THE PATIENT PHOTOGRAPHER
Jake Wilkins
As I’ve developed my photography skills and met other photographers over the past few years, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks that I wish I was told about when I first started. Firstly, be patient. Don’t expect to get the perfect shot within the first hour. Be prepared to sit in the same spot for multiple hours, or even to have to return over numerous days, to get the shot you want. After all, we cannot command the actions of wild animals, and if they want to perch in a tree for several hours then they will. Use this time to understand your subject and experiment with different photography styles and techniques.
Secondly, fully understand your equipment. You don’t need the most expensive camera to achieve the best photos. Whilst it obviously helps, there is more to photography than just having the best gear. You can still achieve great photos with cheaper equipment if you learn the ins and outs of how your camera works. Once you know this, you’ll be able to unlock its full potential. Try and get eye level with your subject. Getting on the same level as the animal you’re photographing will allow you to create a more immersive feeling within your pictures, which is more likely to engage the audience. This isn’t always possible, especially with birds, but when you can do so, it can really add a whole new dimension to the photo.
Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the experience. Most people get into wildlife photography because they like being outdoors and surrounded by nature. It’s easy to get so caught up in trying to get the best shot that we forget why we started the hobby and the pleasure it brings us. Take your time to appreciate your surroundings!
This article first appeared in PRISMA, Issue 8.