Don't know how I missed this video first time around, Mike. It is appropriate now, though, because a few days ago it was minus 3 degrees F with snow and ice. A couple of days later it warmed up to 25F and I went out and photographed birds on the setup I built on the back porch. Got some really nice shots of the puffed up birds in the snow with the backgrounds I had built for them. Can't get shots like that from a nice comfy couch in front to the TV. But if you get out there you might get a new masterpiece... or nothing. The thing is to be out there.
Being 74 I've enjoyed your videos and ideas how to keep photographing birds after long hikes are no longer an option.for me - My backyard is experiencing a finch irruption this winter so lots of subject matter here in the Blueridge of Virginia USA. Thanks for the inspiration
It's a long time since I saw a Lapwing. They used to be quite a common bird when I lived in the UK. I like the short poem but I've changed it to suit a Queensland summer. 35C at the time of writing with 70% humidity. He who risks the weather usually sweats more than the stay at homer thinks he will.
This is complete "devotion",. You are indeed an inspiration for many generations to come looking at the way you approach and your dedication sir. Kudos.
Learning lots about birds and their behaviour, plus camera settings, from you. Thanks! You've taken some beautiful photos. We just need the snow down here in Dorset! We get plenty of rain!
Good intro. Yesterday I got out for 8am with the snow falling. Timing is everything. I thought I was keen, but saw later those up 45 minutes earlier saw the sky like lava - a real fire ball. I then went out 2 hours later on a dog walk without the camera - and wish I took it. Would have been better than the 8am shout!
Great video Mike. I used to have a G9 and its a great camera but found low light it would struggle with focus. Great selection of birds but like yourself I don't find the numbers or variety I used to... there was a time when it was common to find Lesser Redpoll & Siskin in the garden in big numbers at the samne time (20+ of each) but cant recall the last time time I saw a redpoll... I still get the sikins but in lots lower numbers. Greenfinch, not had one in the garden for a few years now although this winter I have been lucky enough to get a song thrush in daily - a bird I remember well from when I was a lad. Atb Alan
I'm originally from south Spain, so growing up rain was a big barrier to doing anything outside. Then I moved to the UK and was surprised to see how life goes on here even if it is chucking it down. After 8 years now I'm one with the elements 😂, and I actually enjoy photographing in the rain and snow a lot. You can only get so wet anyway and as long as you're warm, the pros greatly outnumber the cons. Also, if we only went out when it's sunny in the UK, covid lockdowns would have been called business as usual 😂
Loved this Mike, i'm an all weather kinda guy apart from wind, i hate wind! Anyway great vlog, a friend told me about you, so have a sub, keep up the great work JP
So often the weather proves not to be as bad as the forecast. Vivien Bird wrote for the Birmingham Post & Mail from 1951 to 1975 and obviously didn’t enjoy the advantages we have now with digital cameras and use of high ISOs.
Hi Mike, another inspirational video. Im hopefully moving to the country soon and hope to be able to try some set up shots as you have shown, but was wondering what else I could use to hold perches as opposed to the Wimberley gear (I have a gimbal so know how expensive they can be). If I can start to collect some bits now I will be ready in a few months to get going...Cheers!
@@MrJeyjey2707 The lower branch is in the hollow tube of a tripod handle. There are many bendable arms. Google "bendable arm" or "flexible arm". I have one for holding a cell phone with a crocodile clip taped to the end.
I love the quote you mention in the beginning. I’ve been thinking about it for 2 days now. “He who risks the weather seldom gets as wet as the stay-at-homer thinks he will”. So many different meanings and takeaways. Can’t get it out of my head. Do you recall the spelling of Vivian Byrd’s name? I’d love to give credit if I use it someday.
Thanks for your comments. www.parkcameras.com/shop/wimberley-the-plamp-ii_9372037a?gclid=CjwKCAiAuoqABhAsEiwAdSkVVEAhddySbPAW6qxERy715po5QsjfG794eGcaY6Lj1AWJTyBqeNyXeBoClxwQAvD_BwE Or Google "Wimberley Plamp" and look under the shopping tab.
Disappointing that no-one so far has complimented your sartorial elegance. I'll be watching your decline into shabby chic over the next few months with interest.
