Wildlife Photography_ From Snapshots to Great Shots - Laurie Excell [2]
Once you have the basics of wildlife photography down, you are ready to move on to Chapter 8 and go beyond the basics, introducing your own style, likes, and dislikes into your image making.
I wrap up the book by taking you along on two wildlife photo shoots. Chapter 9 takes you on an actual adventure to photograph bears in Alaska, giving you a sense of real-world wildlife photography. Chapter 10 follows in the same vein, but I take you to South Texas to photograph the many species of birds that frequent the area.
So, just turn the page to begin your journey to become a better wildlife photographer.
1. Equipment Essentials
Recommended Equipment and Accessories for the Wildlife Photographer
Wildlife photography conjures up visions of trekking miles into the wilderness stalking your prey with super telephoto lenses mounted on tripods carried over one shoulder, a second body with a mid-range telephoto zoom over the other, and the rest of the paraphernalia required to be a wildlife photographer strapped to your back or belted around your waist. But wait, you don’t have to have the biggest and best camera with the longest lens available to go beyond snapshots and begin making great wildlife shots. Yes, you will be at a distinct advantage with a super telephoto at isolating your subject and capturing in-your-face, frame-filling images. But it is possible to make great shots with more economical equipment, and you can begin close to home, right in your own backyard or at a local park. With careful consideration and wise purchase planning, you can build a system that will gain you entrance into the wonderful world of wildlife photography.
Poring Over the Picture
There is a wildlife photography setup for nearly every budget. Configuring a system to match your photographic style while staying within your means is achievable. By making smart decisions at the outset, you can build your system as your needs, interests, and income grow. I recommend buying the best equipment you can afford; you save money in the long run by preventing frequent equipment upgrades. Count on doubling your investment from the budget setup to the mid-range, and from the mid-range to the serious setup.
Poring Over the Picture
What is man without the beasts? If all the beasts were gone, man would die from a great loneliness of the spirit. For whatever happens to the beasts, soon happens to man. All things are connected.
—Chief Seattle
Use photography to share your wildlife adventures with others who do not have the same opportunities to enjoy such amazing experiences in person.
Camera Selection
One of the first questions I ask photographers looking to buy a new camera is, “Do you photograph places you visit, or do you specifically visit locations with photography as the main objective?” The answer helps me to direct buyers towards the right type of camera to suit their needs. A casual photographer can be put off by all the gear a more enthusiastic shooter will carry into the field. It’s true that it’s the photographer, not the equipment, that makes an image—up to a point. There are flat-out times that having the extra reach is an advantage, because you simply cannot get closer or it is unsafe to do so. Better tripods add extra stability when shooting at slow shutter speeds, and higher-performance cameras can give you an edge when it comes to capturing peak of action. How willing and able are you to carry a big camera and lens for a long distance? Even if you are willing and able, can you afford a more expensive setup? And what are the benefits to be gained by stepping up? You’ll need to consider your preferences and the available options when making new camera-buying decisions.
What features should you look for when purchasing your next wildlife camera? What features are you willing to compromise on for