Shauneen Hutchinson
Shauneen took our bird photography
discussion to a whole new level. Her
amazing hummingbird photograph
required many hours of preparation
and study. After learning the habits
of her subject, she set up tripod, a
remote trigger, and multiple sources
of light. Then she used one of the most
important skills a photographer can
have—patience—to await the arrival
of her “prey.” Learning the birds’ habits
and habitats is one of the best ways to
capture them in a natural setting.
Tina Schell
As for me, in addition to the helpful
hints from my fellow photographers,
here are some of my own suggestions.
Try to shoot the birds from their eye
level—they will be less skittish and
you’ll be more in their world. Speaking
of eyes, be sure you’re focused on them,
and if the light is behind you, try to
get a catch light while you are at it. For
increased interest, try to shoot the birds
in action—fishing, diving, fighting, etc.
If your camera supports burst mode,
use it. You will have lots of throw-aways,
but you just might get that special
keeper you are looking for. Finally, pay
attention to the background. Nothing is
worse than a beautiful bird shot with a
big old beach chair or someone’s foot in
the background!
One last word of advice we can all
agree on: The best way to learn is simply
to get out there and do it! Enjoy our
beautiful beach as you share it with the
incredible acrobatics of our winged
cohabitants.
Happy shooting everyone. NK
SUMMER/FALL 2017 • VOLUME 38
55