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Marie Frankel
- November 8, 2023
- 8:17 am
Wildlife photography is a thrilling and deeply rewarding art form that enables you to capture the breathtaking beauty of the natural world and its magnificent inhabitants. Whether you’re just starting your journey as a wildlife photographer or have honed your skills over the years and contributed to National Geographic, there’s always room for improvement in this dynamic field. In this article, we will evaluate tips for improving your wildlife photography.
In this article, we’ll embark on an expedition through the world of wildlife photography, unveiling a treasure trove of tips and techniques to help you elevate your craft and capture those awe-inspiring moments in the wild.
The allure of wildlife photography lies in its ability to transport viewers into the heart of the natural world. Each click of the shutter holds the potential to encapsulate the grace of a soaring eagle, the playful antics of a family of otters, or the raw power of a stalking tiger.
However, capturing these moments in full splendor requires more than just the best camera; it demands knowledge, patience, and a deep connection to the subjects you photograph.
In this article, we’ll delve into the essential gear every wildlife photographer should consider in search of their perfect next photo, explore the importance of ethical practices needed to photograph wildlife, and reveal tips and techniques to take your wildlife photography to the next level.
Whether you’re standing on the precipice of your first African safari adventure on the hunt for elusive wild animals or have already ventured into the wild, my guide will equip you with the insights to embark on a captivating photographic journey. So, let’s begin our exploration of the wild, where every image tells a story of the natural world’s wonders.

Why I think animal photography is so great
Animal photography holds a special place in the world of visual storytelling, and for good reason. It’s a genre that allows us to connect with the natural world on a profound level and offers unique insights into the lives of creatures both big and small. Here are a few compelling reasons why animal photography is truly great:
A Glimpse into the Secret Lives of Wildlife
One of the most enchanting aspects of wildlife photography is its ability to unveil the hidden lives of creatures that often elude human observation. Through the lens, we can witness the tender moments between a mother and her cubs, the acrobatics of a bird in flight, or the grace of a predator stalking its prey. These glimpses into the secret lives of wildlife are both educational and awe-inspiring.

Conservation and Awareness
Wildlife photography plays a crucial role in conservation efforts by raising awareness about endangered species and the fragile ecosystems they inhabit. Stunning images of majestic creatures in their natural habitats remind us of the beauty and diversity of our planet’s wildlife. They also highlight the urgent need to protect these species and their environments.

Connecting with Nature
In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, wildlife photography provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with the natural world. The act of patiently observing and photographing wildlife encourages mindfulness and a deep appreciation for the beauty and intricacy of the natural world. Wildlife photographers get to experience the beauty of a world most hardly ever do.

Creative Expression
Every animal encounter is a canvas waiting to be painted with light and composition. Wildlife photography challenges many wildlife photographers to harness their creativity to capture not just the subject but also the emotion and essence of the moment. It’s an art form that encourages exploration and experimentation.

Unpredictable and Exciting
Wildlife photography is a thrilling pursuit precisely because it is unpredictable. Wildlife does not follow scripts or schedules. The joy comes from the surprise and excitement of never knowing what you might encounter during a photography outing. This spontaneity keeps the passion alive and fuels the quest for that perfect shot.

A Visual Storytelling Medium
Every animal photograph tells a story, whether it’s the struggle for survival, the bond between parent and offspring, or the playfulness of young animals. These images can evoke strong emotions and provoke thought, making them a powerful medium for visual storytelling.

In the world of wildlife photography, patience, respect for wildlife, and a keen eye for detail are your greatest assets. As you embark on your own journey through this captivating realm, you’ll discover that it’s not just about capturing images; it’s about forging a deep connection with nature and sharing its wonders with others through your lens.
So, grab your camera, pack your gear, and step into the wild, where every click of the shutter brings you closer to the heart of nature and its magnificent inhabitants.
Essential wildlife photography gear
the right gear can make all the difference. From cameras and lenses to tripods and accessories, having the right equipment can help you capture those remarkable moments in the wild. Here’s a closer look at the essential gear every wildlife photographer should consider:
A Fast, Rugged Camera
Wildlife photography is a dynamic pursuit where opportunities can vanish in the blink of an eye. To seize those fleeting moments, invest in a camera known for its speed and ruggedness.

Look for features like fast autofocus and burst mode capabilities, allowing you to quickly capture a series of shots. This ensures you won’t miss that perfect shot when it presents itself! It is a must-have for any beginner wildlife photographer.
A Sturdy Tripod or Monopod
Steady hands are a rare commodity, especially when you’re using powerful telephoto lenses. A sturdy tripod or monopod becomes your trusted ally in eliminating camera shake and producing sharp, crystal-clear images. When shooting in challenging conditions or with heavy gear, this accessory is indispensable and can definitely lead to better wildlife photos.
Wildlife Photography Camera Equipment and Lenses
If you’re new to the world of wildlife photography, it’s essential to invest time, effort, and energy into understanding the technical aspects of your camera, lenses, and equipment. While it’s tempting to compare your gear to that of professional wildlife photographers, remember that every journey starts with a first step, and your equipment should grow with your skills.
At the heart of capturing stunning wildlife photos is a camera that can deliver sharp images, even in the rugged and unpredictable terrain where wildlife often thrives. For beginners, a camera with continuous autofocus capabilities can be a game-changer. This feature helps maintain focus on your subject, even as it moves, allowing you to capture those dynamic moments with precision.

I’ve witnessed many aspiring wildlife photographers embark on their first African safari, only to return disappointed that their images didn’t match those they’ve seen in the pages of National Geographic. It’s important to remember that achieving great images of multiple subjects, especially with long lenses and fast-moving wildlife, is a challenging endeavor, even for seasoned professionals.
Now, let’s talk about the camera and lens combination that I recommend for wildlife photography:
Camera
For those starting their wildlife photography journey, consider a camera that strikes a balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness. A mid-range DSLR or mirrorless camera with excellent image quality and continuous autofocus capabilities can be an excellent choice. These cameras offer the flexibility and performance needed to capture wildlife in various settings.
Lens
When it comes to lenses, versatility is key. A zoom lens with a focal length range of around 70-300mm is an excellent starting point. This range allows you to capture both distant wildlife and closer subjects without needing to change lenses frequently. Look for lenses with image stabilization to help reduce camera shake, especially when shooting at longer focal lengths.
As you gain experience and confidence in wildlife photography, you can explore more specialized lenses, such as telephoto primes, to get even closer to your subjects. However, these lenses tend to be larger, heavier, and more expensive, making them better suited for more advanced photographers.

In conclusion, while it’s important to invest in good camera equipment, remember that your skills and understanding of wildlife photography will develop over time while you’re not a professional wildlife photographer.
My biggest wildlife photography tip is to start with a camera body and lens combination that suits your budget and level of expertise, and gradually work your way up as you capture more extraordinary moments in nature.
Patience, practice, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of wildlife are your greatest allies on this photographic journey and will result in the best shots and great photos.
Remember that one of your subjects could be an animal smaller than a house cat, so patience is the name of the game when it comes to nature photography and being a wildlife photography beginner.
20 Tips for improving your wildlife photography
Wildlife photography requires a different set of skills than most other types of photography. You are dealing with moving objects
Auto ISO
Auto ISO is like having a helper for your camera. It automatically adjusts the sensitivity to light as you change lighting conditions. For wildlife photography beginners, this can be a lifesaver.

Set your camera to Auto ISO, and it will ensure your shots are properly exposed in varying lighting situations, so you can focus on capturing your wildlife subjects without worrying about adjusting ISO settings constantly.
The Right Zoom Lens
Choosing the right zoom lens is crucial for wildlife photography. It’s like having binoculars attached to your camera. For beginners, consider a telephoto zoom lens, like an 18-300mm, which offers versatility.

You can zoom in to capture distant wildlife or zoom out for landscapes. Remember, a good zoom lens helps you get closer to the action without disturbing the animals.
Shutter speed
One of the best wildlife photography tips any budding photographer can receive to create a variety of wildlife images is the use and control of shutter speed.
When you have set your shutter speed high, it is ideal for freezing fast-moving wildlife, such as birds in flight, running mammals, or insects in motion. These speeds, typically ranging from 1/1000th of a second to 1/4000th of a second or faster, can capture subjects in sharp detail, with minimal motion blur. This helps the resulting image to remain sharp.
Make use of the aperture priority mode
Think of your camera like your eye. Aperture priority mode lets you control how much light enters the lens, just like squinting or widening your eye. It’s great for beginners because you can set the aperture (the eye size) while the camera figures out the rest.

Use a wide aperture (smaller number) for a blurred background and a narrow aperture (bigger number) for a sharp, detailed shot of your wildlife subject.
Try to fix your focal length
Fixed focal length lenses are like having a favorite magnifying glass for your camera. They don’t zoom in and out; they have a set view. For wildlife photography beginners, consider a fixed focal length lens (like 50mm or 85mm) for sharp and crisp shots.

You’ll need to move your feet to zoom, but you’ll learn to compose better shots and capture beautiful wildlife moments.
Use interchangeable lenses
Think of interchangeable lenses as tools in your photography toolbox. They let you adapt to different situations. For wildlife photography, consider a telephoto lens for distant subjects and a macro lens for close-ups.

As a beginner, don’t rush to buy a ton of lenses. Start with one that suits your primary interest, learn it well, and then expand your collection.
Make use of a mirrorless camera
Mirrorless cameras are like the compact, modern siblings of traditional DSLRs. They’re smaller, lighter, and more user-friendly for beginners.

They offer interchangeable lenses, just like their bulkier counterparts, but without the mirror mechanism, making them less noisy and easier to carry around while capturing wildlife moments. If you want portability and good photo quality, a mirrorless camera might be your ideal choice.
Switch to manual control
Manual control on your camera is like having the keys to a sports car. It allows you to take charge and be creative. For wildlife photography beginners, it’s a must-learn skill. You can adjust settings like shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to capture wildlife in various conditions.

Start by using semi-manual modes (like aperture or shutter priority) and gradually venture into full manual settings as you gain confidence. It’s your path to more artistic and unique wildlife shots.
White Balance
White balance might sound technical, but think of it as the mood setter for your photos. It ensures that the colors in your images look natural. For wildlife photography, if your photos appear too warm (yellowish) or too cool (bluish), you can use white balance settings to correct them.

Beginners can start with the “Auto” white balance setting on their camera, but as you gain experience, you can experiment with different white balance presets to enhance the mood and atmosphere of your wildlife shots.
Know your subject
Taking good images of most animals requires a deep understanding of them and how they behave. If you’re out looking for great shots of African wildlife, you need to have an understanding of how your subject will move, how they will shake their heads, chew their food, or even drink their water.
Feel a connection with them and anticipate their movements. Take a moment to understand their breathing and the way that they chew their food.
Research your subject
Researching your targets makes photographing wildlife a lot more enjoyable. You know what to expect and what to look out for.

Sure, the wildlife photos are often those that happen at moments that we least expect, but I’ve personally always found that my best images have come from when preparation met opportunity.
Be an Ethical Wildlife Photographer
Always, always, always be ethical! Photographing wildlife is a privilege and we need to ensure that we respect our natural world and the amazing creatures that we have the pleasure of photographing.
Never manipulate your images to claim something it isn’t. Always get the right permissions and consent! Be the type of photographer you wish to see in the future.
Use the rule of thirds
The rule of thirds in photography involves dividing an image into nine equal parts with two horizontal lines and two vertical lines, creating a grid. Key elements of the scene are positioned along these lines or at their intersections, rather than in the center of the frame.
This guideline helps create visually balanced and engaging compositions, making the image more appealing to viewers.
While not a strict rule, the rule of thirds provides a helpful framework for photographers, allowing them to capture attention-grabbing and aesthetically pleasing shots by placing important elements in strategic locations within the grid.
Eliminate distractions
In wildlife photography, a clutter-free background is crucial.

Avoid distractions like branches, power lines, or other animals that could divert attention from your subject. Choose clean, unobtrusive backgrounds to make your subject stand out.
Know your camera
Understanding your camera’s settings, functions, and limitations is essential. Learn about aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and how they impact your photos.
Familiarize yourself with your camera’s autofocus modes and practice adjusting settings quickly to capture spontaneous wildlife moments.
Learn how to deal with low-light situations
Wildlife is often active during dawn, dusk, or in dense forests where light is limited.
Master techniques like adjusting ISO, using wide apertures, and employing image stabilization to capture sharp and well-exposed images in low-light conditions.
Develop your fieldcraft skills
Approaching wildlife without disturbing them requires skill. Learn about animal behavior, movement patterns, and habitats.
Use natural hides and camouflage techniques to blend into the environment, allowing you to observe and photograph animals without causing stress.
Patience is a Virtue
Wildlife photography demands patience. Animals may not always appear immediately, and the best shots often come to those who wait.
Be prepared to spend long hours observing and waiting for the perfect moment to capture striking images.
Photograph every animal that comes your way
Practice makes perfect. Don’t wait for rare or exotic animals. Start by photographing common birds and animals in your area.
Every click of the shutter improves your skills and understanding of wildlife behavior, leading to better shots in the future.
The best wildlife photography settings
Optimal camera settings vary based on the situation, but generally, use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion, a wide aperture to create a pleasing background blur, and adjust ISO to maintain a balanced exposure.
Continuous autofocus helps track moving subjects, and shooting in RAW format preserves more details for post-processing.
In summary
In conclusion, delving into the realm of wildlife photography offers not just a visual adventure, but a profound connection with the natural world.
It’s a craft that demands patience, keen observation, and ethical responsibility. Armed with the right gear, understanding camera settings, and honing skills, beginners can navigate the challenges of capturing wildlife moments effectively.

Remember, it’s not merely about the technical aspects of photography, but about understanding the secret lives of animals, anticipating their movements, and respecting their habitats.
The tips provided serve as stepping stones, guiding aspiring photographers toward a fulfilling and respectful relationship with wildlife.

As you embark on this photographic journey, let curiosity be your guide, and let every click of the shutter reinforce your bond with the incredible creatures that share our planet.
Through practice, passion, and a deep appreciation for the wild, your wildlife photography endeavors can not only capture stunning images but also contribute to a greater awareness of the beauty and fragility of our natural world.
So, with the camera in hand and heart open to the wonders of nature, step into the wild and let your wildlife photography tell the stories that words often fail to convey. Happy photographing!
If you are a beginner then check out my article on wildlife photography tips for beginners.