Re: [Leica] Shooting Rattlesnakes in the Wild

["Joe Codispoti" <joecodi@thegrid.net>]

Bill,

The rattle snakes such as the Western Diamondback  Sidewinder, and
variations of these have an undeserved bad reputation.  They are dangerous
when startled, cornered, or stepped upon, otherwise they would prefer to
avoid confrontation and will run away readily when disturbed.

I have photographed single solitary specimens but was never in the company
of many snakes at one place. Only in the midst of a group there might be
real danger.
Leather boots with high tops are essential, otherwise there is no need for
special equipment. Look where you are stepping. A close focusing zoom (or
with a close-up diopter) is adequate. Flash to balance the contrast is a
good touch.
A gun will do no good. Even if you have been bitten, why kill the snake?
Snakes perform a very useful function in the wild, they keep the vermin
population in check  I think that a shield would hamper movement.

In most cases rattlers are passive, the photographer can work with no fear
of attack. Common sense will prevent disasters. However, passive snakes are
not very interesting, so it is necessary to stimulate them by invading their
safety zone which is usually close to within their striking  distance. Once
the snake is aroused, it will rear its head, the tail rises also to shake
the rattles and action shooting becomes interesting. A good trick is to use
a fishing pole with a bright rag at the end to wave in order to confuse it.
An assistant here (one with steady nerves) is helpful. Early in the morning
rattlers can be found on roads where they coil to absorb the heat retained
by the asphalt.
Once in South Carolina, while walking in the woods around Charleston, I came
upon a snake that was still cold from the night chill. I immobilized it with
a forked stick,  pick it by the neck and  wished that I could have had an
assistant to take photos of the animal writhing and coiling around my arm.

On the west coast look in rocky areas, around and under fallen trees for
your subjects. A good place to photograph them in total safety is at a well
designed zoo where snakes and other animals live in habitats that resemble
their natural environment. By careful framing, the terrarium can seem like
the Wild West.

Joseph




From: "Bill" <m6rf@yahoo.com>

>
> I have heard various things about how to shoot rattlesnakes, but I am
> looking for someone who has some actual experience in doing it.
>
> For lenses I have heard that you want to use a minium of a 100mm or a
> fast 80-200 or similar zoom.  I understand that a good flash can also
> be helpful.
>
> Self protection.  Here I have heard a number of things.  One guy said
> you cut a piece of 1/4 inch plywood 2 1/2 feet wide and 3 feet high,
> put some type of handles on the back side, and paint it dark green.
>
> Second, I have heard that you get a set of shin guards like baseball
> catchers wear, and spry paint then bright hunter orange.
>
> Third I have heard that you can use pieces of stove pipe that can be
> purchased at any hardware store.  You put the pipe around your legs
> and put a couple of rubber bands over them to keep the pipe snug.
>
> Fourth, I have heard that you always carry a 38 cal or 357 cal pistol
> loaded with scatter shot in the event you have a problem.
>
> Fifty, always know the location of the nearest hospital that has
> anti-venom serum, and don't rely on the police or paramedics to know
> where one is.
>
> Sixth, keep a cooler in the car with ice water and towels in it, so
> you can wrap the bitten area with the cold towels.
>
> Seventh, pray a lot.
>
> Does anyone on the group have real life experice with fun projects
> like this?
>
> Regards,
>
> Bill
>
> __________________________________________________
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Talk to your friends online with Yahoo! Messenger.
> http://im.yahoo.com
>