Capturing the action and emotion of birds in flight requires a number of important elements to be successful.

Lighting is number one, it brings life and drama to the action. Background is number two, it sets the stage for the action and makes the subject pop. Placement of the bird in the frame is next, it gives motion to the flight and grace to the subject. A tack sharp eye is fourth which requires proper panning technique and a steady hand, both coming from lots of practice.

Finally, the romance of flight which comes from the subject and your own passion!

MP-NPN