Bald Eagle in Flight

I didn't do a very good job with this scan, but to be honest it's not the sharpest print in my portfolio, either. There's a simple explanation for that: I shot from a kayak, handheld, with a 300/2.8 IS + 2x TC. I don't make a practice of waving a heavy telephoto around (even with stable footing), but I didn't have many options when this opportunity presented itself.

This bird spends time near lake cabins near Lake Superior. Its commute between home and "office" is somewhat predictable. I got four shots of the flight over me, but this is the only one that had more than a hint of eagle in the frame. I've trimmed off about a fifth of the original.

I invite you to leave comments and suggestions of any kind (for this or any photo in my portfolio), but I'm particularly interested in ideas for photographing birds in flight, shooting from a boat, or dealing with empty sky.

You must have amazing hand-eye coordination (not to mention guts) to take this from a kayak. Well done!

I had luck, persistence, and chutzpah (for handholding and risking a dip with my gear). I wish I could say that I've managed lots of flight shots since (with a tripod!), but I need more practice. This photo isn't sharp enough for a very big print.

 

Thanks for commenting.

Outstanding photo. I'm speachless

Incredible. I'd be interested to see if a little curves adjustment wouldn't give you a darker blackpoint and better over tonality -- but that's quibling over a masterpiece.

Jim - I think you're right about the tonality. I don't have great digital "darkroom" skills, but I'll work on it. You're being charitable with the word "masterpiece", but thanks for the compliment and the suggestion.

great foto

Magnifica

Fantastic shot

pity about the crop! if only you had the whole wings, it would be magnificient

A whole lot better than the one I got three decades ago from a canoe on a lake in Boundary Waters, Minnesota. It's really a great shot, especially considering your circumstances. I didn't see the location...what lake/river did you take this from?

Ken - It was on a little lake in Douglas county, on the northwest edge of Wisconsin. I think the people who were kind enough to host me would prefer if I left the specific lake un-named.

this is very nice picture making! are you making pictures at zoo? very good pictures i like them much :)

 

maybe tell about monkee for me?? :)

The headshot would have been good but I don't like the cropping. Find the balance is totally gone. A shame