Horned Lark Extreme Close Up – Nikon D810, f7.1, 1/2000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Could you guess what bird I photographed just from looking at the extreme close up photo above? I don’t think I could even though I photograph this species quite often.
Last week I had a male Horned Lark land on a boulder very close to me and I was able to take one image of it before it flew off. I was using DX (cropped) mode on my Nikon D810 and the bird was so close I could not fit it all into the frame.
I didn’t have time to remove my TC or switch to FX mode.
When I came home and looked at the image on my screen I was disappointed because the tail was clipped but I blew the image up to 100% and admired the fine feather detail of the lark.
The image above is a cropped section from that photo shown at 100% resolution and probably shows an area less than an inch wide of the bird.
I really like how this shows the fine feather detail and structure.
I am impressed with what the Nikon D810 can do and this Horned Lark extreme close up shows why.
Horned Lark in morning light – Nikon D810, f8, 1/1250, ISO 320, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
This is a different Horned Lark taken just a few days before the close up image, they are small songbirds that are acting like it is already spring time.
I have seen the males chasing each other and singing their little hearts out already. I love to see and hear them.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Horned Lark photos plus facts and information about this species.
Fabulous detail shot Mia – love it!
Utah continues to feel like spring, which is great for moving and hiking the trails in Arches, Canyonland, and Dead Horse Point in the Moab area last week. Only wish I had brought my bigger camera. The ravens were always in pairs (mate for life) and would sometimes beg for food with a soft vocal sound unlike the “caw” sound.
Great photo, Mia! I can’t wait to see my first Horned Lark of the year.
Mia, I’ve the same camera but not the lens. The camera is amazing, yes, but more importantly is your dedication, professionalism and technique.
Terrific closeup and full body shot. I think Spring IS already here, I’m afraid! Been in the mid 80’s in Tucson, about 3 weeks too early.