Well I did it !
Through many months of tele-photo lens product research and reviews , I have purchased a Canon 70-200mm 2.8 lens. One of the key factors in the decision was my approach with taking wildlife pictures. The majority of pics are taken early morning. I have the lens attached and have familiarized myself with its features and ready to go. The weekend weather in central MA sounds a bit challenging. Oh well, stay tuned

I attempted hiking this morning in Quabbin Park. About 8:15 AM the rain had slowed to a light mist. Put my pack on and headed out.

I hadn't hiked a half hour and it started to pour out. I had to keep my camera under my jacket on the hussle back to the truck. I was able to get a few pics using my new lens. I am pleased with the first pics. Tomorrow sounds a bit more promising with the weather.

The first photo was taken  this fall.I am looking out towards Hamilton and Nelson Islands.  Low water conditions present good habitat for birds and mammals in search of food. Hiking from gate 30 to this point had given me  a photo op of a seven point buck . As you will see in the deer photo below, it was taken in poor light conditions. My hiking typically starts right at dawns first light. Although this presents consistent photo opportunities, light conditions are a challenge. My current equipment consists of a Canon7d with a 100 – 400 mm 4.5 lens. I have concluded that I really need a 2.8 lens.
Jim

 

The Start With Hiking Quabbin With A Camera

I thought folks might be interested in my frequent hiking excursions in the confines of Quabbin Reservoir while carrying a camera. Several years back I got the digital camera bug and photographing wildlife. I am an amateur at best learning with each outing. I became really hooked on wildlife and hiking Quabbin back in August of 2011. On this particular morning a female cow moose presented my first real “Big” photo opportunity. This experience started my quest with hiking 500 miles over a sixteen month period. I have logged each outing and all photo opportunities that were presented. Over the next months I will share the highlights of the past 500 miles while including future photo opportunities.
Jim