Any Tips for taking photos of Birds?

1. 0

   Lady_Eposted 13 years ago

   Any Tips for taking photos of Birds?
   
   Sometimes, once I’ve taken the photo, I check and notice the bird isn’t in the photo. It must have flown away when I clicked.

   replyreport
2. 0

   ctbrown7posted 13 years ago

   It's critical that you make sure the bird doesn't fly off before the picture is taken.  Sometimes making a funny face at the birds will keep them distracted while you take the picture.  And, as you can tell, I don't know anything about this topic.

   replyreport
3. 81

   MarleneBposted 13 years ago

   Birds are really difficult because they fly away. But, I find that birds are fairly predictable, too. You have to watch them for a moment to see what their pattern is. Like, with the hummingbirds that come into my garden -- they always fly to the same flowers in the same pattern, hovering for the same length of time. I have found that if I prop myself up in waiting for the shot, I usually get the shot. I think this only works if you are trying to take pictures of birds in your own territory (like your own back yard). If you were at the park or someplace like that, it might take some time to pin a pattern. A photographer once told me that the best thing to do is to stay slightly in front of your subject and snap, snap, snap! Sooner or later they will fly into the scene and you'll catch a photo with them in the middle. This whole concept is based upon you knowing which way the bird is going to fly, too. Good luck and good question. I look forward to following this question for answers that might help me get better. I just bought a new camera and I am anxious to snap some pictures soon.

   replyreport
4. 60

   rocknrollcowboyposted 13 years ago

   I haven't tried to take any pictures of birds but I have a couple friends that are bird watchers and enjoy taking photos of them. The one thing they have both always said is sit quiet and still and be very patient and you will soon get the picture you are wanting. Good luck and great question.

   replyreport
5. 61

   mystereposted 13 years ago

   There are many good answers here, and here's a very important one:  if you're using a digital camera, shut off the shutter sound effect.  The sound effect spooks the birds.  If the birds see your camera, they will think it's something dangerous, and get spooked as well.  Being subtle and silent helps reduce the chance of spooking birds.

   replyreport
6. 60

   nlclarkposted 13 years ago

   I don't participate in photography, but my sister started it as a hobby and then started taking courses. Now she has a home business part-time.  She has taken several beautiful photos of birds, and may have some tips for you.  You can message her on facebook.  Her name is Sharon Souter.  I will tell her I referred you. Good luck. Enjoy.

   replyreport
7. 60

   s.wilsonposted 13 years ago

   One of the best tips I have heard is to frame the photograph in the direction the bird is facing when they are sitting on a branch.  When they finally take off, they will be flying in that directions, and you are more likely to get a shot.

   replyreport
8. 0

   paulgcposted 13 years ago

   Hello, Lady_E
   
   I would love to answer this question in detail but it all depends on what type of bird you wish to photograph, the equipment you wish to use and the environment in which you intend to shoot in. I'm sorry i couldnt be of more help but i do have a couple of bird photography hubs that might be of interest to you.
   
   Good luck x

   replyreport
9. 62

   samsons1posted 13 years ago

   One thing I try to do is steady the camera and open my other eye, that way you have a broader view of subject and activity combined.  Also, with digital cameras you might have the ability to hold the shutter down and take multiple images of each sequence.  You take a lot of pix, but you have a choice to choose from...

   replyreport
10. 80

    CyclingFitnessposted 13 years ago

    Just a couple of thing's I would recommend
    
    Make sure you have a fast shutter speed selected if your camera has the option as this means any quick movement can be accounted for and keeps a clear precise image.
    
    Also be prepared to take time over getting suitable photographs. You can't simply get it right first time. It could often take hours so be patient

    replyreport
11. 59

    bobtylorposted 12 years ago

    Here are some tips for photographing birds:
    1. Photograph them in direct sunlight
    2. Wait patiently for them to fly to you
    3. Use your car as a blind
    4. Enable continuous shooting and take lots of shots
    5. Focus on their eyes
    6. Avoid sudden movements
    7. Set your lens to autofocus on farther objects
    8. Always be ready for a shot
    
    For more detail about photography  visit : http://www.idealmomentphotography.com/

    replyreport