Bird Photography Guide

Base Camera Settings

• Shutter Speed

  • ≥1/2000 sec – birds in flight

  • 1/800–1/1600 sec – perched or preening

• Aperture

  • f/4–f/6.3 – isolate subject, maximize light

• ISO

  • 400–1600 – early or overcast

  • 1600–3200+ – dense shade, twilight

• File Format

  • Always RAW – more control in post

• Drive Mode

  • High-speed continuous/burst

• Focus Mode

  • AI Servo / AF-C – continuous tracking

• AF Area Mode

  • Custom zone or single point – focus on the eye

• Metering

  • Evaluative/Matrix – adjust EV as needed

Light Conditions & Adaptation

• Golden Hour (sunrise/sunset)

  • Side/front light = ideal tones & catchlights

  • Watch for underexposed shadows

• Backlight

  • +1.0 EV to lift shadows or silhouette creatively

  • Position bird against clean, rim-lit backdrop

• Midday Sun / Harsh Light

  • Use shadows, reflections, or shade to soften

  • Avoid overhead glare; watch for blown highlights

• Overcast / Cloudy

  • Excellent feather detail

  • Use higher ISO, wide aperture for brightness

Focus & Tracking Tips

• Track movement with torso, not just lens

• Pre-focus on perch or flight path if predictable

• Back-button focus = full control of AF

• For flying birds: use zone AF + high burst mode

Compositional Best Practices

• Eye-level angle = stronger connection

• Leave space in flight direction

• Use clean backgrounds—sky, water, bokeh branches

• Avoid tangents—no branches coming out of the bird’s head

• Rule of thirds: place eye or head at an intersection

Common Pitfalls

• Blur (too slow shutter): raise SS or ISO

• Overexposed whites (egrets, gulls): expose for highlights

• Shadows on the eye: shift position or wait

• Busy/messy backgrounds: adjust your angle or depth of field

• Overcropping in camera: leave room for movement

Ethics & Fieldcraft

• Stealth > speed: move slowly, avoid sudden motion

• Observe before shooting: learn the bird’s rhythm

• Never bait or disturb nests

• Use cover: natural blinds, neutral clothing

• Watch for signs of stress: wing flicks, scolding, head bobbing

• If it notices you, you’re too close

Pre-Shot Field Checklist

◻️ Light direction OK?

◻️ Shutter fast enough?

◻️ ISO balanced with noise and light?

◻️ Eye sharp + clean background?

◻️ Bird undisturbed?

◻️ Angle & position optimal?

The best bird photos come from quiet patience, clean light, and respect for your subject.

Other Guides You May Enjoy