or videos. Note: please add $25 for each camera video after the first. And please be sure to type your e-mail address into your Paypal order. Then be sure to send a copy of the Paypal transaction to me via e-mail.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6 VR Lens
Gary Meyer is offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6 VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $3096.95. The sale includes the original box, the front and rear caps, the soft case, a UV-filter 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.
Please contact Gary via e-mail or by phone at 1-612-221-0150 (Central time zone).
This is a fantastic lens. When I used Nikon, it was my very favorite lens. It is an incredible flight lens and is great with static subjects with the TC-14E III (1.4X teleconverter). It is super-sharp and hand-holdable for almost everyone. It sells new for $3,596.95. Grab Gary’s pretty much new lens to save a spiffy $500.00! artie
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR Lens
Gary Meyer is also offering a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4 VR lens in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $596.95. The sale includes the front and rear caps, 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.
Please contact Gary via e-mail or by phone at 1-612-221-0150 (Central time zone).
I have always loved the lenses in this class. The Nikon version was a lot sharper than the Canon 24-105. It is a versatile multi-purpose lens with a thousand uses. I keep my SONY 24-105 on the front seat ever day. The 24-120 sells new right now for $1,096.95. Grab Gary’s pretty much new lens to save another $500.00! artie
Nikon
Gary Meyer is also offering a Nikon AF-S Teleconverter TC-14E III in like-new condition for a BAA record-low $226.95. The sale includes the original box, both caps, the soft case, 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.
Please contact Gary via e-mail or by phone at 1-612-221-0150 (Central time zone).
As regular readers know I have long-depended heavily on teleconverters and always traveled with two (or even three!) 1.4X TCs. The TC-14E III sells new right now for $496.95 to save a handsome $270.00! artie
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has five SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
Mother’s Day Miracle Crane Chick V-log
Click on the play triangle above to spend a good part of Sunday, May 10 with me as I photographed a one-day old Sandhill Crane chick and observed its tiny, helpless, just-hatched nest-mate. I need to emphasize that the cloudy weather that day was the biggest blessing of all. Had it been a clear sunny day, photography would have been nearly impossible. Watch the video to learn how I was able to deal with all the clutter thanks to the giant soft-box of a sky. Along the way, you will pick up dozens of great bird and nature photography tips.
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
Be sure to like and follow BAA on Facebook by clicking on the logo link upper right.
Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
The two new crane chicks continue to be amazingly accepting. They do, however, spend most of their time hanging out in ugly places. Coming tomorrow: Mother’s Day Miracle Crane Chick V-log.
There have been a few folks who have not been happy that I have been talking and asking about freedom of speech and the pandemic. Very recently, Bill Webb wrote in a comment: I am dismayed that this formerly enjoyable bird blog post and advice site has descended to Facebook levels of political animus and discord. I will check back in a few weeks to see if it has recovered.
The truth be told, the first time I began working on the Freedom of Speech/Plandemic blog post I deleted it, in part out of concern for massive blow-back. Two days later I realized that it was something that I had to do. So I did it. (Note: I would never post this stuff on Facebook as there are far too many haters and idiots there. Two haters did leave comments this morning.)
For the most part, I have been amazed by the quality and the civility of the ensuing dialogue. I have not seen very much discord. Accomplished doctors and attorneys have chimed in along with some simply brilliant folks (like Cliff Beittel). I have learned a lot. Interested folks may wish to re-visit and read the comments on the two relevant blog posts, here and here.
On the More on the Plandemic Video blog post here, Kathy Kunce commented: I watched the movie – now I don’t truly know what to think.
After reading the original rebuttal here and If You Found That ‘Plandemic’ Video Convincing, Read This Toohere — I too find myself scratching my head in confusion. Thanks to David Policansky for the link to the latter article.
This is an excerpt from that article:
Does wearing masks make us more susceptible to the coronavirus?
No. The video says that masks “activate” the virus. Where’s the evidence for that? There isn’t any. (This, by the way, is a specific claim that Facebook cites in removing the video as misinformation. “Suggesting that wearing a mask can make you sick could lead to imminent harm, so we’re removing the video,” the company told the New York Times.)
The above is totally inaccurate. COVID-19 (and other viruses and bacteria) thrive in moist areas. If you are wearing a mask for more than a few minutes, moisture builds up along with bacteria and viruses which will now have the time and a great environment in which to establish themselves.
Am I positive that everything that Judy Minkovits says in Plandemic is 100% true and accurate? No. But I can say the same thing with confidence about many of the statements in the rebuttals. Am I positive that some of the things that Judy Minkovits says in Plandemic are 100% true and accurate? Yes. Do I trust Dr. Fauci? No.
On the same blog post, Mike Johnson wrote: How does this discussion relate to “BIRDS AS ART?”
I have always felt free to go off-topic on the blog, discussing things that have nothing to do with bird photography (like my health, my family, and my early life to name a few) at length. Freedom of speech and the Coronavirus are topics of great interest to me. As BIRDS AS ART is at least $30,000 hole as a direct result of the pandemic, it is very much my business. And over the next year or two, that figure may increase four- or five-fold. (Note: other tour leaders who lead many more international trips than I do have been hurt financially to a much greater degree.)
Some may find this article of interest: Woodstock Occurred in the Middle of a Pandemic. It asks lots of good questions. You can read it here. And you can find the Reuters Fac Check article (partly true claim) here. From where I sit, the article seems to be true (rather than partly true).
Lastly, do know that I have never taken a flu shot and never will.
When I poked my head out the door on Sunday morning at about 7:00am, it was raining pretty hard. By 8:00am, it was down to a drizzle, and still, so I got my 100-400/7r iv quasi-macro rig from the Sequoia and photographed some Firebush blossoms. By 8:15, the rain had stopped, so I drove down to the lake. A quick drive-around revealed no birds other than the two dozen Black Vultures spaced out on the South Peninsula flapping their wings to dry off a bit. I passed on those because I did not want to shoot at ISO 5000. When I got back to the base of the pier, I remembered that the mudflats were covered with zillions of mayfly carcasses so I grabbed the SONY 24-105 with an a9 ii on it. (I should have used the a7r iv.) I always wear my surf booties down to the lake just in case. So I slopped around in the mud — and as it turned out, I made a few really good pattern shots.
Off to my left, I noticed a crane stand up. It was the same bird that had been hanging out in the area, seemingly for forever. I wrote in the blog recently that the eggs were likely infertile. As I approached, I noted a day-old chick. (I had seen two eggs on Friday.) I hustled back to the car, grabbed the 600 f/4, the 7r iv, and the Induro 404L tripod with the FlexShooter Pro on top, and stayed with the bird as it sat on the nest with the tiny chick wandering around a bit at times and at times climbing atop the adult to brood amongst the parent’s feathers. After an hour, the adult bird stood up revealing a just-hatched chick and a very wet, soggy eggshell. As the really tiny chick tried to stand up, its nest-mate ran at it and pecked it relentlessly driving it out of the nest. In a few moments, things calmed down so I stayed with the new family for a while longer.
As I moved slowly, the adult was completely at ease with my presence. As there was a lot of tall grass right around the nest, photography was difficult. The cloudy skies created a huge softbox and working with the f/4 lens on a tripod allowed me to create some nice images at reasonable shutter speeds. At times, it got bright enough for me to add the 1.4X TC. I got back for breakfast at eleven and made two more trips to the lake that day, the first after breakfast, the second after my swim and my second meal. (Remember intermittent fasting?) I learned a ton about crane behavior during the six hours I spent observing and photographing the birds. I will share more when I get a chance to publish some of the images from that most memorable Mother’s Day.
I was very glad to see that the smaller chick had survived its first day.
The forecast for today — Monday 11 MAY 2020 — is for clear skies with north winds so I will be heading down early but with the sun out, I will likely not spend much time (if any at all) with the two chicks.
Consider leaving a comment and letting us know which of today’s three featured images is youor favorite. And why.
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
The SONY e-Guide by Patrick Sparkman and Arthur Morris
The Sony Camera e-Guide (PDF) and videos Info
Yesterday I prepared the final PDF for the Sony Camera e-Guide. It will not be available in the store until early next week but you can order yours right now. The cost of the SONY e-Guide is $100.00 US and will include one of the four (4) camera set-up videos — we offer one video each for the a7r iii, the a7r iv, the a9, and the a9 ii — and the written guide with the galleries. Additional camera videos are $25.00 each The guide is now done.
If you would like to order the e-Guide now, please send a Paypal for $100 US to birdsasart@verizon.net and be sure to include the words “SONY e-Guide” in the Paypal e-mail along with the name of your camera or cameras so that you can receive the correct video or videos. Note: please add $25 for each camera video after the first. And please be sure to type your e-mail address into your Paypal order. Then be sure to send a copy of the Paypal transaction to me via e-mail.
BIRDS AS ART
BIRDS AS ART is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
SONY 200-600 Update
Steve Elkins now has seven SONY 200-600s in stock; one of them surely has your name on it. Contact Steve as below to save $50.00.
Money Saving Reminder
If you need a hot photo item that is out of stock at B&H, would enjoy free overnight shipping, and would like a $50 discount on your first purchase over $1000.00, click here to order and enter the coupon code BIRDSASART at checkout. If you are looking to strike a deal on Canon or Nikon gear (including the big telephotos) or on a multiple item order, contact Steve Elkins via e-mail or on his cell at (479) 381-2592 (Eastern time) and be sure to mention your BIRDSASART coupon code and use it for your online order. Steve has been great at getting folks the hot items that are out of stock at B&H. Those include the SONY a7r IV, the SONY 200-600, the SONY 600mm f/4 GM, and the Nikon 500mm PF. Steve is eager to please.
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… Please know that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail. Those questions might deal with systems, camera bodies, accessories, and/or lens choices and decisions.
This image was created on 1 MAY 2020 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. I used the handheld Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS lens (at 496mm) and the blazingly fast AF King, the Sony Alpha a9 II Mirrorless Digital camera body. ISO 500. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel: 1/2000 sec. at f/6.3 in Manual mode. AWB at 7:28am on a clear morning with just a hint of haze.
Tracking Flexible Spot (M) AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed superbly. Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
When the Cattle Egrets are foraging for mayflies, I will go with Upper Center Zone or with Tracking Flexible Spot (M) (TFS-M). For this image, I had been using the latter. While I prefer Center Zone for most of my flight photography, what choice did I have? The bird took flight and I snapped off three frames – all turned out to be razor-sharp on the eye … I had tried TFS-M for flight before but had some trouble acquiring focus. Perhaps I need to continue to experiment.
This image is full-frame as it came out of the camera with zero clean-up. I do not think that I could have placed the yellow flowers (tickseed) any better even if I painted this one!
This image was created on 2 MAY 2020 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. I used the handheld Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS lens (at 600mm) and the blazingly fast AF King, the Sony Alpha a9 II Mirrorless Digital camera body. ISO 400. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel: 1/3200 sec. at f/6.3 in Manual mode. AWB at 8:55am on a clear morning.
Center Zone AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed superbly. Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
Image #2: Cattle Egret, breeding plumage, taking flight, wings down
On Thinking Ahead and Being Prepared
After having created a zillion images of foraging Cattle Egrets, I came up with a plan to shoot them in flight from the car. On days with winds from the north or the northeast, groups of birds would take off and fly farther north in search of hordes of mayflies. So I simply moved the car to a point just forward of the feeding flock and photographed the birds that took flight. Getting a gorgeous bird in full breeding plumage with the classic wings fully down is more than I could have hoped for.
This image is also full-frame as it came out of the camera with zero clean-up.
This image was created on 3 MAY 2020 at Indian Lake Estates, FL. I used the handheld Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS lens (at 404mm) and the blazingly fast AF King, the Sony Alpha a9 II Mirrorless Digital camera body. ISO 500. Exposure determined by Zebras with ISO on the rear wheel: 1/2500 sec. at f/6.3 in Manual mode. AWB at 7:51am on a clear morning.
Center Zone AF-C was active at the moment of exposure and performed superbly. Click on the image to enjoy a larger version.
Image #3: Cattle Egret, non-breeding plumage, taking flight, wings up
SONY 200-600 Flight Versatility
Note the three focal lengths used to create today’s three featured images: 496mm, 600mm, and 404mm. With the Canon 100-400 II, I would have been dead in the water for the first two images. The handheld SONY 200-600 is an incredibly versatile walk-around lens that happens to be fantastic for flight photography. I wish that the 2-6 was an f/5.6 lens rather than f/6.3 (at the long end). But then would have been heavier …
This image is also is full-frame as it came out of the camera, but with perhaps two-minutes worth of grass clean-up.
If In Doubt …
If you are in doubt about using the BAA B&H affiliate link correctly, you can always start your search by clicking here. Please note that the tracking is invisible. Web orders only. Please, however, remember to shoot me your receipt via e-mail.
Please Remember to use my Affiliate Links and to Visit the BAA Online Store 🙂
As always, we sell only what I have used, have tested, and can depend on. We will not sell you junk. We know what you need to make creating great images easy and fun. And please remember that I am always glad to answer your gear questions via e-mail.
I would, of course, appreciate your using our B&H affiliate links or Bedfords for all of your major gear, video, and electronic purchases. For the photographic stuff mentioned in the paragraph above, and for everything else in the new store, we, meaning BAA, would of course greatly appreciate your business. Here is a huge thank you to the many who have been using our links on a regular basis and those who regularly visit the New BIRDS AS ART Online Store as well.
Facebook
Be sure to like and follow BAA on Facebook by clicking on the logo link upper right.
Typos
In all blog posts and Bulletins, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors. Just be right :).
