Wildlife through my window…
Early this spring I started a photographic response to stay-at-home during Covid-19. This project has evolved from documenting bird studies with photography to recording daily activities through video. I placed a microphone underneath the bird feeder to record more accurate and robust sound along with the video. I can clearly hear baby birds crying out to be fed, the voices of birds interacting at the feeder, the flutter of wings, or listen to seeds being cracked open. This has been magical to experience! For a travel photographer who has had her wings recently clipped, it’s been an enriching experience to witness nature so closely. I feel a peacefulness in the opportunity to observe and record nature and wildlife.
I’m shooting with my Nikon Z 50 and NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR lens. Photography and video is shot through my home office window. I mounted my camera on a Wimberley gimbal head secured to Platypod tripod which is on my desk. I can work at my computer and also be able to shoot video of the birds in the rain, that is pretty sweet! The brown thrashers above are my favorites. Right now they are the most lively of the birds visiting my feeders. The thrashers have been coming in pairs, fascinating to watch, they are celebrities in front of the camera. If you would like to see a few of my videos, you can find me on Vimeo. https://vimeo.com/deborahsandidge
Hi, Deborah.
I enjoyed reading and viewing your post and recent article in Shutterbug about your birding experience. It appears like we’ve had a similar experience. Since covid began last year I’ve shot over 1400 bird portraits in my backyard of about 40 different species. Although I’ve always had a passive interest in birds, it wasn’t until I began shooting portraits that my appreciation for these winged wonders greatly increased. I’ve learned so much about their behavior and habits. They have become so used to me (the hand that feeds them homemade suet and seeds) that I need no blind or camo. I can get within 3-4 feet of some of the species. And, this year I’ve begun offering on location backyard bird photo workshops where I help homeowners set up their backyard and then give photo lessons. It’s been great fun.
Thanks again for sharing your story. I wish you much continued success.
With grace,
Hal