Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography

Vernon Chalmers, Tourist Photography Philadelphia, Cape Town

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM Lens

Philadelphia, Cape Town, Philadelphia Town Entrance

Visiting Philadelphia

An impromptu drive on a crisp December Monday morning took us to the small, rustic and tourist-friendly town of Philadelphia, (approximately 37 km's via the N7 towards Malmesbury), from Cape Town, for some tourist / street photography.

The Philadelphia village was established in 1836 from a parish of the Dutch Reformed Church. Various signages on notice boards and old buildings are daily reminders of the proud heritage of this quaint original settlement. Today the town is still relatively small with impeccably tidiness across the residential and trading areas.

Philadelphia provided us with another opportunity to use the nimble Canon EOS 6D Mark II paired with the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4 IS USM lens and the ever-green Canon EOS 6D paired with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens. Both bodies / lens pairings performed exceptionally well, So much optical creativity and Canon technology embedded inside...

The majority of shops in Philadelphia are closed on a Monday and the town was therefore mostly deserted of locals and / or tourists. Only a few shops here and there were open for browsing. The Pepper Tree Art Stable and Coffee shop served us fresh roasted coffee and a few slices of a decadent lemon meringue pie. Compliments to the baker...!

Philadelphia is definitely worth another visit. It is also possible from here, through the countryside to drive to Wellington, Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. (see Philadelphia Map below)

All Images Copyright Vernon Chalmers Photography : Vernon Chalmers Copyright Policy

'Tour our Town' Philadelphia, Cape Town : Town Map

NG Kerk / Dutch Reformed Church Philadelphia, Cape Town

NG Kerk / Dutch Reformed Church Philadelphia, Cape Town

Philadelphia, Cape Town NG Kerk / Dutch Reformed Church Signage (Since 1863)

Philadelphia, Cape Town Vintage Farmer Tractor

Philadelphia, Cape Town Garden Goblins

Philadelphia, Cape Town Magic Minerals Shop Signage

Inside Magic Minerals Shop, Philadelphia, Cape Town

Magic Minerals Dragon Head, Philadelphia, Cape Town

Pink Daisy Flowers, Philadelphia, Cape Town (Auto-ISO 5000)

Pepper Tree Art Stable and Coffee Shop, Philadelphia, Cape Town

Photo of Painting Philadelphia Cape Town, Pepper Tree Art Stable and Coffee Shop

Pepper Tree Art Stable and Coffee Shop Books, Philadelphia, Cape Town

More About Philadelphia, Cape Town

"Philadelphia is a charming rural village located about 38 km north of Cape Town in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It's known for its historic buildings, scenic countryside, and friendly community.

It's wonderful how such a quaint village can offer so many activities and attractions. From savouring delicious home-cooked meals at Peppertree Art Stable & Coffee Shop to experiencing the thrill of microlight flights, there's something for everyone.

Here are some highlights of what you can do and see in Philadelphia:

• Peppertree Art Stable & Coffee Shop: Enjoy fine home-cooked cuisine under a large pepper tree in a country-style setting.
• Capaia Wines: Visit for wine tasting and enjoy the scenic vineyards.
• Mountain View Horse Trails: Go on horseback rides through the Cape Town farmlands.
• De Malle Meul: A great spot for Sunday lunch with a large buffet spread.
• Self-Drive Cape Town to Wellington: Take a scenic drive through beautiful countryside.
• Microlight Introduction Flights: Experience the thrill of soaring over land and sea in a microlight.

Philadelphia is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the tranquility of rural life while still being close to the amenities of Cape Town." (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

Philadelphia, Cape Town, Google Map / Directions

N7 Towards Malmesbury From Cape Town (+- 38 Km's from Cape Town)

Camera / Lens for Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography (Vernon Chalmers Images)

• Canon EOS 6D Mark II (Full-Frame)
• Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens
• Lexar Professional 64GB UHS-I 160MB/S /1066x Speed

Exposure / Focus Settings for Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography

• Autofocus On
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Apertures (f/4 - f/11)
• Auto ISO (100 - 5000)
• Shutter Speeds (Various)
• Image Stabilisation On
• Handheld
• Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography, Image Post-Processing
• Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - Minor Adjustments / RAW to JPEG Conversion

African Art & Craft Market - Boulders Beach, Simon's Town

Bird Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Canon Photography Quick Walkabout Hout Bay Harbour, Cape Town

Kirstenbosch Garden Sculpture Photography Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Landscape Photography Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch, Cape Town

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch

Kirstenbosch Garden Sculpture Photography

Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden Sculpture Photography, Cape Town

With Canon EOS 6D Mark II / Canon EF Lenses

Sculpture Photography : Anton Smit Sculptures Kirstenbosch Garden

Earlier today I facilitated an extensive one-on-one photography training session at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden.

We were greeted early-morning with slight rainy conditions during the undercover exposure theory session. The morning light improved as we ventured outside into the the garden under slight diffused light, but perfectly dry conditions for the practical application session.

During the practical session I only managed to capture a few images as my attention was firmly on the new photographer's application of exposure in different modes, exposure settings and focal lengths while capturing small flowers and quite a few Anton Smit sculptures (of various shapes and sizes).

I managed to 'click and go' these very bold and impressive sculptures. Ultimately compromised by the availability of time for more effective background angles I decided to adjust both image backgrounds for eliminating people, plants and other unwanted natural obstacles.

For projecting the prominence and quality of the sculptures I digitally enhanced the backgrounds with 'superimposing' image backgrounds in applying Windows 11 Photo App functionality and some non-AI corrections in Adobe Lightroom.

According to my own (Vernon Chalmers Photography) AI disclaimer I am aware that due to the applied background changes I am obliged to communicate these image property changes.

My objective was to stay as authentic as possible in creating an average generative natural background colour scheme (in terms of a generative depth of field application - based on the original tones). All sculpture images are the natural exposure depiction as captured with my Canon EOS 6D Mark II.

Kirstenbosch Sculpture Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Anton Smit, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden Sculpture : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Anton Smit, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden Sculpture : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Anton Smit, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden Sculpture : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Anton Smit, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden : Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Vernon Chalmers Canon EOS 6D Mark II for Bird Photography

Vernon Chalmers Photography AI Disclaimer

Vernon Chalmers Photography Copyright | Intellectual Property Policy

Anton Smit South African Sculptor

Anton Smit is a renowned South African sculptor known for his powerful and evocative works. His sculptures often feature towering human figures, impressive heads, masks, and abstract pieces 1. He works with a variety of materials, including steel, metal, stones, and bronze, and is known for imbuing his sculptures with an illusion of movement.

Smit's art explores themes of suffering, reconciliation, glory, and sublimation1, and his works can be found in both public and private collections around the world. He has exhibited his sculptures in various locations, including the Pretoria Art Museum and the Century City Art Foundation 1. (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

Anton Smit South African Sculptor Kirstenbosch Garden

Anton Smit has recently collaborated with the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) to showcase his sculptures in several National Botanical Gardens. As of November 5, 2024, his artworks have been on display at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. This partnership will extend to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town, with installations planned for 2025.sanbi.org

Smit's sculptures are known for their expressive themes, often delving into human emotion and spirituality. His works have been exhibited both nationally and internationally, gracing public spaces and private collections. en.wikipedia.org

For those interested in viewing his art in Cape Town, current exhibitions include displays at the Century City Arts Trail and the Delaire Graff Estate in Stellenbosch. antonsmit.co.za


To stay updated on the latest installations and exhibitions, it's advisable to check the official websites of SANBI and Anton Smit. (Source: ChatGPT 2025)

More about Vernon Chalmers Photography at Kirstenbosch Garden

“Vernon Chalmers has a strong connection with Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden 1. He frequently conducts photography training sessions there, focusing on various aspects such as bird and flower photography, macro and close-up photography, and landscape and long exposure photography 2.

Recently, on December 11, 2024, Vernon facilitated an extensive one-on-one training session at Kirstenbosch 1. Despite slight rainy conditions in the morning, the session continued with practical applications in the garden under diffused but dry conditions 1. Vernon used a Canon EOS 6D Mark II to capture images of sculptures and small flowers, providing hands-on guidance to new photographers 1.” (Source: Microsoft)

Camera / Lens for Sculpture Images

• Canon EOS 6D Mark II (Full-Frame)
• Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens
• Canon EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM lens

Exposure / Focus / Focal Length Settings

• Autofocus On
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Aperture: f/4
• Auto-ISO: 100
• Focal Length: 105mm / 400nn
• Zone Autofocus
• Handheld

Image Post-Processing

• Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - minor adjustments / RAW to JPEG conversion
• Windows 11 Photo App

Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Cape Town | Intaka Island
Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island Photograph, Cape Town

Glorious Bird Photography Morning Woodbridge Island

Glorious Bird Photography Morning Woodbridge Island and Table Bay Nature Reserve

African Spoonbill Table Bay Nature Reserve, Woodbridge Island

Vernon Chalmers Bird Photography - Table Bay Nature Reserve / Woodridge Island

Another glorious morning along the Diep River, Table Bay Nature Reserve, Woodbridge Island. This morning I was greeted by the black-headed heron, the Cape spurfowls, quite a few grey herons, yellow-billed ducks, Egyptian geese and an African spoonbill or two.

A Cape bulbul poked his head out from the reeds and I had an opportunity to see the Cape teal ducks and a few yellow-billed ducks frolicking in the early morning sun.

Bird images of the morning:

• African spoonbill
• Little egret in flight
• Cape teal duck in flight
• African sacred ibis
• Pied crow
• Perched Cape bulbul

Cape Town Location
Table Bay Nature Reserve, Woodbridge Island, Milnerton

Canon Camera / Lens Settings

• Canon EOS 7D Mark II Body
• EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens
• Manual Mode: Auto-ISO: 160 - 1000
• Aperture: f/5.6
• Shutter Speed: 1/1000 - 1/3200
• AI Servo: Case 1: Wide Zone
• 10 fps High Speed Continuous Mode
• Handheld

Post-Processing
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic 9.4: Cropping. Colour correction / noise reduction / lens profile correction.

Little Egret in Flight Table Bay Nature Reserve, Woodbridge Island

Cape Teal Duck in Flight Table Bay Nature Reserve, Woodbridge Island

African Sacred Ibis in Flight Table Bay Nature Reserve, Woodbridge Island

Egyptian Goose in Flight Table Bay Nature Reserve, Woodbridge Island

Pied Crow in Flight Table Bay Nature Reserve, Woodbridge Island

Perched Cape Bulbul Table Bay Nature Reserve, Woodbridge Island

Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town View

Bird Species Woodbridge Island, Cape Town View

Photography Training Session at Spier Wine Farm

Private Canon Photography - Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch, Cape Town

Landscape Photography : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

While everyone was frantically driving opposite me on the N2 to get to work on Monday morning I had the opportunity to facilitate an one-on-one private photography training session at Spier Wine Estate, Stellenbosch. I've been there on a few occasions over the years as a student and with friends, but never from an exclusive photographic perspective. View Spier Wine Farm Google Map / Directions below.

The objective of the individual private photography session was not landscape photography, but general (Canon EOS R mirrorless theory) and wildlife photography exposure and autofocus skills development with the Canon EOS R6 paired with a variety of Canon EF lenses (And the EF to RF Adapter).

It was a beautiful blue and crisp morning at Spier Wine Farm within it's tranquil and laid-back 'out-of season' environment - perfect for someone to get to grips with the modern and high-tech Canon EOS R6 camera. We were seated on our own under the water-side veranda, away from a few early-morning (American) wine-tasters. Nothing was rushed and for me it was one of the most perfect locations for impromptu outdoor photography and / or photography training.

The day did not belong to me and I had to deliberately, at first, seat myself away from the beautiful scenery to focus exclusively on my client's training objectives and personal photography needs.

Not to impede on my new client's time I took a few landscape snapshots during our break. A bit rushed, but I think those of you that's been to Spier (close to Stellenbosch) will agree with my description of the relaxed Spier Wine Farm location. It is indeed possible to walk around the dam. To the right of the dam (out of sight on all images here) is a protea flower garden.

African Fish Eagle and African Harrier Hawk at Spier
My client informed me that she has photographed an African fish eagle and African harrier hawk at Spier in the past. I'm planning a private trip within the next two weeks to spend a morning with the birds and the protea garden - and perhaps just taste some of Spier's exquisite wines.

To my surprise there were quite a few Birds in Flight and I was itching to grab my Canon EOS 7D Mark II / 400mm lens from my vehicle +- 300 meters away. I've spotted quite a few bird species who will make it worth the trip to go there just for them.

Some of the birds flying over the water / or perched during our private photography training session at Spier Wine Farm:

• African ibis in flight
• African spoonbill in flight
• Pied kingfisher in flight
• Purple heron in flight
• Raptor in flight (too high to ID)
• Southern masked weaver perched
• White-breasted cormorant perched
• White-throated swallows perched and in flight
• Many small birds perched and in flight
• Yellow-billed duck / and others in the water

Camera / Lens for Spier Wine Farm Landscape Photography

• Canon EOS 6D (Full-Frame)
• Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens

Exposure / Focus Settings

• Autofocus On
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Apertures (f/11)
• Auto-ISO (100)
• Shutter Speeds (various)
• Image Stabilisation On
• Handheld
• Image Post-Processing

Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - minor adjustments / RAW to JPEG conversion

Vernon Chalmers Photography Copyright | IP Policy

Vernon Chalmers Landscape Photography at Spier, Stellenbosch

Landscape Photography : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Landscape Phototherapy : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

The Adventures and Life of Just Nuisance

Able Seaman (RN) Just Nuisance Statue : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Able Seaman Just Nuisance : Only Dog Officially Enlisted in the Royal Navy

"He was a very remarkable dog, his tactics in any pub were those of a born scrounger, he would lie peacefully on his side under a table until customers arrived. I saw him on several occasions when some matelots walked in. He would casually role onto his front, nonchalantly wriggle from under the table, straighten his front legs, then his hind ones, stretch all of them before padding slowly up to the bar. There he would insinuate himself between the two lads and look expectantly at first one and then the other, finally concentrating on whichever one put his hand in his pocket! If the men were regulars an extra pint would be forthcoming and placed on the edge of the bar, Nuisance would put his forepaws on the bar counter and, usually down the pint without stopping for breath. After a polite thank you lick at the hand of the donor, he would either resume his recumbent position and wait for another likely opportunity or go to the door, open it, and make his way to the railway station." - Ted Coleman

The story of Just Nuisance is a heart-warming and unique tale from World War II. Just Nuisance was a Great Dane who became the only dog officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. Here's how it happened:

Early Life

Just Nuisance was born on April 1, 1937, in Rondebosch, a suburb of Cape Town, South Africa. His owner, Benjamin Chaney, moved to Simon's Town where the British Royal Navy had a naval base. Nuisance soon became a regular visitor at the naval base, mingling with sailors and following them around. He quickly became a favorite among the servicemen.

Mischief and Trouble

As a large Great Dane, Nuisance caused some trouble, especially when he would lie down in inconvenient places, like on the gangways of ships, blocking passage. But sailors loved him because he would also hop on the trains to travel with them between Simon's Town and Cape Town, often without a ticket.

Official Enlistment

His habit of riding trains without a ticket created problems for the sailors, who were reprimanded for having him as an unauthorized passenger. The railway authorities were threatening to have him put down, so the Navy took an extraordinary step — they enlisted him as an official member of the Royal Navy on August 25, 1939.

As an enlisted "Able Seaman," Just Nuisance was entitled to free travel on trains and received rations just like the other sailors. His rank gave him special privileges, and he even had a service record, which included offenses like "absent without leave" and "sleeping on a bed that was not his own."

Service and Legacy

During his time in the Navy, Just Nuisance became a mascot and morale booster for the sailors. Though he never went to sea on a ship, he attended parades and recruitment drives. He became such a popular figure that he was even married to a Great Dane, producing a litter of puppies.

In 1944, Just Nuisance was retired due to health issues, and sadly, he had to be euthanized later that year after an injury.

Memorial

After his death, Just Nuisance was buried with full naval honors on top of Klawer Mountain at Simon's Town. His story lives on, and there is a statue of him in Simon's Town, serving as a reminder of the extraordinary canine who became a sailor.

Just Nuisance remains a beloved figure, symbolizing loyalty, camaraderie, and a bit of good-natured mischief during difficult times." (Source: ChatGPT 2024)

Image Copyright: Vernon Chalmers Photography (Jubilee Square, Simon's Town)

Kalk Bay and Simon's Town, Cape Town Photography

Just Nuance : The Saunter

False Bay Tourist and Street Photography

Tourist and Street Photography at Kalk Bay and Simon's Town, Cape Town

Kalk Bay Harbour with Fishing Boats (in False Bay)

Family Celebration around False Bay 

An eventful family celebration took us through the picturesque Kalk Bay and Simon’s Town along the False Bay coastline. The crisp morning light and blue sky presented a few vivid opportunities for remembering a special day in splendour and grace.

Photographed by tourists at large, we (many of us as locals), have these vibrant towns with its rich local and international histories quite close to our doorstep.

Street Art and Craft Images at Kalk Bay and Simon's Town with Personal Permission from Each.

Vernon Chalmers Kalk Bay and Simon's Town, Cape Town Photography

"Vernon Chalmers has captured some stunning photographs in both Kalk Bay and Simon’s Town, showcasing the unique charm and beauty of these coastal areas. His work often includes street photography, landscapes, and local wildlife, highlighting the vibrant culture and scenic views.

• In Kalk Bay, Chalmers has photographed the bustling harbour, colourful fishing boats, and the lively street scenes filled with local crafts and art. The picturesque town and mountain landmarks provide a beautiful backdrop for his images.

• In Simon’s Town, his photography features notable landmarks such as Jubilee Square, with its views of False Bay, and the famous statue of “Just Nuisance,” the only dog to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. His images often capture the essence of the town’s rich history and natural beauty.

• Chalmers uses a variety of Canon cameras and lenses to achieve his stunning shots, often employing techniques like aperture priority mode and post-processing with Adobe Lightroom." (Source: Microsoft)

More About Kalk Bay and Simon's Town, Cape Town

"Kalk Bay and Simon’s Town are two charming coastal towns located on the False Bay side of the Cape Peninsula in Cape Town. Here’s a bit about each:

Kalk Bay

• History & Culture: Kalk Bay is known for its rich history and bohemian vibe. Originally a lime-producing area (hence the name “Kalk,” which means lime in Dutch), it later became a whaling station and fishing village 1. Today, it’s a trendy spot filled with artists, musicians, and great restaurants 1.

• Activities: You can enjoy fresh seafood at the harbour, explore quirky shops, and visit the Kalk Bay Theatre. The area is also great for whale watching during the season 1.

• Scenery: The village offers stunning views of False Bay and has a picturesque harbour where you can watch the local fishermen at work 1.

Simon’s Town

• Naval Heritage: Simon’s Town is home to South Africa’s primary naval base and has a rich maritime history 2. The town is named after Simon van der Stel, an early governor of the Cape Colony.

• Boulders Beach: One of the main attractions here is Boulders Beach, famous for its colony of African penguins 2. It’s a great spot for swimming and getting up close with these charming birds.

• Historic Sites: The town is filled with historic buildings and museums, including the Simon’s Town Museum and the Warrior Toy Museum 2.

Both towns are connected by a scenic train route that runs along the coastline, offering breath taking views of the ocean 2." (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

All Images Copyright Vernon Chalmers

Vernon Chalmers Kalk Bay, Cape Town Photography

Kalk Bay Harbour with Simon's Town in the False Bay Background

Kalk Bay Town and Mountain Landmark

Very Inviting Pavement Street Market Photography : Kalk Bay

Hats For Sale : Street Market Photography, Kalk Bay

Creative South African Flags and other Craft : Kalk Bay

Hotchpotch Street Market Photography : Kalk Bay

Creative Proteas and Arum Lily Flower Craft : Kalk Bay

Creative and Vivid Authentic African Art : Kalk Bay

Kalk Bay and Simon's Town African Art art and Craft Traders

"Kalk Bay

• Kalk Bay is known for its bohemian atmosphere and artistic community. The area is filled with informal skilled crafters, textiles galleries and shops where you can find a variety of contemporary South African art, handcrafted jewelry, and unique décor items. The Kalk Bay Modern gallery is particularly notable for its extensive collection of contemporary art 1 2.

Simon’s Town

• Simon’s Town, especially around Boulders Beach, hosts an African Art & Craft Market. This market features a wide range of African textiles, crafts, and artworks. It’s a great place to find colorful and creative pieces, often sold directly by the artists themselves 3 4.

Both locations offer a rich cultural experience and are perfect for anyone interested in exploring local art and supporting African artisans." (Microsoft Copilot)

Vernon Chalmers Simon’s Town, Cape Town Photography

Simon's Town St. George's Street : Street Photography

False Bay View : From Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Able Seaman Just Nuisance Royal Navy Dog : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Creative Ostrich Egg Art and Craft : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Hoopoe Bird Creative Craft : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Various Creative Crafts : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Colourful St. George's Street Photography : Off Main Road, Simon's Town

Creative Craft Statues : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

The Story of Able Seaman Just Nuisance (Only Enlisted Royal Navy Dog)

Just Nuisance was a remarkable Great Dane and the only dog ever to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. Born on April 1, 1937, in Rondebosch, Cape Town, he became a beloved figure among sailors in Simon’s Town, South Africa1 2.

• Just Nuisance’s story began when he followed sailors around the naval base and even onto trains, often causing a bit of a “nuisance” by blocking gangplanks and train aisles. His frequent train travels without a ticket led to complaints from railway officials 1 2.

• To solve this, the Royal Navy enlisted him on August 25, 1939, giving him the rank of Able Seaman, which entitled him to free rail travel. He was known for his friendly nature, often escorting sailors back to their ships and participating in various morale-boosting activities 1 2.

Just Nuisance served until 1944, when he was discharged due to health issues. He passed away on April 1, 1944, and was buried with full military honours in Simon’s Town 1 2. (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

Camera / Lens for Kalk Bay and Simon's Town Photography

• Canon EOS 6D (Full-Frame)
• Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens

Exposure / Focus Settings

• Autofocus On
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Apertures (f/4 - f/11)
• Auto-ISO (100 - 400)
• Shutter Speeds (various)
• Image Stabilisation On
• Handheld

Image Post-Processing
Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - minor adjustments / RAW to JPEG conversion

African Art & Craft Market - Boulders Beach, Simon's Town

Canon Photography Quick Walkabout Hout Bay Harbour, Cape Town

Landscape Photography Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch, Cape Town

Philadelphia, Cape Town Photography

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Garden

Using Auto ISO on Canon EOS R Cameras

Canon EOS R Camera Auto ISO Options

Canon EOS R 6 Camera : Image Canon USA

Using Auto ISO on Modern EOS R Cameras

"Using Auto ISO on modern Canon EOS R cameras can significantly enhance your shooting experience, especially in dynamic lighting conditions.

Here are some tips and features to help you make the most of Auto ISO on these cameras:

Setting Up Auto ISO

1. Accessing Auto ISO:

• On most EOS R cameras, you can set Auto ISO by pressing the ISO button and rotating the main dial until you see “Auto” displayed 1.

• Alternatively, you can use the Quick Control screen or the M.Fn button to access ISO settings 1.

2. Customizing ISO Range:

• You can set the minimum and maximum ISO values to control the range within which the camera can adjust the ISO. This helps manage noise levels in your images 2.

• For example, on the EOS R5, the default range is ISO 100 to ISO 12,800, but you can adjust this based on your preferences 2.

3. Minimum Shutter Speed:

• In Aperture Priority (Av) or Program (P) modes, you can set a minimum shutter speed to ensure that the camera doesn’t select a shutter speed too slow for handheld shooting 2.

• This is particularly useful for preventing camera shake and ensuring sharp images.

4. Using Auto ISO in Manual Mode:

• Manual Mode Flexibility: In Manual mode, you can set your desired aperture and shutter speed, and let the camera automatically adjust the ISO to achieve the correct exposure 1.

• This is ideal for situations where you want to control depth of field and motion blur while allowing the camera to handle exposure.

5. Exposure Compensation:

• Even in Manual mode with Auto ISO, you can use exposure compensation to adjust the exposure to your liking. This is useful in high-contrast scenes or when you want to slightly overexpose or underexpose your shots 1.

6. Practical Tips Monitor ISO Values:

• Keep an eye on the ISO values your camera selects. If you notice the ISO frequently hitting the maximum limit, consider adjusting your aperture or shutter speed to compensate 2.

7. Use Exposure Compensation:

• When shooting in challenging lighting conditions, use exposure compensation to fine-tune the exposure 1.

8. Combine with Priority Modes:

• Auto ISO works well with both Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority modes. Choose the mode based on what aspect of the exposure triangle you want to control manually 2.

• Auto ISO can greatly simplify your workflow and help you capture well-exposed images in a variety of conditions." (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

Affordable Canon EF 400mm Lens for Birds in Flight

Affordable Canon EF 400mm Lens for Birds in Flight Photography

Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Prime Lens (No Zoom and No IS)

Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Prime Lens

'Super Fast Autofocus on Canon EOS 7D Mark II'
I was recently asked for my opinion on an affordable, light and reasonably sharp 300mm or 400mm prime lens (for Birds in Flight and some wildlife photography) by one of my Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town workshop delegates.

The workshop delegate is a Nikon D500 user / photographer and although I could not comment directly towards her requirement for a Nikon 300mm or 400mm prime lens I shared with her my own Canon EF 300mm / EF 400mm prime lens decision-making process (from a few years ago).

My response (edited for the website with more content and context for assisting other / new Canon Birds in Flight photographers as well).

I use the Canon EF 400mm f./5.6L USM lens for my Birds in Flight photography at Woodbridge Island Cape Town. A cost-effective Canon EF 400mm prime lens with no Image Stabilization (IS), with very fast Autofocus (AF) and surprisingly light for carrying around for long shooting sessions (up to three to four hours at times). A simple and effective design with many good reviews over the years.

Bird Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens

Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Prime Lens Key Features / Specifications

"The Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM is a highly regarded telephoto prime lens, especially popular among wildlife and sports photographers.

Here are some of its key features:

• Optical Quality: It includes one Super UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) element and one UD element, which help to reduce chromatic aberrations and produce sharp, high-contrast images 1 2.

• Build and Design: The lens is part of Canon’s L-series, known for its robust build quality. It features a built-in lens hood and a detachable tripod mount 2 3.

• Autofocus: Equipped with a Ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM), it offers fast and quiet autofocus. It also supports full-time manual focusing 1 3.

• Aperture: The lens has an 8-blade aperture, which contributes to a pleasing bokeh (background blur)1.

• Weight and Size: Despite its solid build, it is relatively lightweight at 1,250 grams (2.76 lbs) and measures 257 mm (10.1 inches) in length 2.

• Minimum Focusing Distance: The lens can focus as close as 3.5 meters (11.5 feet), which is quite good for a lens of this focal length 2.

• Lack of Image Stabilization: One notable absence is image stabilization, which means it requires good lighting conditions or a steady hand/tripod for sharp images 1.

This lens is particularly favored for bird photography due to its reach and image quality." (Microsoft Copilot)

Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens: Professional / Consumer Reviews

This lens is exclusively paired with my Canon EOS 7D Mark II and I'm satisfied with the all-round AF performance, sharpness and mobility (paired with the APS-C / Crop Canon body).

Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Prime Lens

The Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens performs very well with the Canon EOS 700D, Canon EOS 70D, Canon 7D Mark II and the Canon EOS 6D (ito my own long term evaluation).

I'm of opinion that the AF performance is slightly faster when compared to the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM zoom lens of which I have tested extensively on both the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and Canon EOS 80D in exactly the same shooting environment.

Not bad for a Canon Super Telephoto lens that was designed / released in 1993.

I did not consider the Canon EF 100-400mm lens options as I already have the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens - a lens that in itself is very fast and sharp and offers a great zoom range when required.

My original Canon prime lens decision-making lens selection

When I originally decided on a birds in flight lens I looked at three prime options:

• Canon EF 300mm f/4L IS USM lens
• Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens
• Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens

Canon EF 300mm f/4L IS USM prime lens
I decided the 300mm f/4 (with image stabilization) was a tad short and not really optimized with a tele-converter on the Canon bodies at the time. With a tele-converer the reach is good - 300 x 1.4 - 420mm, but the AF would be a tad slower at f/5.6 for birds in flight (and I was concerned about the image quality when paired with the converter). And I already have a reasonably fast and sharp 70-300mm zoom. I have seen some great images from this lens and it was a serious consideration for me, but personally don’t really like shooting with a converter on a crop body i.e 7D Mark II.

Canon EOS 6D / EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Prime Lens

Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM prime lens
The EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens (with image stabilization) at 3x the price was not something I could justify from a cost / benefit perspective, I tested it, very good and at f/4 (without converter). With the 1.4 converter the lens would probably be just as 'fast' at f/5.6 (on the EOS 7D Mark II), but an expensive option for birds in flight. Very sharp and not that heavy. 

I've deliberately tested it on my Canon EOS 6D (Full Frame) at f/4 in the same shooting environment I use the Canon EF 400mm f/4 USM lens. A high-end professional Canon super telephoto lens that is comfortable on both APS-C and Full Frame bodies (with / without the 1.4x / 2x tele-converters), just a tad expensive and not convinced it will justify the price / value / performance ratio in my Birds in Flight photography workflow and shooting at my Woodbridge Island, Cape Town shooting environment. Birds in Flight images with the EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens

         

Canon EOS 6D / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Prime Lens

Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens
I researched this lens for three months in terms of the following criteria:

• Exclusively for Birds in Flight photography
• 400mm focal length for pairing with APS-C body
• Autofocus speed and image quality
• Weight (mobility for carrying long periods)
• Cost of ownership (Budget / ROI)

From the first morning I've added this lens still on my Canon EOS 700D I knew it was the correct decision. With good to excellent light here at Woodbridge Island the Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens still made the most economic and value sense. 

 

Canon EOS 70D / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Prime Lens

It ticked all the researched criteria boxes and although I've added a few newer Canon EOS bodies to my bag this is still my lens of choice for Birds in Flight photography. Its not a f/2.8 300mm or 400mm lens, but with enough good Cape Town light I am still without any doubt that this lens will perform very well against the more expensive Canon Super Telephoto options.

My training studio and home office apartments are literally on the doorstep of my shooting environment at Woodbridge Island and have a birds view of the the lagoon, sun and wind speed before venturing down for a shoot.

Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens Release Date
The Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens was released in May 1993 and as far as I know somewhat before Canon's IS implementation (according to Canon 1995). It became a very popular lens for bird / birds in flight photographers mainly due to low cost, light weight, image quality and fast Autofocus.

Canon EOS 7D Mark II - Birds in Flight Photo Gallery
Canon EOS 7D Mark II - Birds in Flight Photo Gallery

Starting out with Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town
Starting out with Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town

Two Canon 400mm Lens Options for Birds in Flight Photography
Two Canon 400mm Lens Options for Birds in Flight Photography

Canon EOS Setup and Tips For Birds in Flight Photography
Canon EOS Setup and Tips For Birds in Flight Photography

Tracking Variables for Improved Birds in Flight Photography
Tracking Variables for Improved Birds in Flight Photography

Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town
Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town

Sample images with two Canon Zoom lenses
Have a look at Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town with the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens (paired with Canon EOS 7D Mark II) and the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens (paired with Canon EOS 70D).

© Vernon Chalmers Photography

Water thick-knee in Flight : Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Garden