16 17 August 2019 I http://www.amateurphotographer.
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▲MatthewCattell
MatthewCattellis anaward-winningoutdoor
photographerwitha passionforpromotingthe
naturalworldthroughhisphotography,which
coverseverythingfrompanoramicvistastosmall
details,andaspectsofanimalbehaviour.Visit
http://www.matthewcattellphotography.com.ALL
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MATTHEWCATTELL
Wideangle
lens
The foreshortening effect
created by using ultra-wide
focal lengths can add
impact to your photography.
What’s more, wideangle
lenses are usually
lightweight and compact.Flashgun
A flashgun is useful in
low-light conditions to
complement natural light
or to provide a little fill-in
during the day. You’ll need
to pair it with a trigger and
receivers if you want to try
off-camera flash.Beanbag
When working low to the ground with a wideangle
lens it’s often necessary to react quickly to
changing conditions and
moving subjects. I find
that a beanbag provides
excellent support and is
easier to shuffle about
than a tripod.Technique LENSCHOICE
When the
wrong lens
is the right one
Wideanglelensesaremostcommonlyassociatedwith
landscapes, whiletelephotos arenotthefirst choicefor
close-upsunless,ofcourse,youusea littleimagination
Wideangleforwildlife
Please note
It’s never acceptable to cause distress to your
subject whilst in pursuit of a photograph –
this is particularly important when working
with wildlife and wideangle lenses.Think landscape
Treat this approach to wildlife
photography in a similar way
to landscape photography,
with the foreground interest
being provided by the wildlife
subject. Good light, use of
shadows, and compositional
aids such as strong lead-in
lines can enhance your
work. Inclusion of seasonal
references such as fallen
leaves, snow or mist/fog
can really add to the story.Include a point
of reference
Where possible consider including
a recognisable point of reference
such as a building, monument or
beauty spot to provide a strong
sense of context. Whilst separation
between subject and landmark is
desirable, it is not always necessary
for the landmark to be in sharp
focus if its shape is recognisable.Work on a local project
Stay close to home (or near your place of work) and turn
your shoot into a long-term project. You’ll develop a deeper
understanding and appreciation of both your subject and its
environment, and staying local means you can more readily
react to favourable weather conditions.