Mostly a disaster.

[Bobobird]

Had not done anything with the new combo for most of December due to the really bad weather. One day it cleared but was almost immediately followed by a very severe ice storm (not seen the likes since 1998) that left tens of thousands without electricity. Many roads were clogged by fallen branches due to the heavy weight of the ice and of course the less travelled ones that we use for the wildlife were mostly inaccessible.

Last Saturday appeared good according to the weather office with sunshine etc but as usual they got it wrong. No sun and heavily overcast. Still had to go and try something. Nothing going on except for some turkeys and chickadees.

That combo with all the winter clothes was difficult but manageable. Walking over largely iced snow was far more a concern and prevented me from going into less ideal terrain. Broken off branches and badly damaged trees added to the troubles of finding something. Odd thing was that for what was available, my normal 5D3 + 70-300/L could have easily managed. Definitely would have been more mobile.

The only 2 shots that came out looking reasonable.

1.


2.

[Stagecoach]

Hi Bobo,

I wouldn't call these reasonable, they are way way better than that ! That branch sure looks icy for the little fellow.

Grahame

[deetheturk]

I'm with Grahame here Bobo,if I had (reasonable)shots like this I'd be we'll happy!

On your other problem,I.e new combo,I will p.m you my address and I will gladly take it of your hands

Cheers David

[Marie Hass]

Bobo, somewhere I have missed what your new get-up is? Congrats, though.

Marie

[IzzieK]

I am just wondering what you are complaining about...those are beautiful shots. The first thing that came to mind when I saw the turkey was "Thanksgiving-for-New-Year"! The chickadee shot is superb too...

[Shadowman]

Nicely done. Sunday's weather was slightly more functional.

[FrankMi]

These are great, Bobo!

Your continued dedication to go out and shoot in all kinds of weather will bring you opportunities for images that no one else will even realize are there, let alone capture. Well done!

[Downrigger]

Nice shots - trip well rewarded. There's going out and shooting, and there's thinking/talking about it. The former wins again.

[Brownbear]

Hi Bobo,

These are lovely shots. The detail and colour you captured in the turkey is amazing, and the little bird is breathtakingly beautiful.

I hope the weather in Ontario improves very soon. It's hard to imagine being that cold and that you are out there photographing nature is wonderful, just be careful and stay warm.

[Bobobird]

Thanks Grahame, David, Isabel, John, Frank, Mark, Christina.

Apart from the slipping, sliding and trying to keep the hurting back from more jarring it was an ok day. 2 shots for 4 hours is pretty good I suppose.

Thanks Marie - the new combo is the Canon 1D-X and 200-400/f4.

[Marie Hass]

How does this setup handle? Is it heavy? Do you use a monopod or tripod? Just curious (I am such a nib nose).

Marie

[Otavio]

Hi, Bobo.Very nice images. Great level of details. A powerful gear, very well handled by you! Cheers,

[Bobobird]

Thanks Otavio. Appreciate your kind comments.

Thanks Marie - 3620g + 1526g (or in USA speak ~11.25 lbs). No tripod/monopod (yet).

[terrib]

Love the detail and color on the turkey.

I admire your dedication. During our ice storm a few weeks ago, I was afraid to go out the back door with camera in hand for fear of falling with the camera. There was no way out that wasn't slick hard ice! And you are dealing with it for long periods of time.

[Bobobird]

Thanks Terri.

After the experience of that day, got a pair of Icers right away.

[ajsmith]

I wouldn't call these reasonable either. They are sharp and colorful with good composition. The turkey has so much detail in it. The little bird has a lot of detail and that wonderful soft background compliments his color.

[Bobobird]

Thanks Ali.

As images, yes I agree they are probably fine. But I think they lack that bit of oomph. No?

[FrankMi]

I would have quite happy to have captured either of these, with or without the oomph. However, I also realize that you set your bar much higher than I can hope to achieve at this point in my shooting. Ah, some day perhaps!

Meanwhile, I'll look forward with anticipation and glee to your next oomph triumph Bobo! I know I won't have to wait long.

[Bobobird]

LOL, Frank I cannot stand that kind of pressure/stress.

Check your pm.

[GeorgeM]

These are terrific shots. I too would be more than pleased if they were mine.
I can't go out in those conditions as I have a condition, Raynaud's Syndrome, that causes the capillaries in my hands and feet to collapse rather than shrink in the cold. I suppose I could invest in battery-powered gloves and socks. I love the snow and the picture opportunities it presents.