If only my writing would improve as much as my photography has over the past two years. Alas that hasn’t happened. But here are of the things I’ve learned that have greatly improved my photography.
1) Try to get on the same level as your subject. If you see a cool duck walking down a path, get down on the ground to photograph him. When ever possible photograph your birds at the same level as your eyes. I know this isn’t always possible but it greatly improves your photos.
- photograph your birds at eye level when ever possible
2) Learn to use the aperture settings. Smaller apertures will give a sharply focused subject with a fuzzy background. This really makes your subject jump out at you. The problem is it is much harder to get a clear shot doing this. So you’ll need to practice.
3) Learn to use a photo editor. I’m a big fan of The Gimp which is free. Often just letting it auto adjust the color settings will turn a dull photo into something cool.
- woodpecker-before color adjustment
- woodpecker-after color adjustment
4) Imitate the experts. First learn by copying them. Then expand on what you learned from them.
Nature photos by Scott
Geoff Coe
Nikon Jim
Gardawind
Bocavermelha
5) Take lots and lots of photos. Digital film is free. Practice, practice, practice.
6) You can’t fix blurry. Lean against a tree, or sit down and park your elbows on your knees, find a way to stabilize yourself. You don’t need to bring a tripod. Most bird watching platforms have railings, rest the camera on the railing. There is almost always something you can use to hold the camera steady. If not, then tuck your arms up against yourself tightly.
