We were fortunate to host Espen Helland, wildlife photographer based near Dunkeld, for an evening of insights into capturing images of black grouse, other birds, and even some mammals large and small. Espen is an experienced YouTuber with a sizeable following, not least amongst our own PPS membership, and he’s also an ambassador for OM Systems.
He spoke of early starts, climbs in the dark, setting up in hides before sunrise, and remaining there for as long as it takes. But the rewards! – to witness the black grouse engage in competitive displays and courtship rituals, where it all happens so fast you can’t really tell what’s going on until you see the 1/1600 sec images when you get home.
He told us of how he likes to isolate his subject with some out-of-focus foreground, such as this front row head.
And how exposing for and shooting into the sun allows for some rim lighting around his sillouetted subject, perhaps lighting up the wing structure of a bird in flight, or the furry outline of a recognisable mammal.
He spoke of how to use the features of the camera to capture the images he shared, with tips on how to not miss any of the action, and how to maximise image quality in poor light. Most of all, he shared a love for his subject, being both the creatures he photographs with care and respect, and the greater great outdoors itself.
Only later did we learn that this was actually Espen’s first live speaking engagement, and he was glad of a convivial half hour at the Grampian Hotel in which to wind down before the drive home. Our pleasure!