When Swallows Take Flight

Had a chance to see all three swallow species yesterday (Tree, Barn, and Northern Rough-winged).

Lighting was horrendous and my post-processing is shoddy (I seem to be suffering from PP block or some sort as of lately). But I'll take what I can get.

I've been trying to get a shot just when the swallow's lower bill breaks the surface. I came close a couple times but I couldn't get the timing of the focus to exactly match that moment. I had a few chances when they would fly directly at me - but those are a little more difficult to focus :p


All with the 300mm f/4. No teleconverter this time around - they were too close.

Wonderful shots, you did a great job of freezing the action. I'd think that catching them just as they touch the water would be very difficult but knowing your perseverance I'm betting you get it.
:)

Oh man, if I had seen these shots, I wouldn't have posted my lucky shots :blush2:

Hey Loupey, nice stuff! I gotta convince you to try "Canon_Bob" mode.....neck deep in the water with just your camera out! The POV is really cool when you try it ;-)

....One safety tip though.....Don't forget to remove your wallet and cell phone before going wading - LOL

if i did the canon_bob mode, i would be so afraid of dropping my camera in the water T_T but still, nice pics loupey

Thanks for the comments, guys.

Will try it again with better light. I think I can get that bill touching the water shot with a few more outings.

Canon_Bob - I agree with you that a lower POV would look more pleasing. But in my neck of the woods, I would have gotten the highway and several industrial buildings in the background had I gotten any lower - especially in shots #2, #3, and #4. Thanks for looking.