Hummingbirds

Even before he took up photography and we started a business, Greg has been fascinated by hummingbirds.  And really, who wouldn’t be?  The world’s smallest birds are like itty-bitty bedazzled fighter jets. 

We are blessed in New Mexico to have several common species, including Rufous, Black-chin, Broadtail, and Calliope. Hummingbirds will often gather in frenetic swarms around feeders, especially if other nearby food sources are scarce. The birds can also be very aggressive with each other and may guard the feeders from other hummingbirds. In addition to the brilliantly iridescent feathers and aerial acrobatics, the birds make interesting high pitched chirps and trills. They fly so fast that the hum of their vibrating wings creates a Doppler effect as they pass by.

Our family goes camping for 10 days every August in the Gila National Forest. During the late summer rains, wildflowers and, correspondingly, hummingbirds, are plentiful. Every year we put out feeders, and subsequently enjoy sitting nearby, watching the amazingly energetic birds. These photos are a few of the keepers of the hundreds Greg takes every year. The birds are challenging to photograph due to their small size and great speed. Greg uses a flash in addition to a relatively slow shutter speed, which often focuses the head and body and blurs of wings.

Like what you see? We sell high-quality prints with custom framing options!