Winter Birds

[finnbay]

Spent half an hour in the blind today. Nothing spectacular but had quite a few at the feeder. My background balsams have a lot of snow on them, and that presented some problems with exposure. Steve, I can see why a dark background is a better canvas.

[Dbl]

Looks like it was worthwhile spending time in the blind, they do look a bit soft, might just be the resizing from the web because I know that 300 is killer. Have you thought about a weak shot from your flash to get some catch lights and definition in the blacks? Just enough to not get a flashed look. I think these overcast days are perfect for flash work.

Manual.. power on about 1/16th to start and play from there. If you do use TTL flash remember that black subjects take less flash and white subjects take more so you can ride your FEC appropriately. I would like to see what it does for these, I think it might give them some additional pop. I really like the darker backgrounds with the lighter birds, makes them stand out. Just shoot manual and don't worry about that meter messing up your good shots.

[finnbay]

Thanks, Dan. Hope to be able to get out there again soon. Will give the fill flash a try!

[buzzsaw]

Nice shots, I agree with what Dan said. Also, what metering is your camera set at?

[finnbay]

I was spot metering and trying to hold onto the birds as much as possible.

[jonny_redhorse]

gotta love the colors on those grosbeaks!....great shots Ken!