Mountain Chickadee Cameo

I'm still struggling to get these guys nice and sharp. They dart in and out of the feeder so quickly. Here is one making a cameo appearance. I'll post another funny one tomorrow showing just how quickly they come and go.

It is definitely tough getting little birds. How close are you to them? I think you'd benefit here with a flash. A nice pose though, and I like the curvature of the wood. Even at a distance, a little flash can make a big difference.

Great pose, Marylynne. I wonder if you'd share the shutter/f/stop settings...Ryan's suggestion of flash would be very helpful as well.

Thanks, guys. This is ISO 320, f/5.6, 1/1000s at 300mm. I believe I took this the day I began experimenting with rear button focusing (not sure I like it...I'm not used to "pinching" to take a picture ;-), but it is autofocus with spot focusing, evaluative metering. I probably could use the flash (just have the built in, but I am only 6-8 feet away). I just didn't want to blind the little buggers. They were so tolerant of my simply hanging out with a big lens hanging off my face. The location of the feeder is a challenge, but it is my property, so I can play around with it. They like slipping in and out the circular side windows there, but the only time I get pretty good side or front lighting this time of the year is late afternoon. Maybe I'll cut a sky light or two into the feeder.

I love your capture Marylynne, I agree with the suggestion to try a flash and lighten things up a bit.
Also wanted to say "Thanks" for your previous suggestion on macro shots to switch to manual focus and use that in conjunction with the "Live video view" on the LCD while focusing. Thanks again!

You've set yourself quite the challenge, Marylynne! Patience will pay off and one of these times you'll get your reward. I'll be watching for it.

Thanks, Craig and Cathy.