Male Ruby-throated Hummingbird shot in my backyard. The 300 DA* is just a beautiful lens. Shot from close to the minimum focus distance, around 6-7 feet, on a tripod, most likely using a wired remote release, manual prefocus (auto focus is too slow to catch these guys, or I'm too slow to use it), manual exposure, natural light (no flash-I don't flash the little guys-it can't be good for them). I'm pretty sure I used Nik software selectively to "darken" the front feeder position as it was totally blown out by the sun and brighten the head, otherwise basic adjustments. The background is naturally dark because it's in shade and quite a distance away. The only trick is to make friends with the little guys. Just for comparison, his body is about the size of a thumb.

[eaglem]

A different but good perspective in shooting this Bird

[steveo-1]

Thanks eaglem.

[Photogoof]

Male Ruby-throated Hummingbird shot in my backyard. The 300 DA* is just a beautiful lens. Shot from close to the minimum focus distance, around 6-7 feet, on a tripod, most likely using a wired remote release, manual prefocus (auto focus is too slow to catch these guys, or I'm too slow to use it), manual exposure, natural light (no flash-I don't flash the little guys-it can't be good for them). I'm pretty sure I used Nik software selectively to "darken" the front feeder position as it was totally blown out by the sun and brighten the head, otherwise basic adjustments. The background is naturally dark because it's in shade and quite a distance away. The only trick is to make friends with the little guys. Just for comparison, his body is about the size of a thumb.

One of those rare, gorgeous shots.