Focussing fast moving subjects with long lenses is a problem all action photographers have to tackle, particularly with subjects that are darting around in random directions. It's a skill sports photographers have to master, particulalry in sports like football and rugby. Its slightly easier in track events like athletics, cycling, motor sport etc as you can predict more acurately where to pre-focus. Perfection comes with a lot of practice, in other words you have to be match fit like the sportsmen being photographed. Great natural history photgraphers also develop this skill with lots of experience.
David

What a great series Mat. I only comment on bird pictures when I think they are exceptional because it's not my subject but these fall into that category.
I think I'll have to start saving for the DA*300mm lens.
David

You forgot the two fried eggs, a mountain of crispy bacon and a plate piled high with toast.
David

What an amazing and fantastic portfolio Gwyn. It must have been a trip of a lifetime. The only times I've been to Norway were all in winter so I can really relate to your pictures.
David

Fascinating set of images. Good quality photography too.
David

Repatriated 1
[IMG]http://i799.photobucket.com/albums/yy273/Davidtrout2/Steam%20trains/8FShildon0197.jpg[/IMG]

Repatriated 2
[IMG]http://i799.photobucket.com/albums/yy273/Davidtrout2/Steam%20trains/8FShildon01820198_11.jpg[/IMG]

Repatriated 3
[IMG]http://i799.photobucket.com/albums/yy273/Davidtrout2/Steam%20trains/8FShildon01820198_5.jpg[/IMG]

Repatriated 4
[IMG]http://i799.photobucket.com/albums/yy273/Davidtrout2/Steam%20trains/8FShildon01820183_1.jpg[/IMG]

This rusting veteran British 1940s freight locomotive was one of many sent by the War Department to Turkey during World War Two to help the Allies war effort. After the war it worked on Turkish National Railways for decades until it became redundant. In December 2010 it was one of two of its class (LMS 8F) to be shipped back to Bristol Docks pending restoration. It's now in Locomotion, the steam museum at Shildon, Co. Durham, awaiting repairs.
It will eventually work on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Its sister engine is stored at Barry, South Wales, until it's future is decided.

Eggsellent competition and judging Aiki and a cracking win JudithAnn, that was one of my favourites too. Aiki, thanks for my HC and for reminding us all that photography can be such good fun.
David

What great pictures - and model. Now let's see what can be done with some sprouts.
David

That second picture is such a natural shot Ken, I love it. I'm sure hter girl in the photo would be very pleased with your efforts.
David

Excellent pictures. Now I'm waiting for someone to post the first cuckoo of spring.
David