Bird photography can be a relaxing and fun pastime if you learn how to do it correctly. Here’s everything you need to know about bird photography.
The basics
Without getting into too much detail, before you decide to get involved with bird photography, you need to know a little something about photography in general. If you’re using a digital camera, you should read your manual very closely, specifically focusing on how to use the different settings. You will need to know how to use profile functions, outdoor functions and action functions. You should also learn about your lenses and have a basic grasp on photography, as you will probably need to set the pictures up yourself at least part of the time.
The basics of bird photography or any photography for that matter, say you should know about shutter speed, aperture, focus and depth of field. Shutter speed and aperture affect how long the film is exposed to light. If you’re using a film camera, you can play with these aspects by taking practice shots of still photos. If you’re using a digital camera, you can do the same, though you won’t have to be quite aware of the technical aspects of bird photography.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
New photographers should not be afraid to ask a professional or experienced photographer for help. Finding another bird photographer in your area might be difficult, but there are sure to be some photographers that could help you with the basics. Nature photographers and sports photographers would be a good option if you can’t find another bird photographer.
Many communities have photography classes at the community center or a community college. Though these classes probably won’t specialize in bird photography, they are a good way to learn your way around your camera. Classes are good for teaching students about how to work with their subject, their conditions, their cameras and lighting.
A good bird photographer will ask bird watchers for help too. If you’ve been watching birds for years and you know where they hang out, good for you! If you don’t, find someone who knows where to find the birds in your area.
Be prepared
A good bird photographer will have a good camera as well as a variety of lenses for shooting the birds from different distances in different climates. Don’t skimp on your gear. Good cameras will be a great assistant in your quest for the perfect bird picture. When you’re knowledgeable enough and you’re in the field ready to catch a bird on film, be patient. Bird photography is time consuming, but it is fun!
