Last post I talked about birds eating. Late morning my senses started kicking in, and I was ready for lunch. Our guide told me to watch the Velvet-purple Coronet that just came into the adjacent trees. He said that after he lands, his wings go out for a second. Ok, I’ve got this! He lands on a branch right in front of me. I missed. I changed to manual focus, focusing on his favorite spot on the branch. That works – nice wings, no head. Then nice head, no wing action. Then nice branch, no bird. Out of the corner of my eye, I see the picnic table behind me – wow, what a spread! Is that a platter of avocado slices? My tummy rumbles. Guide says “incoming”. “And why don’t you just put it on continuous?” This is a game between us.
Velvet-purple Coronet sitting on the branch.
© 2019 Diane Kelsay
Finally the next shot is a winner and not on continuous. But then I get another one as he takes off, motion in the wings. This one is my favorite. Bob and I both got several good “on the branch shots”. Lunch was incredible.
Velvet-purple Coronet taking off.
© 2019 Diane Kelsay
When is it a good idea to pick your shot or use continuous? I do occasionally use continuous when I think it’s beneficial, but I mostly use single shot because I like to study my subject and try to capture the moment. I enjoy watching as much as shooting. I really liked “the look” in the second toucan photo.
Plate-billed Mountain Toucan
© 2019 Diane Kelsay
Plate-billed Mountain Toucan
© 2019 Diane Kelsay
We will help you learn when to use continuous and one-shot bird photography on our next Ecuador Birds Adventure.