1. Think about light
It’s one of the most important things in wildlife photography. A subject can be elevated when captured in amazing lighting conditions. Try to begin photographing at first or last light of day, and consider whether you want your subject to be front-lit, side-lit or back-lit – all can create interesting images. However, don’t be ruled by light; if there are no nice mornings or evenings on the horizon, you should still go out and try to take photos. During summer, I actually prefer the soft light of an overcast day to harsh sunshine.
Fieldfare from a low perspective. Photo: Ben Andrew
2. Get at eye level with your subject
Getting down on eye level with whatever you’re photographing creates a sense of connection with the species that you just can’t get by looking down or up at it. Most subjects are smaller and lower than a person, so you’ll often need to get on ground level. You may end up laying down, so think about how you can do this comfortably – you might be in this position for a while!
A shot of a Fieldfare with a clean background. Photo: Ben Andrew
3. Think about your background
Often, getting down on eye level can produce a lovely, smooth, out-of-focus background, leaving the subject sharp and isolated. I try to complement the species I’m photographing with the background and, if my subject allows, I’ll often move around it to find the best background. Ideally, the surrounding colour will suit the subject and there won’t be any distracting colours or shapes.
Redwing in its habitat. Photo: Ben Andrew
4. Include some habitat
Not every photo needs to be a close-up, detailed portrait with an out of focus background. Sometimes your subject won’t allow that anyway! Don’t be afraid to include the habitat along with the species. Try pulling back and capturing the wider scene with the subject smaller in the frame. These habitat shots help provide context, and background elements like winding branches or an amazing sky can really add to your image.
One Waxwing feeding another. Photo: Ben Andrew
5. Learn the behaviour of your subject
Even if you know everything about your camera and have all the right conditions on your side, you’ll still need a good working knowledge of natural history and the subject you’re trying to photograph. Research your subject, their behaviours and the habitats they live in and use this knowledge to increase your chances of getting shots you want. Just be careful not to disturb the birds that you’re photographing – remember, the welfare of the bird being photographed, as well as the birds in the surrounding area that you might inadvertently disturb, should always come first.
Expand your skills
Try our photography workshops, held at RSPB nature reserves across the country. Follow the link to find an event near you.
Photographer in nature. Photo: Ben Andrew
