Wildlife photography

Wildlife photography is the act of taking photographs of wildlife. The art of good wildlife photography is regarded as being one of the more challenging forms of photography as it has several different requirements.

• Being a technically sound photographer, thus being able to expose correctly to have the desired effect of a wildlife photograph.

• Advanced photographic equipment. While wildlife photographs can be taken effectively using basic equipment it is facilitated by being able to use more sophisticated equipment. For example, 600mm lenses in conjunction with the latest autofocus camera bodies are generally required for bird photography. However different equipment is needed depending on the situation.

• Good field craft skills. Wildlife in general is difficult to approach thus a knowledge of the animal's behaviour will be needed in order to be able to predict actions. An ability to stalk animals effectively is often also required when attempting to get closer to wildlife. Hides are often required when photographing more timid subjects as these effectively conceal the photographer, although they prevent the photographer from moving in order to re-position a photograph.

Exploring wilderness areas and viewing wildlife in all its varied forms is a thrilling experience. You have the opportunity to witness the intricacies of our natural environment and the interplay of species and habitats.

To capture any of it photographically is a special treat. No need to ask why I personally do it; no need to wonder why I tote camera bodies, lenses, tripod, extra batteries, along with the other essentials (water, etc.) while hiking. It's simply that I love it and you will too! So remember to pack along your camera the next time you're out exploring.

Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Never harass wildlife: abide by the Code of Ethics for nature and wildlife photography and viewing.

2. Always be alert. Know what’s around you and educate yourself on what safety precautions you may need to take.

3. Know your camera. If you have to search and fiddle with the controls, you’ll miss the shot. If your camera has manual features, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the difference it makes using them instead of its automatic ones.

4. Remember that compact digital cameras have a lag time between the depressing of the shutter-release button and the actual release of the shutter. Work around this unique challenge by practicing on moving subjects and anticipating the action. Another approach, if you have burst mode, is to simply hold down the shutter-release button, taking a series of shots. With luck you’ll have captured the action you wanted.

5. When you get to a location, really look at what’s around you. Though you may have stopped for that heron you saw earlier, there may be a magnificently colored centipede at your feet. Yes indeed, centipedes are wildlife too!

6. Wait for natural action. Be very patient and you’ll be rewarded with stunning opportunities.

7. Take advantage of the optical zoom capabilities of your compact digital camera but IGNORE the digital zoom feature which merely enlarges pixels turning them into unsightly "boulders."

8. Don’t use flash. If you’re far from your subject, the flash won’t be of any use. If you’re too close to your subject, you risk startling it and being injured yourself.

9. Don’t feel compelled to have your subject fill your frame. Instead include components of the animal’s habitat thereby adding another layer of interest to the story your photograph will tell.

10. Focus on the animal’s eyes when possible. If they are sharp, then the entire image is more pleasant to view.

11. If possible, select your shutter speed manually rather than using automatic mode. You’ll want to be flexible. A running herd shot with a slower shutter speed made while panning produces breathtaking results. (Yep, you’ll want to use a tripod for this.)

12. Experiment with depth-of-field. An equally powerful statement can be made using a deep depth-of-focus as with a short depth-of-focus. It’s entirely dependent on what elements you’ve framed in your foreground, midground and background.

13. Animals are not unlike high-energy toddlers...neither stay in one place for very long so be prepared. Never chase them but move cautiously, slowly and smoothly. ALWAYS stay the recommended distance from any wildlife (as specified by the National Park Service or other expert).

14. Become familiar with the habits of different species. Enrich your understanding of what they are doing and where you might look for them.

15. Shoot when the sun’s angle isn’t straight overhead and harsh. Morning and early evening light are much more pleasant and reveal more of the subject’s texture.

16. Try to be level with the critter. This may require a bit more athleticism than you expected, particularly if you’re photographing that centipede. Remember, dirt is your pal!

17. Finally, go out on “bad” weather days. Some of the most interesting images are captured during inclement weather.

Happy exploring and have a memorable time!