Air to light

Two years ago I took a photograph I love. It is of an Arctic Tern hovering, using a long exposure to blur with movement everything but the head. It highlights their remarkable ability to keep their head static, even in blustery winds, whilst flapping furiously.

This year I’ve been to see the Arctic Terns looking for a similar shot. I need that head as still as possible and the wings, particularly, showing a majestic sweep.

I managed it:

Arctic Tern - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)

I look at the back of my camera and decide to make a pot of coffee in my van and smile.

It’s a technically difficult shot, but I got it. I’d love to try it again when the wind and the sun are coming from the same direction, and maybe from a few different angles. I’m very happy with this one, though.

What do you think?

Here’s 2023’s photo:

I clearly processed 2023’s shot a little warmer, with less blue and more of an orange tint. It’s something which is hard to judge and I probably need to process 2025’s again when I have access to my larger screen. I can’t wait to see it large.

I’m very happy with both.

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