How to Photograph Wildlife

The world is full of such beautiful creatures, it's no wonder you want to get out in the wild, be one with nature and snap photographs of your favorite animals. Whether you trek halfway across the world, or sit at home admiring the birds that inhabit your feeder, a few things might help you achieve those shots. Here are tips.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose your animal. Shooting a cheetah in the plains of Kenya is very different than snapping off a few pictures of bluefish at your local marina. Decide what you want to shoot and be willing to travel to their indigenous location.

2. Wait patiently. Shooting wildlife is not like a sporting event. You never know when the "action" might take place. It may take minutes, it may take hours. But whatever the length, remember the entire experience is why you're there, not how many shots you take.

3. Be prepared. Once you arrive at your destination, settle in. Get all your equipment set the way you want it. Choose a vantage point and begin "scouting" for your wildlife. Make sure that at any given moment you can grab your equipment and snap a photograph.

4. Become one with nature. Whether you're hiding in tall grass or a bird hut, assimilate into your surroundings. Study the habits of your subject. This way you'll know best how to hide yourself from them and blend with nature.

5. Photograph an unobstructed eye. One of the fascinating things about a photo of wildlife is that we as humans look at it the same way we look at people. Our eyes are immediately drawn to their eyes. When taking that photo try to get an unobstructed view of your subject's eye.

6. Keep your distance. Utilize the technology of your equipment to stay as far away from your subject as possible. The less intrusive you are the better. This will keep you safe and your subject acting normally so that you can optimize your shots.

7. Have fun. You're out in the middle of the wildlife snapping photographs, what could be better? It's not about the shots you take but the time you're having!

Tips & Warnings

• Many clubs tspecialize in photographing wildlife. Search the Web for one in your area. It's a great way to meet people who share your passion.
• No shot is worth risking your safety. Though nature is full of magnificent creatures, it's also full of dangerous ones. Always be sure you have protective equipment, a first-aid kit, and that you keep your distance.