Top 5 Tips for Wildlife Photography

Top 5 Tips to help you with your wildlife photography. Wildlife photography is a thrilling and rewarding genre of photography that allows you to capture the beauty and behaviour of all sorts of different animals and birds in their natural habitats. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are my top five tips to help you get started in wildlife photography:

Know Your Subject

Understanding the behaviour and habits of the animals you want to photograph is crucial. This knowledge will help you anticipate their actions and position yourself for the best shots. This is often a largely overlooked area and a lot of people think that they can start taking great shots without understanding the subjects that they are photographing. Here are some key points to consider:

• Research: Before heading out, spend time researching the species you plan to photograph. Learn about their feeding habits, mating rituals, and daily routines. This information will help you predict where and when to find them.
• Observation: Spend time observing the animals without your camera. Take note of their movements, interactions, and patterns. This will help you understand their behaviour and improve your chances of capturing unique moments.
• Field Guides: Use field guides and apps to identify different species and learn more about their characteristics. This will enhance your ability to recognize and photograph a variety of wildlife

Use the Right Gear

Having the right equipment is essential for wildlife photography – buy the best equipment that you can afford, but there is no point causing financial strain, good images can be taken on any camera or lens, the used camera market is full of brilliant prices on cameras and lenses. Here are some recommendations:

• Camera: Invest in a camera with fast autofocus and a high frame rate. Mirrorless cameras and DSLRs are popular choices among wildlife photographers due to their speed and image quality.
• Lenses: A super-telephoto lens (300mm or longer) is essential for capturing distant subjects. Consider using a zoom lens for versatility or a prime lens for superior image quality.
• Tripod/Monopod: A sturdy tripod or monopod can help stabilize your shots, especially when using heavy lenses. This is particularly useful in low light conditions or when shooting with slow shutter speeds. This however is not essential. I vary rarely use a tripod or monopod, but this will depend on how steady your hands are and what type of images that you want to create.
• Accessories: Carry extra batteries, memory cards, and lens cleaning kits. A rain cover for your camera can also be useful in unpredictable weather conditions (essential in Scotland!!).

Master Your Camera Settings

Wildlife photography often involves challenging lighting conditions and fast-moving subjects. Here are some tips to help you master your camera settings:

• Aperture Priority Mode: Use aperture priority mode to control the depth of field and ensure your subject is in sharp focus. A wide aperture (low f-number) will create a shallow depth of field, isolating your subject from the background.
• ISO Settings: Adjust your ISO settings to handle low light situations without introducing too much noise. Modern cameras perform well at higher ISOs, but it’s important to find a balance between exposure and image quality. Read my post on using Aperture Priority and Auto ISO here.
• Shutter Speed: Use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion and capture sharp images of moving animals. In low light conditions, you may need to compromise with a slower shutter speed and use image stabilization techniques. Or use the slower shutter speed to show motion and movement in your image
• Burst Mode: Practice using burst mode to capture a series of shots in quick succession. This increases your chances of getting the perfect shot, especially when photographing fast-moving animals.

Be Patient and Persistent

Wildlife photography requires a lot of patience and persistence. Here are some tips to help you stay focused and motivated:

• Patience: Be prepared to spend long hours waiting for the perfect moment. Wildlife can be unpredictable, and the best shots often come after hours of waiting. Bring snacks, water, and a comfortable seat to make your wait more enjoyable.
• Stealth: Stay quiet and minimize your movements to avoid scaring away your subjects. Wear neutral-coloured clothing that blends in with the environment and use natural cover to hide your presence.
• Persistence: Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get the perfect shot right away. Keep practicing and refining your skills. Every outing is an opportunity to learn and improve.

Respect Wildlife and Their Habitat

Always prioritize the well-being of the animals and their environment. Here are some ethical practices to follow:

• Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance from the animals to avoid disturbing their natural behaviour. Use a telephoto lens to get close-up shots without intruding on their space.
• Avoid Disturbance: Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle the animals. Be mindful of your presence and try to blend in with the surroundings.
• Leave No Trace: Respect the environment by leaving no trace of your visit. Dispose of any waste properly and avoid damaging plants or habitats.
• Follow Regulations: Adhere to local regulations and guidelines for wildlife photography. Some areas may have specific rules to protect endangered species or sensitive habitats.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning wildlife photos.

Remember, wildlife photography is not just about taking pictures; it’s about appreciating and respecting the natural world. 

Happy shooting!

This is an extract taken from different chapters in my best selling book and online training course  The Ultimate Beginners Guide to Wildlife Photography – from taking a shot to capturing a moment. Check out the book and course if you want to learn more.

Or why not join me on one of my workshops or tours.

There is a workshop for everyone with heaps of choice from beginners to advanced courses. I also run guided workshops to photograph most of the iconic Scottish species including – Pine Marten, Eagles, Otters, Red Squirrels and Ospreys. My Tours are held in various destinations worldwide from a safari in Kenya to trekking Red Pandas in Nepal.

Click here to see the tour and workshop availability.