31 January 2023

Canon EOS Official Sample Image Links: 2014 - 2023

Canon EOS / Canon EOS R Official Sample Images from Canon Japan
 
Canon EOS Official Sample Image Links: 2014 - 2019 Image: Canon EOS RP Official Sample
Canon EOS RP Sample Image : Image Credit Canon Singapore

I study 100's of new Canon EOS R / EOS camera official sample images as new bodies are released - the attached image here on the right is from the Canon EOS RP Full-Frame Mirrorless camera.

Herewith a list / link to various Canon EOS R / EOS / EOS M camera sample galleries on one of my websites of sample images from most of the current APS-C and Full-Frame Canon bodies 

2014 - 2022

Latest Sample Images: Canon EOS R6 Mark II | Canon EOS R7 | Canon EOS R10

Canon EOS R Official Sample Images

 As made available by Canon Japan (also other official Canon subsidiaries) and published on my Canon Camera News website - with image credits and original EXIF Data and Image Downloads:

Canon EOS R Full-Frame Sample Images
  • Canon EOS R3
  • Canon EOS R5 C
  • Canon EOS R5
  • Canon EOS R6 Mark II
  • Canon EOS R6
  • Canon EOS R8
  • Canon EOS R
  • Canon EOS RP

Canon EOS R APS-C Sample Images
  • Canon EOS R7
  • Canon EOS R10
  • Canon EOS R50

Canon EOS / EOS M Official Sample Images

 As made available by Canon Japan (also other official Canon subsidiaries) and published on my Canon Camera News website - with image credits and original EXIF Data and Image Downloads:
  • Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
  • Canon EOS-1D X Mark II
  • Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
  • Canon EOS 5D Mark III 
  • Canon EOS 6D Mark II
  • Canon EOS 7D Mark II
  • Canon EOS 90D
  • Canon EOS 80D
  • Canon EOS 77D
  • Canon EOS Rebel T8i / EOS 850D
  • Canon EOS Rebel T7i / EOS 800D
  • Canon EOS 750D / 760D (Rebel T5i / T5s)
  • Canon EOS 4000D
  • Canon EOS 2000D
  • Canon EOS SL3 / EOS Rebel 250D 
  • Canon EOS SL2 / EOS Rebel 200D
  • Canon EOS M100 Mirrorless
  • Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless
  • Canon EOS M5 Mirrorless
  • Canon EOS M6 Mark II Mirrorless
  • Canon EOS M6 Mirrorless

Go>>
Canon EOS Official Sample Image Links


Canon EOS 760D Rebel T6s Sample Image  - Image Credit: Canon Japan EXIF DATA
Canon EOS 760D Rebel T6s Sample Image  - Image Credit: Canon Japan EXIF Data

Sample Image: Canon EOS 4000D - Image Credit Canon Japan
Sample Image: Canon EOS 4000D - Image Credit: Canon Japan EXIF Data

Cape Town Photography: Milnerton Lighthouse Views

Vernon Chalmers Milnerton Beach / Woodbridge Island Photography

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Cape Town Photography: Milnerton Lighthouse Views Cape Town Photography: Milnerton Lighthouse Views
Milnerton Beach / Lighthouse (Copyright Vernon Chalmers)

Different views from the Milnerton Lighthouse on Woodbridge Island. From Arnhem, Milnerton beach (Table Bay), Milnerton lagoon and Woodbridge Island.

All Milnerton Lighthouse, Cape Town images with:
  • Canon EOS 6D / EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM lens
  • Canon EOS 6D / EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens
  • Canon EOS 6D / EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens
  • Canon EOS 700D / EF-S 10-18mm IS STM lens
  • Canon EOS 700D / EF-S 18-135mm IS STM lens

Cape Town Photography: Woodbridge Island Bridges  /  Table Mountain


Vernon Chalmers Copyright: Milnerton Lighthouse Photography, Cape Town
Please do not use / re-publish any Vernon Chalmers Milnerton Lighthouse  Cape Town Photography images without permission. View the Vernon Chalmers Photography Copyright Policy for more more information.

Copyright Infringement Warning to Cape Town Photographers
Copyright Infringement Warning to Cape Town Photographers


(Click to Enlarge)
Copyright Vernon Chalmers Lighthouse over Milnerton Beach / Woodbridge Island
Lighthouse over Milnerton Beach / Woodbridge Island Cape Town

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Lighthouse over Milnerton Beach / Woodbridge Island
Lighthouse over Milnerton Beach / Woodbridge Island Cape Town

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town
Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town
Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town - From Arnhem
Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town - From Arnhem


Copyright Vernon Chalmers Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town - From Arnhem
Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town - From Arnhem

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Milnerton / Woodbridge Island Lighthouse - Different Views
Lighthouse from Milnerton Beach (Table Bay) Cape Town

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Milnerton / Woodbridge Island Lighthouse - Different Views
Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / over Milnerton Golf Course Cape Town 

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Milnerton / Woodbridge Island Lighthouse - Different Views
Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town

Cormorant Flying Past Milnerton Lighthouse / Woodbridge Island
Cormorant Flying Past Milnerton Lighthouse / Woodbridge Island Cape Town

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Milnerton / Woodbridge Island Lighthouse - Different Views
Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town - From Arnhem 

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Milnerton / Woodbridge Island Lighthouse - Different Views
Lighthouse over Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Cape Town - From Arnhem

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Milnerton / Woodbridge Island Lighthouse - Different Views
Milnerton Lighthouse, Woodbridge Island Cape Town - From Arnhem

History of Milnerton
History of Milnerton

Milnerton Lighthouse, WoodBridge Drive Woodbridge Island, Milnerton Cape Town South Africa

Woodbridge Island Map Milnerton Lagoon / WoodBridge Island Map

The Milnerton Lighthouse, Milnerton Cape Town was commissioned in 1960

History of Milnerton / Woodbridge Island
From 1897 - 1980 History of Milnerton


Long Exposure / Night Photography Setup & Tips

Peregrine Falcon at Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town

Special Visit from a Peregrine Falcon, the World's Fastest Bird

Peregrine falcon near Woodbridge Island looking into my bedroom window on the 12th floor, Arnhem Milnerton Cape Town. This is a regular visitor, but elusive for capturing high quality images at times.

Images by Vernon Chalmers with Canon EOS 70D / Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens (M Mode / Handheld).


Peregrine Falcon Visit at Arnhem Milnerton Cape Town Copyright Vernon Chalmers 01
Peregrine Falcon at Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town | Copyright Vernon Chalmers

Peregrine Falcon Visit at Arnhem Milnerton Cape Town Copyright Vernon Chalmers 02
Peregrine Falcon at Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town | Copyright Vernon Chalmers

Peregrine Falcon Visit at Arnhem Milnerton Cape Town Copyright Vernon Chalmers 03
Peregrine Falcon at Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town | Copyright Vernon Chalmers

Peregrine Falcon Visit at Arnhem Milnerton Cape Town Copyright Vernon Chalmers 04
Peregrine Falcon at Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town | Copyright Vernon Chalmers

Peregrine Falcon Visit at Arnhem Milnerton Cape Town Copyright Vernon Chalmers 05
Peregrine Falcon at Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town | Copyright Vernon Chalmers

25 January 2023

The Peregrine Falcon: Fastest Bird in the World

The Peregrine Falcon Cited by Many Sources as the Fastest Flying Bird in the World

What is the Fastest Bird in the World?

Peregrine Falcon Arnhem Milnerton Copyright Vernon Chalmers
 Peregrine Falcon outside my window : Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town

Image: Peregrine falcon swooped into a dive high outside my bedroom window. (Canon 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens)

I am very pleased to read that 'my closest neighbour', the Peregrine falcon, is recognised by many bird and animal speed recording websites as the fasted bird (and possibly the fastest animal) in the world. I have looked at quite a few sources, amongst others, Britannica and Guinness World Records. See measurement / speed references and sources below the second image.

Peregrine Falcon Arnhem Milnerton Copyright Vernon Chalmers
Peregrine Falcon flying straight at me : Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town

Image: Peregrine falcon flying directly at me while watching him through my bedroom window. (Canon 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens)

Over the years I have formed a special bond with the Peregrine falcon. Although it is alarming to see them becoming so urbanised, it is in some ways satisfying to see / hear him often so close to me. Captured in the image above he flew straight at me (probably between 20 to 30 times) while I was standing at my bedroom window on the 12th floor - giving me more than enough time to grab my camera. This incident occurred late one Thursday afternoon  - over and over with such precision (and soul-piercing eyes) that I became concerned he could fly into the room. Many evenings, at dawn, he would perch outside the bathroom window.

Peregrine Falcon Speed Measurement  / Sources:

Measuring a bird or animal speed is by no means an easy and (not always) an accurate measurement, but going through various online sources it seems to be a definite agreement that the Peregrine falcon with a top diving airspeed of +- 300 km/h / 186 mph is the fastest bird.

Britannica "The peregrine falcon is best known for its diving speed during flight—which can reach more than 300 km (186 miles) per hour—making it not only the world’s fastest bird but also the world’s fastest animal." (Source: Britannica)

Guinness World Records "The fastest dive by a bird is that of a peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), which has been estimated at reaching a terminal velocity in ideal conditions of approximately 320 km/h (200 mph) when in a diving stoop hunting prey on the wing. Some experimental dives have suggested that even higher speeds are possible by this species, perhaps up to 389 km/h (242 mph)." (Source: Guinness World Records)

BirdFact "The fastest bird in the world is the migratory peregrine falcon. These raptors feed on other birds like pigeons and shorebirds that they capture in flight at amazing speeds of up to 200 miles per hour. They achieve this speed by diving or stooping from above, using a combination of powerful flight muscles, perfectly streamlined form, and good old gravity." (Source: BirdFact)

Peregrine Falcon Arnhem Milnerton Copyright Vernon Chalmers
Peregrine Falcon watching me : Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town

Image: Peregrine falcon watching me on a Saturday afternoon. The best stalker I have ever had.(Canon 70D / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens)

Above Images Location: Arnhem / Milnerton, Cape Town (opposite Woodbridge Island)

Peregrine Falcon - Bird Slayer and Dive Master! The Fastest Animal on the Planet



Peregrine Falcon: How the Fastest Animal on Earth Attacks Its Prey : Video


The Peregrine falcon is not your average avian predator. When hunting, this remarkable bird will fly to great heights, then dive bomb its prey abruptly at speeds of up to 242 mph. 

From: DAVID ATTENBOROUGH'S CONQUEST OF THE SKIES: Triumph

Sourcehttp://bit.ly/1UO4Kai

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

23 January 2023

Using a Birds in Flight Lens for Small Static Subjects

Canon 400mm Lens for Static Subjects with Birds in Flight Photography Settings

Birds in Flight Lens for Small Static Subjects - Intaka Island
Birds in Flight Lens / Settings for Small Static Subjects - Intaka Island

Long lens for random static subjects when the objective is predominantly high-speed action

This is what I love about a 'long lens' at 400mm, birds in flight settings and a static subject without changing anything (and trusting my kit in hand to deliver).

Wild flower during last week's Intaka Island birds in flight client practical.

Canon camera / lens was setup for birds in flight, but its possible to immediately / in between in-flight shots capture some static subjects as well. The higher shutter speed will not really have an effect on image quality. The higher ISO could, but it is removable in post-processing without losing too much detail (depending on the quality of the camera's image sensor, but I don't regard this as too important if the light is reasonable to good).

What works well here is the fact that there was relatively good separation between the subject and the background - it adds to a more solid blurred look - therefore 'popping' the main subject against the reeds / grass.

An aperture of f/6.1 - f/8 would have secured more sharpness across the subject, but for me, while engaging in in-flight photography with little time between birds I take the known risk of a bigger aperture for these type of in-between shots - at least is will provide for a shallower depth of field. With enough time I would change to Av Mode, a smaller aperture, with no substantial impact on Auto-ISO. The flower was less important in my general application a the time, but important enough to share it with the developing photographer in terms of the 'what-if' scenarios.

For close-up shots like this I prefer using Av Mode and Auto-ISO to know that the ISO will come down with a few stops, but with birds randomly in front of the lens I don't change anything - as the birds in flight is the main priority and therefore Manual Mode works best to control aperture and shutter speed.

For predominantly static subjects the shutter speed is not that important (for my purpose) and Av Mode (Aperture Priority) is more often the better option - the modern DSLR camera will in most cases select a good ISO exposure to match your selected aperture and distance to subject / and quality of light.

Canon Equipment and Exposure Settings
Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens 
Manual Mode: Auto-ISO 2000 / f/5.6 / 1/2000's - handheld

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

20 January 2023

Canon Snapshot for Thought...

Never underestimate / undervalue the camera in hand

Wildflower at Intaka Island Copyright Vernon Chalmers
Wildflower at Intaka Island with Canon 400mm Prime Lens

Whatever (older) kit you may have will often surprise you with its capabilities beyond the application(s) and / or intended genres.

The wildflower image was created while I was setting up my camera for a client in-flight photography training session at Intaka Island earlier in the week. The flower was not really the objective, but rather ensuring that the AF and exposure settings were correctly tuned for the available light conditions.

This image is a reminder 'to self' that a camera / lens setup not intended for its ultimate purpose – action photography, in this case – can do other jobs about just as good as its newer siblings explicitly purchased and applied for specific (close-up) genres.

The lens used was a 30 year+ old non-Image Stabilisation lens design (Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM) paired with an almost 10-year old camera (Canon EOS 7D Mark II) with entry-level birds in flight settings. Manual Mode: Auto-ISO / f/5.6 / 1/1000s - Large AF Zone and handheld.

The bottom line is when you get to know light, exposure and your kit in hand well enough you will be able to extract quite substantial value from said combination(s). Together with your own trust of the camera / lens in your hand a lot can still be achieved before it becomes really necessary for new kit. Once you master your kit you may learn its shortcomings – and then with the same (old) kit you will find there is still some value left in the 'creation of images' – depending on how you apply your mind (in learning even more from current kit).

African Sacred Ibis in Flight Intaka Island Copyright Vernon Chalmers
African Sacred Ibis in Flight Intaka Island with EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens
Above bird in flight with Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400m f/6.5.6L USM lens at Intaka Island, Cae Town. Manual Mode: Auto-ISO 400 / f/5.6 / 1/2000s - Large AF Zone and handheld.

I read a comment earlier today where somebody wrote “I’m still learning photography after 35 years” – not making reference to the fact that he / she is not knowing how to use kit in hand, but rather still experimenting how to be even more creative in applying light, different genres and image making possibilities etc. For that alone you will be able to spend many years with the same camera (and a few lenses).

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island

18 January 2023

About the Quality of Light... for Bird Photography

Vernon Chalmers Birds in Flight Photography Training Cape Town

Little Egret in Flight Woodbridge Island Copyright  Vernon Chalmers
The Quality of Light... Little Egret in Flight Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Over the last couple of days I have written extensively and posted quite a few images of bird (in flight) photography in poor light conditions (at Intaka Island). As photographers we want the best possible light, but even the best light is not always best for our images. You may think.., 'Will I ever master the exposure inter-relationship conundrum with its almost infinite probability combinations and permutations?'

Often, with knowledge of exposure, light and experience of different conditions, the photographer will succeed. The cognitive awareness of subject (bird) behaviour, objectives, challenges and expectations in terms of specific outcomes will provide the eventual knowledge, experience, (own) behaviour, skills and techniques when allowing yourself to shoot any subject 'as is' (irrespective of the conditions).

The attached image (above) of the little egret at Woodbridge Island was photographed before 07:00 on a good quality light day. Even on a good light day in photographing predominantly white birds softer sun light is required - hence the fact this image was captured before 07:00 on a sunny morning.

If this image was taken at i.e. 09:00 the light would have been too bright over-exposing the white features of the bird.

With environmental factors in mind the photographer should shoot and enjoy every photography moment out there - and remember there is (as I often remind my students / clients) no such thing as a perfect photograph, the only 'perfection' that exist is your acceptance on what an 'ideal exposure' should / could be - the rest we can control... in terms of camera settings / distance / backgrounds - it will depend on the photographer's willingness to learn, plan, prepare and enjoy every occasion that should matter - at your own pace.

Light is one of the most important factors in any photography genre, but equally important is to accept the challenges when you're not in a position to plan for subjects and / or weather conditions.

Thoughts on Atmospheric Conditions for Photographers >>

Olive Thrush Garden Bird at Kirstenbosch in Good Light
Olive Thrush Garden Bird at Kirstenbosch in Good Light

Good light at Kirstenbosch for small garden birds 
The above olive thrush garden bird was photographed at Kirstenbosch Garden in good morning light. Often, even in good morning the light the small birds are surrounded by dark backgrounds that makes it challenging for photographing even in the best morning light. I don't use Canon's Image Stabilization (IS) for flying birds, but for these birds I use a different camera and EF 100-400mm zoom lens with IS enabled in Manual Mode (f/5.6 - 6.3, Auto-ISO and the shutter speed increased a little more than  - to counter any movement and the probability that they may fly - which I don't mind as it is part of the challenge to get them in flight). The birds in the shadows also protected from direct sunlight exposure - something I started appreciated very quickly even in these small / still bird photography.   

Canon Camera / Lens Settings Intaka Island 

  • Canon EOS 7D Mark II
  • EF 400mm f/5.6L USM (non-IS) Lens
  • Manual Mode
  • Auto-ISO: 400 /Aperture: f/5.6
  • Shutter Speed: 1/3200
  • AI Servo Mode: Case 1: Wide Zone
  • 10 fps High Speed Continuous Mode
  • No Lens IS (Not required)
  • Handheld

Canon Camera / Lens Settings Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
  • Canon EOS 70D
  • Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM Lens (Mark I)
  • Manual Mode: 400mm / f/5.6 / Auto- ISO: 640 / 1/1000s  Shutter Speed
  • IA Servo Mode: 7 fps High Speed Continuous Mode (Zone AF)
  • Lens IS Switched on
  • Handheld

Lightroom Post-Processing
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic: Cropping. Colour correction / slight noise reduction / lens profile correction and a few spot removals.

Environmental Variables for Improved Birds in Flight Photography >>

Vernon Chalmers Birds / Birds in Flight Photography Training Intaka Island | Woodbridge Island



Commercial Reproduction of Vernon Chalmers Images

Commercial Reproduction of Vernon Chalmers Photography  Images
Commercial Reproduction of Vernon Chalmers Photography  Images

No Vernon Chalmers Photography (VCP) image may be used for business, corporate, industrial or individual commercial reproduction use on any medium (including any digital format).

This is applicable to any artistic, creative, educational, retail and other banner display(s) and / or commercial distribution on any format including any type of paper, plastics, textiles, metal, wood, glass and / or digital display.

Additional clarification is available from Vernon Chalmers / VCP Legal Representative.

Non-commercial users please refer to: Drawing, Painting, Sketching and Superimposing in the VCP Copyright / Intellectual Property Policy.

Copyright / Intellectual Property Policy Index:
  • Summary
  • Copyright Protection
  • Commercial Reproduction
  • Drawing, Painting, Sketching and Superimposing
  • Image Locations
  • Image Copyright and Media / Press Releases
  • Images for Canon South Africa
  • Crediting of VCP Images
  • Images not For Sale
  • Sharing images on Social Media
  • Using images without Permission
  • Contact Vernon Chalmers

Vernon Chalmers Photography Copyright | Intellectual Property Policy >>

© Symbol Image: Copyright Free from Pixabay

14 January 2023

Effect of Low Light in Birds in Flight Photography

Canon Birds in Flight Photography at Intaka Island 

Effect(s) of Photographing Birds in Flight in Low Light
African Sacred Ibis : Intaka Island, Cape Town

An in-flight image of an African sacred ibis during Wednesday's low-light client training session at Intaka Island.

I personally would have wanted less blurred wingtips, but it was a trade-off in the given conditions, dark background and distance to subject wrt selected exposure settings (compared to my usual Woodbridge Island sessions with selective sunny conditions, brighter backgrounds and general closer proximity to fast flying birds flying relative close to my own positioning).

Quality of light
While (good) light is one of the most important factors in photography it is not always possible to have the best light at your disposal. There will be many occasions where 'what you see is what you get' in terms of low / poor light conditions if there is no proper understanding of the impact of light and / or how to control the camera for still getting satisfactory image results. 

One of the biggest and challenging variables to manage to is to achieve the best possible exposure (under any given light / inclement weather conditions). Today, many high-end enthusiast and all professional Canon EOS / EOS R cameras / lens combinations are suitable to shoot in the rain, just make very sure about your own kit's weather-sealing in terms of both the body and the lens (and the weather-sealing as a pairing). Personally I don't risk any of my kit in the rain (even if it is certified as weather-sealed) - except when shooting from a hide / or other environmental protection. 

In good light (for in-flight photography) I normally use my default exposure settings: Manual Mode: Auto-ISO / 1/3200's / f/5.6 - with no problem. In low light I change the shutter speed to 1/2500's (or lower) to lower the ISO. The trade-off is that faster subject movement could cause wingtip-blur or if I have used an aperture of f/6.3 would have increased the Auto-ISO and in turn (could) cause additional pixel noise (also considering the dark background) - depending on the available light / random background in any given moment - i.e. darker trees, bush or other obstacles.

Environmental Variables for Improved Birds in Flight Photography >>

What f-stop to use?
Many photographers shoot birds in flight at a default f/stop of f/6.3 - which will ensure a slightly sharper image (with less potential for wing-blur as well) - especially (also) if there are two birds in the frame / or if the single bird is quite close to the lens (in filling a large part of the frame).

A question I'm often asked: why do you shoot birds in flight at f/5.6 and not f/6.3? There are 3 main considerations in terms of personal preference and specific body / lens pairing:
  • f/5.6 allows more light and therefor increase intentional background blur
  • More light improves the Autofocus (AF) operation of my camera / lens combination
  • At f/5.6 all 56 AF-points of my camera / lens pairing are utilised as cross-type AF points for bird tracking potential vs. only 75% cross-type AF-points at f/6.3 - therefore ensuring a higher precision / faster tracking probabilities

Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens Cross-Type AF-Points
Source: Canon EOS 7D Mark II User Manual - PDF Download 

Note: With the Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens the are many different combinations available AF-Point expansion or Zone-areas. In any selection at f/5.6 the AF points will be activated a cross-type points. At f/6.3 this is not possible in terms of covering all cross type AF points (across the AF grid). 

Auto-ISO for high-speed action photography is recommended by Canon for many of the enthusiast / professional EOS camera bodies (Full Frame or APS-C) since the EOS 5D Mark III / EOS 7D Mark II and higher-end bodies entered the market.

Auto-ISO application reference: "In Manual exposure mode, a pre-set shutter speed and lens aperture can be continually maintained, even if the light changes. This allows the photographer to have full control over stopping motion and depth-of-field, while still allow the camera to react to any changes in light". (Source: Taking Advantage of Auto-ISO)

Most new EOS R Full Frame / APS-C bodies will handle much higher Auto-ISO's due to the new DIGIG X image processing sensor (for even higher ISO data in-camera processing). Post-processing of Raw images should ito of selective cropping and noise management reduce luminance noise reduction even more (while preserving a natural look).

Good light is important for 'ideal exposures'. Any combination of exposure settings will have more of an impact in low / poor light conditions. I spend quite a substantial amount of time explaining 'ideal exposures' to my photography students / clients - this is in essence a personal objective and subjective acceptance choice for each individual photographer - without this the photographer may never find acceptance in how he / she should appreciate and / or present their own images.

Setup and Tips For Birds in Flight Photography >>

Modern EOS R bodies should assist the photographer more when the maximum lens aperture is f/5.6 - especially in low light conditions (and fast moving birds in an Auto-ISO selection option).

Canon Camera / Lens Settings Intaka Island Canon
  • EOS 7D Mark II Body
  • EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens
  • Manual Mode
  • Auto-ISO: 250 - 800
  • Aperture: f/5.6
  • Shutter Speed: 1/2500
  • AI Servo: Case 1: Large Zone
  • 10 fps High Speed Continuous Mode
  • Handheld

Lightroom Post-Processing
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic CC 11.4: Cropping. Colour correction / noise reduction / lens profile correction and a few spot removals.

Image Copyright
All Images Copyright Vernon Chalmers Photography

Birdwatching at Intaka Island, Cape Town

Vernon Chalmers Birds / Birds in Flight Photography Training Intaka Island



13 January 2023

Birds in Flight Photography Training Intaka Island

Birds in Flight Photography Intaka Island, Cape Town

Red-Billed Teal Ducks in Flight Intaka Island Photography Training, Cape Town
Red-Billed Teal Ducks in Flight Intaka Island Photography Training, Cape Town

Bird Photography at Century City, Cape Town
After quite a few years I have recently returned to Intaka Island for my own photography / and client birds and birds in flight photography training.

The sewage / pollution problems we are lately experiencing across the Diep River, Milnerton Lagoon and the Table Bay Nature Reserve adjacent to Woodbridge Island is causing, among other ecological problems, a serious lack of  daily bird species. I have subsequently decided to go to Intaka Island, Century City during December 2022 for Canon birds in flight photography training with some of my clients. 

I enjoyed the Intaka Island for the birds in flight late afternoon photography training we did during early December 2022 to such an extend that I have already returned this year for similar birds and birds in flight photography training. Unfortunately the light / weather was not as good as the previous session, but the low-light photography learning experience was nevertheless appreciated. January 2023.

Intaka Island Map and Directions View >>

Vernon Chalmers Birds in Flight Photography Training Intaka Island
I have presented quite a few Birds in Flight Photography Workshops at Intaka Island in the past, but these were only die the theory and camera settings modules. The practical application was always done the following morning / or weekend at Woodbridge Island. One of the main reasons for this is the fact that at Intaka Island the birds in flight are very active in the morning, but unfortunately there it means photographing the birds directly with the sun in front of the photographer and there is a limited view of real in-flight opportunity compared to Woodbridge Island. At Woodbridge Island the sun is behind the photographer in the morning and  there is no limited movement for facilitating practical training for larger group of photographers.    

 At Intaka Island I have found, the best time to photograph birds in flight (as an alternative for my client training needs at Woodbridge Island) to be late afternoons (+- 16:30 - 19:00 in summer) with the sun from behind the hide we occupy. In cloudy conditions and / or winter days the times could be much earlier in the afternoons. There are also less people photographing in that particular 'afternoon' hide for moving around in the afternoon (at least from my own and personal client experiences).

Effect of Low Light in Birds in Flight Photography >>

Recommended focal length / telephoto lenses for birds in flight at Intaka Island 
The birds in flight at Intaka Island are generally a little further away than some of the Woodbridge Island bird in flight opportunities, but lenses from 300mm should be the minimum focal length (a large aperture 300mm lens extended with a 1.4x or 2x tele-converter should be ideal at this focal length). 

Recommended prime / zoom lenses paired with  APS-C (crop) or Full Frame bodies: 100 - 400mm / 400mm / 100-500mm / 500mm / 150-600mm / 600mm and / or 800mm lenses. The new cost-effective Canon RF 600mm f/11 IS STM or RF 800mm f/11 STM lenses for Canon R bodies should do a good (handheld) job as well (even at f/11). A few birds / birds in flight examples with the Canon R6 (Full Frame body) and mentioned Canon RF f/11 lenses. View >>

My first choice for my own / or client birds in flight photography training will always be Woodbridge Island (in crisp early morning summer light) as it is walking distance from my photography studio. The natural environment here is very conducive for new photographer birds in flight learning. With the large open spaces along the Diep River / Table Bay Nature Reserve it is a safe place with few real obstacles for capturing perched birds / birds in flight. There is also less people and its more a hike than sitting in a hide. 

Intaka Island recommended for perched birds (compared to Woodbridge Island)
For early morning close-up perched bird photography I will recommend Intaka Island. Just be sure to arrive early in the morning for the most bird activity (and to get a good space in the hide(s) should you prefer not to walk around). I have found my Canon 400mm prime lens too 'long' for the closer perched birds via the morning hide - a more appropriate lens focal length would be 70-300mm / 100-400mm / 150-600mm zoom lenses.

For now I will schedule my one-on-one / private birds and birds in flight photography practical training sessions at Intaka Island. The staff members at the Intaka Island reception are friendly and very helpful. It is a safe natural birding environment (about a 10 minute drive from Cape Town) with quite a few bird species (in-flight and / or perched) on any given day. 

Bird species at Intaka Island +- 120 species (Source: Intaka Island)

Canon camera / lens I personally used during the birds / birds in flight photography training sessions at Intaka Island: Canon 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens

Juvenile Black-Crowned Night Heron Intaka Island Photography Training, Cape Town
Juvenile Black-Crowned Night Heron Intaka Island Photography Training, Cape Town

Bird & Flower Photography Training Practical Kirstenbosch View

11 January 2023

Photography Training in Poor Light Conditions Intaka Island

Birds in Flight Photography Training Intaka Island, Cape Town

A 'Birds in Flight' practical client session at Intaka Island, Cape Town  turned into a few high-ISO snapshots - with 'Birds in Flight' settings.

African Sacred Ibis against the Palm trees at Intaka Island
African Sacred Ibis against the Palm trees at Intaka Island

Bird Photography Training on a Wednesday Afternoon at Intaka Island
We scheduled today's session on Monday. Nature 'made it's own plans' for this afternoon. Arriving on location we were welcomed by poor light and the occasional drizzle. So what to do? We practiced high shutter speeds in these challenging conditions on a few flying birds, discussed exposure settings (for better light conditions) and had some fun chatting in the hide.

During this practical I met one of the most interesting photographers I have ever came across there or anywhere (for that matter) - a Nikon shooter who arrived after work to get an hour or so's shooting in, but such a laid back chap with photography oozing from the heart and not the head. Not a care in the world, just happy to share his hobby with us.

What a privilege to be surrounded by people sharing their photography stories and journeys. Not for taking the absolute best shots, but just being there (even in the drizzle) to enjoy nature and to go home with a few images.

African Sacred Ibis in Flight, Intaka Island, Cape Town
African Sacred Ibis in Flight, Intaka Island, Cape Town

Towards the end of the session I took most of these images 'as is' with the Nikon chap's philosophy of just being 'in the moment' in my mind...

Birds / Birds in Flight Intaka Island
  • African sacred ibis in flight @ ISO 2000
  • African sacred ibis in flight @ ISO 1250
  • Juvenile black-crowned night heron @ ISO 3200
  • White-breasted cormorant @ ISO 800
  • African darter @ ISO 3200

Canon Camera / Lens Settings Intaka Island Canon EOS 7D Mark II Body
  • EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens
  • Manual Mode
  • Auto-ISO: 800 - 3200
  • Aperture: f/5.6
  • Shutter Speed: 1/2500
  • AI Servo: Case 1: Wide Zone
  • 10 fps High Speed Continuous Mode
  • Handheld

Lightroom Post-Processing
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic CC 11.4: Cropping. Colour correction / noise reduction / lens profile correction and a few spot removals.

Image Copyright
All Images Copyright Vernon Chalmers Photography

Afternoon Birds / Birds in Flight Images (After 17:00) At Intaka Island, Cape Town 

Juvenile Black-Crowned Night Heron at Intaka Island
Juvenile Black-Crowned Night Heron at Intaka Island, Cape Town

White-Breasted Cormorant Intaka Island, Cape Town
White-Breasted Cormorant Intaka Island, Cape Town

African Darter at Intaka Island
African Darter at Intaka Island, Cape Town

Birdwatching at Intaka Island, Cape Town

Vernon Chalmers Birds / Birds in Flight Photography Training Intaka Island



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