Having the opportunity to photograph Atlantic Puffins had always been on my bucket list and I finally got the opportunity to spend some time with then a few weeks back. These images were all taken in the Mingan Archipelago National Park in Quebec. All stationary birds were taken with a Canon 5DIV with 600mm + 1.4x converter while the flight shots were taken with a Canon 1Dx and 400mm DOII + 1.4x converter. Regarding flight shots, these birds are pretty quick and I would have to admit my deeper rate was only about 5% with my Canon setup. Many of the folks on this trip were shooting with Sony A9 with Sony's 100/400 plus converters. I was really impressed with the keep rate these folks were getting with the Sony gear vs. my Canon gear. I'll admit, a lot of my failure may have to due with operator error, but considering the relatively light weight of the Sony compared to the Canon, and the fact that I believe the AF system, especially with a full screen area of AF points, and 20 frames per second, the Sony might have a significant edge for flight photography on Canon or Nikon option. Am I developing a little gas. Perhaps I should go take a TUMS.

Anyway, hope you enjoy and as always I am always open to constructive criticism.

Having the opportunity to photograph Atlantic Puffins had always been on my bucket list and I finally got the opportunity to spend some time with then a few weeks back. These images were all taken in the Mingan Archipelago National Park in Quebec. All stationary birds were taken with a Canon 5DIV with 600mm + 1.4x converter while the flight shots were taken with a Canon 1Dx and 400mm DOII + 1.4x converter. Regarding flight shots, these birds are pretty quick and I would have to admit my deeper rate was only about 5% with my Canon setup. Many of the folks on this trip were shooting with Sony A9 with Sony's 100/400 plus converters. I was really impressed with the keep rate these folks were getting with the Sony gear vs. my Canon gear. I'll admit, a lot of my failure may have to due with operator error, but considering the relatively light weight of the Sony compared to the Canon, and the fact that I believe the AF system, especially with a full screen area of AF points, and 20 frames per second, the Sony might have a significant edge for flight photography on Canon or Nikon option. Am I developing a little gas. Perhaps I should go take a TUMS.

Anyway, hope you enjoy and as always I am always open to constructive criticism.

Yes, there is a shuttle service to the island where the lighthouse is. I wouldn't call it a ferry in that the island is quite small and no vehicles. The areas visitors are allowed to go is fairly restricted to protect the birds but obviously good enough to get some great captures. I actually was on a photo tour with Christopher Dodds and actually stayed on the island for six days, which was really a treat. But for regular visitors I think the first boat can leave near daybreak and the last leaves at dusk. You would have to inquire. I suspect you can get information on a Canadian national parks sight.

Thanks for looking and good luck on further puffin shooting!

Having the opportunity to photograph Atlantic Puffins had always been on my bucket list and I finally got the opportunity to spend some time with then a few weeks back. These images were all taken in the Mingan Archipelago National Park in Quebec. All stationary birds were taken with a Canon 5DIV with 600mm + 1.4x converter while the flight shots were taken with a Canon 1Dx and 400mm DOII + 1.4x converter. Regarding flight shots, these birds are pretty quick and I would have to admit my deeper rate was only about 5% with my Canon setup. Many of the folks on this trip were shooting with Sony A9 with Sony's 100/400 plus converters. I was really impressed with the keep rate these folks were getting with the Sony gear vs. my Canon gear. I'll admit, a lot of my failure may have to due with operator error, but considering the relatively light weight of the Sony compared to the Canon, and the fact that I believe the AF system, especially with a full screen area of AF points, and 20 frames per second, the Sony might have a significant edge for flight photography on Canon or Nikon option. Am I developing a little gas. Perhaps I should go take a TUMS.

Anyway, hope you enjoy and as always I am always open to constructive criticism.