Raghuvamsh Chavali explains the technique of interlacing frames
O upside-down is by blending together many images of a commonly photographed subject, such as birds. This technique of interlacing frames has lots of potential for creating abstract images and, by learning how to use it, you can convey the natural movement of animals in a unique manner, as wildlife photographer Raghuvamsh Chavali explains…
“Interlacing frames involves capturing consecutive frames of the bird’s movement (see image above). The technique can be used to create and showcase smoother and more fluid motion when displaying bird flight or other rapid movements, using a burst mode or video timelapse footage. With this technique, the motion appears more natural and less choppy, enhancing the experience.
“I will frequently observe birds gracefully gliding through the sky, creating picturesque scenes, like artists with their brushes. It’s captivating to witness their flight patterns. While it’s common to spot them in nature, forests, countryside and lakes, I find it intriguing to see them in urban environments. I often liken the journeys of humans to those of birds, noting how both species navigate distinct paths to reach various destinations.
“That’s why I began capturing what I call ‘Wings Over Concrete’, to create composite photographs, showcasing these distinctive flight patterns both in nature and urban settings. To apply this technique, I choose higher frame rates, such as 100fps, for fast actions and complex manoeuvres of birds in flight. When capturing regular flight patterns, I use slower rates, like 50fps, to ensure smoother playback. It’s important to use the highest resolution supported by your camera, such as 4K, to capture fine details of the birds’ movements and features. Use manual focus to precisely control focus on the subject, ensuring clarity in each frame.
“Then, set the frame composition before initiating recording to capture the desired scene effectively. I’ll also leverage features such as the Sony A7III’s MF Assist, which zooms in when adjusting the focusing ring, providing a clearer view for precise focusing on the birds’ movements.”
