Photographing wild animals

If you really want to learn how to take stunning wildlife images, then devote your spare time to learning about animal behaviour. Great wildlife photography is about anticipating the moment and being ready for action.

1. Spend some time observing the behaviour of the animal, watch to see whether it is easily startled, or whether it appears to move in a constant direction.
2. Try to select a viewpoint with an interesting background without unsightly fences or buildings (like a feeding or watering area) to photograph animals. Be prepared to wait awhile!
3. Be patient. Calling or gesturing to an animal will probably cause it to run in the opposite direction. Upsetting wild animals can also be dangerous, however docile they may seem it is important to remember that they are wild.
4. There are many ways to learn about animal behaviour. There are some excellent books on the subject and the Internet is also a useful resource.
5. Alternatively, build relationships with wildlife experts who operate in the field. There knowledge can be invaluable in getting the shot. Finally, there’s nothing like firsthand experience. Make sure you take along a pair of binoculars for spotting.
6. All animals communicate with body language, and knowing how to read it will help you anticipate and get great images.
7. Stay focused, do not get distracted.

A dentist’s dream set