The sheer speed of raptors, coupled with their immense power, sublime elegance and astonishing beauty make raptors the kings of the birding world.
I have been fortunate to witness raptors hunting on many occasions. The ferocity and aerobatic abilities while chasing their prey, as well as the clever way in which they collaborate to pursue the hunt, have left me with many fantastic memories.
All the flight shots of these raptors were taken handheld. I have tried using a few support systems including my Gitzo tripod system with the Wimberley sidekick and Really Right Stuff BH 55 Ballhead, and came to the conclusion that handheld is the only technique that works for me. The Raptors are just too fast and unpredictable in their flight pattern to be able to use a tripod in a satisfactory manner
