Welcome to the first installment of "How I Got It" (HIGI), where I delve into the stories behind some of my most captivating photographs. Today, I'm excited to share the tale of capturing two ruby-throated hummingbirds in the midst of a spirited encounter right in my own backyard.

On a warm afternoon, I found myself peering out from my favorite vantage point—the laundry room window, which I fondly refer to as the "ultimate blind." It's a large casement window that opens with the twist of a handle, offering an unobstructed view of the garden below. A fold up step stool allows me to elevate myself when needed, ensuring I never miss a moment of the natural drama unfolding outside.

As I scanned the garden, my attention was drawn to a patch of colorful zinnias. Suddenly, two ruby-throated hummingbirds appeared, darting energetically around the flowers, clearly agitated with one another. It was a opportunity to witness these tiny birds engaged in such a lively display.

Both birds eventually landed on a cable TV line running into the house, positioning themselves a few meters apart. At the time, my Sony A1 camera, paired with a 200-600mm lens and a 1.4x teleconverter, was resting in the office/server room. I swiftly dashed to retrieve it, grab a few snaps of the birds on a wire.

Returning to the window, I focused on one of the birds, not knowing that the other hummingbird would attack from above. In a flash, the second bird launched itself from above, initiating a brief skirmish. The encounter lasted only five to 10 seconds before both birds took flight, still visibly upset with one another.

Thanks to the Sony A1's 30 frames per second, I managed to capture a series of images documenting the entire sequence. The camera's fast autofocus and high-speed burst mode proved invaluable in freezing the action, allowing me to preserve this incredible moment.

"Wildlife photography is often about being in the right place at the right time," says renowned wildlife photographer Joel Sartore, National Geographic photographer. "But it also requires the right equipment and a keen eye for capturing those fleeting moments." My experience with the hummingbirds underscored the importance of readiness and anticipation in wildlife photography.

This experience reinforced the notion that some of the most remarkable photographs are about right time, right place and knowing your gear.

• National Geographic - Wildlife Photography Tips from Joel Sartore
• Audubon - How to Photograph Hummingbirds
• Sony - Discover the Sony A1 Camera
• B&H Explora - Photographing Hummingbirds: Tips and Gear Guide