Birds First time birding with the 100-500

[Normware]

Finally got out with the 100-500 to shoot birds for the first time. I am basically a sports photographer, skiing hockey, powerboats so going out to shooty birds is definitely not in my wheelhouse. Fortunately the local photo store arranges photo walks. This one was for birds. I usually do not use AF nor eye-tracking - skiing , hockey - goggles and helmets face guards. So it makes it difficult. same with powerboats (helmets or sunglasses). So I tried. There is a learning curve and I am still not one to constantly hold down a button for focusing, but I did get some okay shots. But these birds sure do move around alot. All hand held, auto iso, and I tried to keep it as wide open as possible to blur the background (no I will not use the term bokeh).

 

[Normware]

Chesnut-sided warbler

 

[Dave Williams]

Beware it's addictive!!
Wildlife photography is also frustrating but that makes it all the more satisfying when you nail a shot.