Tips for Capturing Wildlife on Film

Expert photographers would oftentimes say that there is no perfect formula in vividly capturing wildlife on film. This is because there are various aspects that one has to consider to get that perfect shot.  This does not mean though that photographers should abandon this tremendous challenge. The following are tips in capturing vibrant and colorful wildlife images.

Image credit: Zimbio.com

*You don’t have to use an expensive camera – It is how you use it creatively that counts. No matter how expensive your camera is, if you do not know how to use it effectively, then it is useless. Before snapping those wildlife photos, or shooting a video, familiarize yourself first with the proper functions of your camera.

*Ascertain you have different lenses when you need them – Zooming in is not always needed, especially if you want to capture the surrounding spectacular landscape. The view of the habitat of
a wildlife animal could add to the character of your photograph or film. Know when to zoom in, and when not to.

*Use different angles for your shots – A different angle can provide a new perspective for your audience. You can take shots lying down, sitting, skywards, or standing up. You can shoot the image vertically or horizontally. Your creativity will come to the picture. Think out of the box, to capture extraordinary images from ordinary scenes.

*Provide the animal some space – You can get near to shoot images, but not too near to
endanger yourself or scare the animal. Your photos should depict naturally the animal in its peaceful and natural environment. Generally, the safe distance is 15 to 20 feet.

*Use your shutter speed to vary shots – Your shutter speed can make your pictures or films unique. You can decrease or increase the speed. You can lengthen the time of exposure or shorten it to capture different photos of the same animal. Some photographers come up with amazing pictures using these methods.

*Take a handy tripod with you – Even if your hands are steady, there are shots that need a tripod. It is also better if your camera is stable on a tripod because pictures could be more vivid and clear. There are light, handy tripods that you can easily carry around with you.

*Use the camera’s continuous shooting mode – This would allow you conveniently to capture sudden moments when the wildlife around you goes extremely mobile. You have to be ready to capture those momentous unguarded moments of animal life that may never occur again.

*Capture the eyes of the animal - Make the eyes of the animal the focal point of most of your shots. These would turn an ordinary shot into a riveting one.

These are simple tips that could help anyone who want to capture the beauty and wonder of wildlife. The crucial thing to remember is that safety comes first, because animals have that natural instinct to defend themselves to survive.