I photographed birds at my feeder today. I even washed the windows to get a clearer view. I didn't have any trouble identifying this Blue Jay, but I saw at least one bird that I hadn't noticed before and some more that I couldn't name.
It's easier to identify birds with photos than relying only on memory. Using my photos, a book, and the internet, I identified Carolina Wrens, Song Sparrows, and White-Throated Sparrows today. I also saw Cardinals, Robins, Common Grackles, and Mourning Doves. It was a busy day at my feeder and I photographed a few in trees and on the fence as well.
I also practiced panning cars after dark using my pocket camera for the first time. I didn't expect it to work, but it actually seems easier with the screen instead of the viewfinder on my SLR. I will definitely experiment with that again.
@smithfamily No tripod, but I rested my elbows on the window sill to keep the camera steady with my telephoto lens. Image Stabilization helps too. And a reasonably fast shutter speed (1/125). It must be the angle of light, but I've had good luck capturing a lot of birds through this window. My cats keep smudging it with their noses, though. It's probably the only window I clean regularly. The biggest problem seems to be scaring away the birds. I have to be quick because they don't stay at the feeder long and often fly away before I grab my camera.
April 22nd, 2011
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