Canon EOS 6D for Great Action Photography

Canon EOS 6D / EF 70-300mm f4-5.6L IS USM lens

Canon EOS 6D for Action Photography

The humble Canon EOS 6D (Full Frame) for motorcycle panning at Killarney, Cape Town and Birds in Flight, Woodbridge Island.

The Canon EOS 6D body is not really renown for its Autofocus System capabilities when compared to i.e. the Canon EOS 5D Mark III (Full Frame) / Canon EOS 7D Mark II (APS-C) - and globally Canon photographers are not too keen for its 4.5 fps continuous rate compared to 6 - 14 fps in most sport-orientated bodies.

I took the Canon EOS 6D on various tests (deliberately) paired with the Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6L IS USM lens for demonstrating the camera's 11-Point AF system capabilities at 4.5 frames per second.

If this was my only Canon EOS body, I would have no concern shooting motor sport and / or Birds in Flight - only change I would make is to replace the 70-300mm lens with my 400mm prime lens for Birds in Flight (for faster AF and the 100mm additional reach).

"A humble 2012 Full-Frame body with my 'shortest' long lens still delivered the goods"

The image of a Pied Kingfisher in flight was a deliberate attempt to show the influence of environment, awareness, cognition, perception and reflex when exercising your craft. At 4.5 fps and a minimalist AF-system I was confident to get the shot. Matter of fact there are 4 shots in this sequence - all 'ideal exposures' for my own expectations.

I also used my 'shortest' long lens to make this image: the Canon EF 70 -300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens.

I don't use the Canon EOS 6D anymore, but it is still in our bags. Will never let it go. I personally replaced the 6D with the 6D Mark II for landscapes / long exposures and street photography.

The Canon 6D Mark II at 6.5 fps is even better at birds in flight, although not its main purpose (for me).

The moral of this post is - first try to get the most out of your camera and lens(es) before you upgrade. In many cases human behaviour and getting a comprehensive understanding of the environmental variables can save you quite a bit.

For me, a regular challenge is to get the best out of my oldest equipment. Of course it does have many limitations comparing to the latest tech, I respect this fact, but being in the moment with 'older' familiar ergonomics is such a comfort zone - and not having the FOMO feeling.

The 6D is good to go for motorcycle racing as well... and more.

Two images with Canon EOS 6D at Center-Point AF (AI Servo Mode):

1st Image: Motorcycle Panning at Killarney Cape Town

2nd Image: Birds in Flight Photography - Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Image 1: Canon EOS 6D - Motorcycle Racing Killarney, Cape Town

Image 2: Canon EOS 6D - Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town

Bird Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Bird Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Canon EOS 7D Mark II Resources / Birds in Flight Photography Gallery
Canon EOS 7D Mark II Resources / Birds in Flight Photography Gallery

Two Cost-Effective Canon Lenses for Birds in Flight Photography
Two Cost-Effective Canon Lenses for Birds in Flight Photography

False Bay Tourist and Street Photography

Tourist and Street Photography at Kalk Bay and Simon's Town, Cape Town

Kalk Bay Harbour with Fishing Boats (in False Bay)

Family Celebration around False Bay 

An eventful family celebration took us through the picturesque Kalk Bay and Simon’s Town along the False Bay coastline. The crisp morning light and blue sky presented a few vivid opportunities for remembering a special day in splendour and grace.

Photographed by tourists at large, we (many of us as locals), have these vibrant towns with its rich local and international histories quite close to our doorstep.

Street Art and Craft Images at Kalk Bay and Simon's Town with Personal Permission from Each.

Vernon Chalmers Kalk Bay and Simon's Town, Cape Town Photography

"Vernon Chalmers has captured some stunning photographs in both Kalk Bay and Simon’s Town, showcasing the unique charm and beauty of these coastal areas. His work often includes street photography, landscapes, and local wildlife, highlighting the vibrant culture and scenic views.

• In Kalk Bay, Chalmers has photographed the bustling harbour, colourful fishing boats, and the lively street scenes filled with local crafts and art. The picturesque town and mountain landmarks provide a beautiful backdrop for his images.

• In Simon’s Town, his photography features notable landmarks such as Jubilee Square, with its views of False Bay, and the famous statue of “Just Nuisance,” the only dog to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. His images often capture the essence of the town’s rich history and natural beauty.

• Chalmers uses a variety of Canon cameras and lenses to achieve his stunning shots, often employing techniques like aperture priority mode and post-processing with Adobe Lightroom." (Source: Microsoft)

More About Kalk Bay and Simon's Town, Cape Town

"Kalk Bay and Simon’s Town are two charming coastal towns located on the False Bay side of the Cape Peninsula in Cape Town. Here’s a bit about each:

Kalk Bay

• History & Culture: Kalk Bay is known for its rich history and bohemian vibe. Originally a lime-producing area (hence the name “Kalk,” which means lime in Dutch), it later became a whaling station and fishing village 1. Today, it’s a trendy spot filled with artists, musicians, and great restaurants 1.

• Activities: You can enjoy fresh seafood at the harbour, explore quirky shops, and visit the Kalk Bay Theatre. The area is also great for whale watching during the season 1.

• Scenery: The village offers stunning views of False Bay and has a picturesque harbour where you can watch the local fishermen at work 1.

Simon’s Town

• Naval Heritage: Simon’s Town is home to South Africa’s primary naval base and has a rich maritime history 2. The town is named after Simon van der Stel, an early governor of the Cape Colony.

• Boulders Beach: One of the main attractions here is Boulders Beach, famous for its colony of African penguins 2. It’s a great spot for swimming and getting up close with these charming birds.

• Historic Sites: The town is filled with historic buildings and museums, including the Simon’s Town Museum and the Warrior Toy Museum 2.

Both towns are connected by a scenic train route that runs along the coastline, offering breath taking views of the ocean 2." (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

All Images Copyright Vernon Chalmers

Vernon Chalmers Kalk Bay, Cape Town Photography

Kalk Bay Harbour with Simon's Town in the False Bay Background

Kalk Bay Town and Mountain Landmark

Very Inviting Pavement Street Market Photography : Kalk Bay

Hats For Sale : Street Market Photography, Kalk Bay

Creative South African Flags and other Craft : Kalk Bay

Hotchpotch Street Market Photography : Kalk Bay

Creative Proteas and Arum Lily Flower Craft : Kalk Bay

Creative and Vivid Authentic African Art : Kalk Bay

Kalk Bay and Simon's Town African Art art and Craft Traders

"Kalk Bay

• Kalk Bay is known for its bohemian atmosphere and artistic community. The area is filled with informal skilled crafters, textiles galleries and shops where you can find a variety of contemporary South African art, handcrafted jewelry, and unique décor items. The Kalk Bay Modern gallery is particularly notable for its extensive collection of contemporary art 1 2.

Simon’s Town

• Simon’s Town, especially around Boulders Beach, hosts an African Art & Craft Market. This market features a wide range of African textiles, crafts, and artworks. It’s a great place to find colorful and creative pieces, often sold directly by the artists themselves 3 4.

Both locations offer a rich cultural experience and are perfect for anyone interested in exploring local art and supporting African artisans." (Microsoft Copilot)

Vernon Chalmers Simon’s Town, Cape Town Photography

Simon's Town St. George's Street : Street Photography

False Bay View : From Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Able Seaman Just Nuisance Royal Navy Dog : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Creative Ostrich Egg Art and Craft : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Hoopoe Bird Creative Craft : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Various Creative Crafts : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

Colourful St. George's Street Photography : Off Main Road, Simon's Town

Creative Craft Statues : Jubilee Square, Simon's Town

The Story of Able Seaman Just Nuisance (Only Enlisted Royal Navy Dog)

Just Nuisance was a remarkable Great Dane and the only dog ever to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. Born on April 1, 1937, in Rondebosch, Cape Town, he became a beloved figure among sailors in Simon’s Town, South Africa1 2.

• Just Nuisance’s story began when he followed sailors around the naval base and even onto trains, often causing a bit of a “nuisance” by blocking gangplanks and train aisles. His frequent train travels without a ticket led to complaints from railway officials 1 2.

• To solve this, the Royal Navy enlisted him on August 25, 1939, giving him the rank of Able Seaman, which entitled him to free rail travel. He was known for his friendly nature, often escorting sailors back to their ships and participating in various morale-boosting activities 1 2.

Just Nuisance served until 1944, when he was discharged due to health issues. He passed away on April 1, 1944, and was buried with full military honours in Simon’s Town 1 2. (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

Camera / Lens for Kalk Bay and Simon's Town Photography

• Canon EOS 6D (Full-Frame)
• Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens

Exposure / Focus Settings

• Autofocus On
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Apertures (f/4 - f/11)
• Auto-ISO (100 - 400)
• Shutter Speeds (various)
• Image Stabilisation On
• Handheld

Image Post-Processing
Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - minor adjustments / RAW to JPEG conversion

African Art & Craft Market - Boulders Beach, Simon's Town

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