Long lenses are the
ultimate tool for
shooting close-up birds
pack your
kit bag
Many birds you’ll encounter are tiny, far away
or both, and photographing them requires
long telephoto lenses that fill the frame with
the subject. A 70-200mm lens is too wide for
most species (unless you extend the focal
length with a teleconverter), so a 300mm or
a 100-400mm lens can be a more sensible
choice. If you can’t afford the plunge of high-
end glass from the likes of Canon or Nikon,
turn to very worthwhile alternatives from
Sigma and Tamron.
In terms of cameras, a crop-sensor
model (such as an APS-C or Four Thirds)
will increase the apparent magnification of
your telephoto lens. It’s also wise to prioritise
a camera with a fast frame rate, and a high-
performing autofocus system with a large
number of autofocus points.
Zoom lenses and camera chosen, you’ll
need support to keep your combination
stable and facilitate sharp images. Invest in a
sturdy, solid tripod, with a smooth head that
also locks down tight. A bean bag is a popular
support option for bird photography: you can
use it to rest lenses close to the ground or
place it on car windows to turn a vehicle into
a roaming hide.
In terms of lighting, using flash is very much
a personal and creative choice. You might want
an external flashgun to supplement light in
the bright sun of midday, for backlighting
or in dark habitats such as forests.
All this expensive gear needs protecting
when the weather turns rough. While most
camera bags come with their own rain covers;
a dedicated waterproof cover is also a good
idea. Designs that slip over and fasten with
a drawstring are best, as they’re quick to
attach in a sudden shower.
Another specialist item to invest in might be
a pair of binoculars or a spotting scope. This
will enable you to see species in the distance,
so that you can work out the best route of
approach and cause minimal disturbance.
Lastly, remember that bird photography
(like all wildlife) can involve a lot of waiting.
If you’re planning to trek long distances or
spend an extended time in a hide, you’ll need
to pack plenty of snacks and a flask of hot
fluids to keep you going until the action finally
materialises! A good, sturdy pair of walking
boots is also worth investing in.don’t put the camera away in dull or cloudy conditions. a bird’s colourful features
will appear more vivid in overcast light, and there’s less chance of clipping their
feather highlights. during the golden hours, a low sun can add warmth to the
scene for a more atmospheric result, and sunlight behind the bird suits flight
take-off, filtering through the wings for a beautiful backlit effect. if you add fill-in
flash from your camera or a flashgun, use TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering.Work with the light
Adapt to every type of natural light and get stunning bird portraits
© Sean WeeklyTechniques