Birds in flight are some of the most captivating and challenging subjects in wildlife photography. In this episode, I dive into the art (and a little science) of capturing those perfect airborne shots. Whether it’s a puffin soaring over Alaskan cliffs or a spoonbill gliding over Florida’s wetlands, photographing birds in motion allows you to capture their behavior, beauty, and raw essence—but it’s no easy feat.
I share three key techniques to take your bird-in-flight photography to the next level. From the fundamentals of full-zone and continuous autofocus to the game-changing advancements of modern autofocus tracking, this episode is packed with practical advice for photographers at all levels. I also break down essential camera settings, like how to nail your shutter speed (hint: fast is key), why f/8 is a sweet spot for aperture, and how to let auto ISO handle the rest.
You'll also hear tips on zooming out for easier tracking, using high drive motors for action-packed shots, and even leveraging advanced features like eye-tracking autofocus. Plus, a bonus tip on using image stabilization effectively for panning shots!
Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife photographer or just starting out, these strategies will help you transform fleeting moments into stunning images. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to bring a little more "wow" to your wildlife photography. Don’t forget to drop me a message with your own questions—I’d love to feature them in future episodes!
Expect to Learn:
- Mastering Autofocus: Full Zone and Continuous Mode
- Leverage Autofocus Tracking for Precision
- Optimize Camera Settings for Birds in Motion
- Zoom Out to Keep Birds in Frame
- Use High Drive Motors for Action Shots
This episode is kindly sponsored by:
LensRentals.com. Use WildPhotographer15 promo code for 15% discount.
Find Me:
YouTube: @courtwhelan
Instagram: @court_whelan & @the.wild.photographer
Website: www.courtwhelan.com
Email: wildphotographer.podcast@gmail.com
- Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
- Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
- Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com
- View Court's recommended camera gear
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