Staffa is a small island in the Inner Hebrides, off the west coast of Mull in Scotland, best known for the basalt columns of Fingal's Cave. In the breeding season it also holds a colony of puffins that nest in burrows along the grassy clifftops. You reach the island only by boat tour from Mull or Oban, and landings depend on the sea state, so a calm day is what you want. From the small landing you climb a steep staircase and follow the path around to the puffin grounds on the far side of the island. The birds are remarkably relaxed around people here, partly because human presence keeps off the gulls and skuas that raid the nests away. Sit down low at a respectful distance, stay still, and be patient for eye level frames against the sea and sky. A telephoto in the 100 to 400mm range lets you fill the frame and catch details like a beak full of sandeels without crowding the burrows, though the birds sometimes come close enough for a shorter lens. Overcast light pairs perfectly with their white fronts and keeps the orange beaks from blowing out, while low morning or evening sun adds warmth if you are able to time your tour to ideal lighting. The season runs roughly from May to late July, after that the birds head back out to sea. Although even during breeding season they are not guaranteed to make an appearance on shore on any given day. Patience, and some good luck are a big part of nature photography. Keep well clear of the burrow edges, which collapse easily, and never block a bird's path to its nest. (Staffa, Inner Hebrides, Scotland)
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