Birds, Bird Feeders and Photos

by Dave

American Goldfinches on feeder

I'm a bit of a photo nut... I love taking nature shots, as well as many other things.

I tend to always have my camera with me. I've learned the hard way (i.e., through missed opportunities!) that one never knows when and where that fantastic shot will confront you.

Those of you who are dedicated photographers... professional and amateur alike... know this of course. But for others here's a little tip to think about.

If you start taking your camera with you at all times, you'll actually start to look more closely at your surroundings and for those rare but wonderful shots.

But I digress!

I just want to share... and maybe get some advice... about some shots I took recently.

The one I've posted here is two American Goldfinches on a feeder just outside my dining room window. This was taken with a 70-300 zoom on full zoom. But it was taken through the window, which happens to be a little dirty. It was also taken on an angle through the glass, so that likely didn't help.

I think the image is a little fuzzy or less sharp than it should be. In fact I think I know the answer to my question. It was taken at 1/60 sec. shutter speed due to low light... and hand held!

So next time I'll use a tripod and wait patiently on the porch so there will be no glass between me and the subject!

I'd love to see some samples of other shots people have taken!