As I was walking along a trail last Tuesday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge I heard the cry of an Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) that sounded like it was really close. I looked up, reacted quickly, and managed to capture this sequence of shots.
In many ways I should not have been able to get these shots. I had the wrong lens on my camera. Instead of a long telephoto lens, I had my 180mm macro lens. My camera settings were more appropriate for a static portrait than for a moving subject. Fortunately I almost always have my camera set for continuous shooting, so I was able to fire off a quick burst and was pretty pleased with the results.
These images remind me of the importance of taking photos whenever and however you can. Conditions may not be optimal and your gear may not be perfectly suited to the task, but I think it is best not to worry about that when you find yourself presented with a photo opportunity—just shoot it with what you have.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
When I read the title, Mike, I was wondering if the Osprey was stuck in a blueberry net. Those are great images, especially considering the circumstances. You’re right though, use what you have and hope for the best.
WOW!!!! Fabulous Photos Mike!
Nothing beats a quick response. Great shots. Especially number three.
Benjamin became fascinated with the Osprey at a young age and ever since we have closely followed the findings of the Rhode Island Osprey Monitoring Program. In 1977 the state’s environmental management started to track their recovery after serious losses due to the effects of DDT. In 2010 the R.I. Audubon Society took over management of that successful program. The volunteers monitor the nests every two weeks from April-July with their own spotting scope or high-power binoculars. As each of your photos was enlarged and examined, Benjamin said : “Whoa, these are awesome pictures of an Osprey. ‘Specially the wings and tail feathers when he’s flying.” Judging by these lovely photos, you have heard and heeded the wise advice of Theodore Roosevelt : “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” Thank-you, Mr. Mike!!
Nice and crisp 👏👏
Great action shots. Such a gorgeous bird. I have yet to see an osprey here in the US.
The best camera or lens for the shot is the one we have at the time.I generally have my 180 mounted also but I have yet to get such nice bird images with it, much less an osprey.
I totally agree with your statement about the best camera/lens. I think my favorite bird shots with the 180mm lens are a juvenile Red-shouldered Hawk in 2014 (https://michaelqpowell.com/2014/08/10/young-red-shouldered-hawk/) and a Bald Eagle in 2017 (https://michaelqpowell.com/2017/07/18/luck-skill-and-equipment/).
Beautiful shots, love #3, those wings!!
Thanks. It’s always exciting to get wings in a good position when photographing a bird in flight. I fire away, hoping that I can capture the wings extended and not blocking the face.
Same here! 😊
YES.. awesome. I enjoyed these Mike!
Thanks, Liz.
#1 the detail in the eye. #2 detail in the wing feathers. #3 combined details. Altogether fascinating. I think you had the right equipment for the moment 🙂
Thanks for checking out the images so closely. You are right–as it turned out indeed I had the right stuff.
Love ospreys. They have such an intense look.
Very nice, Mike! I agree—take the shot! A blessing of digital photography.