Coastal Brown Grizzly Bear female yearling cub in fog

Here is another image from my Ultimate Brown Bear Photo Adventure last June. We had countless hours with this curious Coastal Brown Bear Yearling (1-year-old cub). I chose my Sony Alpha a1 camera body paired with the ultra-portable Sony 200 to 600mm zoom lens set at 378mm.

Coastal Brown Grizzly Bear female yearling cub in fog (Coastal brown bear, Grizzly bear, Ursus arctos, ours brun) from my June Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony 200-600mm Lens (@378mm) ISO 5,000, f/6.3 @ 1/1,250s Manual exposure. Full frame image top to bottom; cropped a little off the sides to make a 4x5 aspect ratio.

Join me in Alaska for the Ultimate Brown Bear adventure of a lifetime

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Join me in Alaska for the Ultimate Brown Bear adventure of a lifetime 🐻

Snowy Owl

Here is a Snowy Owl from a recent private Snowy Owl Photo Tour. Snowy Owls and snow have been in short supply this winter in southeast Canada, and this beauty showed up more than two months late!

I used the new Sony a9 III paired with my Sony 200-600mm zoom lens. Although we were close and using the van as a blind, I never got to photograph it blasting off as planned because it sat there until dark. It looks somewhat alert after being dive-bombed by a raven.

Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus, Harfang des Neiges, SNOW) from a recent private Winter Snowy Owl Photo Tour in Canada. Image Copyright 2024 ©Christopher Dodds All Rights Reserved. Sony Alpha a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens @200mm. ISO 400 @ 1/2,000s f/5.6. Full frame image.

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Bear in fog

Here is a Coastal Brown Bear (Grizzly Bear) strolling along the beach looking for clams during my June 2023 Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Adventure. I chose the ultimate portable combination of the Sony Alpha 1 camera and the versatile Sony 200-600mm zoom lens. I rotated the lens foot to the top of the lens so I could use it as a handle to hold the camera just above the ground to get this low perspective.

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Bear in fog (Ursus arctos, ours brun) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony 200-600mm Lens (@600mm) ISO 6,400, f/6.3 @ 1/2,500s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Sony a1 review

I have spent a week immersing myself in the wonder of the new Sony Alpha 1 digital mirrorless camera from the perspective of a bird/wildlife/nature photographer. If you want the quick and easy answer from the end of the review: This is the best action, birds-in-flight, and all-around digital camera that I have ever used. Amazing image files, blazing-fast auto-focus, and capture rate: it is the new King of the digital camera world. There is no more need for a separate high-speed and high-resolution camera body: this is the all-in-one professional camera body we have all been waiting for and Sony has delivered..... and I haven't even mentioned the 8K video yet ;)

I'll skip copy & pasting all of the camera's specifications that can easily be found on the Sony A1 product page, so click HERE to see them all. What I will do is talk about the things that are important to me and what I do.

Like the a9II, the A1 feels light and comfortable in my hand. I have grown to love the small form factor, and intuitive dial and button placement. The new color touch menu has carried over from the Sony a7SIII, and I find it easy to navigate and in a logical order.

The new Electronic View Finder (EVF) is better than anything I have ever seen in a camera with 9 million dots and .9X magnification; it is big, bright, and fast. The high-quality mode is spectacular.

The new bird eye auto-focus is exclusive to the a1, and works remarkably well. I programmed a button to instantly switch between bird and animal eye auto-focus. I would have loved to test it on small and fast birds in flight, but seasonal variations in available species and local COVID-19 restrictions made that impossible. I was impressed with the bird eye AF on the larger owls and raptors that I was able to find, but they are large and fly relatively slowly. The a9 and a9II both excelled here, so I expect that the a1 will be just that much better. I was able to verify the autofocus acquisition speed is greatly improved over the a9 and a9II, which was already extremely impressive. Sony states that the camera can confirm sharp focus 120 times per second (twice as fast as the Sony a9 and a9II). This not only helps the camera snap into focus quickly but ensures AF accuracy between frames when shooting at 30 FPS: truly mind-blowing performance! I have seen a few reviews that mention the camera sometimes jumps between the bird's eye and shoulder when pointed at a static bird on a perch, and I did experience a little of this particularly when photographing a dark bird with dark eyes and especially while using extreme focal length (particularly the 200-600 with the 2X installed), but the overall performance is what is important to me, and it is exceptional: noticeably better than the already impressive a9 and a9II. I do expect that there will be a fair number of people complaining about this feature (bird eye auto-focus), as we should have reasonable expectations: if a crow or raven is gliding towards me at a high altitude, I wouldn't expect the camera to be able to see, let alone lock onto its eyes - smile.

I immediately set the camera to compressed RAW to be able to achieve the full 30 FPS capture rate and the resulting +/- 57MB files are better than anything that I have seen: More details, less noise, richer color, and more dynamic range. I was unable to see any difference between images made using the electronic shutter and those made using the mechanical shutter. I want to be crystal clear that I won't be able to extract the most out of the RAW files until Adobe or Capture One releases an update to their RAW conversion software. Sony's Imaging Edge Software is the only way I can see the files, and I have always been able to squeeze so much more from either Adobe or Capture One (perhaps due to my lack of understanding of the software, rather than software shortfall, I dunno). So I do expect to be even more impressed as these software updates are released.

I had planned to release my mini-review earlier this week but wanted to hold out and see if anyone found any weaknesses that I could debunk here. I am glad I waited because a lot of attention went to a review video that states that the camera is not capable of shooting 30FPS. It turns out that they used the Sony 70-200 f/2.8 GM lens which needs a firmware update to achieve the full 30FPS that will be released sometime soon. I tested the a1 with my workhorse lenses (and teleconverters) and can confirm that the following lenses and teleconverters are all capable of capturing 30FPS in COMPRESSED RAW (The capture rate is slower using uncompressed RAW):

Sony 600/4 GM

Sony 600/4 GM with 1.4X

Sony 600/4 with 2X

Sony 200-600

Sony 200-600 with 1.4X

Sony 200-600 with 2X

An interesting find was how well the affordable 200-600mm worked with both the 1.4X and 2X, and it was able to maintain the 30FPS capture rate with the 2X in APS-C mode which resulted in a 23-24MB file during my tests. The 200-600 is a great and affordable lens that costs about 20% of the prime 600/4 GM, so there are trade-offs. The AF acquisition and tracking speed are slowed down and the image quality is slightly degraded when the 2X is used, but it still offers remarkably good results. It is not likely I would use the 1,800mm for birds in flight because there would be too much atmospheric compression degrading the image quality, but I do see using this combination extremely close for incredible close-up details at the minimum focusing distance of the combination.

I am grateful that the two card slots accept both CFexpress type A or SD memory cards. While I used the CFexpress type A card that came with the loaner unit for most of my testing, I did test my 128GB Sony SDXC SD Type G memory cards to see if I needed to invest in new cards. There was little to no difference in capture rate, but an obvious difference in write speed. The camera has an impressive buffer, and I don't typically hold down the trigger for more than a short burst, so I don't expect to be buying new memory cards anytime soon. I can confirm that you can now change menu settings and review images while the camera writes to the memory card to clear the buffer.

Another bonus is the a1 used the same NP-FZ100 battery as the a9 and a9II, so I was pleased that my extra batteries will still be useful.

In closing, this is the best action, birds-in-flight, and all-around digital camera that I have ever used. Amazing image files, blazing-fast auto-focus, and capture rate: it is the new King of the digital camera world. There is no more need for a separate high-speed and high-resolution camera body: this is the all-in-one professional camera body we have all been waiting for and Sony has delivered..... and I haven't even mentioned the 8K video yet ;)

Stay tuned to this blog for images made with the Sony a1.

Canadian Nature Photographer Christopher Dodds with the new Sony a1 camera, Sony 600mm f/4 GM lens and Sony 2X extender.

Rechargable hand warmer battery pack review

I accidentally found an incredible solution to my cold fingers from Raynaud’s Disease. The OCOOPA Fast-Charging 10,000mAh back-up battery and handwarmer with PD & QC 3.0 has three temperature settings and heats both sides of its excellent Ergonomic Design: The upper-wide, lower-narrow design is more suitable for grasping than the oval shape fits the natural curve of your palm and is anti-slip. The high-grade silicone oil surface coating is soft and delicate to the touch, and has superior thermal conductivity.

The OCOOPA handwarmer is built to last, with the hottest setting providing a powerful heat that lasts for nearly four hours on high, and more than 12 hours on the lowest setting. This durability ensures that you can rely on the OCOOPA handwarmer for long-lasting warmth, even in the most extreme conditions.

Recharging is super fast; I used an 18W USB wall charger, and charging a completely drained unit took three hours and 12 minutes.

The OCOOPA hand warmer is not just a solution for cold fingers. It's also an excellent power source and backup battery for your mirrorless camera and mobile phone. This versatility empowers you to stay connected and capture your outdoor adventures, all while keeping your hands warm and comfortable.

I now have four of these with me at all times while in the field: one for each loose-fitting mitten and two extra fully charged units as backups in case I accidentally forget to turn off or charge them. On the coldest days, I can use the two extras as heaters in the inside pockets of my parka.

Bald Eagle LOCK-ON

“I love Alaska and had been dreaming of taking an Eagle photography workshop and decided to sign up with Chris. I am so glad I chose Chris for a lot of reasons. The workshop was very well organized. Chris provides the attendees with a list of suggested clothing to be sure you are comfortable in the Alaskan winter weather. He provided us with a list of suggested equipment so that we knew exactly what was needed to get the kind of photos posted on his workshop page. The group was limited to 5 attendees, so we each had ample opportunity to get feedback and suggestions from Chris. Chris is extremely knowledgable about Kachemak Bay and knows where to go to get the best shots depending on the wind and the weather, and whether there is sun or snow. Chris uses the same boat and captain for this workshop, so the captain knows exactly what Chris wants to do and how to get us into those best areas…. Chris believes in safety above all else, but snow, sleet and rain did not keep us from going out. In fact, it made for some great photos depicting the Alaskan winter eagle environment. It was an amazing trip and I got a lot of great photos and learned so much! I would definitely choose Chris for another birding workshop as he is dedicated to doing everything he can to make sure you come home with lots of amazing photographs! Thanks, Chris, for a fantastic workshop and wonderful adventure!”

— Jessica Duke Eagle Nest, NM, USA

Save the date! I will be hosting a presentation at The Camera Store sponsored by Sony of Canada on Dec. 9, 2020 at 19:00 MST. The event is free and open to all. Register HERE.

Bald Eagle fishing in golden light

“Chris, Thanks for another great photo adventure to Alaska during your Eagles of Alaska photograpic Expedition!!!!!!
This is the third trip with you and they keep getting better. Always challenging. Always easy-going. Always taking my photography forward. (Take a look at my site for a few new pictures from Alaska.) Your instruction is the best I've experience in taking these kinds of trips. You always seem to know where to put us in the absolute best place. Top Notch!!!! Can't wait till the next one.....wherever that might be. Thanks again!!!!!!!”

— Jeff Moore Arlington Heights, Illinois, USA

Bald Eagle Fishing in golden light EYE SPY

“Hey Chris, yesterday you recommended a very high shutterspeed to capture ultra sharp images. I was wondering what trade off in iso there would be. I try not to go above 1600 but my shutter speeds are 1/2000 to 1/4000. Are you suggesting higher iso to get higher shutter speeds? Thanks, Rob”

— Rob Palmer

You can read my blog post that Rob refers to here: Top birds in flight settings for Sony a9II

Hey Rob,

Absolutely, yes! I set my desired aperture and target shutter speed in manual mode and then use whatever ISO that I need to get there. There are many examples in this blog of images made using a higher ISO than the 1,600 that you limit yourself to.

UNCOMPRESSED RAW AT HIGHER ISO

One consideration when photographing action at high ISO with a Sony a9 or a9II is to consider lowering your capture rate and switching to uncompressed raw images to lower the noise in the dark portions of the image. I usually switch to uncompressed raw at 6,400 ISO.

Bald Eagle OLD CRUSTY

I think I will have to call this one OLD CRUSTY; If you take a look closely, there is green staining on the underside of the head and at the base of it’s tail. There is even some green lichen between it’s wings. This might be a senior Eagle. I rejected this one during my first pass, but then reconsidered the second time around; something that doesn’t happen often ;)

Adult Bald Eagle Portrait

Here’s a head shot of an adult Bald Eagle made with the Sony Alpha a9 II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens. The edge to edge sharpness is as impressive as the Sony 600mm f/4 GM OSS Lens.

Bald Eagle flying in snow

I’m hiding-out in the studio in self-isolation and spending time trying to distract myself from the news (bad news). Here’s another Bald Eagle headed straight at me from an EPIC shoot in the light snow. We made so many images in such great conditions! Let me know if you are getting sick of the Eagles……

Bald Eagle HOOKED ON FISHING

This is one of many thousands of images made from the ultra-low angle at the water’s edge. My March 5-9 workshop window has delivered flat water and golden light with a sprinkle of snow for every workshop for more than 15 years running; it is simply the very best time to be on Kachemak Bay photographing Eagles!

My Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens continues to be the most versatile lens that I have ever used. It’s zippy auto-focus and amazingly sharp results continue to blow my mind.

Coronavirus discount

It seems like the world is in a state of health and wealth panic right now, so I am offering a US$500.00 discount off my March 5-9, 2021 Eagles Galore workshop. This is a limited time offer while space is available only.

Snowy Owl Silhouette

A silhouette from my recent Owl workshop. I pushed the black point, white balance and saturation to make it more dramatic and add visual impact. It was a fun morning with a great group and everyone got down low to work the rising sun as the clouds parted.

Boreal Owl a la Sony 200-600

There have been a few Boreal Owls around this winter; It really is rewarding to find one in a forest, more so when it is on a clean perch. After everyone in my group got images, we discovered a Northern Saw-whet Owl within about 10 meters (30 feet) and both were at eye level and showing nicely.

Sony 200-600mm Lens Love

Sony 200-600mm Love

If you have been reading about the Sony gear that I used for the last series of blog posts, you know I used the Sony 600mm f/4 GM OSS Lens & Sony FE 1.4X Teleconverter. The truth is, it seems I have to force myself to use the prime gear since I got the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens which is such an incredible lens when paired with my Sony Alpha a9 II Mirrorless camera. It’s not just the auto-focus; The lens is so easy to manage, versatile and so convenient to carry around on my Black Rapid Sport strap.

Snowy Owl Last Light a la Sony RMT-P1BT Wireless Remote Commander

I photographed this Snowy Owl in the severe cold during the very last moments of the sun recently. As a long time sufferer of Raynaud's syndrome, keeping my hands warm is of paramount importance during my Snowy Owl workshops. I typically use big & warm mitts with several hand warmers to keep my fingers warm. Although I have mastered how to control my camera with the mitts on, it takes a lot of practice and I do miss the occasional shot.
The Sony RMT-P1BT Wireless Remote Commander came in useful while set-up on this Snowy Owl, waiting for it to open its eyes and look at the camera. With the Remote Commander tucked into my mitt, I was able to trigger the camera via Bluetooth without taking my hands out of the warm mitts.
While it is true that a wired controller would have worked just as well to trigger the camera, it is connected to the camera with a wire that is prone to get tangled in my extensive cold-weather gear, and since it is wired, I would have to leave it attached to the camera in the cold anytime I moved away; this means putting the frozen device back into my warm mitts and defeating my efforts to keep my fingers warm.

High-speed Bat Photography

Long-eared Myotis Drinking from a pond  in the desert Amado, Arizona, USA. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens  @600mm ISO 800, f/16 @ 20s Manual exposure. Full Frame.

I'm just back from my bat photography workshop in Arizona. The monsoon season had an early start which dispersed the local bat population to the many available water sources, but we still had fun and got some remarkable images.

In it's simplest form, we set-up our cameras on tripods at the edge of a pond and focused on the plane of the infra-red beam which triggered the flash when it was broken. The ultra-short duration of the flash illuminated our subjects and froze them in flight. The cameras were set to make continuous 20-second exposures at f/16 ISO 800. At the end of the night, there were a ton of black frames with no bats, but when a bat flew through and broke the beam, the flash fired and we were rewarded with some pretty remarkable images.

Do consider joining me in Arizona next September for my annual High-speed bat photography workshop. CLICK HERE to learn more.