Nice shot, catching birds moving that quickly is difficult ... you did well I think.

Thanks Teresa,

Several people have that bird hanging on their walls, it's my best selling print. Canvas, 10x20, 5x10, 8x10, 8x12 ... heck I have one 10x20 hanging in my home too. It's a very special kestrel. One of my mentors named the image "Big Zen."

Another unique shot is attached ... the "Grim Reaper."

Thanks for your kind words,

Jack

Hi, my name's Jack. I'm in Fort Collins, CO and really enjoy photography. I shoot mostly wildlife and nature, but enjoy taking pictures of almost anything ... Here to learn how to get better.

The first step is to get an estimate of the cost of cleaning and any re[pairs that might be needed due to the sand ingestion.

If the lens is expensive, take it in ... cleaning my more expensive Canon lens cost up to $200.00 per lens. If it's not an expensive lens, toss it (or make a coffee cup out of it) and replace it.

Notice the "Up to $200.," I'd say the sooner the better on at least getting an estimate. You can do a lot of damage forcing it to "grind."