Capturing Hummers

[JJphoto]

I didn't know that's the faked background at first Bob, nice captures, colorful smooth background and I like the catch light the most. can't wait to see your set up.

[bob williams]

Is it possible for you to post a wide shot, so I could check out the full setup that you've got going on in your background, including the placement of the lights and/or flash? Thanks!

Here ya go. Setup: Bird feeder taped on top of white PVC pole, supported by a Christmas tree stand. One 400 watt utility light is setup up on the tall ladder to light the back ground. Background plants sitting on a board that is bolted to the paint try on the small ladder. and of course, my 7D, 100-400 and 580exII flash on the tripod.





http://rwilliamsimaging.com/img/s9/v13/p971493103-4.jpg


http://rwilliamsimaging.com/img/s6/v6/p759540791-4.jpg


For some reason, The site is only letting me put one shot up at a time. When I try to put up asecond the "Insert Media" window is empty.


P.S. My wife says to tell you that the patio looks better than this when I am not using the decorations for props and backgrounds and the ladders are in the garage. [:^)]


Bob

[bob williams]

This one is particularly interesting, awesome background on all:

Thanks Shea, This one is actually a mistake, my flash didn't fire so all I got was the backlight from the sun. but I liked it anyway. Wish I could say the shot was designed like that, but it was just a lucky shot.


Bob

[JJphoto]

oh, IT isn't a faked BG[:$] nice set up[Y]

[ddt0725]

Your newhb photos are really beautiful and very nice (& creative) setup! You are really determined to get this just right and your hard work is really paying off! [Y]

Denise

BTW - My dogs would LOVE to have a yard like this!

[Richard Lane]

Hey Bob,


Thanks for taking the time to show us your set-up. I now have a much better understanding of whats going on. It looks like a great setup.


Do the birds stay around when you come out to take the shot, or do you have to fire away with a long remote trigger?


It almost looks like blue food coloring in the water dripping off of the birds beak (in the shot above).


Keep up the great work. I think you'll be able to right a book when your done!





Rich

[bob williams]

Do the birds stay around when you come out to take the shot, or do you have to fire away with a long remote trigger?

Actually both; The birds don't seem to have any problem with the people, dogs and even cats. Typically, my wife and I sit out on the patio with the dogs and cats and all of the associated activity. But the birds don't seem to mind. I also have a radio remote. Its a cheap one but works great. Once I have things set up, I can sit down with the remote in my hand and wait for the birds to come.

It almost looks like blue food coloring in the water dripping off of the birds beak (in the shot above).

Nope, no food coloring in my bird food. I think the droplet just picked up the color from the background.

[bob williams]

Thanks Denise. Your dogs are welcome anytime [].

[JJphoto]

Hi! Bob, here is a website about hummingbird you might interesting in, it's in Czech though, but I use google translate to translate it to English so you can see the shooting data.

[Bill W]

Bob.....nice captures. But I'm onboard w/Tom and Richard....try to increase thedistance of your background for a creamier bokeh.


I really appreciate your setup....I'm on the retired budgetand understand the need for making use of what you have in the garage. I'm stealing some of your ideas....LOL


BTW....really nice lawn for NM....you must have an abundant water supply nearby. My cousins yard doesn't have a blade of grass.


I'll post some HBs later after I go thru my nearly 600 air show pix from this wkend.


Regards


Bill