No, not with a macro lens, but up close shots with my zoom lens from 2-4 feet away. I have found if I wait for them to feed while I sit 20 feet away, I can slowly edge closer, never making direct eye contact and get quite close. This weekend I was within 1 foot of many birds, and keeping still I was able to get some wonderful close looks at these birds. I know some think it is cheating or not as special looking at feeder birds, but I find it very special, allowing some close looks, smudges of dirt, missing feathers, almost allowing the recognition of individual birds. One challenge is trying to keep the whole bird in the shot, but some I tried to get up close on the eyes. In some shots you can see my reflection in the eyes.
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| This very pretty White-Breasted Nuthatch seemed eager to pose - From 12.12 |
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| This male American Goldfinch still has a bit of gold on his head - From 12.12 |
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| This Redpoll ( I believe a Common) has some gorgeous reds and pinks - From 12.12 |
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| This female Hairy Woodpecker was gorgeous and has a bit someting on her head feather - From 12.12 |
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| This shot caught some refraction throught the feathers on a Tufted Titmouse looking pretty. From 12.12 |
Absolutely AMAZING! WOW!
ReplyDeleteGreat shots! Especially love the up-close and personal shot of the titmouse :)
ReplyDeleteExcelentes.Saludos
ReplyDeleteI personally like your technique, I'm always taking pictures of my backyard birds.
ReplyDeleteVery cool close-ups Dan! Those hungry birds in winter can be cooperative, but I've only had a couple experiences like yours. Talk about soul-satisfying views of Redpolls.
ReplyDeletegreat closeups
ReplyDeleteBrilliant shots, Dan. You must have an excellent zoom lens, and of course lots of patience, to get that close. Happy holidays to you and your family!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE close-ups. Great job. Thanks for posting.
ReplyDeleteOutstanding close-ups, Dan. I see nothing wrong with your technique.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos Dan. Your patience was well rewarded!
ReplyDeleteWow Dan, these close ups are incredible!! Great job!
ReplyDeleteThank you all very much for your kind comments. Hilke - i am saving up for a L-series lens for next year, getting close made the shots better :)
ReplyDeleteFabulous portraits of your stunning backyard birds, Dan! Wow, I'm especially fond of the head close-ups, but they all are wonderful. I scrolled through this post several times in appreciation of your fine camera work and the pretty birds. I bet you can get some nice drawings from these images.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Julie - very kind words - I am looking to try to draw the redpolls - they intimidate me some but I have to try :)
ReplyDelete