Backlit Zebras

[Morkel Erasmus]

I finally got a chance to take my new 300mm f2.8 L IS USM out to a nature reserve close to my parents' home today. I also tested out the combination of this lens and a 1.4 TC-II I was looking to buy...and bought it.

I am really looking forward to utilising this combination on my upcoming Botswana safaris.

The sun was rising behind this herd of Zebra. Shot from vehicle window, lens rested on cushion (forgot my bean bag at home! :eek:)

Techs:
Canon 7D with 300mm f2.8 L IS USM + 1.4 TC-II
f5.6 @ 1/320 SS @ ISO-800
Exposure bias +1

[Hilary Hann]

Morkel, IQ looks pretty good to me. The backlight has given a very soft feel to the image. I would rather not have the second zebra in the photo as it is a bit lost but if the point of the image is to show that the lens combination could perform under tough conditions I think it is very successful.

[Dumay de Boulle]

Looks like a really long Zebra Purple flowers...looks like Rietvlei! IQ looks good, I would like to see the head of the second Zebra.

[Morkel Erasmus]

thanks Dumay & Hilary

Hilary - the point of the image was to post something from my first foray into wildlife photography with the new lens, yes

Dumay - yes this was at Rietvlei.

I too wish the 2nd one was either out of the way or had its head lifted.

[Robert Amoruso]

Morkel,

I had that lens, sold it and regretted it ever since then. Glad you are liking it, it is a great lens.

[Morkel Erasmus]

thanks Robert!

[Rachel Hollander]

Morkel - congrats on the new lens. I like the soft colors. I agree with the comments about the second zebra.

TFS,
Rachel

[Steve Kaluski]

A bit of a 'dreamy' shot here I feel, with the soft gentle colours & lighting. Personally would prefer just the single Zebra.

I think it's the best lens, exceptionally sharp and the light that pours through it, well... enjoy, you will love it.

Steve

[Morkel Erasmus]

thanks for your thoughts Steve and Rachel!

[Stan Cunningham]

tough shot, from still trying to figure out proper exposure
Did you open a stop so you had some details in the blacks?
I really like the mood of the shot, very nice

[Morkel Erasmus]

thanks Stan!

[Grant Atkinson]

Hi Morkel, congrats on the new lens. Like the shot, ditto comments above about one zebra better. It looks nice and sharp. I don't know if I could still operate without my 300, it is the most used lens I own. You are going to get some good stuff in Botswana for sure
cheers
Grant

[Morkel Erasmus]

shot Grant :)