gigrin farm

[nightshade]

How do you take photos at the hides like the ones at Gigrin farm?

As the only hides I have ever used are ones made by me for me,would
the regular birders give me some hints on protocol and photographing from a hide like the ones at gigrin farm please,e.g using a tripod (probably only enough room for one leg!) I have every intention of getting there

[wildone]

Hi Nightshade, this is when I find a hide clamp useful. Certainly it is possible to use a tripod but they do get in the way of other birders if the hide is crowded. Also keep as quiet as possible to not disturb any birds nearby. Such as a whispered 'hello' and to ask if there is anything of importance to be seen. Hopefully you will see the birds you are after.

[John]

I have to agree about a hide clamp but to be honest you could stand outside or even in the car park at times and be in with an excellent chance of a flight shot.

I will certainly be going there soon myself as I love the place.

[Diane]

Tripods in hides are not the easiest thing to use, and when you get three or four photographers in there it's a nightmare.

Last time I went to Gigrin Farm I used my monopod wedged tightly against the hide shelf. Seemed to do the trick, although I suspect a hide clamp would be better.

It can get pretty packed there - it's a popular place.

[nightshade]

Thanks for the suggestions I think if I have to use the hide my benbow should be ok as a mono/bi-pod without getting in anyones way,or as john said go outside
I was hoping to go this weekend but have a problem with my tele lense,it may be resolved in time but I am not holding my breath

[Tragus]

Hi Nightshade
There are places all around gigrin where you can get some stunning shots of the kites, and Ravens!
I hope you enjoy your visit, it's a beautiful place and there are some wonderful walks to enjoy whilst you are there!
Jo

[Diane]

Originally Posted by nightshade

Thanks for the suggestions I think if I have to use the hide my benbow should be ok as a mono/bi-pod without getting in anyones way,or as john said go outside
I was hoping to go this weekend but have a problem with my tele lense,it may be resolved in time but I am not holding my breath

As a matter of interest, which Benbo tripod do you have? Are they easy to use?

I have been thinking of getting one - the Trekker Mk2. I did have a look at one at our local Jacobs the other day and it seemed OK. I suppose they take some getting used to.

[nightshade]

I have a trekker one,the ball and socket head leaves something to be desired
on this early model,but for getting a steady platform from ground level to six feet high it is difficult to beat (there is a rival produced by people that left
benbow which is supposed to be better)
The legs are a knack,the dealer handed it to me with a smirk expecting me to fail, but if you keep the leg clamp just tight enough, place the legs tighten up then extend it has not let me down yet
The best trick is to put two legs on a wall or tree trunk with the other on the floor swivel the centre section so you can put the camera between the two legs,this is more difficult to explain than I thought,it is a lot simpler than people would have it, I love it it is so versatile and solid
Look on e-bay they often have good examples there,but definitely have a go
at your dealers get them to explain it have a go yourself hands on,Ithink you
will love it

[Diane]

I decided to go for the Trekker 2. Ordered it yesterday, with a bunch of other stuff, from Warehouse Express.

I had read that there's a knack to using one, so thought I'd have a play first. I tried the one at Jacobs, albeit with no camera attached, and I think I'll cope with it. This type of tripod will probably be easier in a hide than the standard type. I have no end of trouble with my Manfrotto sometimes, especially if the hide is busy. Monopod is better.

I'll need a donkey at this rate to carry all the gear.

Regarding Gigrin, there is a viewing point, as John says, before you get to the hides. We missed that when we were there, but it's definitely something we'll look at if we go again.

[Mark43]

Gigrin Farm..........is this the place somewhere along the M40?

I remember driving back from the Lake District last year and about halfway down the M40 on the left hand side seeing about half a dozen Red Kites circling over head.