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Wildlife, landscape and weather photography

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Holidays with heroes

December 26, 2020 by Tony Leave a Comment

Holidays with heroes
Wreaths decorate veterans’ gravesites at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)

I stopped by Fort Logan National Cemetery this morning to visit my dad. This is the 10th Christmas since he has been gone and in many ways it doesn’t get easier. I sat and talked to him for quite a while, shed more than a few tears.

Afterwards, I wandered the rows of headstones, contemplating all of the brave men and women that stake their final resting place on that hallowed ground. The cemetery is a beautiful and peaceful place, any time of year.

During the holidays though, it is even more special as his and many other veterans’ graves are decorated with wreaths for Christmas. The red ribbons and green pine really pop against the gray marble of the markers and provide a fresh reminder to never forget those who served this nation and are no longer with us.

Wreaths decorate veterans' gravesites at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Colorado. (© Tony's Takes)
Wreaths decorate veterans’ gravesites at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)
Wreaths decorate veterans' gravesites at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Colorado. (© Tony's Takes)
Wreaths decorate veterans’ gravesites at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)
Wreaths decorate veterans' gravesites at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Colorado. (© Tony's Takes)
Wreaths decorate veterans’ gravesites at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)
Wreaths decorate veterans' gravesites at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Colorado. (© Tony's Takes)
Wreaths decorate veterans’ gravesites at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)

My first impressions: Canon R5 mirrorless digital camera

August 8, 2020 by Tony Leave a Comment

My first impressions: Canon R5 mirrorless digital camera
Hummingbird samples some fireweed. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 300mm, 1/2000, f/8, ISO 500,

When word about the Canon R5 started to leak more than a year ago, I knew it was something I had to have. I began saving my pennies and was lucky enough to be among the first to receive it just more than a week ago. 

I know many of my photo enthusiast friends are curious to hear what I think so I thought I would put together some quick-hitting thoughts along with some sample images. It should be noted that most of my usage was in the mountains before the sun had hit the valley floors so these images also show you a bit about the low-light capability of the camera.  Much of my impressions will be in comparison to the 5D Mark IV as that has been my primary camera for over a year now. 

All images taken with the Canon R5 (obviously) mated to a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM with the EF to RF adapter and a CFexpress card in the camera. As this will be my primary wildlife camera, I have yet to experiment with other lenses with it.

Size. Noticeably smaller than the 5D Mark IV but it still feels nice in my hand. After using the R5 almost exclusively for a week, the 5D seems really big.

Controls. Everything is laid out largely as Canon has done in the past with a few things shifted around to accommodate the large LCD on the back. I am having a hard time adjusting to the new mode switch and having to press a button first just to change modes. It is an extra step that slows me down as I oftentimes would switch between custom modes without ever taking the camera away from my eye.

Menus. Again, much like we have seen from Canon for years and are logically laid out. However, there is a LOT more to go through in them and I have had to whip out the book a few times to look for things, something I haven’t had to do with a new Canon in years.

Resolution. Well, 45MP. What can you say? It is just insane. See the sample images of the sitting humming bird to get an idea of an extreme crop and the quality that can be retained.

Eye tracking auto focus. I was extremely excited about this feature but am not entirely wowed by it in practice yet. It does quite well with birds, even little hummingbirds. With the moose and elk I used it on though, it struggled, oftentimes locking onto an antler or, if the animal was sideways, locking onto the whole body, even if the head was turned toward me. I found myself going back to the expand AF area that I usually use for those subjects.

20fps. Yeah, well, as you can imagine, it is just insane to be able to shoot at that rate. Moving subjects from shot to shot look like a movie when you go through them quickly. Due to operator error, I wasn’t shooting at that high rate with the hummingbirds so I am looking forward to doing more bird in flight work soon with it.

Electronic shutter. In addition to the speed, it is of course silent which is something that I find a bit annoying. With a traditional SLR, you get the feedback of the sound and feel of the mirror and shutter. None of that is there with an electronic shutter so sometimes I am not even sure if I am taking pictures. Honestly, I wish Canon had an option to turn on an artificial shutter click to provide auditory feedback. Heck, even their point and shoots have that option. Sure, there are times when silent shooting is desired but it isn’t always necessary. 

Electronic viewfinder. I have no real issue adapting to using it and it does have the capability to display way more information than a regular viewfinder. Oftentimes I forget that it turns off after non-usage so I put the camera up to my face and get a black screen. I will learn eventually to be sure to press the shutter half way to turn it back on before putting it up to my eye.

Battery life. As expected, it is definitely shorter than with a 5D Mark IV. My informal observation is that it gets perhaps 50% of the life. However, I freely admit that as the camera is new and I am experimenting with it, I am playing images back on the screen in the field far more than I normally do so that undoubtedly takes a toll.

Overheating. Much has been made of the R5 and possible overheating issues, mainly when shooting video. I have not seen any problems so far, however, most of my shooting has been only still pictures in the mountains with low ambient temperatures and slow-moving subjects so I wasn’t really pushing it. My friend, who also has the R5, has experienced some warmth coming from the camera and a temperature warning when firing off hundreds of shots in rapid succession. I am hoping this won’t really be an issue and for a still photographer like me, I don’t think it will be.

So, my photo friends, there you have it. I am going to love the R5 and am very happy to see Canon jump in big-time into the mirrorless market. For the most part, I can’t see it as anything but a home run.

Did I miss something you want to hear about? Drop me a note.

Uncropped hummingbird image. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/800, f/8, ISO 640.
Uncropped hummingbird image. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/800, f/8, ISO 640.
Extremely cropped hummingbird image. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/800, f/8, ISO 640.
Extremely cropped hummingbird image. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/800, f/8, ISO 640.
Moose cow and calf. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/400, f/8, ISO 4000.
Moose cow and calf. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/400, f/8, ISO 4000.
Mountain. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/400, f/5.6, ISO 320.
Mountain. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/400, f/5.6, ISO 320.
Snacking moose. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 350mm, 1/500, f/5.6, ISO 3200.
Snacking moose. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 350mm, 1/500, f/5.6, ISO 3200.
Snacking moose. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 200mm, 1/200, f/8, ISO 2000.
Snacking moose. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 200mm, 1/200, f/8, ISO 2000.
Moose in the early morning sun. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 320mm, 1/320, f/8, ISO 500.
Moose in the early morning sun. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 320mm, 1/320, f/8, ISO 500.
Hummingbird in flight. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 350mm, 1/2000, f/8, ISO 640.
Hummingbird in flight. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 350mm, 1/2000, f/8, ISO 640.
Hummingbird takes a dive. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 200mm, 1/3200, f/8, ISO 640.
Hummingbird takes a dive. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 200mm, 1/3200, f/8, ISO 640.
Squirrel looks for a meal. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/500, f/8, ISO 2500.
Squirrel looks for a meal. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/500, f/8, ISO 2500.
Snowy egret closeup. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/1600, f/8, ISO 640, -2/3 ev.
Snowy egret closeup. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 400mm, 1/1600, f/8, ISO 640, -2/3 ev.
Snowy egret plays with its food. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 330mm, 1/1600, f/8, ISO 1000.
Snowy egret plays with its food. Canon R5, Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM @ 330mm, 1/1600, f/8, ISO 1000.

Colorado Air National Guard honors first responders

May 6, 2020 by Tony Leave a Comment

Colorado Air National Guard honors first responders
The Colorado National Guard performs a flyover to thank first responders. (© Tony’s Takes)

A fun event just a bit ago as the Colorado National Guard and 140th Wing did a flyby of hospitals all along the Colorado Front Range. I was unfortunately almost directly under them and light was horrendous but still fun to see and a great way to honor the police, fire departments, and hospital workers keeping us safe during the pandemic.

The Colorado National Guard performs a flyover to thank first responders. (© Tony's Takes)
The Colorado National Guard performs a flyover to thank first responders. (© Tony’s Takes)

Face masks now available with landscape and wildlife photos

April 20, 2020 by Tony Leave a Comment

Face masks now available with landscape and wildlife photos
Sample of a face mask for sale printed with the image of a gorgeous sunrise. (© Tony’s Takes)

Well, on one hand I hate to offer these but on the other hand, given the situation, it is needed – and kind of cool.

You can now get any of my images custom printed on a face mask. This face mask is made from 100% polyester and includes two woven, elastic loops for a comfortable, one-size-fits-all fit. At $15.00, I feel the price is reasonable.

Simply go to my store page, scroll down to Collections, find the image you want, and choose the face mask or click here to go straight to the page for face masks.

Sample of a face mask for sale printed with the image of a bison covered in snow. (© Tony’s Takes)
Sample of a face mask for sale printed with the image of a bison covered in snow. (© Tony’s Takes)
Sample of a face mask for sale printed with the image of a hot air balloon colored like the Colorado state flag. (© Tony’s Takes)
Sample of a face mask for sale printed with the image of a hot air balloon colored like the Colorado state flag. (© Tony’s Takes)
Sample of a face mask for sale printed with the image of a regal bald eagle. (© Tony’s Takes)
Sample of a face mask for sale printed with the image of a regal bald eagle. (© Tony’s Takes)

Thunderbirds say thank you

April 18, 2020 by Tony Leave a Comment

Thunderbirds say thank you
The Air Force Thunderbirds fly over the Denver metro area to thank front line responders. (© Tony’s Takes)

Not the usual type of birds I photograph – these guys were a lot more mechanical. 😉

The Air Force Thunderbirds did a flyover the Air Force Academy’s graduation today then gave much of the Colorado Front Range a treat. As part of their #AirForceSalutes thanking front line responders for keeping us safe during the pandemic, they did flybys of many hospitals from Fort Collins down to Pueblo.

It was a bit of a guessing game as to where was best to setup and, unfortunately, I opted for a spot further north than what I should have. Mother Nature complicated things further with hazy skies. Nevertheless, I managed some okay shots and it was definitely a treat.

The Air Force Thunderbirds fly over the Denver metro area to thank front line responders. (© Tony’s Takes)
The Air Force Thunderbirds fly over the Denver metro area to thank front line responders. (© Tony’s Takes)

Backyard creatures

April 9, 2020 by Tony Leave a Comment

Backyard creatures
Image of metal art depicting a Venus flytrap grabbing a fly. (© Tony’s Takes)

We have some crazy things living in our backyard. It can be scary back there sometimes.  😀

Just playing around with my macro lens on a nice, spring day. 

Metal art owl up close. (© Tony’s Takes)
Metal art owl up close. (© Tony’s Takes)
Backyard alien. (© Tony’s Takes)
Backyard alien. (© Tony’s Takes)

Valentine’s flower gets a closeup

March 4, 2020 by Tony Leave a Comment

Valentine’s flower gets a closeup
Macro closeup of a flower. (© Tony’s Takes)

Something a bit different. Obviously this flower wasn’t outside – it was a leftover from a bouquet I bought my wife. It provided a nice opportunity for me to experiment with a new toy, my first, true macro lens.

The Canon EF 100mm f2.8 L is pretty cool and well-known for its ability to do amazing closeup work. I won’t use it much but thought it would be fun to play with in the yard with flowers, bugs and snowflakes. The detail is clearly pretty awesome.

The creatures of Colorado’s Barr Lake State Park

January 7, 2020 by Tony Leave a Comment

The creatures of Colorado’s Barr Lake State Park
One of the “creatures” at Barr Lake State Park in Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)

Kind of a different post from me today. Rather than the usual critters or landscapes, I figured I would share these “creatures”.

I visit this state park pretty regularly and always say I should take pictures of the sculptures they have there – they are really cool. Recently I finally did grab those images.

I don’t know the story behind them, who made them, what their names are, etc., but they sure add a fun element to the park. If you’re ever out there, be sure to check them out.

One of the
One of the “creatures” at Barr Lake State Park in Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)
One of the
One of the “creatures” at Barr Lake State Park in Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)
One of the
One of the “creatures” at Barr Lake State Park in Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)

Marble and pine on Christmas Eve

December 24, 2019 by Tony Leave a Comment

Marble and pine on Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve at Fort Logan National Cemetery. (© Tony’s Takes)

I stopped by Fort Logan National Cemetery today to visit my dad and pay my respects to him and many others interred at this sacred place. Remember those who have served this great nation and are no longer with their families this season. Miss you, Pa!

Christmas Eve at Fort Logan National Cemetery. (© Tony’s Takes)
Christmas Eve at Fort Logan National Cemetery. (© Tony’s Takes)
Christmas Eve at Fort Logan National Cemetery. (© Tony’s Takes)
Christmas Eve at Fort Logan National Cemetery. (© Tony’s Takes)
Christmas Eve at Fort Logan National Cemetery. (© Tony’s Takes)
Christmas Eve at Fort Logan National Cemetery. (© Tony’s Takes)

Labor Day Liftoff!

September 2, 2019 by Tony Leave a Comment

A gorgeous sunset behind
A gorgeous sunset behind “Buzzy.” (© Tony’s Takes)

On a whim, my wife and I headed south to Colorado Springs for their annual hot air balloon event.

Last night was the balloon glow and while the balloons don’t leave the ground, they put on a pretty cool show, especially when coupled with a gorgeous sunset.

Then, this morning, the balloons took flight not long after dawn. I took a ridiculous number of pictures and will share some more later but here is a batch of them.

Hot air balloons light up at the balloon glow at Colorado Springs' Labor Day Liftoff. (© Tony’s Takes)
Hot air balloons light up at the balloon glow at Colorado Springs’ Labor Day Liftoff. (© Tony’s Takes)
The
The “Spirit of ’76”. (© Tony’s Takes)
Labor Day Liftoff!
Hot air balloons take flight at the Colorado Springs Labor Day Liftoff. (© Tony’s Takes)
“Twilight Zone” and “Guilty” (© Tony’s Takes)
“Kermie the Frog.” (© Tony’s Takes)
Balloons take to the sky at Memorial Park in Colorado Springs, Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)
Balloons take to the sky at Memorial Park in Colorado Springs, Colorado. (© Tony’s Takes)
“Oggy the Friendly Dragon” and “Marv’n the Martian” (© Tony’s Takes)
“Russ Buss” above the water. (© Tony’s Takes)
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  • Burrowing owl makes a surprise flight
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