Barn Swallow in Flight

Most people have seen swallows at one point or another. They are a small bird about 5-7 inches in height with a very streamlined body and wings which taper to points not unlike falcons, which are the fastest birds in the world. Barn swallows are typically seen near bodies of water such as ponds and lakes and make their nest from mud from the shoreline. They are very fast in the air and engage in aerial acrobatics in order to feed on insects. Many photographers are aware of the difficulties in capturing these birds in the air, due to their erratic flight patterns and speed. Panning, focusing and maintaining these birds in the camera frame is quite challenging, especially with a heavier telephoto lens. However, with patience and practice, even the beauty of these elusive aerial acrobats can be captured, as seen in this photo. Here you can appreciate their streamlined shape and very long wings. Swallows are among the most beautiful birds to capture in flight.