Winter Distortion - 02 Feb 2022

Like everyone else this winter I've managed to find a lot of nice photographable birds from the car. And even though I tell myself I should get out of the car and shoot I ultimately take my chances. And regret it.

We all know about heat distortion from opening a car window and shooting in cold weather. It is like shooting through vaseline. And it ruins great opportunities. I still remember shooting a flock of Spruce Grouse in the Upper Peninsula from the car and finding every photo blurry and full of distortion. Yet, I still find myself shooting lots of images and hoping to find a keeper or two.

It also makes you question the quality of the lens. Take this American Tree Sparrow for example. First shot from the car. The rest from outside.

One aspect of the heat distortion that I always questioned was my lens hood. Is it possible that the hood traps heat and causes distortion even if I'm outside the car? Well, Steve Perry of Backcountry Gallery answered that question for me. Yes!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B42nXgYUwyo

Yesterday the Sun was shining and temps were in the 40's so took a walk by the Detroit River at Dingle Park. No issues here with lens sharpness.