My First Post - CKF

[allylaurente]

Hi Guys,
This is my first bird post... the Common Kingfisher. I'm really amazed the kind of birds that was posted here and i would like to share also some birds here in my place (Singapore). Though CKF is a migratory bird from the North. ;D

I'm a newbie in bird photography and want to learn from the expert in this forum. Your comments and critiques are very welcome.

First one is shoot at 10.36am then perched for less than a minute then flew away. Waited again and 2nd one perched at 11.16am. Not sure if its the same bird.

#1 With Flash - 10.36am - Canon 40D, AV,F/5.6, 1/500, 400mm with 1.5x, Flash FEC -3 with flash extender, tripod


#2 Without Flash - 11.16am - Canon 40D, AV,F/5.6, 1/500, 400mm with 1.5x,Tripod



Cheers,
Ally

[mantarey]

Very nice captures. Like the sharpness and the eye contact. I prefer the one without the flash, color comes out more natural and the exposure is a lot better too. Though still a little bit hottish in my monitor, it's nicer than the first image. Fine work Ally, I'm looking forward to seeing more of your captures.

[Ding Carpio]

Excellent first post, Ally.

Like Rey, I prefer the one without flash. Note how less harsh the shadow is on the bird's throat without flash.

[Farmer Nestor]

Huwaaawww! great shot Ally!
Was it taken in Bukit Timah or in Kranji nature reserve?

[allylaurente]

Thanks guys.

Hi RStaAna - i like the #2 also. Thanks for viewing and kind comments.

Hi balarila - First of all "Happy Birthday". I just notice the shadow. Its not good also to shoot this elusive bird with flash as it fly away after few shots. Took this from a hide.

Hi Ibong Mandirigma - I took this at Japanese Garden near Chinese Garden. Saw 5-7 of them flying in the river chasing each other. Kranji nature reserve has this also but im afraid to shoot there alone. Lots of snakes like pit viper and cobras and crocodile too.

Thanks for viewing guys and comments.

Ally

[tina mallari]

Ally, are you sure you are a newbie at bird photography? Those look like captures taken by a person who has been into bird photography for a long time - WoooHoooo wonderful shots !

Even your composition is perfect.

Beautiful captures !!!! I can't wait to see the next ones

[Mark Itol]

Beautiful, Ally.

[allylaurente]

Hi Tina - Yes i am newbie. I bought my 400mm 5.6L last August 18, 2008 and started shooting for almost 1 1/2 months now. But before that, im shooting macro like butterfly for almost 1 year. I'm just lucky that this elusive bird perched in the perch that somebody planted. But

Thanks for viewing and kind comments.


Hi Mark, Thanks. Glad you like it.

Ally

[Romy Ocon]

Very nice set, Ally!