Taking Clear Photos of Fast Flying Birds

A Middletown, Maryland, resident, Dr. Robert VandenBosch practices with the Seton Medical Group as primary care physician. Among Dr. Robert VandenBosch’s favorite activities is photography and he has earned amateur photographer award recognition.

One of the most challenging aspects of photography is capturing fast-moving objects such as birds across a wide range of backdrops. In fast action situations, it makes sense to invest in a camera that has 6 to 9 frames per second capacities and a shutter speed of 1/2000 of a second or higher. With lower shutter speeds, motion blur that cannot be resolved in post-production becomes a major issue.

Just as important is focus acquisition speed, and an auto-focus system is an essential for clear images of birds in flight. Look for auto ISO features that automatically adjust ISO depending on light conditions and set the minimum shutter speed at 1/1000, with the aperture set to its maximum. This helps ensure a stable and clear view in changing lighting situations, including when birds leave foliage for open sky flight.

Cameras such as the Canon 7D Mark II and Nikon D500 are ideal for capturing fast flight situations. They are designed to comfortably accommodate high-end 200 to 800mm lenses, ideally equipped with teleconverters and optical stabilization. Keep in mind that, with the 500mm range lens and above, tripods will be required, as the camera is too heavy and bulky to comfortably hold in the hands.

Quick and Easy Travel Photography Tips

Dr. Robert VandenBosche of Middletown, Maryland, has worked as a physician for over two decades. He currently treats adult patients at a practice within St. Agnes Hospital in Catonsville, Maryland. Outside of work, Dr. Robert VandenBosche pursues various interests, including adventure travel and photography. 

Few things can capture the look and feel of a location better than a quality photograph. The best part about travel photography is that anyone can be successful as long as they keep a few things in mind. 

Before the camera even comes out of your bag, it's best to start by considering what it was that brought you to the specific location in the first place. Whether it's the natural environment, the people, the culture, or urban landscapes, identifying the things that interest you can help you narrow your focus and plan what to shoot. Don't forget to do some research to learn about interesting aspects of the location that you may have overlooked. 

Another thing to remember is that great travel photography often results from a little serendipity. Ensuring that you are at the right place at the right time requires that you keep your eyes open and put in a little work. Getting up early and staying out late will not only enrich your experience, but it will also give you more opportunities to look for photographs. Be sure to keep safety in mind, but don't be afraid to wander away from busy areas to find interesting subjects. Finally, always be ready to take your shot, because you never know when the chance for a great photo will present itself.

Top Cameras for Beginners

A physician based in Middletown, Maryland, Dr. Robert VandenBosche practices adult medicine for Ascension at Seton Medical Group. He accepted this role from the position of director of immediate care services at Frederick Memorial Hospital and Monocacy Health Partners, LLC. In his free time, Dr. Robert VandenBosche enjoys photography and won the 500px Amateur Photographer Award in both 2017 and 2018.

Below are several of the top cameras for beginning photographers:

Nikon D3300
Despite being releases in 2014, the Nikon D3300 has remained a popular camera choice for beginners. This is likely because it offers great image quality and a guide mode to help new photographers. However, the 24-megapixel camera does not offer as many connectivity options other cameras, thus making image transfers more difficult.

Canon Rebel T6i
Complete with a great touchscreen and wi-fi connectivity options, the Canon T6i shoots video at 30 frames per second (FPS) and pictures at five FPS. Beyond that, it offers automatic, semi-automatic, and manual controls so photographers can continue with this camera as they become more familiar with DSLR cameras.

Fuji X-T 10
A 16.3 megapixel camera, the Fuji X-T 10 is perfect for beginning adventure and travel photographers. The small camera has a tilting screen and is capable of shooting images at a rate of eight FPS and recording 1080p videos. However, since this Fuji does not have a screen that fully articulates, it’s not ideal for shooting video.

Strategies for Preventing Muscle and Joint Injuries for Athletes

Dr. Robert VandenBosche, a respected Middletown, Maryland-based physician, has held high-level administrative roles and directorships at health care facilities across the state. Formerly the chief physician and medical director of three urgent care centers operating under Frederick Memorial Hospital and Monocacy Health Partners, LLC, Dr. Robert VandenBosche is experienced in a variety of specialties, including sports medicine. 

Sports medicine physicians often treat athletic injuries resulting from tears in the ligaments or muscles. One way to lower the risk of sprains and pulls is to include a warm-up routine before starting any type of exercise. Warm-ups like gentle stretching increase flexibility in the body’s muscle fibers and improve blood flow. Runners and other endurance athletes should build up their workout intensity slowly to avoid overexerting a muscle or ligament. 

Fitness enthusiasts and athletes can also protect their joints by allowing fatigued muscles to properly recuperate. Some effective tactics for countering muscle fatigue include staying hydrated, taking protein supplements, and observing a 24-hour rest period between intensive exercise sessions.