Focusing on Feeder Birds
The first requirement for bird photography is patience. It seems rather like fishing–set up the bait and you never know what you might catch!
A tele lens is required, so small bird photography is not inexpensive. My advice would be to get the best you can afford. I feel the lens is more important than the camera body. If you get serious about it, you’ll also need a tripod and either a good ballhead or a gimbal-type such as the Wimberley, depending on how heavy your equipment is. Handheld shots are possible, but keeping the lens in place for long periods can be tiring! Also helpful is an adjustable flash for fill light, and if you’re shooting from some distance, the Better Beamer (from www.birdsasart.com) for the flash head. Research lenses before purchase by looking for shots you like and reading the online forums….. Full Article.