Digital Photographer - UK (2019-08)

(Antfer) #1
Your own garden can
be a fruitful place to
find a wide variety of
birds, particularly if
you’re short on time.
if you don’t have a
green space, head to
a local park or reserve.
capturing exotic
or migratory bird
species (or those with
a niche habitat, such
as seabirds) means
travelling further afield.

Location, location: home or away?


The distance you travel depends on your desired subject


Wildlife is seasonal, and a nature diary can
become an invaluable resource to build up
your knowledge. Keeping a photographer’s
journal is a good way to track your sightings
and species from each shoot – it’s worthwhile
even if you just make basic notes on your
smartphone. As well as the date, time and
weather, jot down your favourite lighting
angles and describe other features of the
habitat, such as foliage and flowers.
If you do your research properly, you should
find a location where your intended subject
visits often and – in some cases – where a
hide can be positioned easily. Just remember
to get the landowner’s permission before
setting up a hide on private land.


Garden birds
set up perches such as
teasels and branches
to photograph birds
more naturally in your
own garden

Below
Tawny owl
The photographer
used Manual
mode to
expose this owl
within a dark
woodland habitat

Left
Pleasing
portraits
Taken at a low
angle, a 600mm
focal length
compresses the
background to
create this simple
profile shot of a
purple sandpiper

“If you’re new to bird photography,


start shooting in your local area”


© Lauren Scott

EYE on THE SKY
There is always an element of
luck with wildlife photography,
but the right planning, fieldcraft
and settings will increase your
chances of a better shot

x2© Sean Weekly

go DEEpEr
understanding how
specific bird species
behave will make it easier
for you to plan your
on-location photography

© Lauren Scott

37

Bird PhoTograPhY

Free download pdf