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Photographing & Watching Eagles |
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If the eagles you are photographing begin to act skittish or nervous, they are letting you know you're too close. Your goal should be to appreciate their beauty without disturbing their tranquility.
You may shoot a few pictures of the eagles sitting still, but you will have more interesting photographs if you wait for them to do something¡X cleaning feathers, eating, interacting with other eagles, or if you're really lucky, diving for fish.
Use at least 400 speed film. If it's cloudy, you may even try 800 or 1000 speed film. The faster film speeds allow you to use faster shutter speeds to freeze action. Digital camera shooters can also adjust film speed or shutter speeds.
Use the longest telephoto or zoom lens you have. Even though the eagles are large birds, you'll still have to be fairly close to them to capture an impressive image.
For the sharpest images, have your camera on a good, sturdy tripod.
Eagle Watching Tips
If the eagles you are viewing begin to act skittish or nervous, they are letting you know you're too close. You goal should be to appreciate their beauty without disturbing their tranquility.
White headed eagles are generally about 5 years or older. Females are slightly larger than males.
Eagles may be anywhere along the rivers, but there is usually a good concentration from West Alton to Alton, on up the River Road to Elsah and Grafton, and north along the Mississippi from there, especially at any of the locks and dams.
Use Binoculars. Up to 10 or 12 power, comfortable enough to hand hold. Over 12 power, or for a spotting scope, a tripod is recommended. Consider a pair of image stabilizing binoculars to help with comfortable viewing.
Best viewing is dawn to around 9:00am, and an hour before sunset. That's when they are most likely to be eating or looking for food.
Dress warm: warm boots, hat, scarf; gloves especially important. | |
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