Bird Photography!

Question

Hi all, 
 I have decided I am going to start bird photography in my spare time. I am going to ask my Dad if I can borrow his ( Probably Ancient ) camera! I was wondering if anyone has any tips and could show me some of their favourite piccies. ( I know that sparrow has quite a collection ) LOL! 
 
 Best Wishes, Coal ;)

bramble67 · Answer

Hi coal, 
 Photography is mostly about trial and error to begin with and birds make such a fab subject that even bad pictures can tell a story or look interesting. They are always useful to check identification and if you practise lots as Sparrow has been doing you will be amazed at how quickly you will improve. I am afraid i'm still on auto settings on my cameras, but even so you can get lucky. This is one of my favourite pictures, but more for the pose that quality of the shot and it was taken through a window.

Flowerpot · Answer

Hi 
 I am no expert about photographing birds, but some advice about wildlife generally - patience and more patience. Also getting up very early in the morning on a good day to get the best possible light. It is about the subject but also just as much about the composition and light, which makes an ordinary picture into an extraordinary one. 
 Then you need a bucket full of luck to be in the right place. Also make sure you are not too conspicuous. Birds will eventually trust your presence to some extent - if you are feeding them, but that is only in your garden. 
 Most of all enjoy the experience. These days with digital cameras you can click away forever and delete what you don't like, then play with Photoshop etc to make it even better. So have fun. : ) Oh a tripod helps a lot too ! 
 
 Regards Flowerpot

GrahamC · Answer

Coal, Good luck with the photography. I can only echo what the others have said here. But would emphasise patience. 
 For those of you who are still shooting on Auto you might like to take a look at these websites: 
 http://stopshootingauto.com/ 
 http://www.slrphotographyguide.com/ 
 I use a Monopod which, for me, is easier to use especially when you need to set up quickly. It also doubles as a walking stick! 
 Best of luck and don't forget to post your photos, Graham

Catlady · Answer

Hi, 
 Bird photography is a wonderful hobby,and you will have lots of fun! It does not matter what camera you have you just need lots of practice and loads of patience!! I've been doing it for a couple of years now and I love it as I'm sure you will too. 
 Good Luck! 
 Donna