Using Perch Setups to Photograph Black-capped Chickadees
Feeder birds, such as chickadees, can often be quite easily photographed by using perch setups. In order to create a perch setup, you need to find a feeder that is visited regularly by birds, and you need perches. Perches can be collected just about anywhere. Look for branches with interesting features, such as berries, seed pods, lichen, thorns, or interesting curves. Make sure the branches you select are sturdy enough to support the weight of the birds you plan to photograph – a branch suitable for a small chickadee might be too small for a large blue jay. Woody branches, like those from dead trees and thorny vines, will last longer than those from thin, green plants, and can be collected days or even weeks prior to use. Branches with fresh green leaves can spoil quickly – the leaves sometimes wilt less than an hour after being picked – so choose your perches carefully and select green perches right before using them. If you can, keep green perches in water right until the moment you use them.
Set up your perch by placing it a few feet away from the feeder, usually at about the same height as the feeder or slightly higher. I like to use a cheap tripod to hold the perch, either using a clamp to hold the perch to the tripod or by sticking the end of the perch in the handle of the pan-tilt head. You can also use zip-ties or duct tape to hold the perches to your stand.
Depending on how comfortable the birds are, you may or may not be able to photograph the birds from close range without any additional cover. Bold feeder birds, such as chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, and goldfinches, will often approach your feeder and perches while you remain in plain view – more timid species, such as grosbeaks, may not approach the feeder unless you are concealed in a nearby blind. Pop-up or permanent blinds are best for perch set-ups, as you can move in them and they give you the freedom to change lenses or converters, have a snack, or read a book while you wait without being seen.
Today, Chris and I went back to Eric’s in order to photograph Black-capped Chickadees on a variety of perches we have been collecting over the past week or so. While the day was heavily overcast, we were able to get a number of nice images despite having to use higher ISOs, wider apertures, and slower shutter speeds. The following photograph, of a Black-capped Chickadee on a perch with black berries, is my favorite of the day.
Techs: Canon 1D Mark II N, 300mm f/2.8L IS, 1.4x Mark II Extender, 1/250s, f/6.3, ISO 1000. To order this print, purchase stock rights, or view other photos I have for sale, please visit my website at www.karipost.com.