TechnologY

10 wildlife photography tips for smartphones

By: Shaurya Shubham

Date: September 2, 2024

Before getting on to the wildlife photography adventure, it's important to understand the diversity of animals that are found there, best time for sightings, to make things easier for you.

Research thoroughly

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Capturing wildlife photos requires patience. Be prepared to wait for long periods, as sightings are not guaranteed. Persistence and multiple visits may be necessary to get the perfect shot.

Patience is the key

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Smartphones may lack the zoom capabilities of DSLRs, but additional lens kits can enhance zoom range. Also, carry essentials like a power bank and cleaning cloth to ensure your phone remains operational and your lens stays clean.

Carry the right accessories

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A tripod is crucial for stabilizing your phone, especially during long waits. It allows you to frame shots better and reduces camera shake, ensuring sharper images.

Use tripod for stable shots

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Understanding manual settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO is vital. A fast shutter speed can freeze an animal's movements, while a wider aperture can create a shallow depth of field, making your subject stand out.

Master manual settings

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Always turn off your phone’s flash. Flash can make animals conscious and is ineffective at long distances typically involved in wildlife photography.

Avoid flash

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Capture the essence of the sanctuary by including surrounding elements in your frame. Avoid tight framing that could make your photos resemble zoo pictures rather than wildlife shots.

Capture the surrounding

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Position the subject off-center to create a more dynamic composition. This technique enhances the natural feel of your photos by including the habitat.

Utilise the Rule of Thirds

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Post-processing is essential for wildlife photography. Adjusting brightness, contrast, and color balance can enhance the appeal of your photos, making them more striking.

Post-processing

Picture credit: Pixabay