Anyone following my adventures in dragonfly world will know that of late, I have a particular passion for the Norfolk Hawkers that are at Westbere Lakes. I feel very privileged to have this species close to home and the fact that it is also very rare still in this country, is an added bonus. I have spent many sessions watching, learning and photographing this species and continually trying for photographic excellence which seems to be moving in the right direction. The good news is that they seem to be having a very good year with c25 Norfolk Hawker seen in recent days but no doubt, others are also going unnoticed. They also seem to be spreading slowly in the area and hopefully this trend will continue. With a good number of photos already taken this year, I like a challenge and so have been trying to get a few flight shots of them as they briefly pause in flight. This has proven to be very frustrating but at the same time, very rewarding. I still don't think I have a shot quite as good as last year but I am at least I think, moving forward well with the challenge. With a good number around, I have also been able to find a few to photograph from different angles and this has produced some of my better shots of this species. I shall be back hopefully at the weekend where no doubt, I will continue my pursuit of this cracking looking species and obtain a photo or two!
Norfolk Hawker (male)
A great effort on those flight shots Marc they appear, but are not, easy as i know from recent experience. The close ups look ghood are they with the 180 or 300mm lens ?
ReplyDeleteAll taken with the 300mm lens. Still not really had a chance to get the macro onto a close perched one yet.
DeleteThose eyes!
ReplyDeleteThey are pretty spectacular to look at and very noticeable when you are looking for them in the reeds.
DeleteMarc.
ReplyDeleteWonderfull shots of the Norfolk Hawker in flight. I look forward to seeing some more quite soon.
Thanks Ken. Certainly a challenge but one that I am really enjoying.
DeleteStunning shots as always Marc. Especially the first flight shot and the first perched shot. I wish I lived nearer to Reculver, except when I'm looking for Marbled White and Silver-spotted Skippers of course!! Every site has its diamonds!
ReplyDeleteThanks Bob. I do feel very lucky having all these dragonflies quite close to home. Just hoping they reintroduce the White faced Darter to Thursley soon. That will save a 4 hour drive!
DeleteBlindin' images Marc, though I know what you mean when you say you want better ones. There is always that one image in your mind that never quite makes it onto the camera! How long were you there taking the flight shots, and how many did you delete ? !! LoL
ReplyDeleteCheers Warren. Really pleased of late with my dragonfly photos. I spent about an hour or so trying on and off with them. Must have taken 70 odd and got a few useable ones in there. The magic of digital photography.
DeleteFantastic collection of shots Marc
ReplyDeleteMany thanks Paul, much appreciated.
DeleteIncredible shots Marc, simply super!
ReplyDeleteMany thanks Ian. I can't get enough of this dragonfly photography at the moment.
DeleteA great set of photos Marc.
ReplyDeleteThanks Mike. A good but sometimes frustrating challenge.
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