I took this picture in summer 21, when the cranes coming back from Scandinavia over Germany to the south of Spain where they are resting over winter time. On a peninsula (Darss/Zingst) in the Baltic Sea they are resting for a couple of weeks to pick up enough energy for the long trip back. To this time over 50.000 species are in the air. They are flying to the mainland over the day searching food and return at sunset on some islands, where they are undisturbed. Big cinema! Cranes are very shy. They will keep a distance of at least 200 meters from every human being. To catch them in a right way, you need really "weapons". They do not see any danger, when you are approaching in a car. So did we. Out of the window with Canon 400 mm (2.8) and a 2*extender. Shot with a R5 and an incredible crop I could catch them this way. Great feeling!
10 comments posted
Roy Lockwood
Great action shot Peter. And by offsetting the birds to the right slightly, it gives the impression that the right bird is getting backed up to the edge of the frame. Posted: 01/04/2025 15:48:12
Peter Hornbostel
Thank you, Roy! Posted: 01/09/2025 00:23:11
Butch Mazzuca
I agree with Roy - the slight offset really helps to bring this image to life. The first thing that struck me was how well you separated your subjects from the background and of course and as usual you technical works is simply superb - another beauty Peter - thank you. Posted: 01/07/2025 15:00:12
Peter Hornbostel
Thank you, Butch! Posted: 01/09/2025 00:22:50
Dr Ernoe Barsi
Great action photo Peter! The movement of the right crane is fantastic! I would have tried a different crop. Posted: 01/07/2025 16:38:16
Peter Hornbostel
Thanks Ernoe! You're right! I have chosen a 16:9 format. But a 3:2 will do it as well! Posted: 01/09/2025 00:18:39
Tom Buckard
(Groups 21 & 48 & 71)
Peter, you certainly caught these cranes at the peak of action. Normally I would have cropped them vertical but in this case I like your original with more room on each side. You can just feel the speed of them coming together to fight. Super image. Posted: 01/10/2025 16:34:38
Peter Hornbostel
Thank you, Tom! Posted: 01/12/2025 23:43:08
Kathleen Sewell
Excellent image Peter!!! It is so impressive that you achieved an ideal perspective, clean background and such a powerful moment between the pair of cranes from your car! The opposing wing positions and open beaks speak volumes. Posted: 01/12/2025 23:18:10
