Good technique - handheld and tripod

[JohnN]

Hi,

I often hear about technique being as important if not more so than kit, now I'm about to receive a 400mm and look forward to it greatly but I don't want to ruin the experience through bad/slovenly technique.

Can you point me in the right direction?

Also I have both monopod and tripod but never really got on with them, but again suspect thats down to how I (mis)use them, again any pointers would be great.

Initially I'd be looking at birds in flight as they seem to be the easiest to spot when just out and about with he family.

Ta.

 

[Werecow]

This should get you started with tripod technique
http://www.moosepeterson.com/techtips/longlens.html

Hand holding a telephoto takes practice as well.
Bracing your elbows against your (straight) body and having your legs in a firm, steady stance with one leg slightly more forward of the other helps a lot, while pressing the eyecup firmly against the face again.

One of the best ideas for non-tripod use of a telephoto is to get a beanbag and find something to rest it on. Laying down flat on the ground with a beanbag is often a recipe for great photos not mainly because of the stability but because of the perspective it provides (especially for wildlife).