I was a pretty serious bird/wildlife photographer around 20 years ago. However, life (twin daughters) intervened and I have done little but family snapshots over these past 20 years.
So, kids are grown now and I have time and am struggling to get back into the groove. I am trying to see which of my largely obsolete equipment will still be of use. I bought a Nikon DF, partly because I liked the "old school" controls and partly because it was about as much as I wanted to spend. I have a 500mm F4/P from "the day" that will have to remain my bird lens for the foreseeable future, although I know it is obsolete and the complete lack of any autofocus will really limit my potential for action type shots. Beyond that I have the old brass Nikon manual focus lenses with no electronics whatsoever, the HUGE old style Monoball and Studioball heads on my tripods, and the huge fear that I am too old and fat to hike around with this stuff any more....
I used to sort of specialize in owls, but a few trips afield recently have shown me most of my old locations to find the birds have changed a great deal.
I have really noticed from this site that bird photography is on a higher level than 20 years ago, particularly with regard to action and flight shots. I imagine this is partly because of the vast increase in equipment sophistication that has taken place during that time. I really wish I could plunk down the $$$$$ for a modern AF 600mm,,,but alas...those same daughters are in college at the moment...
So I guess my point is that in a lot of ways I am starting over, and I hope to learn a great deal from this site. I also hope the day will eventually come when I can contribute as well...
Welcome to BPN Bryan! Yep, alot has changed in 20 years, especially gear-wise, but the fundamentals have remained pretty much the same. Have fun at it too, that is the most important part!
Welcome, Bryan! So much has changed, but a lot can be done with relatively inexpensive and lightweight digital equipment, too. We all look forward to following your explorations! And we hope you will jump in with comments and critiques.
Hi Bryan, Glad to hear you are working on getting back into your photography. I came back myself about 11 years ago after taking some time away in the beginning also. I have learned so much since the first time I picked up My Canon AE-1 in the 70's. Bpn has helped me immensely. Looking forward to your posts
New Member from Northern California
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