Taking photos of nature can be the most gratifying form of photography if learnt precisely and carefully. People all desire a connection with the great out-of-doors and nature photography is usually this link. So here are some fundamentals of great nature photography.
The key principle for any wildlife or nature photographer like Jim Feldkamp is a love for nature and a yearning to perceive it preserved for upcoming generations. A photographer should never constrain in any way with nature or leave traces of their existence after a shoot.
So where to begin as nature photographers like Jim Feldkamp?
- Equip yourself
This is indeed key to any type of nature photography from the scenery on the one side right across to macro and close-up on the other. There is nothing more exasperating than trying to shoot a subject that is just impractical or the incapacity to get close enough. There are minimum gear necessities and you should get good guidance from reputable equipment suppliers or other photographers. A zoom lens with a shortcut feature could serve for detailed photography and be associated with a two-times converter for a bird taking pictures.
- Practise and Be patient
Patience is quality and no more so than with nature photography. Birds and animals (even in zoos) do not act on prompt so it becomes essential to wait for hours and from time to time, as with experts, even days. Waiting for the right animal, weather conditions or lighting conditions takes a lot of effort and patience. If you are not prepared to do this then maybe it is not for you. Because of all these aspects, practice becomes an indispensable part of a nature photographer’s life.
- Research your subject
A good understanding of your subject is vital. Knowing when an animal feeds when there is dew on the roses or what time of the day a flower opens will enhance the opportunities for a spectacular image. A good nature photographer is a good ornithologist or naturalist. There is more to being a nature photographer than just taking pictures. Try visiting your subjects or location numerous times before starting your photography so that you get to comprehend their setting.
- Find a suitable location
All nature or wildlife photographers like Jim Feldkamp seek to shoot the elusive snow leopard or the big five, humpback whales. These are not the place to begin unless you live at the coast or on a game reserve. Find a place close to home like a local botanical garden, your back garden, or even a zoo. Somewhere you can be contented and practise without too much effort. A good setting with good subjects will invite you to larger heights.
James Feldkamp believes that nature photography can be one of the most satisfying areas of photography and can obtain great rewards. It takes a lot of practice and time effort so be prepared to dedicate yourself to many hours of preparation and waiting. If you have what it takes, the consequences will express themselves.
