Thanks for the nice feedback everyone. Karl that eagle was one of 20 feasting on fish that were spawning just below a beaver dam. When we got there everyone was full and just sitting around.
Very nice job with these, Rob. Detail look very good considering the low shutter speed you were dealing with. I see 1/25 sec. in the male PF shot! I feel pretty confortable bumping the ISO up to 800 with my 40D (as I did with the 20D). I'm sure your XTi will do a good job also. Did you use a tripod?
In any case: well done. The Evening Grosbeaks are my favorites.
Socrate
Socrate thanks for the kind word and for the reminder about watching my shutter speed. The IS lenses help but I should be using the higher ISO. I do know a well exposed ISO 800 shot beats an underexposed 200 shot every time. I used 800 on the XTI for the grouse I posted here a couple of days ago. It works well with some noise ninja on the background
Rob,
Nice shots. I'd appreciate some basic adivce. I have a 70-200 2.8 IS with a 2x teleconverter, and even using a 10D which gives an additional 1.6 magnification ratio I can't seem to get half as close as you have to these birds, without startling them and having them scatter. The lens with a hood, is already about 14 inches long! I try to be as stealthy as I can be. What type of lens are you using? Did you say you were using a tripod? Thanks
Jay
Vivek Thanks for the comments, the first shot is my favourite.
Jay no secrets here, With the setup you have you'll have no problems. I use an XTI with a 70 - 300mm IS lens mostly handheld (or leaning against a tree). Usually I stand still and wait for the birds to come close enough. They decide who is getting their picture taken.
Rob
Very nice shots.