Lesser Yellowlegs, Mendenhall Wetlands, Alaska – Image 2531

I shot this photo lying flat down in the mud on my belly in my raingear and shot this photo using my 500mm F/4 lenses with a 1.4 extender. I wanted the water level view. Often, I shoot my long lenses propped up on the backpack that I use to carry these long large lenses into the field. I find the backpack on the ground a more solid brace than a solid tripod. This method has its limitation (like in a brushy area) but works amazingly well in so many different situations. This image illustrates the month of August in my 2008 Juneau Alaska Calendar. Camera: Nikon F/5, Lens: 500mm f/4 Nikkor, Film 35mm Velvia slide film.-Mark Kelley