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Blue Jay in Flight
Posted By: Lmcfarrin, 12-08-2021, 10:59 PM

I use a manual focus only, multi-cameras on tripods, activated simultaneously and remotely to capture unique flight perspectives of song birds. I currently use the following cameras:

Olympus E-M1X
Olympus E-M1 II
Two Panasonic GH5's
Periodically, Pentax K-5
--------------------
The additional megapixels (24 vs. 20) and better dynamic range would improve my images in lower light conditions (shade/cloud cover). I once owned a K-30 and a K-3 II, but when I switched to M43 for silent shooting, fps, crop factor (reach) I kept all of my Pentax lenses, and adapt/use them regularly.
--------------------
My multi-camera setup is designed for the cameras to work as a team. What one camera misses the others will hopefully capture. Although I'd prefer a KP or K-1 II🙂 the K-70 would allow me to use proprietary Pentax and K mount lenses. At times when I'm shoot the lighting conditions can change frequently. Having proprietary lenses will assist the camera to work more efficiently (auto iso, auto f stop). The K-70 would join "the pack" and improve my flight capture "hunting" abilities.
--------------------
Theres nothing I can think of that the K-70 can do that my current kit cant.

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12-15-2021, 04:30 PM   #16
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Very nice, especially with the jay eyeing you. Very interesting setup, thanks for describing it, it would be nice if you could do a video of the process.

12-15-2021, 05:35 PM   #17
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QuoteOriginally posted by ramseybuckeye Quote
Very nice, especially with the jay eyeing you. Very interesting setup, thanks for describing it, it would be nice if you could do a video of the process.
There is a photographer on YouTube named Roger Hance that has a couple videos on how it's done. However, I think I'm one of a very few if not the only one doing it with 5 cameras. The 5 cameras is how I'm able to get the very unique shots. With one camera, the likelihood a bird is going to fly toward the camera/you is very unlikely. With multiple cameras I can simultaneously compose over, under, and from the sides. I evolved from 1 camera to 5 because the birds would counter my setup and escape unphotographed. Also, 1 camera after awhile your gallery will have the same perspective. The birds' approaches and departres will look the same over time - except when the birds are interacting with each other/fighting.

I'm working on photo books, I have a couple of YouTube videos, but nothing special. However, I plan to post some videos at some point covering everything from feed, customized feeders, camera settings etc.

---------- Post added 12-15-21 at 06:43 PM ----------

..... in no way trolling, and with all due respect to all camera brands, the pre-buffered features in Olympus and Panasonic cameras / electronic shutter makes it "easier ". However, I do at times shoot regular continuous burst. I use regular continous burst for birds that fly straight in with little to no warning. I detect there approach without seeing them on sunny days, especially snow covered ground by their shadows that are cast on the ground. I also have figured out the distance to set my focus point from the feeder to compensate for my slower reaction time - the birds depart the feeder and if I'm on time my first shutter press should be where they are in space.

The mentioned regular continous burst, I use with all cameras in the setup, except my two gh5's when I'm shooting with my k-5 or other dslr's.

---------- Post added 12-15-21 at 07:31 PM ----------

I understand not everyone has the means to finance x5 everything camera setup. However, it can be done with 5 K-5s or 5 KS-2's, etc. A used Olympus E-M5 cost about $225 or less. A used plastic fantastic DA 50 1.8 costs about $80. I got the DA L 55-300 for $87. Manual focus makes it more affordable because you can get some good glass for cheap. I picked up a Takumar 200MM F4 for $20. That's another reason I like Pentax, they've built a strong foundation with their lenses (including Asahi Takumar). My situation was one of total belief and commitment to what I was doing. Therefore, I made the financial decision to fund what I enjoy to do.

Last edited by Lmcfarrin; 12-15-2021 at 06:02 PM.
12-27-2021, 09:11 PM   #18
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QuoteOriginally posted by Lmcfarrin Quote
I use a manual focus only, multi-cameras on tripods, activated simultaneously and remotely to capture unique flight perspectives of song birds. I currently use the following cameras:

Olympus E-M1X
Olympus E-M1 II
Two Panasonic GH5's
Periodically, Pentax K-5
--------------------
The additional megapixels (24 vs. 20) and better dynamic range would improve my images in lower light conditions (shade/cloud cover). I once owned a K-30 and a K-3 II, but when I switched to M43 for silent shooting, fps, crop factor (reach) I kept all of my Pentax lenses, and adapt/use them regularly.
--------------------
My multi-camera setup is designed for the cameras to work as a team. What one camera misses the others will hopefully capture. Although I'd prefer a KP or K-1 II🙂 the K-70 would allow me to use proprietary Pentax and K mount lenses. At times when I'm shoot the lighting conditions can change frequently. Having proprietary lenses will assist the camera to work more efficiently (auto iso, auto f stop). The K-70 would join "the pack" and improve my flight capture "hunting" abilities.
--------------------
Theres nothing I can think of that the K-70 can do that my current kit cant.
Super capture. Timed just right.
02-03-2022, 04:30 PM   #19
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Thanks

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