Effective Wildlife Photography Tips

Featuring the Photo Genie

Hi all, Photo Genie here.

I know, I’ve been gone quite a while. I’ve been stuck in this genie bottle far too long and it’s great to be out and about. I’m on my way to a safari and wanted to share some of my research on wildlife photography with you.

I’ve got some great tips on wildlife photography. First of all, I know most of you will agree that wildlife photography is one of the more challenging bodies in the field of photography. It can be highly motivational to see wildlife in its own natural habitat and easily provoke an incentive to jump right out there in the middle of the wilds.

Well, let’s just suppose there’s a nice cuddly bear you see off in the distance that you’d just love to “get a little closer” to..just a little closer so you can get your best shot. I know that feeling very well. With that in mind, let’s start with the Wildlife Code of Ethics:

Wildlife Code of Ethics

Most photographers are conscientious and respect the animals and the setting around them. I said, most. So the Code of Ethics tips are simply a reminder to set an example for you to follow and for others to follow you. You lead.

Never lose site of the fact that the subjects you are encountering are wild animals and it is important that you understand how to photograph wildlife in a sensitive manner.

Tread gently. Never interfere with animals that are caring for their young or breeding.

Be aware. Do not get too close to nests, as certain animals will desert their young.

Where private property is concerned, always get the owner’s permission before entering.

Use natural light as often as you can, especially for filming close-ups.

Careful observation and patience plus a good understanding of the animal’s behavior and habitat are important.

Learn wildlife signals, never alarm or provoke a creature.

Weather

A certain amount of planning, preparation and scheduling is a must where weather is involved. This of course depends on what you’re photographing. It’s important to learn about shifts in the weather.

The internet can find weather reports and other resources for you. The perfect times for photography are just before sunset or just after at sunrise and sunset.

Composition

As I watch this video on composition, I become very inspired to photograph wildlife. Check it out.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned photographer, composition is not only fascinating but a real challenge to get the shot before the moment passes. A close-up shot will fill the frame. Make sure you have enough room to place your subject off to the side. Even in close-up shots this is necessary.

If the subject is looking to one side position it towards the other side. In this case the subject will be gazing toward the center of the frame. The space around the subject is important.

In the video the Rule of Thirds was discussed which is an important factor in photography, especially for wildlife.

Inspiration

If you are living in a city it may be a little tough to get excited about photographing wildlife. But look at it this way, there’s always the zoos. And I don’t say that jokingly. They are waiting there just for you and you could get inspired very easily.

It’s a good idea to think about what kind of wildlife shots you’d like to add to your portfolio. How about elephants (my favorite) or maybe huge cats like lions and tigers. Perhaps zebras, hippos or even rhinos may catch your fancy. On the other hand, you may want to go small. Birds and insects are quite interesting.

This is the Photo Genie signing off with this provoking thought: My best work is often almost unconscious and occurs ahead of my ability to understand it. Sam Abell