Tips for Wildlife Photography

In recent years, many people have started photographing wildlife because it not only allows you to get up close with some of the majestic creatures that roam the earth but it also gives you a chance to see the beauty of God’s green earth. If you are also thinking about getting into this profession, here are some ultimate tips for wildlife photography that will come in handy.

Choose the Right Gear

One of the most important tips for wildlife photography is to pick the right gear. Of course, the first thing that you are going to need is a camera. Now, mirrorless cameras and even SLRs are perfect for you. However, the important thing is that you pair your camera with a versatile lens. If there is one lens that is a must-have for wildlife photography, it is a telephoto lens. The only thing you should keep in mind is to choose your preferred focal length. If you like to get near the animals but not too near, you can choose a 300mm lens. On the other hand, you can spook the animals if you get too nearby. Therefore, you need either a 400mm or 600mm lens. Granted that these lenses get a bit heavy, but they are worth it if you want to be as incognito as possible.

Be a little Protective - Tips for Wildlife Photography

If there is one thing that keeps changing while photographing wildlife, it is the weather. You never know when it starts pouring. Therefore, to be on the safe side, invest in some protection for your pricey gear. The very first thing that you can do is to get a camera that is already weather-sealed. This may increase the price but it is really useful. Alternatively, you can buy some rain covers for your camera and a weather-resistant bag for the rest of your gear.

Other than that, you also need to take care of yourself. Remember to pack your clothing according to your destination and never forget a raincoat.

Photo edited in Lightroom.

Best Settings

When it comes to the settings, we can only provide you with the best tips for wildlife photography settings. However, it is going to depend on you if you truly master them. Firstly, the real moments of action in the wild are rare and you do not want to miss these. Hence, using a fast shutter speed will help you capture every moment. Also, only shoot in Manual Mode since it gives you the freedom of adjusting the individual settings of the camera. The amount of light that you get in plains or even mountains is never consistent. You should understand ISO at a deep level to be able to adjust it according to the changing environment.

Learn about the Animals and their Habitats

Just like humans, every animal has its personality and traits. To know them, you would need to spend a considerable amount of time. Some beginners might think that some action is always going on in the wild. That is not true at all, it can get pretty mundane and repetitive at some point. However, the real magic happens when you get to know the traits of animals you are following. This enables you to predict what they will be doing at a certain time of the day. At any rate, photographing wildlife requires a lot of patience. Only after the wait comes the real masterpieces.

Be Creative with the Composition - Tips for Wildlife Photography

The next step is to compose your images so that they truly capture what you are experiencing. An important thing to remember is not to be fixated on just the animals. Be aware of the environment as well. Try to explore the amazing locations that complement the animals that you are photographing. One of the tips for wildlife photography is to use the Rule of Thirds. It means to use the grid view to better place the subjects. Moreover, do not just focus on the animals that look grand such as lions or elephants. You can also get some amazing images by shooting the little ones as well.

Photo edited in Photoshop

Do Not Disturb the Wildlife

It is crucial to keep a low profile while photographing wildlife. Although animals in some parts of Africa have become so accustomed to vehicles that they even come near them. However, in most areas, the animals may not come near you if you make too much noise. So, try to be as quiet as possible to get the best shots.

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Conclusion - Tips for Wildlife Photography

These tips for wildlife photography will definitely help you but after you have read these, you should start practicing right away. You do not need to go on an expensive safari just for practice, it can be done even in your backyard. Or you may find a place near you with some local wildlife to practice with. This will surely help you get a better understanding of all the elements involved, including the wait. Keep practicing and keep getting better! Don’t forget to try new things and experiment.