There are many out in the world today who have always had a passion for photography.  Those people are the ones who know the skill required to not just snap a photo, but make it come alive.  The game changes a bit and becomes much more difficult when there are moving things such as automobiles, wildlife, and people, therefore more skill is required.  Bird photography is considered one of the most difficult forms of photography known to artists, and takes an enormous amount of skill.  It is the intention of this essay to assist you in learning the basics, to help you get started with photographing birds, and soon you will be shooting masterpieces yourself.

One of the first things required in order to photograph birds is to know when and where to expect them.  A field guide for your area is a common solution to this problem, as it will tell you the birds to expect in your area in given seasons.  The next thing to do would be to study some well shot bird photographs, and take into account the techniques used to take the photo.  Notice details like the distance from the ground at which the photo was shot in relation to the bird, the lighting, the focus of the bird and the background, wing position, and the background colors.  All of these can be used to play a part in giving the photo emotion and intimacy.

Personal preference is the main factor in what camera you should use, although quality brands like Nikon or Canon are highly recommended.  As with binoculars, there is an astounding difference between some $50 cheapo binoculars and some amazing quality $1000 Nikon binoculars.  More expensive does not always mean better, but excellent quality cameras, lenses, and accessories will definitely cost at least an arm.  100-400mm lenses are common amongst bird photographers, but those who are very serious about it may use a 500mm f/4 telephoto lens.  Again, it is all personal preference.

One of the most important things to take into account in any photo shoot is the lighting.  Mornings and evenings will give more dynamic conditions and will compliment bird activity, as opposed to the commonly used mid day sun.  Keep the number in mind also; the more leaves there are, the less light there will be, and less leaves means more light.  Another way to improve photograph quality is to get in close proximity to the birds you are going to photograph.  Try to stay low or crouched and move very slowly, as this is a less threatening position, and will provide a very intimate picture of birds on the ground.

Try to be prepared even before you shoot the picture, and keep the surroundings in mind.  Affix an appropriate lens and filter to your camera before you get close to birds because sudden movements and reflections may frighten them.  If the background is messy, it will take away from the bird’s natural beauty in the photo, so try and keep the background very distant or soft.  Remember, there is a good chance that you will have to be very patient to get a decent photograph opportunity, or you might not get any at all.  Just plan ahead, come prepared, and be patient, and the rest will come over time.