Hi Dick,

As a nature and wildlife photographer I NEVER use flash on any wildlife in
daylight or at night.  The animals safety and stress-level are far more
important than "getting the shot."  It show a total lack of concern for the
subject's well
being.  For me, if I cannot adjust my camera settings (increase ISO,
decrease shutter speed or decrease f-stop) to get the shot I just enjoy the
opportunity to have the experience seeing the animal.  This goes for
coyotes, owls, deer and
 any animal that are diurnal or not.  Respect nature first and the "shot"
comes second.
I have won nature and wildlife photo contests, been published and have
photo print displays.  I won first, second and Best in Show at this years
(2012)  Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks print contest. I say this
not to impress anyone but to show that patience and respect are the keys to
nature and wildlife photography and you can still have good results.

Peace and all good things,
Mike Horn


On Sat, Feb 2, 2013 at 9:52 PM, Dick Beery <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> I have always been concerned with causing birds harm with my photography.
>  Today a fellow photographer posted some photos of a screech owl that he
> obviously used flash on.  I have always thought that using a high powered
> flash at night inn owls was a bad thing as it could cause eye damage.  Am I
> think correctly or not.  Here is a copy of our conversation.  I need help
> in crafting a reply to him.
>
>
> Dick Beery Concerned if you are using Flash on the Owl?
> about an hour ago · Like
>
> Brian C. Graybill Why are you concerned?
> about an hour ago · Like
>
> Dick Beery Very bad for the Owl eyes......should never use flash on birds
> in the dark.
> about an hour ago · Like
>
> Brian C. Graybill Well they don't really sit still long enough to get out
> the tripod, set the camera so the shutter stays open to allow enough light
> in. Dick Beery, this all happens in a mere 2-4 seconds before they fly off.
> If you have a better way of getting them to stay perched for 10 mins or so,
> by all means share with everyone. Thanks.
> about an hour ago · Like
>
> Dick Beery I know its difficult, but the birder comes out in me and am
> more concerned with the health of the bird than getting the photo. Love to
> capture great photos but also want to not harass or harm wildlife in the
> process.
> about an hour ago · Like
>
> Brian C. Graybill I agree, but if you can't offer another solution to
> this, then I don't believe that my little D-40 is hurting them much. It's
> not like I have the light shining on then for 10-15 mins at a time, it's
> only 2-4 seconds tops. However, I felt guilty enough when the Owl hit my
> windshield, I do not feel guilty about this. Sorry Dick Beery, I will
> eagerly be waiting to hear your solution.
>
>
> Thanks
> Dick
>
> Dick Beery
>
> [log in to unmask]
> http://www.3oaks-photography.com
> Home: 330-567-2133
> Cell: 330-465-7196
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
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