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	<title>Photo-Africa &#187; bird</title>
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	<link>http://www.photo-africa.com</link>
	<description>Photo Workshops   &#124;   Photographic Safaris   &#124;   Equipment Rentals</description>
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		<title>Desktop Wallpapers &#8211; April 2011</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2011/04/desktop-wallpapers-april-2011/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2011/04/desktop-wallpapers-april-2011/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 01 Apr 2011 04:00:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wallpapers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flower]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rhino]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wallpaper]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[waterbuck]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.photo-africa.com/?p=4942</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Welcome to April! Yeah, the first quarter of the year is gone and things don&#8217;t look like slowing down anytime soon. This year started off with a bang and now, after a lot of work and planning, Photo-Africa is proud to announce that out brand new equipment rental service if up and running.  This rental [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p>Welcome to April!</p>
<p>Yeah, the first quarter of the year is gone and things don&#8217;t look like slowing down anytime soon.</p>
<p>This year started off with a bang and now, after a lot of work and planning, Photo-Africa is proud to announce that out brand new equipment rental service if up and running.  This rental service will not only be runnign as a stand alone service but will also form a big part of our workshops and photographic safaris.</p>
<p>I will be sharing a lot more info on this exciting new venture during the next few weeks but if you just cannot wait to find out more you can click <em><a href="http://www.photo-africa.com/equipment-rentals" target="_blank">here</a></em>! <img src='http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>Back to the reason for this post.  Yip, it&#8217;s free wallpaper time again and this month features a very eclectic mix if images.  I am sure that there are not many places out there where you can download a stunning (if I have to say so myself) wallpaper of either a Lesser a Lesser Striped Swallow, a flower or a waterbuck.</p>
<p>As always, each of the three wallpapers are available in two sizes.  The large versions are sized at 2560 x 1600 and small one at 1280 x 800.  To download your favorite, without the frames, simply use the text links below the image of your choice.</p>
<p>Hope you enjoy!</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wallpaper #1 &#8211; April 2011</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4943" title="Free Wallpaper Download - April 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Wallpapaer-Apr-1BLOG.jpg" alt="Free Wallpaper Download - April 2011" width="499" height="329" /></span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Landing</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Nikon D3s, Nikon 200-400 mm VR II @ 400mm, 1/1000, f/4, ISO 800</em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I photographed this Lesser Striped Swallow during our recent Wildlife Photography 101 workshop.  We all had a great time trying to capture this little guy in flight and we came up with some amazing images.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The lifted wings and soft background are two of the reasons I kept on coming back to this image as a choice for this month&#8217;s wallpapers.</p>
<p>To download the large version of this image click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6859">here</a></em></strong>.  Alternatively click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6860">here</a></em></strong> for the smaller version.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Wallpaper #2 &#8211; April 2011</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4944" title="Free Wallpaper Download - April 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Wallpapaer-Apr-2BLOG.jpg" alt="Free Wallpaper Download - April 2011" width="499" height="329" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Serenity</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Nikon D3s, Nikon 200-400 mm VR II @ 380mm, 1/3200, f/4, ISO 500</em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Another image from the Wildlife Photography 101 workshop, this one was originally going to be a plain and simple image of a flower.  The bees buzzing around the flowers only became evident when I looked through the lens to start composing the image.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">A quick change to the shutter speed left the originally intended image of a flower but with that little bit of extra buzz.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">To download the large version of this image click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6861">here</a></em></strong>.  Alternatively click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6862">here</a></em></strong> for the smaller version.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Wallpaper #3 &#8211; April 2011</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4945" title="Free Wallpaper Download - April 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Wallpapaer-Apr-3BLOG.jpg" alt="Free Wallpaper Download - April 2011" width="499" height="329" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Sentinel</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Nikon D300, Nikon 300mm f/2.8 VR II, 1/100, f/2.8, ISO 1250</em></p>
<p>I photographed this male Waterbuck a few days ago as we were heading back to our lodge.  He was posing on the top of a little ridge as the last bits of light brought him and the soft sky to life.</p>
<p>At ISO 1250 I still reckon my Nikon D300 performs pretty damn well for this time of day.</p>
<p>To download the large version of this image click <strong><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6863">here</a></strong>.  Alternatively click <strong><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6864">here</a></strong> for the smaller version.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">There you go.  A great collection of images for your desktop a little calendar in the corner to keep you up to date. (Pun intended).</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">What?  No Big 5?</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Well, yeah.  There is a whole lot more to African wildlife photography than just the Big 5 but since you ask so nicely, here is another wallpaper with one of the Big 5!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Wallpaper #4 &#8211; April 2011</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4946" title="Free Wallpaper Download - April 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Wallpapaer-Apr-4BLOG.jpg" alt="Free Wallpaper Download - April 2011" width="499" height="329" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Marching Ahead</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Canon 1D Mark IV, Canon 70-200mm IS II @ 120mm, 1/640, f/3.5, ISO 160</em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">We spent a long time photographing this big guy and all the time there is that thought in the back of your head &#8220;How can they do it?  How can they actually murder these incredible animals?&#8221;  Suffice to say I am one of the people that feel very strongly about the rhino poaching situation but let&#8217;s leave it there for now.  I think in some way the current situation out there make spending time with and photographing these amazing animals so much more precious.  Let&#8217;s hope they keep marching ahead well into the future.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">On this particular day I was shooting with a Canon 1D Mark IV and the new Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 IS II lens.  Awesome camera, but this lens absolutely rocks!!</p>
<p>To download the large version of this image click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6865">here</a></em></strong>.  Alternatively click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6866">here</a></em></strong> for the smaller version.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Well, that&#8217;s it.  Four free desktop wallpapers for you to download.  Please feel free to download one of, or all of the wallpapers and share this blog post with your friends and family.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Before you go, why not take a quick moment and let me know which one of the above is your favorite and why?  Won&#8217;t take long. <img src='http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Until next time, have a great April!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><em><strong>Gerry van der Walt </strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>* * * </strong></p>
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		<title>Quelea Chaos</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2011/02/quelea-chaos/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2011/02/quelea-chaos/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Feb 2011 10:48:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quelea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wildlife]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.photo-africa.com/?p=4278</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Yesterday we spent the afternoon photographing birds.  Lots and lots of birds! Every year around this time thousands of Red-Billed Queleas start getting together in communal breeding sites.  Apart form fantastic raptor sightings this also makes for some great photographic fun! The little birds fly in massive swarms as they feed on seeds and grasses [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p>Yesterday we spent the afternoon photographing birds.  Lots and lots of birds!</p>
<p>Every year around this time thousands of Red-Billed Queleas start getting together in communal breeding sites.  Apart form fantastic raptor sightings this also makes for some great photographic fun!</p>
<p>The little birds fly in massive swarms as they feed on seeds and grasses so all you have to do is find a position, wait for the light and fire away.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4279" title="Image © Gerry van der Walt 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Blog-Quelea-Chaos.jpg" alt="Image © Gerry van der Walt 2011" width="521" height="295" /></p>
<p>We arrived a good hour before sunset as we waited for the sun to drop closer to the horizon in order for the golden later afternoon light to bring the Quelea Chaos to life.  The little guys were very obliging as they flew from side to side across the setting sun making our job a little easier.</p>
<p>After a few test shots we were happy with our settings and proceeded to happily fire away.  The biggest challenge here was to meter for the bright light, as the sun was low and directly into our faces, and make sure our focus was spot on.  As the birds were flying side to side neither of these was as difficult as I thought it would be as we could pre focus and only meter every few minutes to keep up with the fast changing light.</p>
<p>The Queleas did not disappoint as the shutters kept on clicking.  Great fun and some awesome images all round.</p>
<p>In between the frenzied activity, both from the birds and all the photographers, we had the opportunity to photograph a small herd of Springbuck hanging around on the open plain.  We managed to get some great images of South Africa&#8217;s national animal wrapped in golden light but that was not enough.</p>
<p>As if trying to capture a chaotic mess of tiny birds was not enough, the next goal was to get the birds, golden light and Springbuck in a single frame.  Took a few shots but in the end I was very happy with the result.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4280" title="Image © Gerry van der Walt 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Blog-Quelea-Chaos2.jpg" alt="Image © Gerry van der Walt 2011" width="509" height="225" /></p>
<p>Bird photography is not always easy but photographing Queleas make for a great photographic adventure!</p>
<p>Until next time.</p>
<p><strong><em>Gerry</em></strong></p>
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		<item>
		<title>You Can Only Shoot What You See</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2011/01/you-can-only-shoot-what-you-see/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2011/01/you-can-only-shoot-what-you-see/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Jan 2011 09:29:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eagle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fox]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wildlife]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.photo-africa.com/?p=4242</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In wildlife photography you can only shoot what you see. I photographed this young Bat-Eared Fox in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park a few weeks ago.  Yes, these are branches in front of his ears.  Yes, the background is very busy and yes, the image could have been a bit sharper.  But that is what I [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p>In wildlife photography you can only shoot what you see.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4243" title="Bat Eared Fox - Image © Gerry van der Walt 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Blog-ShootWhatYouSee.jpg" alt="Bat Eared Fox - Image © Gerry van der Walt 2011" width="531" height="361" /></p>
<p>I photographed this young Bat-Eared Fox in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park a few weeks ago.  Yes, these are branches in front of his ears.  Yes, the background is very busy and yes, the image could have been a bit sharper.  But that is what I saw so that is what I photographed.  If I was too critical, and worried too much about all the rules and guidelines as to what makes a good image, I would not even have tried to focus my camera on the young fox and missed out on the image all together.</p>
<p>You can only shoot what you see so the best thing you can do is to know your camera, do your best to photograph your subject and, sometimes the most important of all, enjoy the moment.</p>
<p>The same approach, of shooting what you see, also came up in the photography workshop I hosted this last Saturday.  After one of the practical sessions it was noted but all how, when faced with the same scenes and subjects, not one person came back with the same images.  It was amazing to see how even the most simple subject was &#8216;seen&#8217; differently by all the participants.  That’s what keep photography interesting.</p>
<p>The lesson in all of this is two fold.  Firstly, there really are images all around you.  You just have to look for them.  And secondly, when photographing wildlife, shoot what you see.  Don&#8217;t, when you are out in the field, get caught up in anything else than what you are looking at and photographing.</p>
<p>See your subject, photograph your subject and enjoy the moment!</p>
<p>Yes, patience does play a part as well.  Check out this example.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4245" title="Tawny Eagle - Image © Gerry van der Walt 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Blog-ShootWhatYouSee21.jpg" alt="Tawny Eagle - Image © Gerry van der Walt 2011" width="531" height="371" /></p>
<p>I sat watching this Tawny Eagle for quite some time. Now an image of a Tawny Eagle just sitting there did not excite me all that much, even though it was a beautiful scene.  I got a few grab shots, insurance shots if you will, but then I saw the large bird drop his head in an almost prayer like fashion.  I liked what I saw, clicked the shutter and ended up with the above image.  Patience can make a difference.</p>
<p>In wildlife photography you can only shoot what you see so make sure to keep your eyes open and keep the shutter going!</p>
<p>Until next time.</p>
<p><strong><em>Gerry</em></strong></p>
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		<title>Desktop Wallpapers – January 2011</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2011/01/desktop-wallpapers-january-2011/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2011/01/desktop-wallpapers-january-2011/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 03 Jan 2011 09:33:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wallpapers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[elephant]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[january]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wallpaper]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.photo-africa.com/?p=4197</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This year has started very productively for me and if things can keep on like this&#8230; exciting times ahead! As promised last year, the free Photo-Africa desktop wallpapers are back!  This month sees three very different images that you can download to beautify your desktop.  It&#8217;s like a bit of Africa on your pc. Each [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p>This year has started very productively for me and if things can keep on like this&#8230; exciting times ahead!</p>
<p>As promised last year, the free Photo-Africa desktop wallpapers are back!  This month sees three very different images that you can download to beautify your desktop.  It&#8217;s like a bit of Africa on your pc. <img src='http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>Each of the wallpapers are available in a large (2560 x 1600) and small (1280 x 800) size which you can download by clicking on the appropriate link below the image of your choice.  I have also added the calendar back onto the image as the feedback was pretty unanimous &#8211; you like the calendar!</p>
<p>So to kick off a brand new year, here goes with the first wallpapers of 2011! Enjoy!</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wallpaper 1 &#8211; January 2011</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4198" title="Wallpaper Download - January 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Wallpaper2-Jan-Blog.jpg" alt="Wallpaper Download - January 2011" width="550" height="363" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Ellies on the Move</em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">All too often I find that people are too critical of a scene and wait too long before clicking the shutter.  The reality is that when you are out in the wild, nature will not wait for you and normally you will not get the shot you want.  I got this image when we were photographing a massive herd of elephants at a watering hole in the Madikwe Game Reserve.  The herd was on the move and with elephants everywhere it was difficult to either isolate an individual or get the whole group in the frame.  As I was looking through my viewfinder this little group of youngsters moved into my frame, thereby helping me compose the image and I clicked the shutter.  The scene, along with soft diffused light, makes for an interesting wildlife image.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">To download the large version of this image click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6167" target="_blank">here</a></em></strong>.  To download the smaller version of this image click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6168" target="_blank">here</a></em></strong>.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wallpaper 2 &#8211; January 2011</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4199" title="Wallpaper Download - January 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Wallpaper3-Jan-Blog.jpg" alt="Wallpaper Download - January 2011" width="550" height="363" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Southern Masked Weaver</em></strong></p>
<p>I pulled this image from my archives.  This bright little guys was building a nest right above a small watering hole.  I knew that he was going to be busy for quite some time so I settled in and waited for the harsh afternoon light to fade a bit.  Eventually he stop for a second to give me a look.  The piece of nest-building-material was a nice bonus.  Click.  Done.  Initially the little branch across his tail concerned me but, and this is something I wish more wildlife photographers would realize, it does not matter.  This was a part of the scene and, to me, it does not detract from the image.  It&#8217;s nature after all and in nature you cannot always plan your shot 100%.</p>
<p>To download the large version of this image click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6169" target="_blank">here</a></em></strong>.  To download the smaller version of this image click <a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6170" target="_blank"><strong><em>here</em></strong></a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wallpaper 3 &#8211; January 2011</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4200" title="Wallpaper Download - January 2011" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Wallpaper-Jan-Blog.jpg" alt="Wallpaper Download - January 2011" width="550" height="363" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Lovely Lioness</em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I photographed this good looking cat this morning as she was relaxing in a meadow like area with her sister .  Soft light, direct eye contact, stunning.  I only clicked the shutter twice during this particular sighting.  You see, there was not a lot happening so I had the time to look, plan and capture my image.  To me there is no point in firing away at 9 frames per seconds if your subject is static like this.  Yeah, you might get a great shot but you missed the sighting.  In between all the photography we have to take a moment to truly look and appreciate our subjects as well.  Appreciation is a very big part of wildlife photography.  By appreciating your subjects you will be able to create more emotional, more striking images.</p>
<p>To download the large version of this image click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6165" target="_blank">here</a></em></strong>.  To download the smaller version of this image click <strong><em><a href="http://www.photo-africa-stock.com/download_file2.php?pid=6166" target="_blank">here</a></em></strong>.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p>
<p>And that, as they say, is that.</p>
<p>Hope you enjoy and please feel free to share these images with your friends and family.  Before you leave, why not take a few seconds to leave a comment as to which of these images is your favorite and why?</p>
<p>I hope you all have a fantastic 2011 with awesome sightings and great light.</p>
<p>Until next time!</p>
<p><strong><em>Gerry</em></strong></p>
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		<title>Getting Close Enough</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/07/getting-close-enough/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/07/getting-close-enough/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jul 2010 04:00:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kingfisher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[malachite]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[portrait]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.photo-africa.com/?p=3124</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One of the most difficult things about creating bird portraits is getting close enough. I spent yesterday in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve with the specific goal of photographing birds.  Even though it is the middle of winter, the amount of this water in this picturesque reserve makes for amazing bird watching and therefore, bird photography.  [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p>One of the most difficult things about creating bird portraits is getting close enough.</p>
<p>I spent yesterday in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve with the specific goal of photographing birds.  Even though it is the middle of winter, the amount of this water in this picturesque reserve makes for amazing bird watching and therefore, bird photography.  Didn’t get workable shots of all of them but I saw Greater Flamingoes, Capped Wheatear and quite a few yellow-morph Crimson Breasted Shrikes.  Great viewing.</p>
<p>Overall I am very pleased with the resulting images even though the images I had in mind did not quite materialize.   It helps, when you head out for a day of photography, to have a goal.  An idea of what you want to photograph.  And how.</p>
<p>A lot of the time things don’t work out exactly like you were hoping for which means you need to still keep your eyes open for other photo opportunities.</p>
<p>Either way, prepare yourself for a serious dose of frustration!  Especially when you are photographing birds.</p>
<p>They never sit still or exactly where you want them.  They take flight too soon or too late.  They fly in the wrong direction.</p>
<p>But you gotta love it!</p>
<p>Here are a few of the images I got of a small Malachite Kingfisher.  Found this little guy early in the morning and even though he was busy hunting, did everything he could to not sit in the sunny spots I was hoping for.</p>
<p>Eventually I had to play with some fill flash as he favored a little cove nest to the road and right in the shade.  Took a few attempts, as he did not sit still for too long, but so far I quite like the results.  Looking forward to checking out the rest of the photographs when I have a moment.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3125" title="Malachite Kingfisher - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-KF4.jpg" alt="Malachite Kingfisher - Wildlife Photography" width="375" height="560" /></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3126" title="Malachite Kingfisher - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-KF3.jpg" alt="Malachite Kingfisher - Wildlife Photography" width="375" height="560" /></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3127" title="Malachite Kingfisher - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-KF2.jpg" alt="Malachite Kingfisher - Wildlife Photography" width="560" height="375" /></p>
<p>Anyway, tomorrow is Worldwide Photowalk day so if you are walking somewhere in the world, enjoy!!  If you are joining me for the Melville walk, I’ll see you nice and early in the morning! (I will send out a message confirming meeting time and place.)  Looking forward to a fun morning of photography!</p>
<p>I’ll be back next week with more images from the Pilanesberg and, hopefully, a few new ones from Madikwe as well!</p>
<p>Been a helluva week but some sense of normality should return next week! Have a good one!</p>
<p><strong><em>Gerry</em></strong></p>
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		<title>Finding Perspective in the Pilanesberg</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/07/finding-perspective-in-the-pilanesberg/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/07/finding-perspective-in-the-pilanesberg/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010 05:00:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[perspective]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pilanesberg]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Time off is a great thing.  And perspective is even better! You see, even though I spend most my time working in a Big 5 game reserve it is, contrary to popular belief, not a full time holiday.  Yes, our neighbors include lions and elephants  and the sunsets seems to last forever but at times [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p>Time off is a great thing.  And perspective is even better!</p>
<p>You see, even though I spend most my time working in a Big 5 game reserve it is, contrary to popular belief, not a full time holiday.  Yes, our neighbors include lions and elephants  and the sunsets seems to last forever but at times very stressful and exhausting!</p>
<p>Working with people, not matter how great the are, takes it toll.  Living at work also means that you never &#8216;really&#8217; have time to yourself.  There is always something else and everybody always expects you to have the answer to everything.  And smile while you fix it.</p>
<p>This is by no means me getting negative, but stating the facts.  Putting things into perspective.  I love what I do and most of the time to highs far outweigh the lows because even when I am having a pretty crappy day, I get to share a beer out in the African bush with mates and photograph things like this.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3068" title="Mateya Male - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-Mateya.jpg" alt="Mateya Male - Wildlife Photography" width="562" height="377" /></p>
<p>Nice hey?  This is the Mateya male in the Madikwe Game Reserve the morning before I went on leave.  But apart from the great photo opportunities, working in the bush can be both a blessing and a curse but more on that later.  I will be doing a guest post on <strong><em><a href="http://www.africafreak.com/" target="_blank">AfricaFreak</a></em></strong> about life as a lodge manager / field guide.  Will keep you posted when the post is ready to go!</p>
<p>The nicest thing about getting away from the lodge, apart from fast internet access, is that it gives you perspective.  What is important?  Where am I going?  What do I want to achieve?   More than that is the ability to finish things.  Put plans into action.  Six weeks to plan and prepare and two weeks to implement.  Not ideal but damn, so far it is working well!</p>
<p>Anyway, back to time off.</p>
<p>I spent most of last week in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve not too far from Madikwe.  Awesome!</p>
<p>I have been going to the Pilanesberg Game Reserve with my folks since I was a youngster.  This is where I truly developed my deep love of nature.  As a kid I was completely addicted to the TV channel that showed the live feed from the waterhole.  This is where I first got to hear the francolins announcing early morning with their screeching greetings.  This is where I first experienced overpowering African sunsets.    Yeah&#8230; I love this place!</p>
<p>When I finalized out booking I was quite keen to go and shoot a few marketing type shots for our upcoming &#8216;<strong><em>Wildlife Photography 101&#8242;</em></strong> workshop but decided against it.  I needed to break from work.  I needed to switch off and I am proud to say that I did not check email, Twitter or Facebook once.  And you know what?  It was fantastic!!</p>
<p>Persepctive.  That&#8217;s what it was all about. Ideas coming together.  New ideas popping up.  Appreciation.  Inspiration.  Perspective.</p>
<p>Adele and I went to the Pilanesberg to relax, enjoy the spectacular scenery and spend some time with <strong><em><a href="http://www.grantmarcus.com/" target="_blank">Grant Marcus</a></em></strong> and his wife, Monique.  Great friends and in Grant I have  partner in crime who is always up for another hour at the hide trying to photograph the waterbirds of the Pilanesberg.</p>
<p>Without approaching the trip like work I went out to just enjoy the African wildlife and scenery which is truly breathtaking.  The sightings, both quality and quantity, is not quite up there with the Madikwe Game Reserve but from a photographic point of view the Pilanesberg is amazing!  The scenery and waterbirds in particular is out of this world and knocks Madikwe out the park.  I am very happy, and quite excited, that we decided to run the <strong><em>Wildlife Photography 101</em></strong> workshop here.   Gonna be a blast!</p>
<p>Here are a few of the photographs I captured as we drove around the reserve.  We did not specifically go looking for any of them.  We drove around, sat at the various hides (brilliant!) and just slowed down to African time.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3069" title="Wildebeest in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-Gnu.jpg" alt="Wildebeest in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" width="560" height="375" /></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3070" title="Warthog in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-Warthog.jpg" alt="Warthog in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" width="372" height="509" /></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3071" title="Egret in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-Egret.jpg" alt="Egret in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" width="560" height="376" /></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3072" title="Bullbull in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-Bullbull.jpg" alt="Bullbull in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" width="560" height="375" /></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3073" title="Reed Cormorant in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-Reed-Cormorant.jpg" alt="Reed Cormorant in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" width="560" height="375" /></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3074" title="Pied Kingfisher in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Blog-DIVE.jpg" alt="Pied Kingfisher in Pilanesberg - Wildlife Photography" width="560" height="375" /></p>
<p>Yeah, the last image is the kingfisher we tried to photograph.  Beautiful little bird and I walked away with a few decent shots but the &#8216;battle&#8217; is not over yet.  Since I am still on leave until Saturday, I will be heading back to Pilanesberg this week with some heavy artillery.  Watch this space!</p>
<p>Anyway, had a great break.  Well rested.  Lots of &#8216;perspective&#8217; gained and a few photographs along the way.</p>
<p>This Saturday it&#8217;s Worldwide PhotoWalk time and quite looking forward to that one!  If you are joining me for the walk in Melville, I will be in touch during the week.  If not, I will be posting images and updates early next week!</p>
<p>Time to get going but make sure to pop in during the week.  I will be posting details on 2011 safaris to Kenya and Madikwe on the site.  Things coming together very nicely and some very exciting things in the pipeline!</p>
<p>I&#8217;ll be back tomorrow&#8230; or perhaps not depending on how days pan out.  Hey, I&#8217;m still on holiday till Saturday! <img src='http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>See ya soon!</p>
<p><strong><em>Gerry</em></strong></p>
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		<title>Daily Photo:  White Crowned Shrike</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/05/daily-photo-white-crowned-shrike/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/05/daily-photo-white-crowned-shrike/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 May 2010 04:56:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Quick Pic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[crowned]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[daily]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[shrike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[white]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.photo-africa.com/?p=2569</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[White Crowned Shrike Madikwe Game Reserve, 10 May 2010, 16h46 Nikon D300, Nikon 80-200 @125mm, 1/4000, f/3.5, ISO 200 ___________________________ Bird photography is about patience and luck.  You need to be willing to sit, watch and wait.  A few weeks ago we sat watching this White Crowned Shrike, willing him to move.  As luck would [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2568" title="White Crowned Shrike - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Blog-Shrike.jpg" alt="White Crowned Shrike - Wildlife Photography" width="560" height="357" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>White Crowned Shrike</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: #808080;">Madikwe Game Reserve, 10 May 2010, 16h46</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: #808080;">Nikon D300, Nikon 80-200 @125mm, 1/4000, f/3.5, ISO 200</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">___________________________</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Bird photography is about patience and luck.  You need to be willing to sit, watch and wait.  A few weeks ago we sat watching this White Crowned Shrike, willing him to move.  As luck would have it we did not have to wait too long and what made it even better is that he took off directly towards us.  I shot off only two frames, with this being the first one.  Gotta love it when things just work out!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">More soon! <img src='http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><em>Gerry</em></strong></p>
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		<title>Daily Photo: Cape Longclaw</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/04/daily-photo-cape-longclaw/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/04/daily-photo-cape-longclaw/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Apr 2010 04:00:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Quick Pic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cape]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[daily]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[longclaw]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photography]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Cape Longclaw (Macronyx capensis) Krugersdorp Game Reserve, 29 March 2010, 15h46 Nikon D300, Nikon 200-400 @ 400mm, 1/800, f/4, ISO 400 ___________________________ Up until this shot I never had a chance to photograph a Cape Longclaw.  They either drop into the grass as soon as you tame aim or I just did not have the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2155" title="Cale Longclaw - WIldlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/CapeLongclaw.jpg" alt="Cale Longclaw - WIldlife Photography" width="530" height="354" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Cape Longclaw</strong> (<em>Macronyx capensis</em>)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: #888888;">Krugersdorp Game Reserve, 29 March 2010, 15h46</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Nikon D300, Nikon 200-400 @ 400mm, 1/800, f/4, ISO 400</em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">___________________________</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Up until this shot I never had a chance to photograph a Cape Longclaw.  They either drop into the grass as soon as you tame aim or I just did not have the reach but on this occasion I was able to get a few frames in before he disappeared again.  Bright and overcast conditions made for nice crisp, shadowless colors and the depth of field worked very well in isolating both the bird and the clump of grass he was sitting on.  Since I was already at my maximum focal length I had to compose properly so I waited for the little orange guy to look to the open space on the left of the frame.  Click.  Clean and simple image based on composition and color.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">More soon! <img src='http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><em>Gerry</em></strong></p>
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		<title>Guest Post: &#8220;Improving Your Bird Photography&#8217; by Isak Pretorius</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/04/guest-post-improving-your-bird-photography-by-isak-pretorius/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/04/guest-post-improving-your-bird-photography-by-isak-pretorius/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010 03:30:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[guest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[isak]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[The bird photographer is an interesting species. We can spend hours inside bird hides, next to dams, or in a car, patiently waiting for that perfect opportunity to come along. It’s the challenge that intrigues us, as well as the satisfaction combined with a sense of achievement when capturing the bird in that spectacular posture. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p><span style="color: #333333;">The bird photographer is an interesting species. We can spend hours inside bird hides, next to dams, or in a car, patiently waiting for that perfect opportunity to come along. It’s the challenge that intrigues us, as well as the satisfaction combined with a sense of achievement when capturing the bird in that spectacular posture. It’s like a drug. If you’re new to bird photography or already a keen bird photographer, I’d like to share a bit of advice and a few tips in this post that might help you.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">With the advances in digital photography, wildlife and bird photography has become accessible to most people. The current technology in DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras are so advanced that, to capture a standard portrait of a bird, sharp, and with the correct exposure requires no technical skill any more, unlike in the film and slide days. Unless the portrait is very striking, it is not an achievement and will look very ordinary compared to the images being produced today. This new technology opens up new possibilities, and raises the bar higher and higher for what we classify as good bird photographs today.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">To produce a spectacular bird portrait you should aim to incorporate the rules of art and composition in your photograph. Always try to capture the bird doing something unique and interesting.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">One of the most challenging genres of bird photography is </span><em><span style="color: #333333;">birds in flight</span></em><span style="color: #333333;">. It is also the most rewarding in my opinion. But, before you attempt to photograph birds in flight, make sure you have the right tools for the job!</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">Equipment required:</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">1) </span><strong><span style="color: #333333;">DSLR camera</span></strong><span style="color: #333333;">. When it comes to cameras there are many options in the market, and it can be overwhelming. As with most things in life, the more expensive it is, the better the quality. Just note that there are two types of cameras, those designed for action photography (which I would recommend) and those designed for portraits and landscapes. Don’t blow your entire budget on the camera, but consider these criteria when buying a camera aimed at bird photography (in sequence of importance):</span></p>
<ol>
<li><em><span style="color: #333333;">Autofocus tracking speed</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> – the speed at which it “grabs” focus and the ability to keep focus on a moving subject (also a function of a lens)</span></li>
<li><em><span style="color: #333333;">Shutter burst rate</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> (frames per second)</span></li>
<li><em><span style="color: #333333;">High ISO performance</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> – the ability to produce good quality images when shooting at high shutter speeds in low light.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">2) </span><strong><span style="color: #333333;">Long lens</span></strong><span style="color: #333333;">. Good quality glass is probably the most important consideration in any type of photography. For bird photography you can never have enough focal length. Buy the best quality lens that you can afford. Anything from 300mm and longer will work well. Note that the speed and quality of any prime lens is much superior to that of a zoom lens. For example, the Canon 400F5.6 lens is less expensive than a Canon 100-400F5.6 lens, and even with a teleconverter would focus faster and render better quality images than the 100-400F5.6 lens.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">3) </span><strong><span style="color: #333333;">Tripod and head</span></strong><span style="color: #333333;"> (fluid head or Wimberley head)</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">4) </span><strong><span style="color: #333333;">Beanbag and panning plate</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">5) </span><strong><span style="color: #333333;">Door bracket/mount</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2115" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20070228_02402.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="566" height="399" /></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2116" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20070228_0038.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="406" height="631" /></p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #333333;">Support</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">With heavy lenses, good lens support is essential to keep the camera still enough for sharp images or to have a smooth and effortless motion when following moving subjects. Different places require different lens support approaches:</span></p>
<ol>
<li><em><span style="color: #333333;">Bird Hides</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> &#8211; The best solution is to use a tripod. If the hide, seat or opening is too small to accommodate a tripod, then a beanbag with a panning plate will work well.</span></li>
<li><em><span style="color: #333333;">Next to a dam</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> – Tripod</span></li>
<li> <em><span style="color: #333333;">From a vehicle</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> – While driving, I use a big beanbag over the door of the vehicle and keep a panning plate attached to my lens. When I see something to photograph, it is essential to waste as little time as possible between stopping and taking my first shots. I found the beanbag and panning to be an excellent solution for this scenario. New designs in door mounts/brackets makes it an attractive option, especially when you stop your car at a place where you’ll be photographing for a while, and have a lot of time available to setup the contraption.</span></li>
</ol>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2117" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20070306_1395.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="566" height="397" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2118" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20070904_2672.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="566" height="399" /></p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #333333;">Camera settings</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">Fast moving subjects like birds in flight requires fast shutter speeds to freeze the moment and have a sharp image. I use </span><em><span style="color: #333333;">Aperture Priority</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> mode because I want to control my depth of field, and adjust it in combination with my ISO value to produce the required shutter speed. I usually photograph small, fast moving birds at about 1/2500</span><sup><span style="color: #333333;">th</span></sup><span style="color: #333333;"> of a second. With larger birds, like vultures, you can still get sharp images with as slow as 1/800</span><sup><span style="color: #333333;">th</span></sup><span style="color: #333333;"> of a second.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">Evaluate your scene and adjust the </span><em><span style="color: #333333;">exposure compensation</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> for correct exposure. When the scene is darker than neutral grey you’ll have to </span><em><span style="color: #333333;">underexpose</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> the image, and </span><em><span style="color: #333333;">overexpose</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> it when the scene is very bright. For example, a small bird against a dark background would require about -2/3 exposure compensation, while a bird on a dead branch of a tree against the bright blue sky would require about +2/3 exposure compensation. One of the advantages of digital photography is the ability to view your images on the screen at the back of the camera. I always advise people to check their exposures regularly.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">Remember to have your camera on </span><em><span style="color: #333333;">multiple shots</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> mode. This will enable you to take a series of photographs when pressing down the shutter button. It’s impossible to capture that precise moment, where the bird is in the perfect posture with open wings, with a single shot. Rather take a whole series of photographs and pick your favorite from the lot afterwards. Put your camera on </span><em><span style="color: #333333;">AI-Servo</span></em><span style="color: #333333;"> mode, to have the camera focus continuously as you press the shutter down half way or full, in effect “tracking” the subject automatically.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">The last tip on settings is to have only one autofocus point active, the center one. It is the most sensitive one, and with only one autofocus point active, the camera has to do fewer calculations to determine focus. It allows for faster and more accurate focusing.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2119" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20080114_9745.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="566" height="399" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2120" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20080418_0005.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="566" height="399" /></p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #333333;">Technique</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">To photograph birds in flight with regular success requires practice. It involves seeing the bird, pointing the lens at the bird while starting to move the lens at the same speed and in the same direction as what the bird is flying, pressing the shutter half way down to get focus on the bird while still panning the lens with the subject, and then continuing with this movement while pressing the shutter all the way down and taking a series of photos. You have to teach your brain the hand-to-eye coordination required to be able to see a bird flying across the sky and then point the lens straight at it. Find out where a local heronry, or any place where you can get close to a lot of flying birds is, and practice this technique.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2121" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20080525_4213.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="566" height="399" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20081229_0673.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2122" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20081229_0673.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="566" height="398" /></a></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #333333;">Composition</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">It is almost impossible to compose a photograph while following a flying bird through your viewfinder, especially when you have the center autofocus point active and locked onto the subject. Rather crop the photo afterwards for a start, before trying to move autofocus points while tracking a bird through the viewfinder.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">With stationary subjects, composition is especially important to create a striking photograph. Use the rules of art as a guideline to compose your image. For example, place a subject on one of the intersecting “3</span><sup><span style="color: #333333;">rd</span></sup><span style="color: #333333;">” lines while giving it space to look into. Also think about including shapes and textures and make use of leading lines.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">Be selective when picking a background for your bird portraits and birds in flight photos. A naturally toned background creates much more striking photographs than the blue and especially white skies. Try and look for a tree, dune, or bush in the background. Move your vehicle or tripod until the desired background in exactly behind your subject. This incidentally makes autofocus more challenging. If the autofocus point is not precisely on the subject, the focus might easily “jump” to the background and it will be difficult to regain focus on the subject.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2125" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20090620_83321.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="566" height="446" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2126" title="Image by Isak Pretorius" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/20090910_2413.jpg" alt="Image by Isak Pretorius" width="566" height="282" /></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">I hope these words of advice will help you in your pursuit to take better bird photographs!</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #333333;">Happy shooting.</span></p>
<p><strong><em><span style="color: #333333;">Isak Pretorius</span></em></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #888888;"><em>Isak&#8217;s Links</em></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #888888;"><em>Website &#8211; </em></span><a href="http://www.isakpretorius.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #888888;"><em><strong>Isak Pretorius Photography</strong></em></span></a></li>
<li><span style="color: #888888;"><em>Blog &#8211; </em></span><a href="http://isakpretorius.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #888888;"><em><strong>Isak&#8217;s Blog</strong></em></span></a></li>
<li><span style="color: #888888;"><em>Safari &#8211; </em></span><a href="http://www.c4images-safaris.co.za" target="_blank"><span style="color: #888888;"><em><strong>Book a Photo Safari</strong></em></span></a></li>
</ul>
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		<title>All the Small Things</title>
		<link>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/04/all-the-small-things/</link>
		<comments>http://www.photo-africa.com/2010/04/all-the-small-things/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 09:42:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gerry</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bird]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grasshopper]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[macro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[small]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[spider]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[things]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.photo-africa.com/?p=2102</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We often overlook the small things when we head out into the field. I have said it before and I am sure I will say it again.  The Big 5 are absolutely amazing to photograph but too many people get so obsessed with them but this obsession can lead to many missed photo opportunities.  Make [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<!-- Start Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><!-- End Shareaholic LikeButtonSetTop --><p>We often overlook the small things when we head out into the field.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="size-full wp-image-2101 aligncenter" title="Spider - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Spider1.jpg" alt="Spider - Wildlife Photography" width="550" height="357" /></p>
<p>I have said it before and I am sure I will say it again.  The Big 5 are absolutely amazing to photograph but too many people get so obsessed with them but this obsession can lead to many missed photo opportunities.  Make no mistake, I love the thrill of finding, watching and photographing the big guys but the last while I have made a concerted effort to not post big 5 pictures on the blog.</p>
<p>Perhaps, in a small way, it&#8217;s my version of one of those 365 projects that some people which I think is a great creative plan if you are able to stick to it but I cannot get myself to commit to something like that.  Hey, this blog keeps me busy enough with regards to getting the creative juices going so all good!</p>
<p>During my quest to photograph the smaller things out there I have seen some amazing things and have had to challenge my own photographic skills quite a bit.  Focusing distance, depth of field, background, angles &#8211; only a few of the things that you need to approach differently when shooting small.  Great fun and some very different images.  It is all too easy to fall into a rut and just shoot what you are good at, or think you are good at, but by moving out of your comfort zone you will not only end up with new and different images, for you, but you will start thinking differently when shooting your normal subjects.</p>
<p>I shot the spider yesterday morning during an extremely overcast and wet morning.  We almost didn&#8217;t see her, but when we stopped and moved in for our close ups the water drops on the web made the scene come alive in an almost dreamlike fashion.  Nice one.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2105" title="Grasshopper - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Grasshopper1.jpg" alt="Grasshopper - Wildlife Photography" width="530" height="406" /></p>
<p>I shot this little guy a few days ago after he demanded my attention after crashing into me as we were driving through the bush.  He sat still just long enough for me to change lenses, get myself into a very strange position and fire off one shot.  Quite like the reflection on the bar where he landed but most importantly a great exercise in photographing a small subject without any time to plan.  See subject , change settings, compose and shoot.  Nice!</p>
<p>Now in complete contradiction to what I said above, we have been having the most amazing lion sightings and the photographic opportunities have been fantastic so from next week I will start posting a few more lion images.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2103" title="Game Viewing in Madikwe - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Lion5.jpg" alt="Game Viewing in Madikwe - Wildlife Photography" width="567" height="281" /></p>
<p>Finding the big cats early in the morning and taking the time to follow them around will always lead to amazing photographic moments.  Here we were waiting for the big guy to walk right past us, he did, which led to an interesting discussion on the vehicle.  When you go out on safari it is important to pre-visualise the shots that you want.  We saw the scene unfold and were pretty sure that the male lion would continue to walk past us and the first image I wanted was the one whee he breaks the shadows in the corner of the frame above.  All it took was patience to get the shot I knew was going to happen but while we were waiting I saw this very typical safari scene.  Click.  Got it.</p>
<p>It is a great help to have a photographic guide who can help you see these moments but with practice it gets easier and you will find that you &#8216;see&#8217; more images when you go out there.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2106" title="Juvenile Pale Chanting Goshawk - Wildlife Photography" src="http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Bird.jpg" alt="Grasshopper - Wildlife Photography" width="550" height="367" /></p>
<p>Now as I mentioned earlier this week I have not done all that much bird photography and when I get the chance to shoot an image like the one above, and pull it off, I still get childishly excited. Love it! Great challenge which I believe requires great patience, great skill and a good deal of luck.</p>
<p>If you are keen on some tips and advise on bird photography, combined with some mind blowing bird images, you have to make sure not to miss tomorrow&#8217;s guest post by <em>I</em><strong><em>sak Pretorius.  <span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Isak</span></span></em><em> </em></strong>is a South African wildlife photographer who has pretty much perfected the art of photographing birds and in tomorrow&#8217;s post he will be sharing his knowledge and experience in <em><strong>&#8216;Improving Your Bird Photography&#8217;. <span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-style: normal;"> Great advise, awesome images &#8211; a post not too miss!</span></span></strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-style: normal;">I will be back with new images, cool blogs to follow and some other bits and pieces on Friday!</span></span></strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Bye 4 now and remember to look for the small things! <img src='http://www.photo-africa.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </span></span></strong></em></p>
<p><strong><em>Gerry</em></strong></p>
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