Kip’s Comments - March 28, 2024

American Kestrel in Flight - Image 870022

“Pre” Was Key

As I approached our driveway today I noticed this American kestrel grasping a power line and intently watching my approach. From my experience, kestrels have been skittish at best and almost elusive most times I attempt to photograph them. Since I expected the bird would take fight, and since I was just fine with having a different view (without a power line) of the interesting little bird, I opted to record the kestrel in flight. Choosing that type of image and actually doing it are two different things. I had my work cut out for me.

Before I moved closer to our driveway I executed the three “Pre” steps. I pre-exposed (adding enough exposure compensation to address the lighting conditions without over exposing the bird). I pre-focused in the area where I expected the bird would fly. By using back-button focus and pre-focusing, I did not lose time shooting as the camera searched for sharpness. I then pre-positioned. I made an educated guess on the presumed direction of travel and was correct. When I moved forward ever so slightly, the kestrel followed the anticipated flight path and I recorded my images.

This may sound easier than it was. It worked and I am pleased.

I am sharing several views of the bird since I find this species so intriguing.

American Kestrel in Flight - Image 870020

American Kestrel in Flight - Image 870023