Perhaps the most satisfying photograph to capture is that of an animal in the wild. It is a challenge that requires both skill and luck, and capturing a great wildlife photograph can be a rare occasion.
The first key to a good wildlife photo is finding the right location. A location where you know wildlife will be present, but won’t feel intruded upon, or else they may be quick to run away, making the picture harder to get. The location also sets the background for the picture, making it a significant part of the photograph itself. Thus, you must have a location that fits the animal you are photographing, and that will accentuate the natural beauty of the wild animal.
It is also important to have the best equipment and the correct settings on your camera. A long telephoto lens is the best option for wildlife photography because it helps create the illusion that you are closer than you actually are to the subject. The shutter speed is another important element for wildlife photography. Normal shutter speed is 1/125 of a second, but with quick moving objects it might be wise to speed it up to half that or even a quarter as much. If the shutter is too slow, a fast moving animal will be nothing but a blur.
When it comes to the actual photograph, the first thing to be aware of is your vision and the vision of the camera. Since wild animals can be sparse and quick your eyes need to be able to make a quick transition to the viewfinder of your camera. Thus, you must use your hands to bring the camera as close to your eyes as possible without obstructing your vision. At the same time the camera should be moving the same as your eyes so that when the camera is brought to your eyes it will have the same field of vision as your eyes, making it an easy transition as you look the camera view finder and snap your photo.
Once the camera is up at your eye with your finger on the shutter button, it is best to have the camera zoomed out as much as possible. This will help keep the animal in your field of vision if there is a sudden movement. Even if the animal does move you will not have to move the camera too much if you are zoomed out, which will help keep the shot possible.
When you believe that the wildlife is staying still enough to photograph, then slowly zoom in to the point that you want, and click the shutter button. Be sure to remain still until the shutter clicks. The animal may move soon afterward, but it is best not to react to this movement with your camera once the photo has been taken. Following these steps will help you to capture a beautiful wildlife photograph.
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