7 Tips for Photographing Wild Animals

Wildlife photography is a fascinating activity that requires patience and perseverance, a sense of observation and a good dose of technique. Luck also plays with these magnificent living subjects who rarely want to strike a pose in front of the lens.

Do some scouting

Before setting out in search of the perfect shot, you must take the time to find out about the species you want to photograph. We need to discover their habits (places where they feed, water, etc.), the regions where they live, the times when they are most active. These locations will allow you to go to the right place at the right time.

Stay discreet

Wild animals may flee if they detect your presence. Discretion must therefore be the key word for successful photos. To increase your chances of observing and photographing them at your leisure, camouflage yourself as much as possible (outfit, hide or shelter, camouflage protection for the lens, etc.) and avoid sudden movements.

This discretion is also necessary so as not to disturb or disturb the animals observed.

Be patient

Time is an important parameter in the success of a wild animal photo. In fact, the more time you spend in hiding, the more you optimize your chances of taking interesting shots.

To make up for the wait, bring something to deal with in both hot and cold weather and something to hydrate yourself.

Have the right camera and telephoto lens

A good wildlife photo requires good equipment, but also knowing how to use it. You must therefore practice with your camera (preferably a reflex or a hybrid) before going into the field.

It is essential to have a telephoto lens with a long focal length (for example 400 mm or greater) to get closer to your subject without disturbing them. Ideally, to capture images in low light and isolate the animal with an aesthetic blur in the background and foreground (called bokeh), it should have a large aperture aperture (like f/2.8 or f/4. ). This is what allows more light to enter the sensor.

Wait for the right moment

Choosing the moment when the light is the most beautiful is a key element to success in photography. However, the ideal time is just before sunrise or sunset (about 10 minutes before). That is to say when the light is grazing, soft, warm and offers beautiful colors and textures.

It is therefore advisable to avoid harsh light in the middle of the day, which blurs the details and contrasts of your shots by falling vertically on the coats and plumages of animals. In addition, at sunrise, many wild animals leave their lairs to look for food. You therefore have a greater chance of encountering them.

Work the background

Care must be taken not to neglect the choice of the background, which must highlight the subject without distracting attention. It is therefore preferable to favor a simple and refined background.

Positioning your camera at the same level as the animal helps isolate it from the rest of the scene. To do this, do not hesitate to lie down or squat. This angle of view will accentuate the blur in the background and enhance the photographed subject.

Aim at the eyes

It is essential to focus on the animal’s eyes for successful photography. You must therefore focus on the animal’s gaze to capture the attention of people who will look at the photograph and create an emotional connection with them.

When the animal is moving (a bird in flight, for example), opting for burst mode on your camera increases your chances of capturing an exceptional shot.