Now that I am focusing mostly on photographing birds rather than dragonflies or butterflies, I am having to reacquaint myself with my long telephoto lens (Tamron 150-600mm) and with the related differences in shooting techniques. During the warmer months, I spend most of my time looking downwards and scanning an area no more than 10 feet (3 meters) in front of me. When it comes to the colder months, I spend much more time looking upwards for bird activity, although some of the remaining birds forage on the ground, so I can’t totally forget to look down. I also scan areas that are much farther away from me, particularly because my long lens cannot focus on anything that is closer than 9 feet (2.7 meters) from me.
Last week I was delighted to spot this beautiful Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. I am gradually learning the differences in coloration in the various sparrows in our area, though I must confess that sparrow identification is an ongoing challenge for me.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 