Animal Photography

Animal Photography Tips by Debra Karplus

     The photographs of animals in books and magazines and images of animals in motion on television or in movies are fascinating.  Have you ever wondered how professional photographers capture the beauty of living beings from the animal kingdom? Expert animal photographers have mastered the skills required for some of the most challenging jobs such as photographing active beasts in the wild.  Though a technical or four-year college degree in photography from a university or specialized art school is advantageous, many successful animal photographers have become accomplished artisans without formal training.

     The pros recommend a zoo as the perfect location to observe the habits of animals and practice shooting them with a camera.  Fast shutter speed is essential for taking pictures of animals in motion  Film cameras used by the experts, opposed to digital cameras,  typically provide more options including selection of a quicker shutter speed, and a tripod is necessary for stabilizing the camera.  The pros always use a zoom lens so that the animal’s eyes will appear in every photo; they avoid using a flash as that might frighten the creature.

     Expert animal photographers always plan in advance what they desire to capture on film.  They know that animals are less active between eleven o’clock in the morning and three in the afternoon, so they have the gumption to wake early to capture the most desirable images.  Since they have studied specific animal’s behavior on site, such as an animal that startles easily, they can anticipate the optimal time and place for creating a superb photo. They are willing to be very patient and demonstrate perseverance by taking numerous photos to assure the optimal composition.

     Professional photographers avoid placing their own safety at risk when photographing animals, in any setting.  By becoming familiar with the habits of a living being they can choreograph their movements and position to create the perfect photo composition without danger.  Their tips are apropos for every aspiring animal photographer.