WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

by photographer Tom Wolff Mussehl

No one’s wildlife photo is as important as the welfare of the animal(s)

Understand the “comfort zone” distances for different species and individuals. Stay Back! Use at least a 300 mm telephoto lens when photographing wildlife.

Minimize your disturbance of the animal(s) current behavior. Don’t move when they are watching you.

Dress in colors that blend in with the environment.

Know your subjects. Can you anticipate it’s next behavior? What should your behavior be ? ...to prolong the chance for a meaningful photo and not disturb the subject?

Understand the species that you are seeking to photograph choices of habitat during different seasons and weather conditions. Be in an optimum location at the beginning of daybreak or dusk when wildlife is most active.

Know your equipment. Have your camera ready for anticipated minimum shutter speeds and aperture expected for available light.