I usually do studio set up shots but I like to get out doors as much as possible. These two are from a recent visit to the Denver Zoo, both taken without benefit of a flash, through the 'glass' in these aquatic displays. Your feedback and/or re-works are appreciated. I've embedded the images in this, my first post here, but will be glad to post only links in the future if that's preferred. Thanks!
Buddy Thomason





PS: Both shots taken with my Canon 1D MKII, ISO 400, 24-70 L wide angle zoom, f-stop 2.8 or 3.5 as I recall and shutter speed was in the range of 0.5 sec (sorry, I should've paid more attention - I tend to use manual and watch my exposure meter in such situations). I attached the lens hood and used that against the glass to steady the camera. I intend to return to the zoo for further shooting, but with a 'plan.' This was essentially a scouting excursion to check out the facility vis a vis my equipment needs, zoo policy about tripods, flashes, big pro-looking lenses etc.

These are great! I am surprised that you were able to get them so sharp with such slow shutter speeds.

Lou

Hello Buddy. I too am surprised that they are so clear with such a long shutter speed. Well the Jelly is a little soft, but the Lionfish surprises me. According to the EXIF, the Lionfish was 1/15” at 2.8 and the Jelly fish was 1/8” at 2.8. So what was the zoo’s position on tripods and flashes? When I do this at home, I use 1 or two flashes and the tripod is only to hold the flash.

The Denver Zoo has no restrictions regarding non-commercial photography. That includes tripods, flash, long lenses etc. The problem is the hours of operation are not optimal given light and animal activity/behavior issues. Still, it's nice that they seem to welcome photographers. Now I need to find out when they clean the glass on the various aquaria. It's a mess after a few thousand kids have done their thing!

Good deal. Not that I would get there, but that's good to know. Hopefully other zoos have similar rules. The cleanliness of the glass will have a huge effect, when you ask, find out when they clean the insides too:)

I have never had a problem with a tripod at the Bronx Zoo...at least certainly not outside. I think there might be some problems in their indoors sections.

James