There are moments in nature that leave us spellbound, where time seems to slow down, and the beauty of wildlife takes center stage.
Every year I capture such moments at Kerkini Lake – the ethereal flight of pelicans, gliding over the water in mesmerizing slow motion. This visual spectacle is now available for viewing on my YouTube channel.
Pelicans, with their grand wingspans and elegant poise, are a sight to behold. In slow motion, every detail of their flight – each wingbeat and graceful glide – is accentuated, offering a breathtaking perspective on these majestic birds. Filming at Kerkini Lake, a birdwatcher’s paradise, I was able to capture this stunning display against the backdrop of the lake’s tranquil waters.
Captured during my workshop at Kerkini Lake, this footage showcases the capabilities of the Fujifilm X-T4, complemented by a variety of lenses, including the exceptional Nikkor 14-24mm, used with a Fringer AF adapter. The X-T4’s slow motion capabilities in Full HD allowed me to vividly capture the nuances of nature. This year, I’m excited to explore and share even more with my new Sony equipment – so keep an eye out for that!
Video shooting presents its own set of challenges. It requires a steady hand to remain still, coupled with the skill to smoothly track your subject, ensuring it stays within the frame. Utilizing slow motion in videos enhances the viewing experience, offering a clearer and more detailed perspective on the movements of wild animals.
Shooting handheld video from a boat can be quite challenging due to the movement of the water and the limited space. However, with the right techniques and preparation, you can capture stunning footage. Here are some tips to help you shoot effectively:
- Stabilize Your Stance: Find a stable position on the boat. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart for better balance. If possible, lean against a solid part of the boat or sit down to minimize body sway.
- Use Image Stabilization: If your camera or lens has built-in image stabilization, make sure it’s turned on. This feature can significantly reduce the shakiness caused by boat movement.
- Hold Your Camera Properly: Grip your camera with both hands for better control. Tuck your elbows into your sides to create a more stable shooting platform. Some videographers also find it helpful to hold the camera close to their body.
- Smooth Panning: When panning, do it slowly and steadily. Sudden movements can lead to shaky footage. Practice smooth panning before your boat trip.
- Use a Gimbal: If budget allows, invest in a handheld gimbal or stabilizer. These tools are designed to counteract unwanted movements and can be invaluable for shooting on a boat.
- Shoot in Higher Frame Rates: If your camera allows, shoot at higher frame rates (like 50fps or higher). This will give you the option to create smooth slow-motion footage in post-production, which can help to stabilize the video.
- Be Mindful of the Horizon: Keep an eye on the horizon in your frame. A crooked horizon can amplify the feeling of instability in your footage.
- Plan Your Shots: Think about the shots you want to capture in advance. This will help you to be more deliberate with your movements and reduce unnecessary camera motion.
- Post-Production Stabilization: Utilize video editing software to stabilize your footage in post-production. Many modern video editing tools have excellent stabilization features.
Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you shoot in these conditions, the better you will become at handling the challenges of shooting video from a boat.
Join me this January for a Nature Photography Workshop adventure.
This video is not just a showcase of nature’s beauty; it’s also a glimpse into the kind of experiences and subjects we will be exploring in my upcoming photography workshop at Kerkini Lake, The Kingdom of the Pelicans. Scheduled from January 16th to 19th, 2024, this workshop is an opportunity for photography enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the captivating world of wildlife and nature photography.
The Kerkini Lake workshop will focus on honing your skills in capturing wildlife and landscapes, with a special emphasis on bird photography. Participants will learn various techniques, from the basics of wildlife photography to more advanced concepts, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their skill level, comes away with valuable knowledge and stunning photographs.
So, whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, I invite you to join me in this unique educational adventure. Together, we will explore the beauty of Kerkini Lake, its diverse birdlife, and learn the art of capturing nature in its most authentic form.
Don’t forget to check out the video, and if you’re interested in joining the workshop, be sure to book your spot soon as places are limited. You can find details here.
Looking forward to seeing you at Kerkini Lake and sharing more such magical moments!
