William Robb wrote:
I finally managed to get out with the 600 and do some shooting.
This les is a challenge to shoot with, to be sure.
Anyone using long lenses (Ken, Tom!!!) any tips or advice for using one
of these beasties would be appreciated.
Anyway, a couple of my less embarrasing atempts with the big gun are
here....
http://users.accesscomm.ca/wrobb/pictures/peso/wingedrats1.html
http://users.accesscomm.ca/wrobb/pictures/peso/wingedrats2.html
The lens is twitchy for sure. For maximum sharpness, I recommend use of
a very solid tripod, a cable release and mirror lockup when you can. Use
all three if your subject allows it. Tripod and cable release together
will go a long way toward getting sharp images.
Wind can be a big problem in my experience. The lens stays in its case
when there's more than a moderate breeze.
I also try not to ask too much of it. It can't fix atmospheric haze or
heat shimmer. I prefer to shoot stuff that's a little closer in than
what you did with those shots.
A suggestion for having fun with the lens:
Put a table out in the yard with some birdseed on it. Try to place the
table near a tree. Birds will land in the tree before they hop down to
the table. Shoot them in the tree (I hate birdfeeder pictures). Birds
are nervous critters and don't stay still for even a second. Try to work
from a concealed position if possible.
Keep practicing.
Tom Reese
