There was only one thing on my mind today, and that was getting out and playing with my new toys, but before pressing any buttons it was a visit to the Portland Bird Observatory. There I undertook a Mini Master Class with Duncan Walbridge, who has the same set up as me, and Martin Cade the Warden. A few shots around the Obs garden, it was then a walk to the Bill to see what I could capture on my own.
While there was plenty of variable subject matter, the images were a little disappointing, but it's early days - judge for yourselves!
While there was plenty of variable subject matter, the images were a little disappointing, but it's early days - judge for yourselves!
A Bee on Hebe in the Obs garden,
and at the same location one of 2 'racing pigeons' that seem to have taken up residence there.
The Sunflowers are now out in the adjacent fields, making for a splash of colour,
while c2 Peregrines were kicking up hell of a noise
both perched on the wall of Lloyd's cottage
and performing some aerobatics.
Plenty of small vessels to view and this
Great Black-backed Gull plus a
Herring Gull seemed to be doing just that.
The Observatory from the south west as
these 2 light aircraft
flew overhead.
A juvenile Herring Gull gave a chance of a few aerial shots
while, as usual, there were bright flags flying at Barry Sellen's beach hut
and that of his hut neighbour.
Finally, back in the Obs garden a beautiful Jersey Tiger Moth put in a brief appearance (pity they don't perch with wings open to show that shock of crimson hind wing) and a strikingly beautiful
Wasp Spider was unfortunately only showing its underside.
I like the feel of the new camera and lens and can only hope it brings as much pleasure the previous one did.