With a NW breeze and mostly sunny skies on Saturday morning, I was headed home at 7:22am. There were thunderstorms in the early afternoon, but after fighting traffic, I made it to the beach by 6:00pm. It was howling from the NW; I parked facing north and could barely open the driver’s side door because of the wind. The sun was in and out for most of my session. I worked with the 200-600 and made some different yet very interesting images. With clear skies and a brisk NW wind I opted to stay in on Sunday morning. I believe that this is five blog posts in a row. Don’t get too excited; this short streak will be over as the next post will be on Tuesday.
I will comment on yesterday’s images on Tuesday to give a few more folks a chance to chime in. There are lots of excellent responses already. As below, be sure to note what you consider the best and the worst of today’s offerings.
Wherever you are and whatever you are doing, I hope that you too are gonna have a great day.
And yes, please use the affiliate links especially for your major purchases and please consider joining me on an IPT. Please scroll down to note the new dates for the 3 1/2 DAY Summer 2023 Nickerson Beach Terns (with chicks!), Skimmers, & Oystercatchers Instructional Photo-Tour (IPT)
The Sunday afternoon and Monday morning forecasts are looking perfect — consider getting in touch today and joining me for a session or two. Call my cell at 863-221-2372 to learn why and make some great images.
Nickerson Beach June 2023 Common Tern/American Oystercatcher/Black Skimmer In-the-Field Sessions
I am offering both morning and afternoon sessions from now through the end of this month. If you would like to become a better bird photographer, shoot me an e-mail to learn the details. Scheduling for these sessions can be arranged on short notice by checking the weather. A better option is to join me on the IPT. As I have nobody signed up, I can tailor the dates for the first one who does.
IPT veterans and couples or friends signing up together are invited to e-mail for discount information.
This image was created on 16 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach, Lido Beach, Long Island, NY. Standing on the beach at full height, I used the handheld Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless digital camera. Multi-metering +2.3 stops. AUTO ISO set ISO 800. Exposure was determined via Zebras with Exposure Compensation on the rear dial: 1/15 sec. at f/4 (wide open) in Shutter Priority mode. AWB at 5:21:29am, two minutes before sunrise with a cloud in the eastern sky.
Tracking: Expand Spot/AF-C with Bird Face/Eye detection enabled was active at the moment of exposure and performed just fine. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy the hi-res version.
Image #1: Black Skimmer footsie blur abstract
Why the Footsie Crop?
Handholding the 600mm lens at 1/15 second the skimmer’s bill was a totally blurred mess. But I loved that I could see the feet through the blurred wing, and I loved that the bird appeared to be running in midair. Thus, the huge crop that created somewhat of an abstract photograph.
This image was also created on 16 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach, Lido Beach, Long Island, NY. Again, standing on the beach at full height, I used the handheld Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless digital camera. Multi-metering + 1.7 stops. AUTO ISO set ISO 1250. Exposure was determined via Zebras with Exposure Compensation on the rear dial: 1/40 sec. at f/4 (wide open) in Shutter Priority mode. AWB at 5:56:32am with one cloud in the eastern sky.
Tracking: Expand Spot/AF-C with Bird Face/Eye detection enabled was active at the moment of exposure and performed perfectly. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy the hi-res version.
Image #2: Seaweed-filled breaking wave
Looking for Different
Creating slow shutter speed images of breaking waves. As I walked east before sunrise, I noticed a ton of seaweed at the edge of the surf. Then, I noticed that the breaking waves were loaded with seaweed as well. Remembering my advice to “add green whenever possible,” I created some new and different breaking wave images. I kept three; this one was my favorite.
This image was created 17 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach, Lido Beach, Long Island, NY. Standing at full height, I used the handheld Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter (at 280mm) and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless Digital Camera.. The exposure was determined via Zebras with ISO on the rear dial. ISO 50: 1/30 sec. at f/4 (wide open) in Manual mode. AWB at 6:15:40am on a cloudy morning.
Tracking: Zone AF/C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #3: Common Tern about to take a drink
The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II Lens with the 1.4X TC
I went with this combo for several reasons:
1- It is much lighter than the Sony 200-600 G lens.
2- Initial focusing acquisition is lightning fast.
3- With a maximum reach of 280mm it would eliminate clipping wings and make it easier to include the full reflections.
This image was also created on 17 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach, Lido Beach, Long Island, NY. Again, standing at full height, I used the handheld Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II lens with the Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter (at 280mm) and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless Digital Camera.. The exposure was determined via Zebras with ISO on the rear dial. ISO 50: 1/15 sec. at f/8 (stopped down two stops) in Manual mode. AWB at 6:24:10am on a cloudy morning.
Tracking: Zone AF/C with Bird-Eye/Face Detection performed perfectly. Click on the image to enjoy a high-res version.
Image #4: Black Skimmer skimming to drink
High Level Questions
Why did I need to go to f/8 for this image?
Why did I opt to work in Shutter Priority mode with Auto ISO for the first two images, but go to Manual for the second two images?
Your Calls
Please leave a comment and let us know which of today’s four featured images you consider the strongest and which you consider the weakest. In other words, which is the best and which is worthless drivel? Please let us know why you made your choices.
Common Terns are among the stars of the Nickerson show in June
Summer 2023 Nickerson Beach Terns, Skimmers, & Oystercatchers Instructional Photo-Tour (IPT): 3 1/2 DAYS. Sunday afternoon, June 25, thru the full day on Wednesday June 28, 2023. 3 1/2 Days: $1899.00 includes three working brunches. Limit six photographers
The Summer 2023 Nickerson Beach Terns, Skimmers, & Oystercatchers IPT
I am offering two options for this IPT. Locals might prefer the 3 1/2 day IPT. Folks traveling from out of town will almost surely want to maximize their travel dollars by staying the extra day. The stars of the show will likely be the nesting Common Terns. As many have been on eggs for a week or more, we should get to photograph some small chicks and lots of birds in flight with fish. We should have lots of American Oystercatcher families with chicks of varying sizes. Photographing them at dawn along as they forage along the edge of the surf is an exciting experience. We will get to photograph early morning skimmer flock blast offs, lots of afternoon midair battles, and will likely have some skimmers on eggs. Flight photography for all three species will abound.
Many folks head home feeling that while our time in the field was fabulous and productive, that the working brunch sessions were even more valuable. During image review you will learn to select the best images from several thousand made with your 20- and 30 fps camera bodies. And we will process a few images and distribute the screen capture videos for you to learn from after the trip. And all IPTs offer follow-up image critiques.
Change your life: sign up for this IPT today. Please shoot me an e-mail if you would like to explore the possibility of renting some Sony gear (including an a1) from me.
Some of What You Will Learn on a Nickerson Beach IPT
1- The basics and fine points of digital exposure; how to get the right exposure every time after making a single test exposure (or before if you are using SONY gear).
2- How and why to work in Manual mode (even if you’re scared of it).
3- How to approach free and wild birds without disturbing them.
4- Lots about bird behavior and how to use that knowledge to help you create better images.
6- To spot the good and great situations and to choose the best perspective.
7- To see, evaluate, and understand the light.
8- To design pleasing images by mastering your camera’s AF system.
9- And perhaps most importantly, to evaluate wind and sky conditions and understand how they affect bird photography. You will learn where and when to be (and why).
10- More than you could ever imagine.
The Details
We will be on the beach very early to enjoy sunrise. The morning sessions will run at least 3 1/2 hours. Afternoon sessions will begin at 5:30pm and run till sunset. There is never a set schedule on an IPT — we adapt to the conditions. On cloudy mornings with the right wind, we may opt to photograph till 11:30am or so and skip the afternoon session. That especially when the afternoon weather is looking iffy or lousy.
There will be a Photoshop/Image Review session before and after brunch (included) each full day. That will be followed by Instructor Nap Time. Each of these IPTs will run with only a single registrant as I do not like disappointing anyone. The best airports are JFK or Islip (if you have lots of Southwest points). Once you register, you will receive an e-mail with lodging information. Do know that it is always best if IPT folks stay in the same general area (rather than at home or at a friend’s place a good distance away).
Folks attending this IPT will be out in the field ridiculously early and stay out late to take advantage of sunrise and sunset colors; this is pretty much a staple on almost all BIRDS AS ART Instructional Photo-Tours. Doing so will often present unique photographic opportunities, opportunities that will be missed by those who need their beauty rest and those who need to get home for a proper dinner. I really love it when I am leaving the beach at 9:00am on a sunny morning after a great session just as a carful or two of well-rested photographers are arriving … We may be getting our feet wet on occasion, especially in the mornings, but those who wish to keep their feet 100% dry can do so.
Your $599 deposit is due now. Credit cards are OK for that. You can register by calling Jim or Jennifer during weekday business hours at 863-692-0906 with a credit card in hand. Once you leave a deposit, you will receive an e-mail with your balance statement and instructions for sending your balance check ASAP for this short-notice IPT. Those who wish to pay for the trip in one fell swoop via check may do so by making the check out to BIRDS AS ART and then mailing it to BIRDS AS ART, PO BOX 7245, Indian Lake Estates, FL 33855. You will receive a confirmation e-mail with detailed instructions, and clothing and gear advice right after you register. Please shoot me an e-mail if you plan to register or if you have any questions.
IPT veterans and couples or friends signing up together may e-mail for discount information.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
Learn more about Playing for Change/Song of the World here.
Your Call?
Be so kind as to leave a comment letting us know which of today’s three featured images you like best and why you made your choice.
What’s Up?
With a SW wind on Friday morning, a blessed haze softened the light as I worked the Common Terns at Nickerson Beach with friend Steffen Foerster. It poured all afternoon. Today is Saturday 16 June 2023. Wherever you are and whatever you are doing, I hope that you too have a great day. Sign up for the Nickerson IPT and you will almost surely enjoy private lessons. An option is an In-the-Field session or two.
I was glad to learn of the sale of David Rice’s Nikon Z7 II Mirrorless Camera immediately after yesterday’s price drop.
All are cordially invited to join me at Nickerson Beach this month or next year or on a Homer or a San Diego Instructional Photo Tour (IPT). I will be announcing fall dates for two or three Fort DeSoto IPTs soon. Not to mention a Galapagos Photo-Cruise of a Lifetime in August 2024.
Please remember to use the B&H and Amazon links that are found on most blog pages and to use the BIRDSASART discount code at checkout when purchasing your new gear from Bedfords to get 3% back on your credit card and enjoy free second-day air FedEx. Please, also, consider joining a BAA IPT. You will be amazed at how much you will learn!
You can find some great photo accessories (and necessities, like surf booties!) on Amazon by clicking on the Stuff tab on the orange/yellow menu bar above. On a related note, it would be extremely helpful if blog-folks who, like me, spend too much money on Amazon, would get in the habit of clicking on the Amazon logo link on the right side of each blog post when they shop online. As you might expect, doing so will not cost you a single penny, but would be appreciated tremendously by yours truly. And doing so works seamlessly with your Amazon Prime account.
Please remember that if an item — a Delkin flash card, or a tripod head — for example, that is available from B&H and/or Bedfords, is also available in the BAA Online Store, it would be great, and greatly appreciated, if you would opt to purchase from us. We will match any price. Please remember also to use my B&H affiliate links or to earn 3% cash back at Bedfords by using the BIRDSASART discount code at checkout for your major gear purchases. Doing either often earns you free guides and/or discounts. And always earns my great appreciation.
The Fact$ of Life
The market for editorial sales of natural history images has virtually disappeared. The incomes of the world’s top stock photographers are down by at least 90%. Like me, most depend on income from photo trips, the sale of educational materials, and income from this or that affiliate program.
In 2001, BAA sold the publication rights to images for nearly one-quarter million US dollars. That amount dropped to about $20,000 by 2011, and in 2017, to slightly more than $2,000.00. We’ve stopped counting. IPTs used to fill within days. Now I am happy to go with one or two folks, but I’d much rather have you along. And so it goes. In 2009, I turned to creating educational blog posts, now to the tune of 4039. Yes, 4039 educational blog posts. So, please remember to use either my B&H or Bedfords affiliate links for your major purposes. It does not cost you one cent to do either.
B&H
Many folks have written recently stating that they purchased a Sony a1 from B&H and would like their free membership in the Sony 1 Info and Updates Group, a $150.00 value. When I check my affiliate account, their orders have not been there. When I let them know that they get credit for B&H purchases only if they use one of the many B&H affiliate links on the blog or begin their searches with this link, they are always disappointed. If in doubt, please contact me via e-mail and request a BH link. I am always glad to help and to guide you to the right gear.
B&H Simplified
To ensure that I get credit for your B&H purchases, you can always click here. The tracking is invisible but greatly appreciated. And, you can use your PayBoo card. You must use the website to order. Thanking me for the past 4000 educational blog posts could not be any easier and will not cost you one penny. Please shoot me your B&H receipt for major purchases.
Bedfords Simplified
Click here to start your search. Choose standard shipping, and when you get to the payment page, enter BIRDSASART in the discount code box and hit apply. You will be upgraded to free second day air Fed-Ex and receive 3% cash back on your credit card once your stuff ships. Either is greatly appreciated by yours truly.
Nickerson Beach June 2023 Common Tern/American Oystercatcher/Black Skimmer In-the-Field Sessions
I am offering both morning and afternoon sessions from now through the end of this month. If you would like to become a better bird photographer, shoot me an e-mail to learn the details. Scheduling for these sessions can be arranged on short notice by checking the weather. A better option is to join me on the IPT. As I have nobody signed up, I can tailor the dates for the first one who does.
IPT veterans and couples or friends signing up together are invited to e-mail for discount information.
Tracking: Expand Spot/AF-C with Bird Face/Eye detection enabled was active at the moment of exposure and performed perfectly. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy the hi-res version.
Image #1: Common Tern with Sand Eel for chick
Would You #1?
Would you remove the small green smudge below the primaries of the near wing? Why or why not?
The Robus RC-5558 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripods
For reasons that I do not understand, the prices of both the 3-leg section Robus RC-5558-3 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber tripod and the 4-leg section Robus RC-5558 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber tripod have been drastically reduced. They are available only from B&H and are currently priced at a ridiculously low $399.95, about 1/3 the price of a comparable Really Wrong Stuff (RWS) tripod. Right now, the 3-leg section version is my go-to tripod.
This image was also created on 16 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach, Lido Beach, Long Island, NY. Still seated on dry sand behind my lowered Robus RC-5558-3 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripod topped by the Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro, I used the Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless digital camera. ISO 1000. Exposure was determined via Zebras with ISO on the rear dial: 1/250 sec. at f/7.1 (stopped down 2/3-stop). AWB at 7:17:08am on a sunny but hazy morning.
Tracking: Expand Spot/AF-C with Bird Face/Eye detection enabled was active at the moment of exposure and performed perfectly. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy the hi-res version.
Image #2: Common Tern attempting to swallow Sand Eel
Would You #2?
Would you have tried to remove the o-o-f tern in the upper left corner of the image? Why or why not?
This image was also created on 16 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach, Lido Beach, Long Island, NY. Still seated on dry sand behind my lowered Robus RC-5558-3 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripod topped by the Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro, I used the Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens and The One, the Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless digital camera. ISO 1000. Exposure was determined via Zebras with ISO on the rear dial: 1/000 sec. at f/7.1 (stopped down 2/3-stop). AWB at 7:48:10am on a sunny but hazy morning.
Tracking: Expand Spot/AF-C with Bird Face/Eye detection enabled was active at the moment of exposure and performed perfectly. Be sure to click on the image to enjoy the hi-res version.
Image #3: Common Tern chick
Would You #3
Would you have removed the thin blade of grass to our right of the bird? Why or why not?
Common Terns are among the stars of the Nickerson show in June
Summer 2023 Nickerson Beach Terns, Skimmers, & Oystercatchers Instructional Photo Tour (IPT): 3 1/2 (or 4 1/2) DAYS. Monday afternoon, June 19, thru the full day on Thursday June 22 (or Friday June 23), 2023. 3 1/2 Days: $1899.00 includes three working brunches. (4 1/2 Days: $2199.00 includes four working brunches). Limit six photographers
The Summer 2023 Nickerson Beach Terns, Skimmers, & Oystercatchers IPT
I am offering two options for this IPT. Locals might prefer the 3 1/2 day IPT. Folks traveling from out of town will almost surely want to maximize their travel dollars by staying the extra day. The stars of the show will likely be the nesting Common Terns. As many have been on eggs for a week or more, we should get to photograph some small chicks and lots of birds in flight with fish. We should have lots of American Oystercatcher families with chicks of varying sizes. Photographing them at dawn along as they forage along the edge of the surf is an exciting experience. We will get to photograph early morning skimmer flock blast offs, lots of afternoon midair battles, and will likely have some skimmers on eggs. Flight photography for all three species will abound.
Many folks head home feeling that while our time in the field was fabulous and productive, that the working brunch sessions were even more valuable. During image review you will learn to select the best images from several thousand made with your 20- and 30 fps camera bodies. And we will process a few images and distribute the screen capture videos for you to learn from after the trip. And all IPTs offer follow-up image critiques.
Change your life: sign up for this IPT today. Please shoot me an e-mail if you would like to explore the possibility of renting some Sony gear (including an a1) from me.
Some of What You Will Learn on a Nickerson Beach IPT
1- The basics and fine points of digital exposure; how to get the right exposure every time after making a single test exposure (or before if you are using SONY gear).
2- How and why to work in Manual mode (even if you’re scared of it).
3- How to approach free and wild birds without disturbing them.
4- Lots about bird behavior and how to use that knowledge to help you create better images.
6- To spot the good and great situations and to choose the best perspective.
7- To see, evaluate, and understand the light.
8- To design pleasing images by mastering your camera’s AF system.
9- And perhaps most importantly, to evaluate wind and sky conditions and understand how they affect bird photography. You will learn where and when to be (and why).
10- More than you could ever imagine.
The Details
We will be on the beach very early to enjoy sunrise. The morning sessions will run at least 3 1/2 hours. Afternoon sessions will begin at 6:00pm and run till sunset. There is never a set schedule on an IPT — we adapt to the conditions. On cloudy mornings with the right wind, we may opt to photograph till 11:30am or so and skip the afternoon session. That especially when the afternoon weather is looking iffy.
There will be a Photoshop/Image Review session before and after brunch (included) each full day. That will be followed by Instructor Nap Time. Each of these IPTs will run with only a single registrant as I do not like disappointing anyone. The best airports are JFK or Slip (if you have lots of Southwest points. Once you register, you will receive an e-mail with lodging information. Do know that it is always best if IPT folks stay in the same general area (rather than at home or at a friend’s place a good distance away).
Folks attending this IPT will be out in the field ridiculously early and stay out late to take advantage of sunrise and sunset colors; this is pretty much a staple on almost all BIRDS AS ART Instructional Photo-Tours. Doing so will often present unique photographic opportunities, opportunities that will be missed by those who need their beauty rest and those who need to get home for a proper dinner. I really love it when I am leaving the beach at 9:00am on a sunny morning after a great session just as a carful or two of well-rested photographers are arriving … We may be getting our feet wet on occasion, especially in the mornings, but those who wish to keep their feet 100% dry can do so.
Your $599 deposit is due now. Credit cards are OK for that. You can register by calling Jim or Jennifer during weekday business hours at 863-692-0906 with a credit card in hand. Once you leave a deposit, you will receive an e-mail with your balance statement and instructions for sending your balance check ASAP for this short-notice IPT. Those who wish to pay for the trip in one fell swoop via check may do so by making the check out to BIRDS AS ART and then mailing it to BIRDS AS ART, PO BOX 7245, Indian Lake Estates, FL 33855. You will receive a confirmation e-mail with detailed instructions, and clothing and gear advice right after you register. Please shoot me an e-mail if you plan to register or if you have any questions.
IPT veterans and couples or friends signing up together may e-mail for discount information.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
On Thursday morning it was sunny and clear with a strong west wind; not even I could manage anything very special in such difficult conditions (he said modestly). Conditions were much better in the afternoon. Possibly for the first time ever, I headed out with the 600mm f/4, no TC, and no tripod. I was happy with my decision.
I was glad to learn the other day that Carlotta Grenier sold her Sony 600mm f/4 GM OSS lens for the asking price soon after it was listed.
In today’s post, enjoy some of Bruce Dudek’s fine images from his two In-the-Field sessions at Nickerson. Please be sure to pick a favorite or two and let us know why you made your choice or choices.
Via e-Mail from Bruce
Artie,
After my first cull, I’m down to 376 images out of 7386 from the two In-the-Field sessions. It will take me a while to work through those and find the real keepers.
Here are some things I learned:
I don’t have much experience in photographing beach-nesting birds; you provided both the big-picture and detailed guidance that allowed me to get the hang of it. Learning and re-learning the importance of minor positional changes relative to the subject and the wind and light directions helped me to “see” the compositions. Anticipating bird behavior is something that I focus on, but the nuances of beach-nesting bird behavior is certainly in your realm of expertise and I appreciate the generous sharing. I also made great strides in overcoming my chronic tendency to underexpose in fear of overexposing the whites. The constant gentle and clear guidance on exposure and composition is an effective teaching style that is much appreciated. I am also now motivated to continue up the learning curve in Photoshop skills with the tutorial video that you created for me – that is something that I have resisted for too long. All good stuff. It was well worth the trip down. Thanks!
Bruce
Bruce Dudek: Professor of Psychology and Biology at the University at Albany, State University of New York.
Nikon Z7 II Mirrorless Camera/with extras!
$300.00 Price Drop 6/15/23!
BAA Used Gear Page veteran David Rice is offering a Nikon Mirrorless Z7 II in excellent plus condition for a very low $1,446.95 (was $1746.95). The sale includes the original box and the manual, three Nikon batteries (a $138.00 extra value) with the charger, the front body cap, a 64GB XQD Lexar Memory Card, the strap, the front body cap, a RRS L-Bracket (a $210.00 value), and insured ground shipping via major courier to lower-48 US addresses only.
Improved processing, greater versatility, but familiar in design, the Nikon Z7 II takes everything that was great from the original and ups its capabilities even more. Sporting a high-resolution 45.7MP FX-format BSI CMOS sensor and dual EXPEED 6 image processors, the Z7 II is clearly aimed at the detail-obsessed image-maker. Improving upon their initial efforts, Nikon has revised the Z7 platform to offer more speed, faster processing, and greater versatility without sacrificing the beloved qualities of the original camera. The sensor’s design omits the optical low-pass filter for greater detail recording capability and the sensor supports a native sensitivity range down to ISO 64 for lush, rich captures. Updated processing also yields faster speeds, including a 10 fps continuous shooting rate and a deeper buffer for working with moving subjects. Updated autofocus now includes Eye and Face Detection for both humans and animals in the Wide-Area AF mode, for both photo and video recording. Nikon and B&H
If you are a general nature photographer looking to get into Nikon mirrorless without spending $5,500.00 on a Z9, you are in the right place. I’ve seen some great flight images with the Nikon Z6 II so I have no doubt that the Z7 II can do the same even better. As this body sells new for $2,996.95, you can save a bundle by being the one to grab David’s Z7 II along with some great extras. artie
This image was created by Bruce Dudek of Albany, NY on 13 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach Park, Lido Beach, LI, NY on a BAA In-the-Field morning session. Seated on dry sand, he used the handheld Canon RF 600mm f/4 L IS USM lens with Canon’s best autofocusing camera body, the Canon EOS R3 Mirrorless. ISO 640: 1/800 second at f/5.6. When evaluated in RawDigger, the raw file exposure was determined to be perfect. Auto WB at 7:13:41pm on a then sunny afternoon.
Image #1: Black Skimmer in flight
Photo Courtesy of an copyright 2023: Bruce Dudek
Image optimization by BIRDS AS ART
Smelling Like a Rose
Bruce was using the toe-pod technique when he saw this skimmer flying at him. He followed my oft-given advice: when unexpected action occurs push the shutter button as you do not have time to change any settings. As this is the full frame original capture, it is easy to see that he did a great job of fitting the whole bird in the frame. We are both scratching our heads as to how he managed to make a super-sharp image at only 1/800 second handheld. For flight, Arash and I recommend shooting wide open (Bruce was stopped down one full stop) with a shutter speed of 1/3200 or even 1/4000 second (if you have enough light).
Bruce got photo-bombed by a skimmer in the background. I created a Camtasia how-to video on the image optimization; I will share the before image with you here soon.
This image was also created by Bruce Dudek of Albany, NY on 13 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach Park, Lido Beach, LI, NY on a BAA In-the-Field morning session. Seated on dry sand with a Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro atop his tremendously over-priced RWS tripod, he used the Canon RF 600mm f/4 L IS USM lens with Canon’s best autofocusing camera body, the Canon EOS R3 Mirrorless. ISO 2000: 1/2000 second at f/4. When evaluated in RawDigger, the raw file exposure was determined to 1/6 stop short of perfect. Auto WB AT 7:40:49pm on a by-then cloudy afternoon.
Image #2: Black Skimmer digging nest scrape
Photo Courtesy of an copyright 2023: Bruce Dudek
Image optimization by BIRDS AS ART
Kicked My Butt
Bruce kicked my butt on this one I have been trying for the scrape-digging posture for a week. Without success. Bruce nailed it in a single afternoon. As he was 20 feet to my left I got to witness the whole thing -:(.
This image was created by Bruce Dudek of Albany, NY on 14 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach Park, Lido Beach, LI, NY on a BAA In-the-Field morning session. Kneeling on damp sand with a Levered-Clamp FlexShooter Pro atop his tremendously over-priced RWS tripod, he used the Canon RF 600mm f/4 L IS USM lens with Canon’s best autofocusing camera body, the Canon EOS R3 Mirrorless. ISO 400: 1/3200 second at f/4. When evaluated in RawDigger, the raw file exposure was determined nearly one stop too dark. Auto WB AT 7:26:56am on a mostly sunny morning.
Image #3: First summer Great Black-backed Gull about to subdue a Blue Crab
Photo Courtesy of an copyright 2023: Bruce Dudek
Image optimization by BIRDS AS ART
Kicked My Butt Again
When I spotted this young gull on the berm I thought that it might have had a tern chick. It tossed it down toward the ocean and jumped down to subdue it. The bird was quickly joined by several hungry friends. We both missed the fight shots but Bruce nailed the crab fights back image (that I missed) 🙁 This R3 image and the one below it stood up nicely to a substantial crop.
This image was created by Bruce Dudek of Albany, NY on 14 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach Park, Lido Beach, LI, NY on a BAA In-the-Field morning session. Kneeling on dry sand, he used the handheld Canon RF 600mm f/4 L IS USM lens with the Canon Extender RF 1.4x and Canon’s best autofocusing camera body, the Canon EOS R3 Mirrorless. ISO 640: 1/2000 second at f/6.3. When evaluated in RawDigger, the raw file exposure was determined to be dead-solid perfect. 7:52:03am on a sunny afternoon.
Image #4: Black Skimmer chick running back to momma
Photo Courtesy of an copyright 2023: Bruce Dudek
Image optimization by BIRDS AS ART
R3 AF
Both Bruce and the R3 AF system did a good job of nailing focus when this oystercatcher chick, one of the recently discovered un-banded, 3-chick family. Clemens Van der Werf states emphatically that the R3 AF system is the best Canon has ever offered. If you are tempted, please remember to use one of my two affiliate links.
This image was created by Bruce Dudek of Albany, NY on 14 June 2023 at Nickerson Beach Park, Lido Beach, LI, NY on a BAA In-the-Field morning session. Kneeling on damp sand, he used the handheld Canon RF 600mm f/4 L IS USM lens with the Canon Extender RF 1.4x and Canon’s best autofocusing camera body, the Canon EOS R3 Mirrorless. ISO 500: 1/2000 second at f/5.6. When evaluated in RawDigger, the raw file exposure was determined to be dead-solid perfect. 8:51:22am on a sunny afternoon.
Image #5: Male Piping Plover posing on wet sand beach
Photo Courtesy of an copyright 2023: Bruce Dudek
Image optimization by BIRDS AS ART
Nailed!
When photographing most species of plover, keeping their step, step, stop foraging behavior in mind can lead to your making a fine image.
Nickerson Beach June 2023 Common Tern/American Oystercatcher/Black Skimmer In-the-Field Sessions
I am offering both morning and afternoon sessions from now through the end of this month. If you would like to become a better bird photographer, shoot me an e-mail to learn the details. Scheduling for these sessions can be arranged on short notice by checking the weather. A better option is to join me on the IPT. As I have nobody signed up, I can tailor the dates for the first one who does.
IPT veterans and couples or friends signing up together are invited to e-mail for discount information.
Common Terns are among the stars of the Nickerson show in June
Summer 2023 Nickerson Beach Terns, Skimmers, & Oystercatchers Instructional Photo Tour (IPT): 3 1/2 (or 4 1/2) DAYS. Monday afternoon, June 19, thru the full day on Thursday June 22 (or Friday June 23), 2023. 3 1/2 Days: $1899.00 includes three working brunches. (4 1/2 Days: $2199.00 includes four working brunches). Limit six photographers
The Summer 2023 Nickerson Beach Terns, Skimmers, & Oystercatchers IPT
I am offering two options for this IPT. Locals might prefer the 3 1/2 day IPT. Folks traveling from out of town will almost surely want to maximize their travel dollars by staying the extra day. The stars of the show will likely be the nesting Common Terns. As many have been on eggs for a week or more, we should get to photograph some small chicks and lots of birds in flight with fish. We should have lots of American Oystercatcher families with chicks of varying sizes. Photographing them at dawn along as they forage along the edge of the surf is an exciting experience. We will get to photograph early morning skimmer flock blast offs, lots of afternoon midair battles, and will likely have some skimmers on eggs. Flight photography for all three species will abound.
Many folks head home feeling that while our time in the field was fabulous and productive, that the working brunch sessions were even more valuable. During image review you will learn to select the best images from several thousand made with your 20- and 30 fps camera bodies. And we will process a few images and distribute the screen capture videos for you to learn from after the trip. And all IPTs offer follow-up image critiques.
Change your life: sign up for this IPT today. Please shoot me an e-mail if you would like to explore the possibility of renting some Sony gear (including an a1) from me.
Some of What You Will Learn on a Nickerson Beach IPT
1- The basics and fine points of digital exposure; how to get the right exposure every time after making a single test exposure (or before if you are using SONY gear).
2- How and why to work in Manual mode (even if you’re scared of it).
3- How to approach free and wild birds without disturbing them.
4- Lots about bird behavior and how to use that knowledge to help you create better images.
6- To spot the good and great situations and to choose the best perspective.
7- To see, evaluate, and understand the light.
8- To design pleasing images by mastering your camera’s AF system.
9- And perhaps most importantly, to evaluate wind and sky conditions and understand how they affect bird photography. You will learn where and when to be (and why).
10- More than you could ever imagine.
The Details
We will be on the beach very early to enjoy sunrise. The morning sessions will run at least 3 1/2 hours. Afternoon sessions will begin at 6:00pm and run till sunset. There is never a set schedule on an IPT — we adapt to the conditions. On cloudy mornings with the right wind, we may opt to photograph till 11:30am or so and skip the afternoon session. That especially when the afternoon weather is looking iffy.
There will be a Photoshop/Image Review session before and after brunch (included) each full day. That will be followed by Instructor Nap Time. Each of these IPTs will run with only a single registrant as I do not like disappointing anyone. The best airports are JFK or Slip (if you have lots of Southwest points. Once you register, you will receive an e-mail with lodging information. Do know that it is always best if IPT folks stay in the same general area (rather than at home or at a friend’s place a good distance away).
Folks attending this IPT will be out in the field ridiculously early and stay out late to take advantage of sunrise and sunset colors; this is pretty much a staple on almost all BIRDS AS ART Instructional Photo-Tours. Doing so will often present unique photographic opportunities, opportunities that will be missed by those who need their beauty rest and those who need to get home for a proper dinner. I really love it when I am leaving the beach at 9:00am on a sunny morning after a great session just as a carful or two of well-rested photographers are arriving … We may be getting our feet wet on occasion, especially in the mornings, but those who wish to keep their feet 100% dry can do so.
Your $599 deposit is due now. Credit cards are OK for that. You can register by calling Jim or Jennifer during weekday business hours at 863-692-0906 with a credit card in hand. Once you leave a deposit, you will receive an e-mail with your balance statement and instructions for sending your balance check ASAP for this short-notice IPT. Those who wish to pay for the trip in one fell swoop via check may do so by making the check out to BIRDS AS ART and then mailing it to BIRDS AS ART, PO BOX 7245, Indian Lake Estates, FL 33855. You will receive a confirmation e-mail with detailed instructions, and clothing and gear advice right after you register. Please shoot me an e-mail if you plan to register or if you have any questions.
IPT veterans and couples or friends signing up together may e-mail for discount information.
Typos
With all blog posts, feel free to e-mail or to leave a comment regarding any typos or errors.
