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Dean Wilson's picture

One Expected; Two Unexpected

While walking through a field I was taking with the abstract reflection of leaves, branches and sky in a very small stream.

After the first shot I noticed a dragonfly darting back and forth, up and, down left and right. I had to try and see if I could "capture" a photo in flight. There were a number of difficulties to overcome as you can imagine. Flopping a lens at 500mm and waiting (hoping) focus works. I learned camera skills on film, so I don't "Spray and Pray".

I chose Fv Mode (Flexible Priority) using the settings: Aperture Auto ~ 1/1600 sec ~ ISO Auto ~ 500mm

The third shot was timing. I was photographing birds roosting in Fv Mode and captured two birds in a dead tree. Nothing really interesting about it, just practicing. I lower my camera and turned it off. About 20 steps later I heard a helicopter coming close. It was behind the trees (scene right) and completely out of view.

I powered on the camera, extended the lens to 500mm pointed and pressed the shutter....and, again, hoped for the best. Again, no "Spray and Pray" needed.

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1 Comment

1). Lovely abstract, just the right composition balance and colors!

2). Wow! Gorgeous dragonfly. You did a great job with the challenges for sure. Your experience shows!

3). I love this! It's like a plain bird with serious old school flying skills is rolling it's eyes and saying, "So human, so overrated" about the helicopter.