Few birds capture the spirit of flight like the Lanner Falcon. With its keen eyes, tapered wings, and breath-snatching stoops, it embodies the wild freedom we often seek to capture in our wildlife photography. Recently, I had the chance for Lanner Falcon Photography experience up close at Millets Falconry Centre, a hidden gem for wildlife photographers seeking intimate encounters with birds of prey.
Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife photographer refining your birds-in-flight technique or a hobbyist looking to build your portfolio, photographing the Lanner Falcon offers an opportunity to practice fast-tracking, precision focusing, and composition in a controlled yet natural environment.
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Location: Millets Falconry Centre, Oxfordshire
📍 Millets Falconry Centre
Millets Farm Centre, Kingston Road, Frilford, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX13 5HB
Millets Falconry is located within Millets Farm, offering ample free parking, toilets, and on-site café facilities, making it comfortable for a full day of photography. It’s easily accessible from the A420, around 20 minutes from Oxford, and well-signposted.
The Falconry Centre offers multiple daily flying displays, static aviary access, and occasional specialist photography sessions, giving photographers a mix of portrait and in-flight opportunities.
The Falconry Experience for Photographers
The Millets Falconry team is welcoming and used to photographers, allowing close positioning during handling and controlled distances during flying sessions.
- Flying Display Times: Usually mid-morning and afternoon. Arrive early to secure a clear view.
- Lighting: Natural light is typically good, but fast shutter speeds (1/2500 or faster) are recommended for in-flight shots.
- Lens Choice: A 70-200mm or 100-400mm lens is ideal; you can often get closer than in true wild settings.
- Tripod/Monopod: Not essential but can help during longer waits between flights.
The birds are comfortable around people, allowing you to focus on your technique while respecting their space.
About the Lanner Falcon
Before photographing a subject, it’s worth understanding its behaviour and features to anticipate the best shots. The Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus) is a medium-sized falcon found in parts of Africa, southeastern Europe, and western Asia. Known for its agility and cooperative hunting, it is often used in falconry for its trainability and spectacular flights.
Below is a quick reference Table of Facts to include in your field notes:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Falco biarmicus |
| Wingspan | 95–105 cm |
| Weight | 500–800 grams |
| Speed | Up to 80 mph in direct flight |
| Distinct Features | Pale underparts with streaking, bluish-grey wings, yellow eye ring |
| Habitat | Open savannah, semi-desert, cliffs |
| Diet | Small birds, insects, small mammals |
| Call | Repeated “kek-kek-kek” |
The Lanner Falcon is slightly larger than a Peregrine Falcon and typically flies with shallower wing beats. It is known for dramatic stoops, agile mid-air manoeuvres, and impressive control during hunting flights.
Lanner Falcon Facts for Photographers
Colouration and Markings
The Lanner Falcon’s pale underparts with vertical streaking contrast beautifully against blue skies, making them visually impactful in flight shots. The yellow cere and eye ring add vibrant focal points in portrait compositions.
Behaviour During Displays
Expect sharp stoops, level fast flights, and occasional hovering before striking. The Lanner often flies lower than other falcons, providing excellent chances for level flight shots and interaction with the handler.
Ideal Moments to Capture:
- Launch moments from the glove
- Mid-air directional changes
- Portraits on the glove with eyes alert
Wildlife Photography Tips for Lanner Falcons
✅ Pre-focus and Anticipate: Use back-button focus and AI Servo/Continuous AF modes, pre-focusing on the area the falcon is flying toward.
✅ Fast Shutter Speeds: 1/2500s or faster to freeze wing tips during stoops.
✅ Aperture: f/5.6-f/8 for a balance between sharpness and sufficient depth of field.
✅ ISO: Adjust depending on lighting; ISO 400–800 often necessary to maintain shutter speed.
✅ Composition: Leave room in the frame for the direction of flight, capturing the bird’s intent and movement.
✅ Eye Contact: Aim for moments when the falcon glances toward you, adding life and connection to your images.
Closing Thoughts
Photographing the Lanner Falcon at Millets Falconry is an enriching experience that sharpens your technical wildlife photography skills while allowing you to engage deeply with the character of this magnificent bird.
Spending time in the field with experienced handlers gives you insight into the Lanner Falcon’s behaviours, enhancing your ability to predict and capture those fleeting, expressive moments that elevate your wildlife photography portfolio.
If you’re looking to refine your birds-in-flight skills, capture dynamic action shots, and add portraits of a striking falcon to your collection, Millets Falconry offers an accessible, photographer-friendly environment that I highly recommend.
Lanner Falcon Photography FAQ
Q: What is the best lens for photographing the Lanner Falcon at Millets Falconry?
A: A 100-400mm or 70-200mm lens provides flexibility for both in-flight and portrait shots. You will often be close enough that super-telephoto lenses are not necessary.
Q: Can beginners photograph birds of prey at Millets Falconry?
A: Absolutely. Millets Falconry is beginner-friendly, with handlers providing clear guidance and predictable flying routines, making it easier to practice your settings.
Q: What settings should I use for birds in flight?
A: Start with 1/2500s shutter speed, f/5.6-f/8 aperture, and ISO 400–800 depending on light. Use AI Servo/Continuous AF and high-speed burst mode.
Q: Do I need to book in advance to photograph at Millets Falconry?
A: Booking in advance is recommended, especially during weekends or event days, to ensure entry and a good position during displays.
Q: Is Millets Falconry suitable for children and families if I bring them along?
A: Yes, it’s a family-friendly environment with additional attractions on-site, allowing family members to enjoy the farm centre while you photograph.
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