As regular readers will know here, I’m a very keen birder. Have been for several years now, and feel blessed with all the amazing bird life we have on our property in the Dandenong Ranges as well as all the local parks and gardens near here. I’ve documented over 70 species of birds I’ve seen in the region so far and know there are still others to get, when the time is right.
My camera of choice is a Nikon P950. While it isn’t good for action shots, such as Birds in Flight (BIF) due to the shutter time lag, it is ideal for shots of birds that aren’t moving fast or are staying still in trees, bushes and on pathways, grasses and in water. It has an 83X Optical zoom which is the equivalent of 24mm (for wide shots) to 2000mm for long distance shots and beyond that in digital zoom to 4000mm. In other words, it is a Super Zoom camera – no wonder I love it!
Now, for Ethical Birding – I don’t like to intrude on birds or make them feel uncomfortable, and I prefer not to disturb them as much as possible. While they may be aware that I’m looking in their direction, often it’s from quite a distance. So while my photos may make it look like I’m really close to the birds, the reality is, I’m not.
The link I’ve given above is from Birdlife Australia. I love to share what I’ve learnt about birds, I love to encourage others to be protective of birds and being aware of them and to consider the wellbeing of the birds around them. That is, if you’re walking a dog, or have young children with you, don’t let them race up to birds on the edge of a lake or on grasses – it’s their home and they need to feel safe. And don’t leave litter for the birds to get to, doggie bags on the ground or a pole (because you think you’ll grab it again on the way back), or tissues, masks, plastic and other things. Watch without disturbing. Enjoy the nature around you. And learn about the nature about you. The more you learn, the more you’ll be amazed at what’s around us.
Here are some examples of birds I’ve taken at a distance and close up, from the exact same position, which shows you the power of this camera and the reason why I love it. In the first set is the circled area where the birds were at Birdsland. They are Tawny Frogmouths. The first a wide shot, the second at 1500mm, the third at the equivalent of almost 4000mm zoom. And no, I’ve not done anything special to the photos, maybe a bit of brightening or sharpening but nothing else.
The second set taken at my home from my back door. The first shows the circle of where the Kookaburra was and the second as a close up. Yes, the Kookaburra knew I was there, but I was nowhere near it and it didn’t feel like it had to move away. The first at 24mm and the second at 1400mm focal distance. Safe birding photography without disturbing the birds and keeping safe for myself as well.
I have admired many of your photos Kathie and cant see a problem with you using a long lens..couldnt possibly affect the birds..keep sending photos..i enjoy your work.
Thanks Desmond and hopefully others feel the same too. I like to lead by example, if I can, and share what I’m learning too.
Awesome,like the tips on the camera too
Hi Kathy. I have just purchased a P 950 as I haves loved your photos. Would you have time to meet and give me some lessons?
Always happy to help where I can. Contact me direct and we can chat – maybe via Messenger? Or email.
Thanks Kathie, I have the P600 after moving up from a the P520.
How do you keep the camera still? I struggle keeping a steady hand or do you use a tripod?
I’ll look into upgrading my camera, when finances allow.
Love your photos.
Lots of practice Anita. I don’t use a tripod but I am used to holding something much heavier. But, in saying that, this camera is much lighter and does tend to move off the focused spot each time you press the shutter button – I just refocus again. It is very much about practice but if you don’t have a steady enough hand, then a monopod, tripod, a fence post, someone’s shoulder – something can always suffice.