5D Mk IV – EF 70-200mm L – 2x Doubler – 1/640, f/5.6, ISO 1600, Eval Meter

This photo was harder to take than it looks. First off, the bird just would not cooperate. Anytime I got remotely close, it flew away. Then I got a ladder and set it up in the driveway so I could elevate a little bit. With the 70-200 lens and the 2x Doubler, it is heavy. The doubler removes 2 F stops so the minimum is f/5.6. Given that the nest is in the shade (under the eaves with a Magnolia tree right next to it), and with a low ISO, an aperture of 5.6, I had to use a low shutter speed for proper exposure. I put the ladder away and went inside to post-process. The first results were unacceptable – too blurry and soft when taken from the ladder.

I then did another shoot. When I opened the garage door from the inside, I slowly peeked around the corner. The bird did not see me so I went and grabbed the camera. I increased the ISO by 4 f-stops to 1600. I also used a monopod to help steady the camera. The monopod, the high ISO, and the higher shutter speed, as well as changing the focus point to a spot focal point did the trick.

Stay tuned, if we have a good hatch, another Photo of the Day will be sure to follow.