The opportunities provided by nature lasts only for a second. It is important that the photographer waits patiently for the perfect moment and does not make any errors when the moment finally appears. You cannot achieve the best result just because you have the opportunity of being in an excellent location. Just as a good location does not guarantee the best results, neither does having the most expensive camera. High-quality equipment does help but there are several other things that should be considered. Here are some useful tips that can help in achieving the best results.
1. Choosing the right shutter:
A question which is often asked by people is, “What is the correct shutter speed?” The answer to that question is that it is not possible to give a specific figure. There is no right or wrong answer to that question. It depends upon the speed of the subject and the results that you are trying to achieve. Freezing the subject and revealing the motion of the subject are two options. The automatic options are not very predictable so do not leave the decision to the camera. Select the setting of the camera manually.
2. Make use of the ISO (International Standards Organization):
Once you have determined the shutter speed you need, adjusting the exposure is the next step. The best solution is to raise the ISO. This is an excellent and effective method of making the exposure perfect and getting the best results. People are often reluctant to adjust the ISO because there is the digital noise that occurs during extremely high ISOs. There are several cameras on the market that can be used at really high ISOs and they create very little noise.
3. Be prepared:
It is always good to be prepared. Always remember that you do not need to venture too far off places in order to capture the best photographs. It is possible to take beautiful and breathtaking pictures of the wildlife even in your backyard. You can always practice by investigating the local species. Always have a smart plan while scouting for the wildlife. Learn to be patient and creative. These two are very important factors in making even the most common wildlife pictures exotic and beautiful.
4. Simplifying the focus:
The best results can be achieved by using the center autofocus. If the outer points are used then remember that they are not very easy to adjust and they are not very sensitive to the middle point. It works for subjects which are moving left to right. It is good for subjects that are moving directly towards you. It is better to use the continuous high-speed burst option instead of the one shot. It will help in capturing more frames per second.
5. The background:
The background is a very important factor in making a picture extraordinary. Make sure that the background does not take the focus away from the main subject.
6. Following the light:
Light is the most important element of the photograph. It is easier to capture the best light during the earliest hours or the later hours of daylight because these are the times when the sun does not fall on the subjects too harshly. This will help in increasing the element of the mystique of the photographs.
7. Be unobtrusive:
To get the best results it is important not to be distracted. Always act quietly and try to blend into the environment. Patience is the key. Do not allow camera noises and the flashes since they are distracting.
8. Be ready:
Always keep the camera ready. If any opportunity presents itself, you do not want to miss it.
9. Keep practicing:
Practice always make you better. You can practice in your backyard. If you look closely you will be able to find several wonderful subjects. Featured photo credit: 10 Tips For Wildlife Photography via lifehack.org
