Photo Tips

The following is a few basic tips we have learnt along the way, we hope that they may assist you with your photography. We apologies if they appear simple.

* Light is the most important element of any photography, the difference between a great photograph and an average one is often only the light in which it was captured.

The best time for bird photography also coincides with when the birds are most active, i.e.. early mornings and late afternoon. The light at these times is softer and more pleasing to the eye. Photographing in the middle of the day is usually only acceptable if it is overcast, other than then you are wasting your time.

* Opportunity plays a big part in bird photography, whether it is being prepared for what ever may happen, or by creating the opportunities that increase your chances of a good shot. Generally we never go out to get a specific shot, we wait to see what opportunities we are given, thus eliminating frustration with the introduction of chance.

* Time is very important, when photographing birds, we rarely use hides and prefer to spend a great deal of time in one area. By doing this, the wild life eventually accepts that you are not a threat to it, and in some cases their curiosity may even get the better of them, and they pay you an even closer visit than expected.

* location is another important consideration, there is no point being where the birds aren't. When visiting new areas, keep in mind a source of fresh water, may be a good place to start, also places like valleys tend to act as highways for birds, visiting different habitats will allow you to experience a greater diversity of birdlife, and hence offer greater opportunities.

* Be thoughtful of birds and other animals when photographing them, never put their safety into question. Be aware that you could upset their breeding patterns with inappropriate behavior. Avoid photographing nesting birds and be sure not to unduly stress a bird for the sake of a photo.

* Enjoy your time spent in nature, it helps you understand that we are all part a of nature, not apart from it. If you get some great shots that's good but if you don't you still had the chance to commune with nature which is better.

Greg Holland & Leon Keasey