My 4th of July Skimmer Fireworks
My 4th of July celebration started at sunrise this year instead of sunset. Still had lots of sparks flying (lame analogy for Skimmers) in the pond at Bryan Beach. Positioned myself this time at one end of the pond where they would fly directly towards me. Also got some photos of other birds like Black Crowned Night Herons and Reddish Egrets which I’ll post later.
Taken with Canon 7D and Canon 500mm F4 IS II lens mounted on Skimmer ground pod with Wimberley II gimbal head
1/640 sec @ F4, ISO 500, evaluative metering
1/400 sec @ F5.6, ISO 400, -2/3 exposure compensation, evaluative metering
1/320 sec @ F5.6, ISO 400, evaluative metering
1/400 sec @ F5.6, ISO 400, evaluative metering
Tim Timmis Photography 
Those are just stunning. Patience was rewarded.
July 8, 2013 at 7:41 pm
These are some awesome captures! Love the head-ons. Good Work!
July 8, 2013 at 9:10 pm
I have to agree with David. The head-on angle works for these. Awesome light.
July 8, 2013 at 9:16 pm
Thanks Lyle. Appreciate your comments. It was worth the effort for sure.
July 9, 2013 at 7:58 pm
Thanks David. Can’t wait to go back but just hope that the pond hasn’t dried up yet.
July 9, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Thanks Doug. It was tough to get the 7D to lock on at times with all of the distractions around but it did well once it focused.
July 9, 2013 at 8:01 pm
Absolutely stunning as usual. I need to get back out again!
July 10, 2013 at 11:16 pm
Thanks Beth. I couldn’t find any whales so had to settle for skimmers.
July 11, 2013 at 7:39 pm
Wow ! These are incredible. Your bird photography is always so spectacular.
July 18, 2013 at 5:47 pm
Thanks Emily. Just have to be at the right place at the right time. I know all of the places around Houston and go there all of the time 🙂
July 20, 2013 at 12:23 pm