Great Blue Heron

[byrons]

Several Great Blue Herons are still hanging out at Bannister Lake near Paris, On.  Lots of Sandhill Cranes as well (40-50).  Sadly, the Great Egrets that were there a couple of weeks ago seem to have departed.  

Managed to get a few decent pictures of a Heron.  The Sandhill Cranes were just a bit too far for my glass.  


Great Blue Heron by ByronSheldrick, on Flickr


Great Blue Heron by ByronSheldrick, on Flickr


Great Blue Heron by ByronSheldrick, on Flickr

[MEGHAN]

Great find!!
That is one of the best areas to find Sandhill Cranes. I was out that way a few times this year. I have never been to Bannister Lake CA.
Can I ask where you park to gain access to the CA.
Also, how far out were the Cranes? You said they were too far out for your glass. What do you shoot with?

Thanks
Meghan

[byrons]

Wrigley Road runs right between Wrigley Lake and Bannister Lake ... some great views from the road.  But just between the lake and Spragues road there is a small parking lot.  Not really very well marked.  If you park there, you can see a trail entrance which runs along the shore of Bannister Lake.  You don't have to follow it too far and you come across a pretty decent observation tower.  

The Cranes were at the back of the Lake (when looking from the road) in the marshy area.  Right now I'm using a Canon EFS 55-250 mm.  I bought a Canon Rebel T2i and the lens came with it.  So basically the kit lens.  This is my first foray into bird photography, and really enjoying it.  But the limits of my lens are really apparent.  So right now I'm saving for a bigger lens.  Suggestions and/or recommendations would be very welcome.  

Byron

[MEGHAN]

Hey Byron,

Thanks for the instructions, I know exactly where you mean. I was at Grass Lake a few times which is awesome for Cranes in the Spring and Summer.
As for which lens....tough question.
If you asked 20 people, you would get 20 answers. I suggest posting a question of which lens to buy in the Equiptment section on this forum.
One thing I have learned is when it comes to birds, you can never have a big enough lens. I only shoot birds. So I have a  500mm F4. I also have a 300mm F4 that I use for the odd bird that is nice enough to not fly away. I just bought a 200mm-400mm just in case the 300 is to far and the 500 is too close. Truth be told I'll probably trade them all in on the 800mm when Nikon releases it. A whole new world opens up when you get into the big glass. But it's a huge investment. I lucked out on all 3 of mine with some great deals from Nikon Canada.
Remember I only shoot birds, so those lenses work for me. If you are shooting anything else, people, places, bugs or flowers you should stick with something that is more versatile...and a heck of a lot cheaper...
There are lots of lenses out there. It is really a matter of what your budget is.
Like I said, post in the equiptment forum. You will get lots of feedback. People will give you good advice and suggestions. Then research online and check out reviews of each lens.
Once you have your choice narrowed down a bit, go to a camera store and play around. Rent one if you can for a weekend. Or borrow one from someone you know. People love to talk about there gear and some would even let you use their stuff for a few minutes if you meet themin the field. Even if you meet a Nikon shooter, ask to take a look, you will still be able to see the difference, and if you like then go look at the Canon equivalent.
Hope this helps a bit.
Feel free to ask me anything else.

Meghan

[farmer]

It won't be long until the great Blue herons leave too for warmer temps. I also got a Canon T2i with the 55-250 mm. It was ok, but picked up a used 100-400 mm for $1200 and like it much better. It is heavy and not as easy to carry, but get a lot more usable shots.

[byrons]

Thanks for all the input ... I pretty much only shoot birds as well.  Occasional family shots, for which my 18-55 mm lens is more than adequate.  I'm considering a 100-400 mm lens as well, but also eying the Sigma 150-500.  About one week in with my 55-250 I knew I'd never be content.  800 mm would be awesome!  

Byron

[MEGHAN]

I'm considering a 100-400 mm lens as well, but also eying the Sigma 150-500.  Byron

This is a great starter lens. I had one for a few years.  The lens likes to "hunt" ..a lot. And hunt slowly So for fast moving birds, I found I got more shots of where the bird was, then actual shots of the bird. Big stuff that moves slow, Herons and Hawks, it's pretty good. But at 6.3 at the 500mm end also means it needs a lot of light. Overall Ithink it's a good lens. I got some great shots withit and I know a lot of people who use it. I don't think you will be disappointed with either lens. Just be prepared, the next thing you will be saving for is a faster lens.
Believe me...it never ends.

800 mm would be awesome!

No arguements here!!