OK, so this is for a few of you...the ones who enjoy taking pictures.
This is how I shot this California Condor...from about 40 yards, more or less.
Before I did anything else I focused on getting enough shots to guarantee I had a couple that were satisfactory. Why? Because my experience suggests the shot you really want is the one you better try to get. Don't mess around if you might lose the picture you really want while fooling with something of lesser importance.
First, get the shot.
Then...experiment with the possibilities...
I turned off the ultra-sonic image stabilization. I resolved to secure the lens (and camera body) for a very, very long shot. Any motion, or vibration, would blur the image. I braced the camera so it was rock-solid. I locked the mirror up to avoid the "mirror-slap" that threatens the telephoto images of every DSLR. I turned on my delay so the shutter would trigger without my touch. I focused, blocked the wind, depressed the shutter release, removed my hand and waited for the delayed shot. No vibration. No motion. No blur.
Then...fix it...improve what you have...
I cropped the snot out of this picture. It was huge before the crop. (One advantage of a camera that captures more pixels is the crop option. For most practical purposes a crop loses no significant resolution.) Cropped shots like this one are usually not "deal-breakers" and those perusing your photos don't care much about your process; they want to enjoy your product. Add a little sharpening to the image and...there you go: Condor head!
Then...recall how you did it...so you can repeat it...
If I hadn't been lying down at the edge of the cliff, with lots of time to brace the camera on my wadded coat, I don't think I could have gotten this shot.
If I hadn't been somewhat familiar with my camera settings and functions, I don't think I could have gotten this shot.
If Sheila had not been the greatest, most patient, wonderful, gracious, kind, thoughtful and loving wife on the planet...I don't think I could have gotten this shot.
And if I hadn't taken some time to study the camera's instruction manual, I don't think I could have gotten this shot.
These steps toward a good picture can also lead to a good life.
Taking time to prepare thoroughly, familiarizing myself with the resources God has placed in my hand, partnering with supportive teammates and studying the Bible (as carefully as I study my camera's manual) can make everything my life produces more focused and clear.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 - The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us do what is right. It is God’s way of making us well prepared at every point, fully equipped to do good to everyone.
I care about the lesson you will bring out of this detailed information on the camera, and the God of our Bible... Thanks again
RW
Posted by: Ron W | March 04, 2009 at 09:44 AM
Only my pastor would come up with such an analogy -- bravo! Keep speaking from life!
Posted by: Dave | March 04, 2009 at 10:50 AM
Mark, if Condors sent Christmas Cards to other Condors, this handsome guy would be including this one in his 2009 greeting!
You are incredible at everything you do...I think you got more than your share of the amazing genes in the Beeson gene pool...and Matt absorbed more than he required as well...and so, amazed by your giftedness, I simply plod along...(:
Posted by: Becky Hunter | March 04, 2009 at 11:25 AM
I'm not a photographer. But for some reason I was captivated by this post. Maybe because I always want to know how things work.
You did leave one question unanswered for me. How did you shoot a picture of a California Condor from Arizona?
Posted by: Tim Stevens | March 04, 2009 at 03:05 PM
Mark an amazing image I am very excited to see what you are doing with your gift that God gave you. I can truly imagine your excitement level as you where snapping the shutter on this rare site. I know your heart is still pounding each time you view your images
Posted by: Ron Zimmerman | March 04, 2009 at 10:23 PM
Mark - my name is Bruce. I'm a pastor in northwest suburban Chicago area. I drive out to Granger from time to time to soak in what you guys are doing and always learn so much. Just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy visiting your blog, both for what I learn and for the rich experience of your photos. Wow. This one (of the condor) takes the cake. Thank you!
Posted by: Bruce Cole | March 05, 2009 at 07:13 PM
Read the cameras instruction manual. Very interesting concept. I'll have to think about that one. Love your blog, pastor. Always look forward to the next GREAT picture. I to am a pastor and a wanna-be photographer. Love taking pics! So tell us about your equipment. What are you shooting with? Maybe a lesson on "Having the right tools" or something like that! God bless!
Posted by: Slowtraincoming | March 07, 2009 at 03:09 AM
Wow! Mark, I just looked at your photos and blogs from your trip. These are all amazing. Isn't it great to experience something totally different in order to get that inspiration? You and your camera are a great pair. I'm glad you take the time to invest in the inner workings of it so as to inspire us with the final pictures.
Posted by: Michellle Bythrow | March 21, 2009 at 02:51 PM