Bird and Wildlife Photography Tips

Easy tips for Bird and Wildlife Photography by Tony and Chelsea Northup

Want to take better wildlife and bird pictures? Here are some useful photography tips on how you can excel at taking bird and wildlife photos as inspired by Tony and Chelsea Northup video “Bird and wildlife photography tips” 

1. Learn how to pre-focus

Pre-focusing is one of the most important photography skills to master. It can be done by estimating how far your subject is then picking something in the background that's the same distance away.

The method for using this technique is pretty straightforward: pick an object in the background that's about as close to your subject as you want it to be, make sure there isn't anything else too close to your desired focal point, and shoot with a wide aperture. 

You can also adjust your focus then shift your camera to the subject. This way, the autofocus can grab it more easily.

2. Camera settings

   When a subject is in motion and you want to capture it without a blur, the shutter speed should be fast enough to freeze its movement. If the shutter speed is too slow, the subject will look blurry.

   Put your camera in shutter priority with Auto ISO then adjust the shutter quickly depending on the subject:

   Flying subjects: 1/3200,  Still subjects: 1/1000

3. Use exposure compensation

The shutter priority setting allows you to capture images in different light conditions without having to adjust your camera’s settings. This is perfect for people who are new to photography because it gives them a lot of control over their images without having to learn all the other complexities of how a camera operates. However, sometimes this can produce overexposed or underexposed results so you need to fix this with exposure compensation. 

For bright white subjects dial in -1 or -2 stops of exposure compensation. For dark subjects against white backgrounds, dial in positive exposure compensation of 1 or 2 stop

4. Be still and patient

Be still and patient. As you're walking, keep track of where the animals are. Pick a comfortable spot and wait for them to fly by.

Photos taken by  Vincent van Zalinge

Wildlife photography is not the easiest type of photography to do, however with a few techniques any creator will be more confident in taking beautiful shots of nature's creatures. It’s important to remember that we improve by learning from mistakes and trying again. If you’re an amateur in the field or a professional, don’t hesitate to connect with us on Facebook group and Instagram page. Share your content and exchange feedback, Alice Camera team is here to support your creative journey.