Awesome Bird Photography New Gear - Nikon D850 - Sony A9 - Snail Kites - Florida Wildlife

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[@Doctor1O1]

American David Attenborough anyone...👌...Hope you would branch out to wildlife as well...Your videos are quite relaxing..

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. Just spent a few weeks shooting wildlife in the west. Videos from that soon!

[@Doctor1O1]

@@MarkSmithphotography Awesome!

[@Alecnesss]

Yes to wildlife too! I have a question about the focus for bee shot... you said you went to manual focus but then when the baby came you released and went back to auto focus. Is this because you wanted auto focus in case the bee moved or does it not automatically switch back to auto focus? Why not keep in manual? Amazing shots and yes Attenborough like thoroughness in your descriptions too!!😉👍 makes the videos even more enjoyable with the great story line. Thanks.

[@ianchamberlain1631]

How do you only have 33k Subscribers? Your narration style & image quality is outstanding and I look forward to everything you put on KZbin. Keep up this excellent work and you never know I may fly over someday from the UK for one of your workshops & take a vacation at the same time!!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. Some people say, I talk too much, lol. Florida is a great place and very wild!

[@BlingBlingTheBSOFTHEISS]

Mark Smith I’m booking!!! Looking forward to meeting you this fall for 3 days of shooting these amazing birds 🦅

[@draatishshekhar]

I started following him about an year ago when he just had 12k subs .

[@CameraRay]

So, the big question. Which works best for BIF. The D850 and 200-500mm combo vs the a9 100-400mm with and without the 1.4x tele?

[@strongandco]

Waterfowl and seabirds are great to photograph, beautiful birds against interesting backdrops. That was a great idea to purchase a Kayak, getting closer to those birds really paid off. Great video as usual Mark.

[@certoglenn4840]

Mark, I think the late Tom Ulrich would take a bow to your work. Ulrich was as good as they come. You and the technology are beautifully wed. Thank you for sharing.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. That is very nice of you to say.

[@clarkday533]

Loved this video. I came across an anhinga in Gaithersburg, Maryland last summer. No one in Maryland birder could believe it! It had a fishing lure in its bill. But it could hunt ok. It stayed around for a couple of weeks and then probably flew south. I recently bought a canoe and am anxious to use it for photographing birds. I could send you a couple of images if I had your email.

[@pano-rific8838]

I enjoy your narration as much as the photography. Snowy Great and Miniature White Egrets are prevalent along the San Francisco bay mud flats and inlets. Masters of balletic grace. But I have never scene them dance across the water. What a treat. One day we will meet. ~ your neighbor

[@b0nvivant]

Excellent photo story as always. Always looking forward to a new one. Thank you for all you share!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks

[@19Photographer76]

Do you have plans for a tripod stand? OK, your camera settings with the D850 were rather different. I get the -EV but with auto ISO? At least here in OR, we don't need to worry about the Gators any longer. Are you having any issues with the Green Iguanas?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

No plans on a tripod in the yak. Not necessary. -EV with auto iso controls iso. My d850 is hot. It always overexposes. No green iguanas here. I live right on the line where they don't go because we get some cold spells.

[@twk0500]

Hi Mark, amazing videos & pictures you got , I just got into photography, started with a Nikon D7500 w/ Tamron 150-600mm G2. Love taking pictures of local birds ( in NJ ) Ospreys @ the shore , Herons, Egrets , red tailed hawks even Bald Eagles as well as the more common song birds , I plan to visit Florida within a month , any experience @ Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge near Cape Canaveral ? , it seems like a great place to start my journey. Again, great videos and information, any other places I should go in particular. Thanks.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks and yes Merritt island is excellent.

[@Wightzebra]

I love these videos! Thank you mark!

[@job2k6]

Do you take any precautions to keep your camera dry in case you happen to tip over?

[@louisprice5077]

mark great as always do you prefer the nikon or sony or both.

[@JjackVideo]

Looks like I might save up to a A9 instead of a D850 ^^

[@jerjaws]

JJack I have the A7iii takes amazing photos. Doesn’t have focus tracking. But I’m still able to photograph fast moving birds

[@cranebird4962]

Wonderful story and very good descriptions include camera datas that also help me for the own photography. Thank you for the lessons.

[@paulcampbell7518]

Mark - What did you do to keep your camera/gear dry in the kayak? Also - Can you tell us what lake you were on? THANKS!

[@carolelabrecque2799]

So interesting and WoW! I luv all your images and storytelling. What a great entertainer you always are! Kayak is such a great idea. I plan to try that for my bird photography this summer. Thank you so much 😊😘

[@SkylerKing]

I'm gonna go ahead and comment before I watch the video, so I can hold my place in line.

[@troyphillips1077]

Always improving on your photography and narrative style . Great pics from the d850 / 500mm combo .

[@RhettWilliams]

How do you protect you D850 from getting wet or soaked if you were to tip over?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I won't tip over 🤪

[@bassangler73]

Nice shots Mark!! Have you cranked that 5150 lately?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Lol and yes at 10. Shakes the house and cleans the soul.

[@gilbertzellweger2240]

I really enjoy your enthusiasm and the way you explain - I always check how you set your cam for certain picture. can't wait for the next one. Unfortunately, we don't have such areas in Switzerland ;-(

[@troyphillips1077]

Always improving on your photography and narrative style . Great pics from the d850 / 500mm combo .

[@waynemacleod5648]

Thanks for the Kayak ride. Once again your photos are unbelievable - sharp, brilliant color, and I love the reflections that you captured. I can hardly wait to see what comes next from your new kayak perspective. Your knowledge of wildlife and the way you share it in stories helps your videos stand out way ahead of any others. Keep your eye on those gators - they are the polar opposite to the "Bees Knees" (from a Canadian who knew what that meant :o)!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks for coming along. I always keep my eyes on the gators. They can't be trusted!

[@akr5863]

Great photography and narration... Love from India..☺️

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks

[@zeamany]

Simply, Mark you're one of the best of the best wildlife photographers out there.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks

[@achmadsadikin495]

You are the Master…. Love the way you deliver the Photos with good and interesting naratives….

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks

[@gregwilsonnaturephotography]

Hey Mark, another great video for sure. I see you have been using the Sony a lot more, you mentioned that you got the Nikon 500 PF but you have not mentioned it since, It took 8 months for my wife and I to get our two and it's freaking awesome on the 850 and 500 bodies! Have you planned a video on it? Greg

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks. I did get the 500pf and sent it back after a couple of days. I wasn't happy with the results I was getting. Lots of soft shots when they shouldn't have been. Must have been a bad copy.

[@sapelesteve]

Awesome video Mark! Love your channel & am so glad that I found it. You should have a ton more subscribers. You have a new subscriber who is looking forward to more of your videos!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks

[@robwasnj]

Yet another extremely enjoyable journey with Mark Smith. If you're ever looking for a short video idea I'd love to see how you set yourself up to shoot from the kayak, bags, supports, etc. I've always been a big leery of taking out expensive gear in small boats but I'm likely missing out on a lot of great chances to get closer to wildlife.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

You would laugh if you saw how I set things up. I sit down, put the camera in my and paddle. When a photo opp arises, I pick up the camera and shoot. Pure and simple.

[@beastlysnippets]

I'd love to be there with my camera! Beautiful pictures. About the crows: Here in germany the carrion crows will attack anything that just MIGHT be interested in their nests, they will do that all around the year, even when they have no nest to defend. The behaviour is called mobbing and is supposed to teach that heron to stay away from crows at all times. I saw a single brave crow attacking a huge grey heron directly over my balcony, more often i see them attack hawks.

[@Cheryl407]

I so admire your sharp and beautiful images. Your skill and enthusiasm are wonderful.

[@J_bar_S_Photography]

So......when are you gonna get the new Sony 200-600mm?? lol. I really hope they make a 60-600 like sigma did or sigma will make a 60-600mm e-mount, Love your shots in this video. Amazing sir. Also, I know this is gonna be a stupid statement but I did n to know there were king fishers in the USA lol. Thats amazing. They are not fav bird.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I'm gonna borrow one soon.

[@J_bar_S_Photography]

@@MarkSmithphotography heck yea. Can't wait to see your Florida shots with the new lens.

[@philipmills172]

Another great video photography is wonderful just love your story telling it’s like we’re along side you on your amazing trips

[@RhettWilliams]

Could you make a video about your Kayak in more detail. Like how you waterproof your gear, size to weight ratio, and how you prepared your self to go out in the Kayak.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Would be a very short video. No prep at all. I got in and went.

[@orionorion2405]

Nice work !!!

[@HarryFullerCT]

Wow, this is one of the best bird photography videos I have seen. Such great shots, wonderfully explained. I have had a Native Watercraft Marvel 14.5 for years and love it. Looking forward to more of your videos. So inspiring. Thanks!

[@clarencemoxley2426]

Wanted to live your kind of life as a career since I was 12 yrs. old but didn’t know how to get into it. Beautiful photography. Thanks for sharing.

[@Old_Smuggler]

The immature blue heron slipping off the lily pad at 11:06 is a pretty unique capture. The only thing I can’t get accustomed to is your proximity to those crocs man. Crocs are probably the main reason why I am a bit apprehensive of making a trip to Florida..lol..those pre-historic demons are everywhere out there man!! Be careful!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks for the compliments on the shot. That was a very unique moment. There are no Crocs, just Gators and they aren't nearly as frightening or aggressive as Crocs.

[@smkunder1]

Another great video, just wondering how heavy that kayak is? I have 12 foot touring kayak that you sit in not much room for equipment. Can you use a tripod in your boat?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Not heavy at all. Around 40 pounds. No tripod necessary and thanks.

[@richardgold554]

Mark, I thought you said, in one of your videos, that you purchased your gear with your own coin. How is this possible? You could be the best ambassador on the planet for any brand you use. Giving you the gear should be the least these camera and lens companies should do. I really liked this video. Thanks.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks. Yep, all my gear was purchased by me.

[@richardgold554]

I am truly impressed by your determination not to be 'beholdin' to any company for anything. Congratulations. Richard

[@lisadriscoll8510]

Mark, you got some fantastic shots from the kayak in this video! Question, were you shooting handheld and image stabilization was sufficient for such sharp shots, or did you use a tripod set-up? Look forward to more from your kayak adventures.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

All handheld

[@lisadriscoll8510]

@@MarkSmithphotography Excellent! My kayak is a closed cockpit and has no room for a tripod. Here in Florida, we can definitely get some interesting access to wildlife from the water. Thanks

[@nrocha2466]

Mark your amazing... love the quality of your work and you ability to tell these story's with such excitement tells us how much you love what you do! that said, how are you holding up with the virus situation? i think a lot of us photographers are struggling and depressed. Thanks

[@MarkSmithphotography]

So far so good here. Thanks for asking.

[@nrocha2466]

@@MarkSmithphotographywelcome and take care!

[@susanbreau]

I have a kayak too and love it for bird photography! Your egret images are beautiful!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you!

[@zomgonzo]

Such wonderful and relaxing video. As always, outstanding work.

[@wilteduk007]

Have you micro adjusted your D850 with your wildlife lenses? Your images always have great focus.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

No, not necessary in my case.

[@robertgates3258]

Any tips on how to carry / use big glass on a kayak?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Not yet. So far it just sat my lap.

[@bkmutantdg]

I've shot birds and eagles for years from a kayak it's a great way to get close up! Your area looks amazing for wildlife ... not sure about the gators in a kayak though ... lol I'm shooting the D500 and sony A99ii sort of reverse your setup A99ii for detail, d500 for fast burst. Love your videos keep them coming

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Sounds like a good setup you got there.

[@ricki-bobby]

I've been contemplating a kayak for photography purposes. What is your opinion on stability? I'd hate to lose expensive gear to water damage

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I don't see a problem at all. The one I chose is well known for stability. It has a dual tunnel hill that acts like a catamaran.

[@johnford635]

Outstanding image quality. Well done!!

[@martharetallick204]

Focusing on bees isn't easy. You have my respect.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@galtidea]

Great as always Mark. Question: what do you use to protect equipment from accidental boat tip over? Ammo box or some kind of waterproof hiking bag? Enjoy.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks. This trip, nothing. I plan to buy a dry bag for future.

[@Noealz]

really stunning images - you make it seem really easy but i know it really aint lol

[@MarkSmithphotography]

thanks

[@chrislj2890]

I didn't expect to see those honeybee shots, and they were gorgeous. I'm constantly amazed at the quality of photographs you are able to get. Around here our crows get harassed by filthy starlings, so I guess what goes around comes around. Loved the vultures, one of my favorite birds. Now that you have that nifty kayak, you need to look into acquiring an underwater drone. 🙂

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. Underwater Drone? Uh-oh. My wife isn't going to like that!

[@HappyGrl41]

Fantastic photos as always. Very interesting stuff about the snail kite. What time frame did you photograph to get a kingfisher? I thought they migrate here only in the winter. Great great blue closeups and the perspective of the snowy egrets from the kayak was awesome.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks. This was just a few days ago. The Kingfisher surprised me. She must have decided to stay here this summer.

[@narutodayo]

Man, I really wish you would upload in 4k!! These beautiful shots and footage deserve it.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Soon

[@birdd242]

Hey Mark nice vid I was a little late because I was out doing some wildlife photography my self saw a few osprey and Hawks but my favorites was the juvinile green heron I was wondering if you could give me a pointer on how to get a sharper shot when it is a light from the top

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Not trying to be mean here, but don't shoot when the light is from the top. Too harsh. Go earlier.

[@birdd242]

@@MarkSmithphotography thank you it was just because I can't go earlier this week but I will try to thank you keep making good conttent

[@WhittyPics]

Careful around those Gators. You don't want to be lunch

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I am and thanks.

[@jcphenix1]

Mark Smith well... on the other hand, don't miss the great opportunity of pictures of a feeding Gator. commitment to your duty Mark! oh... and for the video, slow motion please ;)

[@chrisdaws2421]

Great story to go with fantastic photos, wish I could get to 10% of your photo quality, brilliant

[@deepseaslay6294]

Watching this video was very enjoyable and for the most part I liked the images you captured.

[@Smithlandia]

Congrats on the new kayak. Do you have to take any additional precautions to "waterproof" your camera gear like plastic baggies or anything?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Nope, not yet. I will be getting a dry bag though.

[@jeffdrew625]

‘Gators like bass & birds for dinner, too! Cool how that lake ecosystem is so alive!

[@jaywagner6433]

Nice work with both the A9 and 850..... looks like the ISO was lower on the A9

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks. The a9 seems to meter much better too!

[@mariacyou9265]

Breathtaking footage and photographs, and as always, great commentary. 👏👏👏👍 What a pleasure to watch.🙏 Have a safe kayaking Mark.🛶

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you!

[@larryrudnick1519]

Great shots of the birds from an excellent low vantage point. I think my favorites were the Snowy Egrets "walking" on water but the best was the one with the dreamy reflection. The shots of the bees were also great, with amazing detail!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much

[@siphilipe]

The first thanks go of course to those Engineers of Nikon and Sony, and the second go to you for that great footage.

[@billrogers2204]

Great as always! Thanks. Guessing that is a very sturdy kayak with all your equipment on board?😁

[@kamv8360]

Awesome. As always.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@Delphisteve]

This guy is amazing wildlife photographer! You won't be disappointed

[@mac7406]

You are a brave soul Mark! Those gators would scare me! But you really got some great shots, loved the snowy egrets!!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks. I never once felt threatened but I kept a watchful eye on the gators.

[@mikechapman1280]

Hi Mark, Have been following you for a while , fabulous images great info, your American version of David Attenborough. Very jealous of the photo opportunities you have their, here in the UK its a visit to the zoo for anything exotic. Ive just about switched from Canon to Nikon D500 and D850 s/hand, now you've thrown Sony into the mix ! Keep up the great work especially Raptors Michael

[@rogerashley8616]

Another awesome video Mark !

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@felixifloresrodriquez3306]

I will be back in Florida in October. I will like to meet with you

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Sounds good!

[@howiedunbar61]

Another excellent video Mark.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

thanks

[@EdgardoRosa]

Amazing

[@botch3936]

Fantastic shots Mark, and the kayak is obviously a great tool for you. When I was stationed at Grand Forks AFB in North Dakota years ago, I tried something similar with a fisherman's float tube, got the camo version and some waterproof waders, and built a blind over the top of it all. Very carefully waded out (I was scared of slipping, with my brand-new 300 f4 D and used F-4), but eventually made my way out to the middle of the "lake".... where I was STILL only calf-deep in water! I bet I looked pretty damn silly out there. Made my way back to the truck, and the skin on my arms, neck and head were more mosquito bite than clear skin. Quite the misadventure....

[@57sapke]

Hi Mark, yesterday I shot some blue herons out of the hand with my D850 and 200-500mm, unfortunately most of them were blurry. I saw your settings and noticed your shutterspeed was more faster than mine 1/3200 against 1/1000. Do you think this was the problem? (I also disable the VR)

[@cii1072]

Mark, in the kayak do you use anything for waterproof protection for your camera and long lens such as a dry bag, etc.? I have the D850 with Nikon 200-500 lens and live at the Lake of the Ozarks. I have my kayak which uses a single paddle (no peddles). I might try taking the camera on the lake. Also, I was wondering if you shot those heron photos with your D850 using Auto ISO? Did you use manual or Aperture Priority? Thanks. I enjoyed the video and your awesome shots.

[@svtk5104]

I start to cry right now, looking at my Nikon D700 only with manual focus 300mm f4.5 (with the old, hard focus). I have some good photos, but yours are one of the best. Thank you for the videos, I enjoy them very much!

[@denault3985]

Video shot with A9 or...? Btw, what program do you edit you're video with? Excellent as always

[@tigersunruss]

Most people use Lightroom. It's a cheaper version of photoshop with the exact same abilities. If you're just using it for photo editing then lightroom is the way to go.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Video was mixed. Some shot on the a9, some on my samsung galaxy note.

[@alpsofsilence1461]

As an absolute bird lover and photography enthusiast, your videos resonate with me at a sub-atomic level!! Thank you very much for your work, from New Zealand (a country with unique bird life on its own, just in case...)

[@smooth6718]

Simply superb, as usual. But I should think that all of us viewers and followers would like for you to mention what settings you are using. For example, manual only, or manual auto-ISO? Were you using a monopod or handheld? I'd guess a mono, because the 500 prime would be so heavy. But what do I know? Thanks and keep 'em coming!

[@fredmarconi305]

Mark, I have enjoyed two of your videos and your story telling. Amazing photography I am subscribing to a workshop.

[@touchedbynature5445]

Great Videos, Beautiful Photos, Many Thanks For sharing.

[@curtmorgan]

Yes, Mark I liked your A9 segment since I am headed in that direction. That explanation about the Snail Kite's adaptation is a-May-zing. I am wary about using my gear in a kayak because I flipped one in a very strong current and lost my camera (a Canon 7D) even though it was in a wet bag. I am happy to hear that yours is a very stable kayak, especially cruising among alligators!

[@daveisler3700]

As always “ Fantastic “ just can’t get enough of your videos. Thanks Dave Isler

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@mikecrowley6485]

Great selection of Photos Mark, a brilliant video as usual 👍🏻

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@Syed_Nouman]

which camera's sharpness would you say is better anyday? the d850 or the a9? id really love a reply because im dead set on getting the a9 paired with sony 200-600mm lens. thanks. Keep up the good work!

[@NishitDave]

That Egret series was really good. We have some excellent wetland spots around Ahmedabad, India, but kayaking is not allowed. The Nal Sarovar (Ramsar site) bird sanctuary has its own boatmen who fleece the tourist. Other spots have crocodiles to do the job, and of course boating there is illegal.

[@divijsharma2094]

Best

[@btaleonard02]

Amazing images! Each shot is superb!

[@terrym45]

Great work. Always loved our kayaks, each of us has 2. The Hobies with pedals were amazing. Hands free. If your near Aurora. Let me know. Hope to get to Steamboat next week to fly with our balloon friends but chemos been a little tough

[@hellmoth]

For that's the most enjoyable post you've done buddy.

[@PAULSWorld131]

Mark, you will get famous soon my brother. Wherever you shoot, or whatever you shoot, the results are just simply mesmerizing. From here on i need a shot of Mark Smith's photo & videoworks every day. Keep it coming!

[@donnaduhamel6004]

The large lily is a Lotus , rare to find in lakes, usually waterlilies.. big pads.. lovely closer pics all around.. be careful... alilgators.. whew... good snowy egrets, but love the snail hawk evolving.. that was new... thanks so much. !

[@echoauxgen]

Really Great!!! When using the A9 (I have the A7M3) how do you compensate for the brightness of the bright white of the egrets. I use auto iso and using back button focus adjust - EV to get rid of zebras but if the sun is too high and bright they do not go away - the reason you do very early morning shooting. But a video on zebra settings and adjusting for birds of bright whiteness and ISO limits for SS limits. You are so brave to get your camera out on the water. On the back of your kayak tie a rod on an then tie on some paint buckets to keep from tipping - so not to get those cameras wet!!!

[@rajdeep5619]

I need a lense and a camera like you....

[@rajdeep5619]

@Mark Smith can you give me one??

[@robinbrandewie590]

Mark I just found your videos a week or so ago and have enjoyed them all. What amazing photography but better still is your storytelling that goes along with it. I am an avid nature and wildlife enthusiast photographer. I learn from each of your videos. I especially love how you draw us into the behaviors and nature of the animals and their environment. I am currently a Canon 5dMarklV shooter with Tamron glass.....I'm looking to switch to the Sony mirrorless lineup. I would love to have your thoughts on the a7riii over the a9. I will likely get both in time (or wait for what they may announce 4th quarter of this year) but for cost reasons right now I am looking at the a7riii first. I'm also curious how you feel and why you use the Nikon d850 over the a9....is there certain situations that you prefer one of the other? Thank you for the great inspirations and for your time.

[@Vacublaster1]

OMG!!! "The Bees Knees" is used all over the English speaking world, not just in the USA.

[@photography3569]

Perhaps it is the lens or my eyes, i really dont now, but the D850 photos are somehow amazing. The colors and the clarity is outstanding. ... ive wrote this befor 14:00 .. know i know why