Thursday, June 23, 2016

The 'Big 5' tips for great wildlife photography

In recent years, wildlife photography has seen a massive
growth in popularity. DLSR cameras are now readily available, reasonably
priced and user-friendly. However, as ‘easy’ as cameras are to use
these days, we’ve all had those moments when you take a photo of
something beautiful and the result just isn’t what you imagined or
doesn’t capture the essence of what you were photographing. It’s
frustrating and can be a little disheartening. That’s why we decided to
chat to wildlife photographer and Rhino River Lodge regular, Heidi Watson.

Heidi has always had a fascination with wildlife and the bush in
general, from behaviours of animals to the interactions between them.
Like many South Africans, her interest in wildlife photography was
sparked on her first day trip into Kruger National Park. Combine that
obsession with the tools to capture those memories and interactions, and
the rest is history.

We asked Heidi to share a few tips on how to take better photos while on safari.

Copyright Heidi Watson

1. Invest in good lenses

I would have to say invest in your lenses – good quality glass is
key. Next, a minimum focal length of 200-300mm. If you are birding, the
longer the focal length the better for these mostly shy creatures (400mm
and longer) I would say a 70-200 f2.8 (depending on budget) and then
something on the wider side like a 24-70mm, and if you wish to go longer
than anything over 200mm, it should be a prime lens (which has no zoom
capabilities but is a superior lens generally).
At the end of the day I believe you should use and invest in whatever
works for you personally. Start with the basics and build from there,
not everyone can afford the “pro” equipment from the get go.

Copyright Heidi Watson

2. Experience is the most important thing when it comes to wildlife photography

Get out there, and practise! Learn as much as you can about your subjects and, of course, be patient.

Copyright Heidi Watson

3. Tell a story with your photos

Capturing the soul of an animal in a photograph isn’t easy, but for
me that’s what makes a great photo. An attempt at capturing a moment
that cannot be recreated by another.

Copyright Heidi Watson

4. Be considerate of the animals

The topic of flashes is highly debatable, however used correctly they
can be effective. This is done with offset brackets and cables to
trigger the flash so that it does not flash directly into the subject’s
eyes. I do however disagree whole heartedly on using pop up flashes. The
other big issue for me is ethics, for example don’t antagonise the
wildlife to get a reaction from the animals you are photographing.

Copyright Heidi Watson

5. Spend time, not money

My main advice would be, don’t follow the fads. Rather spend money on
going places. The camera is just a tool; you are what makes the photo
speak a 1,000 words. Work on your skills rather than buying the latest
and greatest equipment. After all, what use is a bag full of gear when
you have nothing to photograph? And lastly, see the world for more then
what it is at that moment.

To see more of Heidi’s beautiful photographs and get inspired for your next safari, visit her Facebook page.

About Me

Our intimate and exclusive lodge is set in the very heart of Zululand against the backdrop of the lovely Lebombo Mountains. Come and join us for a unique bush experience on our private game reserve near Hluhluwe and Mkuze. Feel the weight being lifted from your shoulders from the moment you arrive. Breathe in the fresh aromatic air of the bushveld and feel the pressures of the outside world draining from your being. Heal your soul with starlit nights around the campfire and walk where only animals have trodden for years.