Taking great wildlife photos requires a lot of patience and knowledge of the subject matter. There are some simple tricks that you can apply to help improve your chances of taking a stellar photo. For example, using a zoom lens can allow you to capture a far-away photo while still keeping it close enough to see the animal in its full glory.
It’s also important to understand how to compose a good picture. A good rule of thumb is to take multiple shots in a single second to increase the likelihood of capturing the right shot.
Another trick is to use a camera with a fast burst rate. This will allow you to capture fast-moving animals at a moment’s notice. Also, be prepared for the possibility that an animal might dart at you. To keep the shot from blurring, try to keep a steady hand when snapping away.
The best time to photograph wildlife is at dawn or dusk. During the day, you’ll be forced to work with harsh midday light, but during the evening, you can get away with a lot more.
You’ll need to get a little closer than usual. The ideal lens would be one that allows you to capture a variety of focal lengths. If you can afford it, you can even invest in a superzoom camera. By zooming in, you can cut out distractions in the background and crop them out later.
Choosing a focal length that is a good match for the subject will help you capture the perfect image. When you are photographing a lion, for instance, you don’t want to focus on its face or its feet. You want to take a close-up of its eyes to illustrate its personality.
You may also want to consider using a wide-angle lens. Most photographers use a 200mm or 400mm lens, but you can use a telephoto lens or a zoom lens for a variety of angles. Even better, you can invest in a lens with optical stabilization.
You should also consider a UV filter. Using a UV filter can protect your lens from scratches and keep it sharp.
It’s important to learn the appropriate shutter speed and aperture for the type of photography you’re undertaking. Some animals might move quite rapidly, but you can usually freeze their motion with a fast shutter speed. On overcast days, you might want to increase your ISO to boost your photo quality.
Finally, you should practice your skills at home. Several cameras have continuous shooting mode, which will let you capture several shots in a short amount of time. In addition, you can learn new tricks and hone your photography skills by joining photography groups, clubs, and workshops. Ultimately, your goal is to have a portfolio that displays your skills and attracts potential clients.
You can even find some tips on how to take the best wildlife photos online. Andrew Marshall offers a comprehensive guide to the basics, including advice on camera settings, lighting, composition, and a collection of over 450 photos.