2024-09-16 Short Blog Post - Hurricane Followup

Sunset at Miller’s Lake May 2024

A quick note on my hurricane plan and results

In the newsletter that I posted last week, I discussed my plans for protecting my computer and camera equipment from the approaching hurricane. Here's my account of what happened during and after the storm.

• The hurricane landed in the afternoon of September 11th at Morgan City, Louisiana, then headed east and passed directly over us.
• We sustained winds of 85 mph with gusts to 100 mpg, lasting about 5 hours.
• Fortunately, we had no significant damage, and everything is now normal.
• As planned, I powered down and disconnected the desktop computer and prepared it for safekeeping in a pelican case, but I did not pack it.
• The camera equipment was packed in the Pelican case and ready to go in case we needed to leave.
• The power failed about an hour into the storm, and I disconnected everything but the Internet gateway. I disconnected the laptop from power and tracked the storm with it, relying on its battery. I have two UPS units. I planned on using the first until it ran out of power, and then I would switch to the other. The first lasted three hours, but the second would not power up; it failed when the power went off.
• The power was out for two days, and we were loaned a generator to power most of the house. I did not power up the computer equipment while on the generator.

I've now reconnected the desktop and tested everything to make sure it made it through the storm. It did. My plan worked, and the only glitch was the failure of one of the UPS units, for which a replacement is now on order.

Continuing My Photography Journey as I Age

The decisive moment captured with my Z8 camera at a high frame rate

For 24 years, I used Nikon DSLR cameras and Nikkor lenses. My go-to lens for bird photography was the Nikkor AFS 600mm f/4 lens, which I bought in 1997. The camera, lens, and tripod head weighed almost 25 pounds, and lugging them around had become too much for me. Also, my hearing and eyesight were deteriorating, making me consider other options for pursuing my passion.

I am grateful for the technological advancements that allow me to create stunning images despite the challenges of aging. The evolution of camera technology, computer capabilities, and improvements in my health have all played significant roles in maintaining and enhancing my photographic journey.

Camera Developments That Enable Me to Continue Making Photographs

Self Portrait with my 600mm f/4 in 2007

New Lighter Mirrorless Cameras and High-Quality Light Telephoto Lenses
The shift to mirrorless cameras has been a game-changer. These cameras are significantly lighter and more compact than their DSLR counterparts, reducing the physical strain of carrying heavy equipment. Additionally, advancements in telephoto lenses mean I can have a long telephoto lens without the bulk, making it easier to capture distant subjects. I've been using the excellent Nikkor 600 mm and 800 mm Phase Fresnel (PF) lenses, which are a fraction of the weight of my 600 mm f/4, with superior results. The 600 mm PF lens can be comfortably used hand-held, and the 800 mm lens on a tripod and head are approximately ⅓ the weight of the 600 f/4 and, for short sessions, can also be hand-held.

Red Shouldered Hawk photographed hand-held in a boat with an 800mm PF lens

Incredible Subject Detection Autofocus
Modern autofocus systems are incredibly advanced, with subject detection capabilities that were unimaginable just a few years ago. These systems can quickly and accurately lock onto subjects, whether birds in flight or fast-moving animals, ensuring sharp and focused images with minimal effort on my part. The camera's ability to track a bird's eye enables me to nail the focus, although my reflexes and vision are not as good as they were.

High Frame Rate and Large Buffer Capacity
The ability to shoot at high frame rates with large buffer capacities allows me to capture fast-action sequences effortlessly. This is particularly useful in wildlife photography, where every millisecond counts. With my Z8, I can take 20 Frames per second, increasing the likelihood of getting the perfect shot.

Improved Noise Performance
Advancements in sensor technology have greatly improved noise performance, allowing me to shoot at higher ISO settings without compromising image quality. This is crucial for low-light conditions and ensures that my images remain clear and detailed, even in challenging lighting situations.

Improved Vibration Reduction
Image stabilization technology has advanced significantly, significantly reducing the effects of camera shake. This is especially beneficial when shooting handheld and using a tripod when it is not feasible. Improved vibration reduction ensures that my images are sharp and blur-free, regardless of the circumstances.

Landscape Photography The new technology has benefited not just bird photography. Electronic Viewfinders have improved the ability to see and focus in dim light, and focus peaking indicators enable me to view what is and is not in focus even though my vision is not as good as it once was.

Computers That Enable Me to Continue Making Photographs

Improved Computer Capacity and Speed
The increased computer processing power and storage capacity have revolutionized how I handle and edit my photographs. I can process large RAW files quickly and efficiently, allowing a seamless workflow from shooting to final edits. This has become essential as the resolution of modern cameras continues to increase.

Incredible Noise Reduction Software
Advanced noise reduction software has enabled me to shoot at much higher ISO settings, enabling higher shutter speeds and improving the keeping rate of fast-moving subjects. This software effectively reduces noise without sacrificing image quality, allowing me to produce clean and detailed photographs even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

Mockingbird Photographed at ISO 12,800 to freeze the action

High-Quality Sharpening Software
The latest sharpening software can mitigate motion and focus blur, enhancing my images' overall sharpness and clarity. This technology is invaluable for ensuring that my photographs are as crisp and detailed as possible, even if the original shot was slightly off.

Health

Cataract Surgery
Undergoing cataract surgery has significantly improved my vision, allowing me to see details more clearly. This enhancement in my ability to see has directly impacted my photography, as I can now better identify and focus on subjects, leading to more precise and accurate shots.

In addition, the surgery improved my color vision, prior to the surgery, I had a yellow green color csst on everything, effecting the way I processed images, now with the improved color vision, images that I've processed should appear more accurate to others viewing them.

Hearing Aid
With the help of a hearing aid, I can now hear birds and other wildlife more clearly, aiding in locating and identifying subjects. Improved hearing has enriched my overall experience in nature and allowed me to capture moments I might have otherwise missed.

Conclusion

The intersection of advancing technology and personal health improvements has enabled me to continue creating beautiful photographs as I get older. As the tools at my disposal evolve, I remain excited and motivated to explore new photographic opportunities and capture the world around me with renewed clarity and enthusiasm.

Bird Photography Equipment on a Budget (2024 Update)

A close-up of an Osprey taken with a Nikon D500 and a Nikkor 300mm f/4 pf lens

July 26, 2024

This article updates my 2015 and 2020 articles, incorporating recent developments in the camera industry. The good news is that the shift by major manufacturers to mirrorless cameras with new lens mounts has created a market rich with bargains for excellent DSLR systems. While the upper-end mirrorless systems bring fast frame rates and subject-detecting autofocus modes, they are expensive. Quite competent DSLR systems can be purchased and used for a fraction of the cost, as many photographers are selling their DSLRs to upgrade to mirrorless systems. The better DSLRs often perform better than the less expensive mirroress systems, so they offer a better path for those wishing to enter bird photography at a lower cost.

Bird photography equipment can be expensive, as capturing small, moving objects requires long telephoto lenses and effective autofocus systems. Beginner bird photographers would be well-served with a good cropped sensor camera body and a 400mm f/5.6 lens or a 300mm f/4 lens with a 1.4x teleconverter. A crop sensor camera is less expensive and more importantly, you can use a smaller focal length lens, saving both weight and money. You can acquire such a system at a reduced price by applying several cost-saving strategies. For Nikon, the D500 is an excellent choice with a 10 FPS frame rate and excellent autofocus, while for Canon, the EOS 7D Mark II is a comparable choice. A used Nikon 300mm f/4 PF lens paired with a TC-14e teleconverter is an excellent prime lens for bird photography with a crop sensor camera at a reasonable price. However, for maximum flexibility, a competent zoom lens such as the Nikon 200-500 or the Canon 100-400 may make more sense for a beginning bird photographer.

Strategies for Reducing Equipment Costs

Several strategies can help reduce the cost of bird photography equipment, including:

1. Buying Refurbished Equipment
2. Buying Last Year's Model
3. Buying Used
4. Buying Grey Market
5. Renting

Buying Refurbished Equipment

Both Nikon and Canon offer refurbished equipment that has been returned repaired and resold. The savings can be significant, and refurbished items often undergo rigorous testing. However, refurbished equipment typically has a shorter warranty, usually 90 days. Make sure to test any refurbished gear thoroughly upon receipt.

Buying Last Year's Model

New mirrorless cameras have made last year's DSLR models more affordable. These older models are often more capable for bird photography, particularly for capturing fast-moving subjects. For example, a refurbished Nikon D7500 for around $700 can be found.

Buying Used

Many photographers sell their older equipment to finance the latest models. As a result, the prices of used camera equipment have dropped significantly. A used Nikon D500 can be found on eBay for approximately $845. However, when buying used, especially from eBay, check seller ratings carefully. Reputable sources like KEH Camera and the department used by B&H Photo Video are often more reliable. The D500 is one of the best Crop Sensor Cameras ever produced, and with its fast frame rate and excellent autofocus, it makes a terrific bird photography camera.

Buying Grey Market

Imported and sold at lower prices, Grey market equipment can be another cost-saving option. However, Nikon and Canon in the US will not honor warranties or service grey market products. For lower maintenance items like teleconverters, grey market purchases might be worth considering if the price is right. However, unless the savings are significant, I recommend against purchasing grey-market cameras or lenses.

Renting Equipment

For one-time needs, such as an assignment or photo tour, renting equipment can be a practical solution. Lens Rentals and Borrow Lenses are two reputable rental companies. Lens Rentals also offers a rent-to-buy option through Lens Authority, allowing you to try the equipment before purchasing it. Ensure you have insurance or purchase protection in case something goes wrong.

Camera Company Deals

Nikon and Canon often run specials that discount older cameras they still have in stock. Always compare these deals with used or refurbished options for the best price.

Highlighted Equipment

Nikon D500 + Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6

• Nikon D500: Used around $845
• Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6: Used around $1100

The Nikon D500, with its exceptional autofocus system and fast shooting speed, combined with the versatile 200-500mm lens, makes an excellent setup for bird photography.

Canon EOS 7D Mark II + Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM

• Canon 7D Mark II: Used around $800
• Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM: Used around $1000

The Canon 7D Mark II offers reliable performance, and when paired with the 100-400mm lens, it provides the reach and quality needed for capturing detailed bird images.

Conclusion

You can now assemble a good beginner's bird photography system with roughly equivalent Canon and Nikon equipment for under $2000.

Image Culling, Rating, Backup and Importing Reassessment

Photo Mechanic Alternatives

Gremlins Ahead–Warning Long Geeky Article

Objective

Investigate alternatives to my current image culling, rating, backup, and importing workflow.

I've been using Photo Mechanic for years to import and cull images. While its user interface is ancient and daunting, it is fast and handles all the import, culling, rating, and keywording processes. Lightroom's importing process is very slow, and time is important when I'm on a trip. However, Camera Bits has moved Photo Mechanic to a subscription pricing model, and the annual subscription price is $149, which is more than the annual subscription price of Photoshop and Lightroom. Therefore, I've decided to investigate an alternative.

Managing a growing number of images can be daunting, but a structured workflow ensures efficiency and organization. Therefore, a streamlined process for culling, rating, and importing images is essential to maintain a well-organized photo library. My image library contains 25 years of digital files organized in the structure outlined below. In the early days, I attempted many different methods, most of which involved manually sorting files into different directories based on their subject, location, or event. I would rename files based on the subject with a trailing sequence number. This proved disastrous; manually keeping track of many files and directories and ensuring no duplicate files or directories proved nearly impossible. One nearly disastrous episode was caused when I consolidated files from multiple directories and overwrote 10,000 files with duplicate file names. Fortunately, everything was backed up, and over the course of a month, I was able to sort things out, and I implemented the file and folder structure recommended here.

Date-Based Folder Structure

File Structure Tree:

Creating a date-based folder structure is fundamental for efficient image organization. This structure helps me quickly locate images based on when they were taken. Here's a recommended folder structure:

Photography 2024 2034-07-Jul 2034-07-20-(Location, Event, or Activity) Image Files

In this example, the folders are organized by year, month, and day. This approach provides a clear and logical method for storing images. I usually also append the location, event, or activity to the end of the folder name to help identify what or where I photograph.

Date and Time-Based File Naming

Ensure Unique Names:

Assigning a unique name to each image is crucial to avoid confusion and overwriting files. A practical approach is to use the date and time the image was captured. For instance, an image taken on July 20, 2024, at 14:35:21 can be named 2024-07-20_14-35-21.jpg. This naming convention ensures each file is unique and easily traced back to the original capture date and time. With the rapid-firing capability of our current cameras, multiple files may be created at the same second, so a sequence number is also required to maintain a unique filename. This approach eliminates the need to manually move files from folder to folder to organize by subject, location, or event, which is a sure source of errors. Automating this process for efficiency and consistency in naming structure is important.

Rapidly Assess Images

Efficient culling of images is vital to streamline my workflow. I focus on the following aspects to quickly assess and sort my images:

Focus: I ensure the main subject of my photo is sharp and clear. Out-of-focus images can often be discarded unless they serve a specific artistic purpose.

Exposure: I check that the image is properly exposed. Overexposed or underexposed images can sometimes be corrected, but severely improperly exposed shots are often best rejected.

Composition: I evaluate the framing and composition of my images. Look for well-balanced shots with a clear subject and a pleasing arrangement of elements.

Pick the Best of a Sequence: I select the best image from the sequence when shooting in bursts or capturing multiple shots of the same scene. Look for the one that best captures the moment with the best focus, exposure, and composition.

Sort into Select and Reject Status: As I assess my images, I quickly sort them into two categories: Select and Reject. This initial sort helps me focus on the best images while eliminating those that don't meet my standards.

Delete Rejected Images: After sorting, I promptly delete the rejected images to free up storage space and keep my library organized.

Evaluate Select Images

Once I have selected images I will keep, it's time to evaluate and enhance them further:

Rate: I assign ratings to my images based on their quality and significance. This step helps me quickly identify and prioritize my best shots for editing and sharing.

Add Appropriate Keywords and IPTC Data: Adding keywords and IPTC (International Press Telecommunications Council) data to images enhances searchability and metadata information. Include relevant keywords, such as location, event, and subject matter, to make it easier to find specific images later.

Software to do these tasks is also a critical part of the workflow. In the past, much of this process could have been accomplished using photo mechanics. In addition, Lightroom Classic can efficiently provide these functions.

Import and Backup Images

To archive the images, files must be moved from the camera card to a hard drive for permanent storage. Photo Mechanic handles this well. It lets the photographer view the files directly from the camera card, add IPTC data within the application, and then copy the selected keeper files to multiple external hard drives with a linked XMP file containing the IPTC data. This is done without writing to the camera card and doesn't risk contaminating the card.

Fast Raw Viewer Versus Photo Mechanic

Both Photo Mechanic and Fast Raw Viewer offer unique features for efficiently managing my photo workflow. This comparison focuses on key aspects such as culling, renaming, metadata addition, and file management.

Photo Mechanic

Before Ingest

• Culling on Camera Card: Photo Mechanic allows culling directly from the camera card without making any changes or writing data to the card, ensuring the original files remain untouched.
• Viewing: Images are viewed from the JPG embedded files, which provide a quick preview. However, the JPG file may not properly reflect the true exposure of the image, which may result in not selecting the best image in a sequence.
• Histogram: The histogram is generated from the JPG embedded file, offering a general overview of exposure and tonal distribution. Again, it may not accurately reflect the data actually captured by the camera.

On Ingest

• File Renaming: Photo Mechanic supports detailed file renaming using the format YYYY-MM-DD-HH-MM-SS-Subsecond-Sequence.filetype, ensuring each file has a unique and descriptive name.
• IPTC Metadata Addition:
  • Saved Templates: Metadata can be added using pre-saved templates.
  • XMP Files: Metadata is added to XMP sidecar files, maintaining the integrity of the original RAW files.
  • Bulk Processing: Photo Mechanic allows for the bulk addition of metadata, streamlining the workflow.
• File Copying:
  • Primary Volume and Directory: Files are copied to a designated primary volume and directory named within Photo Mechanic.
  • Secondary Copy: Files can be simultaneously copied to a backup location, ensuring redundancy.

After Ingest

• Lightroom Integration: The image directory is copied to the appropriate Lightroom directory, and the parent directory in Lightroom is synchronized to import the images, making the transition seamless.

Fast Raw Viewer

Before Ingest

• Editing on Camera Card: Fast Raw Viewer adds directories to the camera card, which is not recommended for direct editing as it modifies the card’s structure.
• Multiple Volume Downloads: There is no functionality for simultaneously downloading to multiple volumes, limiting backup options during import.

On Ingest

• File Renaming: Fast Raw Viewer offers limited options for renaming files during import.
• Metadata Addition: There are no built-in capabilities for adding keywords or IPTC metadata during import.

After Ingest Given the substandard renaming options and the inability to add keywords, a workaround is required to maintain the current capabilities.

• Renaming Options: After importing, files can be renamed using tools such as:
  • Lightroom: Provides robust renaming options within the software.
  • "A Better Finder Rename:" A third-party tool offering advanced renaming capabilities. (Mac only)
  • Big Folder Machine: Another third-party tool for managing large batches of files. (Mac only)
• Keywording Options: For adding keywords and metadata, users can utilize:
  • Lightroom: Provides comprehensive keywording and metadata management features.

The "A Better Finder Rename" application provides a more robust naming solution than Photo Mechanic.

So, the revised workflow with Fast Raw Viewer is as follows.

1. Create a directory on a primarily working volume and a backup volume and name it in the format YYYY-MM-DD-(location, event, or subject)
2. Copy files from the Camera Card to the working volume.
3. Rename the files on the working volume using "A Better Finder Rename" in the format YYYY=MM-DD-HH-MM-SS and ensure that the application checks for duplicates and adds a suffix to duplicate files.
4. Use Fast Raw Viewer to Select the files to keep.
5. Duplicate the Working Volume to the backup volume; I use Carbon Copy Cloner to do this.

Conclusion

While it means a slightly more complex workflow, Fast Raw Viewer and the A Better Finder Rename application are viable alternatives to Photo Mechanic. A Better Rename can rename files and folders in the format I use and also offers naming options I intend to explore later, such as embedding shutter count and camera serial number into the file name. It does a brilliant job of ensuring no file name conflicts and, once set up, offers a simple way of renaming the folders and files in a photo shoot. Keywords can be added later in the import process into Lightroom Classic. Templates can be set up for the most common shooting scenarios, allowing rapid inclusion in Lightroom Classic and the XMP sidecar files. Fast Raw Viewer offers a fast rendering of Raw Files, allowing me to view the true raw image and histogram. It is far faster, and exposure information is more accurate than Lightroom Classic. It provides the following information on the files as I am culling the images that Photo Mechanic does not:

1. A true raw histogram that provides more accurate information on an image's exposure.
2. Shadow and Highlight Clipping Percentages.
3. Focus peaking overlays allow me to determine what is and is not in focus.
4. Extensive EXIF data is visible as I'm culling images.

The downside of this approach are:

1. Longer processing times due to downloading all images from a camera card rather than just those selected as keepers.
2. A more complex workflow involving three applications in place of one.

I would use Photo Mechanic to evaluate photographs in a time-critical situation, such as a sporting event like football. While Fast Raw Viewer renders images quickly, it is not as fast as Photo Mechanic, and I would need to download all images before selecting which ones to keep. In addition, Photo Mechanic offers far better keywording options than what I can quickly accomplish using Lightroom Classic. For example, I can use a table of Player Numbers to replace a player's number with their name quickly. If I were in the business of uploading images to the press at halftime for immediate use, Photo Mechanic is by far the best solution.

I plan to use Fast Raw Viewer and A Better Finder Rename instead of Photo Mechanic for my use case.

A Memorable Two-Day Tour: Capturing the Beauty of Lake Dauterive–November 2023

Early Morning in the Boat at Lake Dauterive

Last fall, I had the pleasure of leading a private two-day tour that took us to Henderson Swamp and the breathtaking Lake Dauterive. While Henderson Swamp was a delight, Lake Dauterive truly stole the show. Known for its stunning mist and thick fog, we were fortunate to experience both during our visit, capturing some remarkable photographs, including an eagle in flight.

Early Morning Fog at Lake Dauterive

With over 15 years of experience leading tours at Lake Dauterive, I’ve mastered the art of reading the conditions and positioning the boat for the best shots. We started our day with light fog near the boat launch, allowing us to capture some early morning images. As the fog thickened, the scene transformed into a photographer’s paradise. We took advantage of this, creating excellent images as the fog swirled around us.

A Cypress Tree in the Fog at Lake Dauterive

As the fog began to lift, we ventured to the far side of the lake, where we found mist lingering along the edges, providing even more opportunities for stunning photographs. Our patience was rewarded when we spotted an eagle perched in a cypress tree. We watched in awe as the eagle took flight, capturing the majestic moment with our cameras.

Backlit Mist Cypress Scene at Lake Dauterive

An Eagle in Flight Captured at Lake Dauterive

Sunset at MIller's Lake

Sunset at Miller’s Lake using a 600mm Lens

Capturing the Golden Hour: A Memorable April Tour

Sunset happened after a wonderful photo session of birds on our April Tour. The sky was a canvas of vibrant hues, a perfect backdrop for the day's final shots. As the sun dipped near the horizon, it cast a golden glow over the landscape, enhancing the beauty of the avian subjects we were so eager to capture.

My favorite shot was taken using a 600mm telephoto lens. I was trying to get birds in front of the sun but to no avail. However, I love this shot. The Pattern of the clouds and the sun large in the frame make this shot one of my favorites.

I also shot this scene using a 24mm lens, resulting in another very nice shot. The wide-angle perspective captured more of the stunning sunset and the serene environment. While I appreciate the broader context of this photo, I prefer the intimacy and detail of the telephoto shot.

Join us in 2025 and experience similar opportunities. Whether you're an avid bird photographer or love nature, our tours offer a chance to capture unforgettable moments and hone your photography skills in some of the most beautiful settings imaginable.

2025 Spring Tours

Miller’s Lake Sunset taken at 24mm

An Owl Eating Crawfish

Owl eating crawfish

As Louisianians, we have a fondness for consuming crawfish. Interestingly, we are not alone in our appreciation for this delicacy - even our winged companions seem to share our love for it. During one of my outings, I came across a duo of Owls who were taking turns catching crawfish from the nearby lake. They would either consume it themselves or offer it to their partner. I have witnessed similar behavior at Lake Martin before, where a group and I once observed an Owl repeatedly diving into the water for over an hour to catch and devour crawfish.

Owl Duo

Infrared photograph of a Tupelo Tree at Millers Lake

Infrared photograph of a Tupelo Tree at Millers Lake

Description

Here’s a stunning infrared photo of the Tupelo Tree at Miller’s Lake. The image features a high-contrast black-and-white effect with light foliage and dark clouds in the background. You can also spot some birds in the distance, adding to the lake’s serene beauty. I often take infrared photographs in the late morning or early afternoon when the light is too harsh for regular photography. I took this image in the early afternoon. The stunning tupelo trees within the beautiful lake make for an excellent photograph. I used a D800 camera modified for infrared by Kolari Vision.

Kolari Vision infrared photography

Black-Bellied Whistling Duck - from rare to abundant

When I returned to Louisiana in 2001, seeing a Black-Bellied Whistling Duck was rare. Since then, the population has rapidly increased to the point that it is the most common duck I see. Originating in Mexico and Central America, they have migrated to Louisiana in large numbers. I often see them in the neighborhood perching on rooftops when I walk the dog. On my photo tours, we often have the opportunity to photograph these beautiful ducks.

Alligator with Hunting Hook

On the last day of my May photo tour, we encountered this giant alligator on a log. While making a photograph, we noticed a large hook in its mouth. The poor creature managed to evade the hunter's snare but now is living with this hook.

Check out my upcomming spring photo tours here.

Check out my upcoming fall photo tours here.