See the light ...

I have been trying my hand at a little bit of birds in flight (since I got my 100-400L

) with varying degrees of success. What I have realised however is the undeniable importance of light. I have noticed that even if the sbject has the most perfect pose or flight spread, if the light does not catch it properly then the shadows cast will hide all the detail and no amount of post-processing will bring out the detail.

So my request from this thread (and I am sure that many other enthusiasts would also like to know) is if the serious amatures and professionals on this site wouldn't mind sharing a copule of their tips with us.

I would like to know the following:

Firstly - When is the best time for shooting? I have heard alot about "sweet light" and "magic hour" ... what's it all about?

Secondly - Is there any practical ways that you can train your eye to "see" a bit more like the camera would "see". I swear the naked eye and the brain paint a much nicer picture than one you can take through a camera.

All the help would be greatly appreciated ...