White-faced Duck

[Stu Bowie]

I went to a birding spot in Pretoria this morning, as it was the first clear morning for ages. I really wanted to experiment by using manual mode, as I havent used it often. After reading the thread, I thought I would try it out. This image was captured in manual mode.

Canon 50D
100-400 @ 400mm
1/1600
F/6.3
ISO 640

Manual
Hand held

[Doug Brown]

Great wing position, exposure, and sharpness. Like the pano crop. I didn't weigh in on the manual vs. Av thread, but manual is by far the best mode for capturing BIF against a varied BG (assuming constant light). Once you get comfortable with it, there is no going back for BIF. I'm curious how you liked it.

[Stu Bowie]

Once you get comfortable with it, there is no going back for BIF. I'm curious how you liked it.

Thanks Doug. I pretty much enjoyed it, as I feel I achieved good results. This particular spot has varied BG's, from water, to distant foliage, and obviously sky. Furthermore, these guys are a bit tricky, as one can blow their faces pretty easily, but still manage to expose the darker plumage and wings. Apart from adjusting a small hot area on the face, no further exposure in pp was required on the plumage. I will definately have another go next weekend. :w3 Cheers.

[Daniel Cadieux]

Yep, although I use AV lots I agree Manual is pretty much a must for these types of conditions and situations. I love the duck's pose - awesome full wings down position, but not as crazy about the streaked background. Sure looks like a speedy one!

[arash_hazeghi]

Excellent pose and details Stu. I agree with Doug, manual mode is the only reliable mode for shooting BIF against varied BG IMHO.

Excellent job!

[Jeff Dyck]

Great image Stuart! I really like the pose. I am going to disagree with Daniel here - I quite like the streaked background - I think it gives a motion-blur like feel of movement.

+1 on Manual Mode for in-flight shots

[Dumay de Boulle]

Hey Stu...I quite like the BG...It gives the illusion of speed. Nice exp, also been looking to try manual exp out in the field...I will give it a bash this weekend

[Stu Bowie]

Thanks all for the kind words and feedback.

[Chris Kotze]

Super flight angle and great detail that's well exposed.

[Sidharth Kodikal]

Superb image Stuart. Gorgeous details, pose, exposure and specie. Love that eye.
Nicely done.

[Kiran Poonacha]

Beautifully done Bhai.. loved the details captured..