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When Photographing Birds You Need to Know Your Subjects Well (cont.)

© Sam Hung Loading...

© Sam Hung

D200, AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4D IF-ED II, 1/500 second, f/7.1, ISO 250, Aperture Priority, Center-Weighted Metering

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Sam is usually out early in the morning, but it's not only to take advantage of the best light of the day. "The birds are like us in the morning—they're looking for breakfast."

Finally, the size of the fish can make a difference in the kind of picture he gets. "When a bird catches a small fish, it's easy for him to swallow it very quickly, so you have less time to get the photo. But a bigger fish will take more time, so you can have a few more seconds to get the picture." Or a picture of one bird robbing another.

Often getting birds in flight means tracking them from the moment they take off. Sam's 600mm lens is a key to that. It's not only for taking pictures, it's for noting details, spotting perches and observing the habits of the birds. "You'll know when a duck is about to take off—he'll shake his head side to side and up and down, again and again, getting faster and faster. That's your signal."    

Raptors, like hawks, osprey and bald eagles, like to stay on high perches and watch and wait. You'll know when they're ready to take off because they often...how to put this delicately?...they often...well, let's just say they like to lighten their load before taking off.

In general, birds like to keep a safe distance from people, including photographers, so if you have to move, move slowly and never directly toward the bird. And don't make eye contact—birds perceive that as a threat. And while you may not have the natural resources Sam does, chances are you won't have to go too far to find your bird photography opportunities. A wildlife refuge or a wetlands area is ideal, but so is a park where birds, bird-watchers and photographers gather.

And don't forget to check the Internet to see when your local fish and game organization stocks local lakes and ponds. Check the tide charts for coastal areas, too.