Photographing the Ruby-throated Hummingbird in flight is one of the most exciting wildlife moments I’ve had in my Arkansas yard. These birds are known for their dazzling iridescent feathers and rapid, precise flight patterns. This post shares how I captured a Ruby-throated Hummingbird in action and offers insights into photographing this incredible species.
Fast Facts About the Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the only hummingbird that breeds in eastern North America. What makes them especially fascinating is their wing speed. They can flap their wings up to 50 times per second. This allows them to hover in place, fly backward, and change direction in an instant.
My Camera Setup and Technique
To photograph this bird, I used my Canon EOS R5 camera with the RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM lens. I shot in manual mode with auto ISO, an aperture of f/8, and a fast shutter speed of 1/3200 second. These settings helped me freeze the bird’s movement and capture clean, sharp detail in its feathers and wings.
The photo was taken on July 10, 2022, at 9:26 A.M. Bright sunlight was perfect for this shot, lighting up the iridescent red throat of the male Ruby-throated Hummingbird. He had just launched from my hummingbird feeder, giving me a perfect view as he hovered.
I also break down my feeder setup and shooting approach in more detail in this post on photographing hummingbirds in flight at my feeder.
Tips for Photographing Hummingbirds in Flight
- Choose bright, natural light: Early morning or late afternoon gives you great light without harsh shadows.
- Use fast shutter speeds: Start at 1/3200 or faster to freeze motion.
- Focus on feeders or flowers: Hummingbirds often return to the same spots.
- Be patient: These birds are quick, but if you stay still, they’ll come back.
If you want a deeper breakdown of timing, tracking, and camera settings, I go into more detail in my guide on birds in flight photography best ways to capture stunning shots.
Why I Love Photographing Hummingbirds
Capturing a Ruby-throated Hummingbird in flight takes practice and timing, but the results are worth the effort. Every photo is a reminder of just how incredible these small birds are. Their energy, beauty, and grace make them one of my favorite subjects.
If you enjoy wildlife photography, give hummingbirds a try. You’ll find them challenging but deeply rewarding.
FAQ
What makes the Ruby-throated Hummingbird unique?
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird can hover, fly backward, and change direction instantly. Its wings can beat up to 80 times per second, which allows for precise control in midair.
What lens works best for hummingbird photography?
A telephoto zoom like the RF 100–500mm works well. It lets me keep distance from the feeder while still filling the frame and avoiding disturbance.
When is the best time to photograph hummingbirds?
Early morning is ideal. The light is softer, and hummingbirds tend to visit feeders more often after their first feeding cycle of the day.
What shutter speed freezes hummingbird wings?
I start at 1/3200 second and adjust from there. Faster speeds help freeze wing motion, especially in bright light.
How do I attract hummingbirds to my yard?
I use red feeders filled with sugar water only, no dye. Native flowering plants and nearby cover also help keep them returning.