KIMBERLEY BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY
After almost 10 years photographing the Kimberley's incredible landscapes, I bought my first 'birding lens' in 2021 and it has opened up a whole new world of photography for me. Moving to mirrorless at the start of 2024 was also a game-changer, making it easier to nail the focus on fast moving subjects for the first time.
Here's a handful of images captured on a full frame Canon R5 with a Sigma 150-600mm lens and my top tips for anyone interested in getting started/or improving your bird photography…..
Top Tips
1. BETER BACKGROUNDS & FOREGROUNDS
Think about the background and foreground of your image as much as the subject itself. We want an image that focuses our attention on the bird without too many distractions - so watch out for twigs and branches that appear to be sticking out of the bird’s head or backgrounds that are especially messy and distracting. Like most photography, we are trying to find a simplicity in what can be a big messy landscape. Simply moving left or right, getting higher or lower, can turn an ok photo into a great photo. A small shift left or right - even a few inches - can change the background behind a bird completely when using a big zoom lens. SO watch the background and foreground as much as the bird itself and you'll see your images improve considerably!
2. BEAUTIFUL LIGHT
Like most photography, photographing birds when the light is interesting can transform your images from good to great. Usually the first couple of hours of the day, and a couple of hours before sunset is best. Harsh midday sun is rarely flattering. Beautiful light makes for beautiful bird photos.
3. PHOTOGRAPH AT EYE LEVEL
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Like most wildlife photography, try to position yourself so that you are at the bird’s eye level. This can be tricky but always worth the extra effort. Lying flat on your belly in the grass or the dirt, which throws the foreground out of focus, can make a big difference. Similarly, climbing up on something to get a better angle can also be useful. It’s not always possible but it’s worth keeping in mind. Rarely does photographing a bird high up in a tree against a bright sky, and looking up at its belly, create an engaging image. Always aim for eye-level if possible.