PhotoSP
Plate 235. One of my favourite holiday spots in Scotland is Applecross, in Wester Ross, where one of the many attractions is its wildlife – so whenever I visit, my camera is always with me. On 10 March 2023, I went for a wander along the shore of Applecross Bay looking for suitable photographic subjects. As I strolled along the waters edge, hoping to encounter any of the many waders, ducks and gulls that can be found there, the conditions were stunning; snow had fallen a few days earlier and the sky was almost cloudless. Having spent time with Rock Pipits foraging on the shoreline and a small flock of Ringed Plover camouflaged amongst the multi-coloured small rocks, I then became aware of Greylag Geese calling behind me – they often share the grazing with Red Deer and Highland Cattle in front of Applecross House and this morning was no different.
I took a series of photographs and selected this particular shot, with the backdrop of the island of Raasay, as my favourite image. Luckily, my camera settings were similar to what I might use in summer rather than late winter due to the bright skies and up-lighting from the snow. This trip was a good one, with many species of birds seen and regular visits to the cottage by Pine Marten, Badger and Red Deer. John Davidson, Blackford, Perthshire Email: jrdfolk@btinternet.com. Equipment used: Nikon D500 camera, 500mm f5.6 lens, Aperture priority, 1/2,000 second, ISO 560, f8.
SCOTTISH BIRDS Volume 43 (3)
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As I watched, two of the geese took off. They flew parallel to each other, so I adjusted the lens’ aperture, hoping to get both geese sharp if they passed at ninety degrees to me, but alas they parted company. One returned to the fields and the other continued across the bay.
September 2023
Featuring the best images posted on the SOC website each quarter, PhotoSpot will present stunning portraits as well as record shots of something interesting, accompanied by the story behind the photograph and the equipment used. Upload your photos now - it’s open to all.
Scottish Birds published by the SCOTTISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB
VOLU M E 43(3)
SEPTEM B ER 2023