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| Perched Bird Photography Training : Kirstenbosch Garden |
Birds in Flight Photography Training Cape Town
After the conclusion of selected sessions (workshop) the developing Canon photographer should be comfortable in applying the required technical / autofocus / exposure settings and related techniques to achieve more / extract more value from current gear.
Vernon Chalmers Photography Approach
Bird Photography
Bird photography is a wonderful and challenging genre that allows you to capture the beauty and diversity of bird species. Here are some tips to help you get started or improve your bird photography skills:
Equipment:
Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a fast autofocus system and high continuous shooting speed is ideal. Examples include the Canon EOS 90D, Nikon D500, or Sony A7R IV.
Lens: A telephoto lens with a focal length of at least 300mm is recommended. Popular choices are the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM or the Nikon AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR.
Settings:
Shutter Speed: Use a fast shutter speed (e.g., 1/1000s or faster) to freeze the motion of birds, especially in flight.
Aperture: A wider aperture (e.g., f/5.6) can help isolate the bird from the background and allow more light into the sensor.
ISO: Adjust the ISO to achieve a properly exposed image. In bright conditions, a lower ISO (e.g., 400) works well, while in low light, you may need to increase the ISO (e.g., 1600).
Technique:
Panning: Follow the bird's movement with your camera, keeping it in the frame while maintaining a steady motion. Practice this technique to improve your tracking skills.
Focus Mode: Use continuous autofocus (AI Servo on Canon or AF-C on Nikon) to keep the bird in focus as it moves.
Focus Points: Select a focus point or group of points that cover the area where the bird is likely to be. Many photographers prefer using the central focus point for accuracy.
Composition:
Rule of Thirds: Position the bird off-center to create a more dynamic composition.
Background: Aim for a clean and uncluttered background to make the bird stand out. A clear sky, water, or blurred foliage works well.
Eye Level: Try to photograph birds at eye level to create a more intimate and engaging perspective.
Patience and Persistence:
Spend time observing birds in their natural habitats to understand their behavior and patterns.
Be patient and ready to capture the perfect moment when it arises. Sometimes, it takes waiting for hours to get that one stunning shot.
Ethics:
Respect wildlife and their habitats. Avoid disturbing birds, especially during nesting seasons.
Use long lenses to photograph birds from a distance without causing stress or harm. (Source: Microsoft Copilot 2025)
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| Bird in Flight Photography Training : Intaka Island |
Canon EOS / EOS R camera body, lens and your own memory card(s).
Any Canon EOS / EOS R camera body (Full-Frame or APS-C) with any of the following lenses (any brand ):
Recommended Lenses (Range)
- 70-300mm
- 100-400mm
- 100-500mm
- 150-600mm
- 300mm f/2.8 / f/4
- 400mm f/2.8 / f/4 / f/5.6
- 500mm / 600mm / 800mm f/4 / f/5.6 / f/11
Bird Photography Learning Areas
- Bird Photography / Considerations
- Perched Birds / Birds in Flight
- Specific Canon EOS / EOS R Overview
- Lenses / Tele-converters
- Canon Autofocus (AF) Systems
- Canon AF System Settings / Tracking
- Camera / Lens / Exposure Settings
- Minimum Focus Distance / Depth of Field
- Environmental Variables
- Practical Sessions
R2 500 per delegate for up to three sessions (five hours+ each)
R3 300 per delegate for up to four sessions (four hours+ each)
There will be some Lightroom post-processing orientation (if required) and an extra session could be costed in for Lightroom training at more cost effective rate than the separate Lightroom training sessions. Any Lightroom training will be costed per specific requirement.
Detailed notes and other relevant information resources will be provided during / after training sessions..
Equipment
1. Camera
- Use a camera with a fast autofocus system and a high frames-per-second (FPS) rate to capture fast-moving birds.
- A DSLR or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses is ideal.
2. Lenses
- Invest in a telephoto lens with a long focal length (300mm or more) to get close-up shots of birds.
- Consider a lens with image stabilization for handheld shooting.
3. Tripod and Gimbal Head (Not required for Birds in Flight)
- For stability and to reduce camera shake, especially with longer lenses.
- A gimbal head allows for smooth movement and tracking of birds.
Settings
4. Aperture Priority Mode
- Use a wide aperture (low f-number) to achieve a shallow depth of field, isolating the bird from the background.
5. Shutter Speed
- Set a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion of birds. 1/1000 or faster is often necessary for birds in flight.
6. ISO
- Keep ISO as low as possible to maintain image quality. However, be willing to increase ISO in low light conditions.
Composition
7. Focus on the Eyes
- Ensure the bird's eyes are sharp and in focus. The eyes are a key point of connection in bird photography.
8. Background
- Pay attention to the background. A clean, uncluttered background helps the bird stand out.
9. Rule of Thirds
- Compose your shots using the rule of thirds for a more visually appealing image.
10. Patience
- Be patient and observe bird behavior. Anticipate their movements to capture more dynamic shots.
Techniques
11. Stalking and Camouflage
- Use natural cover to get closer to birds without disturbing them. Wear earthy tones and move slowly.
12. Baiting and Bird Feeders
- Set up bird feeders to attract birds to a specific location, making it easier to photograph them.
13. Silent Shooting Mode
- If your camera has it, use the silent shooting mode to avoid scaring away birds.
14. Continuous Autofocus
- Use continuous autofocus mode to track moving birds. Experiment with different autofocus settings.
Post-Processing:
15. Crop Carefully
- While cropping can help in framing, try to get the framing right in-camera to maintain image quality.
16. Sharpening and Noise Reduction
- Apply sharpening carefully to enhance details and use noise reduction as needed.
17. Color Correction
- Adjust colors to make the bird's plumage look natural and vibrant.
Learn from Others
18. Study Bird Behavior
- Understanding bird behavior helps you predict their actions and get better shots.
19. Join Birding Groups
- Connect with local birding communities or online forums to learn from experienced bird photographers.
20. Practice Regularly
- The more you practice, the more you'll learn about your equipment and the behavior of different bird species.
Remember, bird photography is as much about the experience of observing and appreciating nature as it is about capturing stunning images. Practice, patience, and a love for birds will contribute to your success in this field." (Source ChatGPT 2023)
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| Perched Bird Photography Training : Kirstenbosch Garden |
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| Birds in Flight Photography Training Cape Town |