Photographing the Bergara B-14 Ridge Rifle

It’s a pleasure to work with a model that knows how to pose, and photographing the Bergara B-14 Ridge Rifle for my review in Predator Xtreme magazine was a pleasure. The gun’s a pro, both in front of the camera and on the firing line.

Maybe it’s just me, but the white/gray specks on a traditionally profiled, glass-reinforced black synthetic stock look very nice in photos. It’s better in person, take my word for it.

Inspect that matte-blue finish on the barrel (threaded, by the way) and receiver. It’s not uncommon to get guns in for testing, photography and magazine review that are blemished and scarred, but this one’s finish is crazy uniform and gorgeous. Of course, I’ve grown to expect that from Bergara, even when it sends a modestly priced model.

You can’t blame manufacturers for sending mechanically sound “seconds,” especially right now. Guns are selling fast, and you practically beg for models in an editor-requested chambering.

Competent gun writers also torture gear. That’s done out of respect for the hard-earned cash readers spend on gear. Final reviews should always indicate whether the product is a long-term investment, or a short-lived trend waiting to break. I’ve trashed more stuff in testing than tantrum-throwing toddlers in fine China shops.   

Outdoor Backdrop

 I’m probably alone in this, but I get tired of images that have obviously been taken in the “studio.” So, a lot of my lead photos are outdoors, where complete control is impossible. It’s where owners will be running their guns most of the time, anyway.

When I was photographing the Bergara B-14 Ridge Rifle there was a lot of stuff I wish I could have moved. Those leaves at the bottom of the photo? Well, they’re distracting for sure. They were there, though, so they stayed despite the fact though Photoshop can remove them. And what about that stick to the left? Annoying I know, but readers de

This image wasn’t quite good enough to send to the editor, but I hope you find it pleasing. The problems mentioned above are just a few of the reasons some of the most popular firearm photos photographed outdoors. This year’s bumper crop of mosquitoes, ticks and working well into headlamp hours in the woods add to the fun.

B-14 Ridge Rifle Image

I set up the rifle and camera tripod and ceremoniously doused myself in largely ineffective insect repellent. The camera went onto the tripod and height adjusted. This angle isn’t nearly as glamorous as subsequent perspectives.

Getting it done is more of a challenge outdoors, though. Tripods and guns move slightly between takes, settling into the leaves and dirt during the process.

Pocket Wizards triggered the flashes remotely. I probably deleted a five or six dozen images because of a variety of problems, including mosquitoes in the frame and my follow-up swats.

Was it worth all the effort? Does the photo I took month’s later in the snow look better? I sort of think so but let me know what you think.

Thank you for stopping by my modest blog and I hope everyone has a glorious day.