Wildlife photography can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to capture the beauty of nature and the extended warm fall weather has provided numerous opportunities to snap great images of animals in the wild. Renowned photographer Dennis Fast of Steinbach offers valuable tips for photographing animals in a way that respects their space and behavior. Here’s how you can make the most of your wildlife photography while being considerate of the animals.
1. Move Slowly and Be Patient
One of the most important tips is to move slowly. Animals can be easily startled, so Fast says patience is key. He often waits for hours in his vehicle or a blind, quietly observing the surroundings. This stillness allows wildlife to feel safe and more likely to approach.
“I have sat for two hours in my vehicle hoping that a Bittern might fly up out of the swamp. Because I was seeing them in the distance, and I had my lens there aimed out over the swamp, when a Bittern lifted up suddenly 150 feet away, I just swung the camera and just started firing. I wasn't even sure if I had it in the viewfinder, but I got some great shots.”
Tip: Find a Good Spot
Use your vehicle as a “blind” to remain hidden. Park at a distance where you can observe without alarming the animals. Fast says a little waiting can lead to incredible photo opportunities!
2. Avoid Direct Eye Contact
When photographing animals, try not to make direct eye contact. Fast says this can signal to them that they are being watched. Instead, keep your gaze to the side. He shares a memorable experience waiting for a sandhill crane to come close. By staying still and out of sight, he was able to capture beautiful moments as the crane passed by, close to the photographer.
Tip: Blend In
Wear natural colors to blend in with your environment. Avoid bright clothing that might catch an animal's attention.
3. Respect Their Space
Always be mindful of how close you are getting to animals. Some photographers might want to get up close for that perfect shot, but this can stress wildlife. It’s essential to keep a respectful distance so as not to disturb their natural behavior.
Tip: Use a Zoom Lens
A good zoom lens allows you to take close-up shots from a distance, minimizing your impact on the animals.
4. Be Patient
Wildlife photography often requires waiting. Fast emphasizes that patience can lead to great rewards. For instance, he has spent countless hours waiting for a wolf to appear. Sometimes, just being still and quiet can lead to amazing interactions.
Tip: Bring Snacks and Comfort
Prepare to spend time in nature by bringing snacks, water, and comfortable seating. This can help you relax and enjoy the waiting game.
5. Connect with the Animals
Surprisingly, Fast has found that howling can sometimes attract wolves. When he howls, they listen and may even come closer out of curiosity. While this might not work with every species, it shows the importance of understanding animal behavior.
Tip: Learn About the Animals
Research the animals you plan to photograph. Knowing their habits and preferences can enhance your chances of getting great shots.
Happy shooting!
Photographing wildlife can be a magical experience if done respectfully. By moving slowly, avoiding direct eye contact, respecting their space, and being patient, you can capture stunning images while minimizing disturbance to the animals. Remember, the goal is to enjoy and appreciate nature while creating beautiful memories through your lens.