View Full Version : Minsmere RSPB meet, 29th April 2007
A couple of us are planning to go to Minsmere RSPB reserve (http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/m/minsmere/index.asp) on Sunday 29th April 2007 with Andy (Pink Fairy - http://www.digiscoped.com/), if anybody is interested please put your name forward to this thread, and we will sort this out.
If several people want to come we will split into groups of 3 or 4 at the most, as it will be in hides, these can take 30+ peole but there will be others there and monopolising the hides may make us a little unpopular ;)
Maybe somewhere like Minsmere rspb in the Spring, you can guarantee plenty there to shoot and big lenses aren't compulsory... can practically guarantee photo opportunities such as Avocet, Marsh Harrier, Godwit, Sedge Warbler, Sand Martin, Swallow, Stonechat, Whitethroat and maybe more exotics like Cetti's and Dartford Warbler.... most importantly, tea room that does good meals and nice cakes!!
Probably late April, would be one of the best locations for the bird photographer... numerous hides to shoot from in case it's wet. Reasonable amount of local accommodation if anyone wants to make it more than one day (Ship Inn in Dunwich does good food and has rooms)
I can guarantee the sound of a Nightingale then, if not much of a view. Maybe Turtle Dove as well.
Current list of attendees :)
IanC_UK
Pink Fairy
Venomator
mrgubby
rickmezza (possible)
Marik
photostar_1 + 1
CT + Jan (possible)
mfwild13
Aidy (possible)
ForbiddenBiker
Venomator
10-12-2006, 16:31
Count Ven in Ian ... at the moment provisionally as it is a long way off ... :D
Know Minsmere well ... one of the RSPB's premiere sites and ace in the Spring ... early start recommended ... although we may have to organise something with the site staff as the place doesn't open that early ... :nono:
:p
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 16:56
Count Ven in Ian ... at the moment provisionally as it is a long way off ... :D
Know Minsmere well ... one of the RSPB's premiere sites and ace in the Spring ... early start recommended ... although we may have to organise something with the site staff as the place doesn't open that early ... :nono:
I know one of the guys there, he leads tours around the place and can always get things done... but for early arrivers (clocks will have gone forward by then), there's plenty of opportunities on the doorstep of Minsmere. Westleton Heath and, more importantly, Dunwich Heath NT (which overlooks Minsmere)... where I can promise views of the very scarce Dartford Warbler, and hopefully photos as well.
The numerous hides are large and can support 30+ but smaller groups will probably be the order of the day for the sake of peace.
There is a tearoom/eaterie (due for expansion soon) that does meals (nice homemade lasagne) and some exceedingly nice homemade cakes... i think they are licensed to sell alcohol as well, though don't quote me on that.
cheers,
Andy
Venomator
10-12-2006, 17:06
Dunwich Heath NT (which overlooks Minsmere)... where I can promise views of the very scarce Dartford Warbler, and hopefully photos as well.
Agree with that ... almost guaranteed fabulous views of this diminutive little warbler ... never tried photographing it ... it is challenging enough to 'scope the little beggars ... worth trying though ... :D
There is a tearoom/eaterie
Complete with obligatory gift shop, close up feeders and Hawkmoths on the woodwork too ... :thinking:
:p
lol im looking forward to it already ;) i may have some new toys to try out before too ;)
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 17:10
Yes, I said 30+ in a hide.. but maybe 5 photographers with 500/4 lenses ;)
Yes, I said 30+ in a hide.. but maybe 5 photographers with 500/4 lenses ;)
lol ;)
Venomator
10-12-2006, 17:12
but maybe 5 photographers with 500/4 lenses ;)
Oh dear ... better start saving then ... :D
What excuse ... :naughty: ... don't know what you mean ... :suspect:
:p
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 17:38
o.k. to put something down we can maybe aim for as for a date... Sunday April 29th?
A long time off, I know.
Timing is quite important, this date should coincide with a number of summer birds arriving in the country and feeding up in the coastal area... hopefully many of the summer warblers and maybe Hobby. Despite it's 'Blue Tit stroker' reputation, Minsmere does pick up some very good rare birds, so almost anything is possible during migration times.
A number of the birds will be gearing up for mating/nesting, which means territorial birds singing from nicely exposed perches... where-as for the rest of the year they can be out of sight.
Would 300mm be long enough ? , Dont really want to end up cropping of 90% of the photo :).
Oh , has anybody tried RSPB at Sandy , only live 15 miles away but haven't tried yet :embarrassed:
//edit//
A shot from my bird box , get Great Tits each year & I stream it on the web :)
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/brian.pitblado/old_chick.jpg
Oh , has anybody tried RSPB at Sandy , only live 15 miles away but haven't tried yet :embarrassed:
I keep meaning to try it, i only live in Northampton so its not hideously far away for me either, and work is only just down the A1 from it ! :)
o.k. to put something down we can maybe aim for as for a date... Sunday April 29th?
A long time off, I know.
Timing is quite important, this date should coincide with a number of summer birds arriving in the country and feeding up in the coastal area... hopefully many of the summer warblers and maybe Hobby. Despite it's 'Blue Tit stroker' reputation, Minsmere does pick up some very good rare birds, so almost anything is possible during migration times.
A number of the birds will be gearing up for mating/nesting, which means territorial birds singing from nicely exposed perches... where-as for the rest of the year they can be out of sight.
Sounds good to me Andy, yes it is a fair way off, but gives something to aim for :)
Venomator
10-12-2006, 17:43
A number of the birds will be gearing up for mating/nesting, which means territorial birds singing from nicely exposed perches... where-as for the rest of the year they can be out of sight.
Should still get the Bittern 'booming' too ... :thinking:
Real eerie ... :D
Would 300mm be long enough ? , Dont really want to end up cropping of 90% of the photo .
Oh , has anybody tried RSPB at Sandy , only live 15 miles away but haven't tried yet
I stand to be corrected by PF ... but your 300mm should be good for most of the locations MrG ... although a TC might be useful ... :shrug:
Sandy is not one of the RSPB's top birding sites ... great for woodland species ... and has a small marshy/pond area where Marsh & Willow Tits can sometimes be found ... ;)
Worth visiting if you are that close MrG ... you would have great views of Tit flocks that generally also include Goldcrest and Long-Tailed Tits at this time of year ... and you might pick up Nuthatch as well as the three 'peckers ... if you are lucky and can seek out the Lesser Spotted ... :suspicious:
Once the leaves are back on the trees it is difficult to see many species ... although you can hear them all around you ... :shrug:
:p
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 17:48
Would 300mm be long enough ? , Dont really want to end up cropping of 90% of the photo :).
Oh , has anybody tried RSPB at Sandy , only live 15 miles away but haven't tried yet :embarrassed:
400mm would be better, but with the large waders like Avocet and Godwit quite close to the hides, you should be o.k. You could well get close enough to the Swallows that loiter at the sluice area and with a handheld lens, you could be better off than many of us with big lenses for opportunistic shots of tricky little buggers like Cetti's Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Bearded Tit and maybe Nightingale... which can pop up very close but not for long.
RSPB HQ at Sandy is a nice place in summer with a few reasonable species to see, but not ideal for the photographer. Herts and Beds are not the greatest bird counties :( One day I'll live on the north Norfolk Coast ;)
tried to express my interest earlier but the forum timed out on me...2nd time lucky?
Worked this time Robert :)
My parents live in Lincolnshire Andy, so i just need to find the decent places near here to look myself, i know Titchwell RSPB isnt too far :)
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 17:54
Should still get the Bittern 'booming' too ... :thinking:
Real eerie ... :D
:p
Yes, very much on the cards... and it is a real experience to hear that sound. You'd rather be alongside someone when you hear a Bittern booming in the gloom, it's spooky :)
Venomator
10-12-2006, 17:54
You mean Titchwell Ian ... :thinking:
Really fabulous site pretty much any time of year ... my favourite of all RSPB sites ... :thumbs:
:p
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 17:55
i know Titchmarsh RSPB isnt too far :)
That annoying little man gets everywhere these days... or do you mean Titchwell RSPB ;)
You mean Titchwell Ian ... :thinking:
Really fabulous site pretty much any time of year ... my favourite of all RSPB sites ... :thumbs:
:p
Erm :nuts: yeah that would be the one ! :help: Must be because its Titchwell Marsh ! lol i customised its name ! lol
That annoying little man gets everywhere these days... or do you mean Titchwell RSPB ;)
LOL erm :nuts: :D corrected it now !
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 18:04
Titchwell is probably a bit more of a hardcore birder reserve (though not in the Cley league of snobbery), and tends to get packed out more on sundays, especially at that time of year.
I suspect a group of photographers would get a more favourable reception at Minsmere, than Titchwell.
Titchwell is probably a bit more of a hardcore birder reserve (though not in the Cley league of snobbery), and tends to get packed out more on sundays, especially at that time of year.
I suspect a group of photographers would get a more favourable reception at Minsmere, than Titchwell.
Yeah i think Minsmere will be good, never been to either :) dont really have any great sites near me either. Although went to Rutland a couple times this year to see the Ospreys ! :)
I may plan a trip to Titchwell for myself just to see whats going on, and what its like :) as its not far from my parents.
Venomator
10-12-2006, 18:17
I suspect a group of photographers would get a more favourable reception at Minsmere, than Titchwell.
Absolutely ... was not suggesting we change venue ... :eek:
And there is far more room at Minsmere anyway ... with a much greater variety of habitats ... :thumbs:
Titchwell is very much a place to avoid on Sundays pretty much any time of year ... :shake: ... if you can get there in the week Ian you would enjoy it far more ... :shrug:
Best time to go is probably late February onwards now ... although there is always something going on most of the year ... in March you have the benefit of much longer daylight hours and ... unlike Minsmere there are no real time constraints as it is a public footpath running the length of the reserve (although you prob wouldn't get in the hides until they open ... :thinking:
:p
Thanks Ven, i would plan to go midweek anyway, i get 27 days holiday a year and need to use it up ;)
Ill leave it until Feb or later before i go there :)
RickMezza
10-12-2006, 18:34
Would love to go to this meet, though my puny 70-300 Sigma would be seriously outgunned :shake:
Might have to start doing some saving :help:
Its a long way from Yorkshire but I've wanted to go to Minsmere since I were a kid in the YOC, but I never made it.
Put me down as a possible please, if thats ok?
Rich
Sounds like jolly good fun, what kind of kit is going to be required? :(
Venomator
10-12-2006, 18:43
Sounds like jolly good fun, what kind of kit is going to be required? :(
Minsmere is quite a versatile location and should suit everyone's gear ... ;)
Some of the hides/locations might benefit from the longer lenses though ... depends what you are after ... :shrug:
:p
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 18:43
Would love to go to this meet, though my puny 70-300 Sigma would be seriously outgunned :shake:
Might have to start doing some saving :help:
Its a long way from Yorkshire but I've wanted to go to Minsmere since I were a kid in the YOC, but I never made it.
Put me down as a possible please, if thats ok?
Rich
As I said above, 300mm isn't the end of the world... there are some large birds at Minsmere, and they can be quite close to the hides.
If anyone is looking for some local accommodation
http://www.shipinndunwich.co.uk/
Sweet, well put my name down for this, will bring me 70-200 w/ 1.4tc
Venomator
10-12-2006, 18:48
And here is a bit of info on the site itself ... ;)
Minsmere RSPB (http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/m/minsmere/index.asp)
:p
Have created a list of those interested in the original Post :)
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 18:55
One thing has just crossed my mind... though of no real importance. Minsmere do run a 'birdfair' of sorts over a weekend in April, I've attended them as part of the Zeiss stand for the last few years but this event is getting smaller and smaller and now is just a few optics companies (Leica, Swarovski, Zeiss and Viking Optic) who are probably debating the worth of attending... so it could well be that it's a non-event from now on.
Last year was dire, with very few extra people turning up for this 'event'... so even if it does go ahead, it's not going to have much of an impact on how busy the reserve is.
We can always keep an eye on it nearer the event Andy, although as you say it may not have that great an impact.
Matt Charlton
10-12-2006, 19:00
would love to come on this but its the day after the knowsley visit and three hours away by car so we'll have to give it a miss, sorry.
Pink Fairy
10-12-2006, 19:02
Oh, and Wildsounds are usualy at the Minsmere birdfair... Duncan and his merry crew are a great laugh, almost hope they are there when we go :)
Venomator
10-12-2006, 19:05
Oh, and Wildsounds are usualy at the Minsmere birdfair... Duncan and his merry crew are a great laugh, almost hope they are there when we go :)
Their 'Events' list only goes to Easter w/end at the mo ... 03rd April ... ;)
:p
photostar_1
10-12-2006, 19:06
Andy, I might just be tempted! Put me as a maybe, please. ;)
RickMezza
10-12-2006, 19:13
As I said above, 300mm isn't the end of the world... there are some large birds at Minsmere, and they can be quite close to the hides.
Just had a search for a lens...this should do...
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/NIKON-600mm-ED-F4-AF-S-lens-NEW-No-reserve-price_W0QQitemZ290060740937QQihZ019QQcategoryZ3343 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
sshhhhhh, don't tell anyone cos ot looks like a bargain at £10.50 :suspect: :suspect: :suspect: :suspect: ;)
Venomator
10-12-2006, 19:20
Just had a search for a lens...this should do...
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/NIKON-600mm-ED-F4-AF-S-lens-NEW-No-reserve-price_W0QQitemZ290060740937QQihZ019QQcategoryZ3343 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
sshhhhhh, don't tell anyone cos ot looks like a bargain at £10.50 :suspect: :suspect: :suspect: ;)
HeHe ... wouldn't that be good ... ;)
Seller might have 100% Feedback ... but only 10 records ... and would you be mad to bid well into 4 figures for a relatively new bidder ... and from Slovenia ... :eek:
Much as I would love one of these ... esp at £21.79 ... but really ...:suspect: :suspect: :suspect:
:p
RickMezza
10-12-2006, 19:37
HeHe ... wouldn't that be good ... ;)
Seller might have 100% Feedback ... but only 10 records ... and would you be mad to bid well into 4 figures for a relatively new bidder ... and from Slovenia ... :eek:
Much as I would love one of these ... esp at £21.79 ... but really ...:suspect: :suspect: :suspect:
:p
yes, for a moment I thought about bidding, but its not even worth a try at £100 - definitely suss :suspect: :)
Aw well, I've just have to save some more pennies ;)
mfwild13
10-12-2006, 20:21
I may plan a trip to Titchwell for myself just to see whats going on, and what its like :) as its not far from my parents.
Give me a shout if you do make it over in the week as I'm working about 10 mins drive from there and may need to attend an 'offsite' meeting ;)
Wish I had known you could walk around it outside of 'normal hours' - thanks Ven!
Count me in for Minsmere too.
just checked my diary and i'm already booked that weekend for the surfing in Scotland, so will have to give it a miss.
Obviously I'm interested in this, although it's a 7 hour drive (both ways) for me so it would have to be an overnighter, with Jan booking the Monday off. Shouldn't be a problem, so put me down pending confirmation a little closer to the date. :)
just checked my diary and i'm already booked that weekend for the surfing in Scotland, so will have to give it a miss.
Sorry to hear that Mark ! :(
Give me a shout if you do make it over in the week as I'm working about 10 mins drive from there and may need to attend an 'offsite' meeting ;)
Wish I had known you could walk around it outside of 'normal hours' - thanks Ven!
Count me in for Minsmere too.
Will do mate :) probably wont be until Feb though :)
Obviously I'm interested in this, although it's a 7 hour drive (both ways) for me so it would have to be an overnighter, with Jan booking the Monday off. Shouldn't be a problem, so put me down pending confirmation a little closer to the date. :)
Ill probably do an overnighter on it too, maybe even 2 nights :)
DAMN!
Was definately interested... then looked at the map.
Wrong side of the known universe. It's over 6 hours away... :( :nono:
Sorry to hear that Mark ! :(
Me too it should be a good weekend, But i'm covering the surfing in scotland for the whole week, and that weekend is when the finals are, Its shaping up for a busy year of events for me already.
I'm quite lucky in that i live about 20 mins away from Old Moor RSPB reserve.
well busy is always a good thing when it pays the bills :)
well busy is always a good thing when it pays the bills :)
Yes it is, as i'm looking to put either a 300 / 400 2.8 in the bag soon, for all those surfers that dont go far from the beech.
Venomator
11-12-2006, 17:01
Just had a search for a lens...this should do...
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/NIKON-600mm-ED-F4-AF-S-lens-NEW-No-reserve-price_W0QQitemZ290060740937QQihZ019QQcategoryZ3343 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
sshhhhhh, don't tell anyone cos ot looks like a bargain at £10.50 :suspect: :suspect:
Can you believe how much that went for ... :eek: :cuckoo: :eek:
£1,360 ... !?! (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=019&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=290060740937&rd=1&rd=1)
Gotta be something fishy surely ... :thinking:
Hasn't there ... :bang: ... hoping ... :gag:
The buyer has bought some camera stuff before .... including a Nikkor 300mm ... but really ...
:p
am I going to be the youngest going to this meeting? :(
Venomator
11-12-2006, 17:24
What's that got to do with the price of a 600mm AF-S ... or cheese ... :D
:p
Pink Fairy
11-12-2006, 17:40
Gotta be something fishy surely ... :thinking:
Hasn't there ... :bang: ... hoping ... :gag:
The buyer has bought some camera stuff before .... including a Nikkor 300mm ... but really ...
:p
Don't worry about the buyer, it's the seller who gets scarier the deeper you dig.
Definitely a scam.
Notice how the previous buyers had such low feedback, also notice the links in 'how to get rich quick' items purchased by this ring... and note the purchase 'how non-residents can set-up a bank account in the u.s'
You haven't missed a bargain, rest assured. Nobody would sell this lens at that price.
Venomator
11-12-2006, 17:56
Oh I know that ... :eek: ... just wishful thinking on my part ... :D
Especially when you see what this one went for ... even so this one seems like a good deal ... :thinking:
500mm AF-S ... ! (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=006&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=160059593628&rd=1&rd=1)
:p
RickMezza
11-12-2006, 18:50
Oh I know that ... :eek: ... just wishful thinking on my part ... :D
Especially when you see what this one went for ... even so this one seems like a good deal ... :thinking:
500mm AF-S ... ! (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=006&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=160059593628&rd=1&rd=1)
:p
500mm f1.4 ...eh, surely not. Is that a real lens, never heard of a 500mm that fast:shrug:
re: the Nikon 600mm, gotta be a scam. They just used a stock pic of the lens too.
I'm looking at a Sigma 500mm f4.5, I see from your site (Pink Fairy) that you used to have one and seemed to like it when you've reviewed it. Would it be any good on a Nikon D70 or would the focussing of a D200 / D2x make better use of it (not that I could afford a D2x :'( ) ?
Thanks,
Rich
Pink Fairy
11-12-2006, 19:39
Oh I know that ... :eek: ... just wishful thinking on my part ... :D
Especially when you see what this one went for ... even so this one seems like a good deal ... :thinking:
500mm AF-S ... ! (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=006&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=160059593628&rd=1&rd=1)
:p
Or even this dodgy geezer http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280046515291
selling a rough series one (year 1999-2000) 600/4 ... criminal :)
Pink Fairy
11-12-2006, 19:46
500mm f1.4 ...eh, surely not. Is that a real lens, never heard of a 500mm that fast:shrug:
re: the Nikon 600mm, gotta be a scam. They just used a stock pic of the lens too.
I'm looking at a Sigma 500mm f4.5, I see from your site (Pink Fairy) that you used to have one and seemed to like it when you've reviewed it. Would it be any good on a Nikon D70 or would the focussing of a D200 / D2x make better use of it (not that I could afford a D2x :'( ) ?
Thanks,
Rich
Technically 1:4 is correct, though maybe not f1:4
Yep, I loved the little Sigma 500/4.5 ... bargain if you can get a used one for around £1000-1200. Should be fine on a D70, even with a 1.4x teleconverter (although seems to be some compatability problems with some newer Kenko tc's).
Many lenses are much of a muchness as far as AF speed goes , AF-S, HSM, USM, it's more down to in-camera AF ability than anything, and that's mainly in regards to AF tracking of moving subjects. For static, single AF, they don't vary much between cameras.
cheers,
Andy
RickMezza
11-12-2006, 19:58
Technically 1:4 is correct, though maybe not f1:4
Yep, I loved the little Sigma 500/4.5 ... bargain if you can get a used one for around £1000-1200. Should be fine on a D70, even with a 1.4x teleconverter (although seems to be some compatability problems with some newer Kenko tc's).
cheers,
Andy
Thanks for the info Andy :thumbs:
Put me down for a possible for me as well, as this is localish to me (only about 45 mins away). Have to get myself a telephoto for my Fuji S5000 before then, as I went earlier in the year, and needed something a little better!!!
RichardtheSane
16-12-2006, 14:51
Was about to put my name down till I realised it was a 4 hour journey :(
Might get across to Titchwell sometime, that is in range :)
am I going to be the youngest going to this meeting? :(
I would have loved to go, if I had a good enough lens for it. But I don't, so it'd be kind of pointless.
Forbiddenbiker
26-12-2006, 18:20
Put me down please Ian, a long way off, but it's in the diary so I should be fine for it.
Some proper wildlife, and not two far for me this time. :thumbs: ...hopefully I'll have some converters by then ...I'm going to need them eh. :)
Pink Fairy
10-01-2007, 18:53
May have a spare lens for a Canon user on the day... 300/2.8 I.S. and a teleconverter.
cheers,
Andy
May have a spare lens for a Canon user on the day... 300/2.8 I.S. and a teleconverter.
cheers,
Andy
I reckon that will get snapped up rather quick! :D
IanC for one..
Pink Fairy
10-01-2007, 20:08
I forgot the word 'lease' ;)
lmao ;) cheeky bu99er Joe !
very generous Andy :) am sure someone will benefit greatly if its available :)
and if i havent nicked it first ;) of course
Venomator
11-01-2007, 16:50
very generous Andy :) am sure someone will benefit greatly if its available :)
and if i havent nicked it first ;) of course
So that'll be a yes then Ian ... ;)
:p
RickMezza
11-01-2007, 17:16
May have a spare lens for a Canon user on the day... 300/2.8 I.S. and a teleconverter.
cheers,
Andy
I wish you still had your Nikon gear :bang: :bang: :'( :'(
Very generous offer for all them Canon folk though :thumbs:
photostar_1
11-01-2007, 19:25
I think I may go on the Sat and stay over, as its a fair way from here and I hate early starts. I've never done anything like this before, so should be interesting. Are the hides a long way from the car parks? The reason I ask is I might bring my (inherited) scope if I don't have to carry it too far....but I have no carry case for it and am scared of damaging it.
What do you think, Andy?
Venomator
11-01-2007, 23:06
There are some fairly long walks to and between the hides PS ... but taking reasonable care you shouldn't be in any danger of damaging any of your gear ... :shrug:
:p
I think I may go on the Sat and stay over, as its a fair way from here and I hate early starts. I've never done anything like this before, so should be interesting. Are the hides a long way from the car parks? The reason I ask is I might bring my (inherited) scope if I don't have to carry it too far....but I have no carry case for it and am scared of damaging it.
What do you think, Andy?
What make of scope is it ? can get stay on cases for them for protection ?
I think a few of us are going to be staying over ! I need to look at that hotel link Andy put out !! :)
photostar_1
12-01-2007, 13:17
Ok, my husband has decided to come with me, so I have just booked us both into the pub recommended (Ship Inn) for Sat night.
Next question is....should I get a 1x4 converter for our Canon 70-300mm IS lens? Not sure whether its worth the loss of a stop for the gain of 100mm.........any advice?
Ok, my husband has decided to come with me, so I have just booked us both into the pub recommended (Ship Inn) for Sat night.
Next question is....should I get a 1x4 converter for our Canon 70-300mm IS lens? Not sure whether its worth the loss of a stop for the gain of 100mm.........any advice?
Cool :)
I dont think your lens will fit the Canon extender, it has a reduced compatibility list :(
I will have my 1.4 and 2 TC with me so you can try them.
A sigma converter may fit as it doesnt protrude so far past the edge of the converter. But i cant say for certain if it will or not ! Sorry .
photostar_1
12-01-2007, 21:24
Thanks for that. It never occurred to me that all Canon kit wasn't compatible! :( Boy, have I still got a lot to learn!!!
The converters were only created for certain lenses, fixed length above 300mm and the 70-200's and 100-400 i think ! there is a list out there somewhere but damned if i can find it ! lol
Pink Fairy
13-01-2007, 16:25
It seems as if there's a Birdforum 'bash' (unknown number but maybe not great) at Minsmere over the saturday and sunday... and they usually have a drink in the Ship Inn on the saturday night.
I think they're doing a local wander on the saturday and then minsmere on the sunday. One of the minsmere wardens, Ivan, is arranging and leading the BF side of things... and I dare say there'll be a few BF bird photographers amongst them, if anyone wishes to go with them. BF bashes aren't heavy duty birding events, being a mix of casual and more experienced birders mingling amiably.
I have also been advised that the mini optics fair is being run that weekend, but as I said before... it's not a big event.
Remember that Minsmere is an RSPB reserve, so it will cost to get in if you're not a member... best join the rspb before the weekend and get in free, though you can join at the visitor centre :thumbs:
photostar_1
22-03-2007, 23:05
Ok, so April is nearly here.......who is going to this meet? Me and hubby are booked into the Ship inn, so will be ready bright and whatever, on the morning of the 29th. Do we have any schedule yet...when to meet, where to meet etc??
Hope my 70-200 + x2 converter gets here in time!
good point, i will be attending (he says quickly scribbling in his calendar again ;))
photostar_1
23-03-2007, 00:01
Anyone seen or heard from Andy lately? Hope he hasn't forgotten about this! Anyone else planning on going?
I'm still interested but can't say for sure yet. We wont be able to do the overnight thing and it's a lot of driving for one day.
Pink Fairy
24-03-2007, 10:22
Sorry, been away for the last week (I'd planned to bump this next week).... but still looking forward to the day at Minsmere (and the following week in the area for me)
I was thinking 9am meet outside the entrance to RSPB Minsmere centre.
Then, after showing member cards, or paying entrance fees, we can take a tour of the seaward part of the reserve... not quite a circular tour, as we should have a detour to Dunwich Heath.
Chances are we could spend some time in East Hide, where there should be good photo opportunities. Ending the, not quite, circular morning tour back at the reserve centre at around 1pm to enjoy refreshments in the minsmere restaurant.
Suitably refreshed, we can then do the interior of the reserve, maybe getting lucky at the Bittern Hide. I'm not quite as familiar with the route to Island Mere, hopefully 'Ven' does ;)
If anyone wants a really early meet on Westleton Heath at 7.30am, then we can see whats about there... Nightingale for sure, maybe Turtle Dove as well.
Thsi little patch is just before you get to Dunwich on the Westleton road... HERE (http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=645895&y=269645&z=3&sv=645895,269645&st=4&ar=Y&mapp=newmap.srf&searchp=newsearch.srf)
Sounds good to me, still hopefully going to be able to make it! Aslong as I'm still allowed :(
Sounds good to me, still hopefully going to be able to make it! Aslong as I'm still allowed :(
Why wouldnt you be allowed ?
Dans been a naughty boy on the forums lately :(
Dans been a naughty boy on the forums lately :(
So stop it then ? LOL get a grip man !
Peer pressure! Raging hormones! etc.
Forbiddenbiker
25-03-2007, 14:52
Wrong peers then..? ;) Lol.
I'm still up for going... If I get my extension tubes... which I will... probably. :thumbs:
photostar_1
25-03-2007, 17:19
Guy and I will be there, but not 07:30!!
Pink Fairy
25-03-2007, 20:15
If I get my extension tubes... which I will... probably. :thumbs:
Wow, now thats what I call an optimstic outlook in being able to get that close to the birds that extn tubes will be needed ;)
Seriously though, I will have a spare 1.4x Canon extender/teleconverter for use on the day if anyone needs a bit of extra reach.
cheers,
Andy
Can't say for certain yet but definitely considering this outing :)
im going to try to be there for 730, not sure if ill be staying over yet, may drive down in the morning, will have to see ! :)
Ian, wanna sort something out with the driving? don't have to of course, just a thought
I'm up for this, but won't know if I can make it until nearer the time.
Does it need pre-booking of spaces or can I just turn up?!
Pink Fairy
28-03-2007, 10:37
No, no need to book, just turn up if you can.
cheers
Andy
Cool. Hopefully I'll be able to make it, as I really enjoyed my visit to Elmley RSPB the other day...
For those questioning about shorter lenses, I took my 100-400 to Elmley, and had no issues getting some fairly close up shots....
Pink Fairy
28-03-2007, 10:59
Cool. Hopefully I'll be able to make it, as I really enjoyed my visit to Elmley RSPB the other day...
For those questioning about shorter lenses, I took my 100-400 to Elmley, and had no issues getting some fairly close up shots....
400mm should be fine. And in anycase, just because you can't get a bird filling the frame doesn't matter... there's far more to bird photography than a single bird filling the viewfinder :)
cheers,
Andy
400mm should be fine. And in anycase, just because you can't get a bird filling the frame doesn't matter... there's far more to bird photography than a single bird filling the viewfinder :)
cheers,
Andy
That's what heavy cropping is for :lol:
No, seriously, I found I was fine. A lot of the birds I found were fairly tame and I was able to approach to a reasonable distance anyway.
Plus, I found a lot of the time I wasnt even using the camera - just stood there admiring the view and the behaviour of the birds. It truly is a wonderful day out. :thumbs:
Me thinks Minsmere is going to be busy that Sunday....
http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=69267&page=1&pp=25
For those that don't have a birdforum account, please explain :P
For those that don't have a birdforum account, please explain :P
Sorry, thought anyone could read posts on their forum.
Basically, they're also looking at a Minsmere meet on the weekend of 28th/29th April....!
Could be cosy in the hides! :thumbs:
ah gay :/
I hate busy places :(
Pink Fairy
31-03-2007, 17:48
Lol, an extra dozen or so people from BF (and that could be optimistic) isn't going to make any difference at all on a reserve of this size... I'm not sure what size of hides you are used to, but there are numerous big double deckers at minsmere, capable of 40+ people in each.
double deckers? :o
My usuall hide size is 6 people max :o
Pink Fairy
01-04-2007, 22:13
double deckers? :o
Two tier hides, upstairs or downstairs, (full seating) :) No expense spared at the RSPB's premier reserve
******* hell :<
going to be interestting
Pink Fairy
18-04-2007, 12:09
Not long now. Do we have a list of definites?
photostar_1
18-04-2007, 12:12
Definately me (Carole) and husband (Guy). Really looking forward to this. I know nothing at all about birds, so this is a new venture.
Pink Fairy
18-04-2007, 12:23
Definately me (Carole) and husband (Guy). Really looking forward to this. I know nothing at all about birds, so this is a new venture.
Excellent :clap:
Birds? To encapsulate them, they're always smaller and further away than you'd hope ;)
Latest sightings for Minsmere can be seen here
http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/m/minsmere/sightings.asp
photostar_1
18-04-2007, 12:29
.. they're always smaller and further away than you'd hope ;)
Hope my 70-200 + x2 converter will be enough. Going to bring my AT80 scope as well (just for looking at those feathery things in the distance). Even though I bought the expensive Swarovski special adaptor, I still don't seem able to get sharp images, so have given up on that.
Hope my 70-200 + x2 converter will be enough. Going to bring my AT80 scope as well (just for looking at those feathery things in the distance). Even though I bought the expensive Swarovski special adaptor, I still don't seem able to get sharp images, so have given up on that.
LOL for digiscoping you cant get better for advice than Andy (Pink Fairy) :)
photostar_1
20-04-2007, 20:16
I'm hoping for a bit of friendly advice ;)
heheheh well Andy's website is here http://www.digiscoped.com/ :)
Pink Fairy
26-04-2007, 10:26
Seems as if interest in this has dried up after the initial enthusiasm (even Ven had disappeared). Bit of good news if you're not an RSPB member, is that Minsmere is free entry over the weekend.
cheers,
Andy
well i think there will still be some of us there Andy, hopefully Ven now he has returned will be able to show too ! ;)
ill pm my mobile number over ! :)
photostar_1
26-04-2007, 12:26
Me & Guy still on for Sunday. I've PM'd you my mobile number.
Venomator
26-04-2007, 21:48
Seems as if interest in this has dried up after the initial enthusiasm (even Ven had disappeared). Bit of good news if you're not an RSPB member, is that Minsmere is free entry over the weekend.
I am really, really sorry Andy (and everyone else) but I have recently been facing a bit of a personal dilemma and try as I might I cannot see myself making the meet on Sunday ... :(
I have a number of personal things getting in the way of a day of freedom for Sunday ... and heaven knows I desperately wanted to visit Minsmere ... for reasons other than a TPF meet ... :shrug:
At the moment there does not appear to be a solution for me but I haven't given up all hope ... yet ... :shake:
If I don't make it I wish you all a wonderful day and I will, you may rest assured be thinking of you with envious sulkings ... :suspect: ... have a great day ... :thumbs:
:p
photostar_1
26-04-2007, 22:00
Sorry you can't make it Ven....was looking forward to seeing if you really are green!! ;) Hope things work out the way you want them to. :hug:
Venomator
26-04-2007, 22:05
Thanx a lot PS ... but you'll have to take my word for it ... I am ... very ... :D
Hope you enjoy your day ... ;)
:p
shame Ven, hope things improve for you mate, if you can make it we will have to make sure you can spot us ! lol
Venomator
26-04-2007, 22:09
we will have to make sure you can spot us ! lol
Cheers Ian ... :thumbs: ... if perchance I did I don't really think you would have any trouble spotting me ... even in a crowd ... :lol:
:p
well 2 of us with rocket launchers shouldnt be hard to spot ;)
Venomator
26-04-2007, 22:25
:lol:
:p
chuckles
27-04-2007, 13:11
Sounds a fun meet with lots of serious glass around....
Marianne and I will probably be going to Aldeburgh as we love the town. Not too sure about the twitchy bit.... not our real thing :(
So, if anybody's interested in a 'secondary' meet let us know!
Pink Fairy
27-04-2007, 23:20
Thanx a lot PS ... but you'll have to take my word for it ... I am ... very ... :D
Hope you enjoy your day ... ;)
:p
Thanks Ven, so sorry to hear about your problems, I'm sure we all know how much you would've loved to come, as the event was right up your street and nothing but the most serious matter would have prevented you from making an appearance.
Good luck :thumbs:
cheers
Andy
Just too far for us and we can't do the over-nighter. I hope you all have a great day and I look forward to the great pics and not trying to feel too pig sick. :D
Forbiddenbiker
28-04-2007, 10:34
I'm out as well guys...a 13 year old with a far more active life than me needs me on Sunday and as he lives with his mum I tend to grab all available opportunities .... type thing.
You guys deserve a reason I thought. ...Have a goodun... I'm going to be gutted when I see your shots I know. :(
:thumbs: :)
Pink Fairy
28-04-2007, 11:54
If anyone can pop along, great... if not, no worries :thumbs:
cheers,
Andy
Yo guys, I reminded work last night, but they had forgot about it, so I aint going to be able to get the time off, apologises all round, sorry
well should be about 4 of us i think Andy, maybe more if Barry and Marianne pop along a little later plus anybody that finds they have time i guess ! :) , im aiming to be there at about (and its a very about) 730 ish lol driving down from Spalding where my parents live, says its about 2 hours, 530 on a sunday morning ! lol eeeeek !
Well the original list of attendees was as below,
IanC_UK
Pink Fairy
Venomator
mrgubby
rickmezza (possible)
Marik
photostar_1 + 1
CT + Jan (possible)
mfwild13
Aidy (possible)
ForbiddenBiker
I think we are down to
IanC_UK
Pink Fairy
photostar_1 + 1
Possibly Barry and Marianne (not 100% confirmed yet as will be at Aldeburgh)
If anybody else is still hoping to attend let us know this evening, either in here or via PM :) and we can arrange meeting times etc etc.
If anyone wants a really early meet on Westleton Heath at 7.30am, then we can see whats about there... Nightingale for sure, maybe Turtle Dove as well.
This little patch is just before you get to Dunwich on the Westleton road... HERE (http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=645895&y=269645&z=3&sv=645895,269645&st=4&ar=Y&mapp=newmap.srf&searchp=newsearch.srf)
For the early birds (pun intended) lol
Pink Fairy
28-04-2007, 17:59
For the early birds (pun intended) lol
No problem if you want to leave a bit later and just get to the Minsmere car park for 9.am. It's just that I'm usually at that location around that time (silver vectra hatch)
cheers,
Andy
im aiming to be there around 730 Andy, says 2 and half hours from here, but should be able to cut some time from that, TOMTOM is usually a little out on timings.
looks like Bird forum have about 10 people there on the day too, plus the optics fair, and also it sounds like local TV have been advertising it too, so may be a few people there if good weather. Still looking like being a great day ! :)
mfwild13
28-04-2007, 21:57
Well the original list of attendees was as below,
...
mfwild13
...
Really sorry I can't make it guys. Father-in-Laws 60th birthday clashes with it and 'she who must be obeyed' says I have to go to the party!
I was really looking forward to checking out the 600mm's. Hope you have a great time.
Mark
Shame you couldnt make it Mark, the 600 isnt that big, Photostar_1 can tell you ! lol
Was a good day though :) am definitely going back to get some better Marsh Harrier shots, was rammed today due to being advertised on TV and free entry !
mfwild13
29-04-2007, 21:30
Thanks mate, glad you had a good day despite the crowds.
Went to Snettisham last week to try and see the spectacular sight of all the wading birds swooping as the tide comes in. Unfortunately the tide was a bit slow so I had to go to work before it all happened - could see it starting out to see but just couldn't wait any longer.
Going to see whats happening at Titchwell this week. Early morning midweek looks like a favourable tide.
photostar_1
29-04-2007, 22:01
Shame you couldnt make it Mark, the 600 isnt that big, Photostar_1 can tell you ! lol
...it's bl**dy huge!! :lol: Take a look at the Monkey thread!
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