Wild Bird Photography Tips

Wildlife bird photography can be challenging for many people, but practice makes perfect! Here are a few tips to get you started.

Choose a camera - A digital SLR camera will be your best bet because you can change lens from wide-angle to macro. A few popular cameras to get started with are:

Canon Digital Rebel XS 10.1 MP with 18-55mm lens - I own this camera and it produces great wildlife photographs for a reasonable price.

Nikon D90 12.3MP - If you looking for a better camera that can include high definition video, this is your camera. It is a little pricier and does not include a lens but is worth it!

Blind - Unless you are photographing inanimate objects, you should try using a blind to capture wildlife, such as birds or large mammals. If you are in your car, this will provide a perfect blind.

Action shots - These are truly the most exciting shots, but require either luck or much patience. Keep your distance and be ready for the shot.

Lens for landscape - Try using a 24 mm wide-angle lens for landscapes. A wide-angled lens will give you greater depth of field.

Depth - Landscape photographs are far more powerful when you have maximum depth. For example, if you are taking a picture of a moose, include the background. Remember, you can always crop but this technique will allow you to include more colors and texture.

Tripod - For the best stable images, use a tripod! There are many lightweight options and you'll be glade you have it. Tripods are especially useful for self-timers or cable release. If you want to set up your camera outside at your feeder, but your birds are hesitant, step inside with a cable release!

Know your subjects and practice! There are several bird species that can be easily photographed especially in your own backyard. Set your feeder up so that it will provide the best lighting and angle for your photograph. If you want to shoot birds in the wild, go to the closest marsh and find red-winged blackbirds. They are incredibly photogenic. Also, talking to other birders may provide you with information on unique local sightings.