Wildlife Photography Guide

Wildlife
Written By Anthony Stark

Base Camera Settings

  • Mode: Manual or Shutter Priority (Tv/S)

  • ISO: 400–1600 (raise to 3200+ in low light)

  • Aperture: f/4 – f/8 (wide for isolation, narrow for sharp groups)

  • Shutter Speed: 1/1000 sec or faster (birds: 1/2000+, slow subjects: 1/500)

  • Drive Mode: High-Speed Continuous

  • Focus: AI Servo / AF-C + Back-Button Focus

  • Metering: Evaluative / Matrix

Light Awareness by Time & Conditions

Golden Hour

  • Warm tones, low angle light = ideal for detail & depth

  • Use side or front light to sculpt features

Midday Sun

  • Harsh, overhead—watch for blown highlights

  • Use shade, or shoot backlit for rim light/mood

Overcast

  • Soft, even light = great for fur/feathers

  • Boost contrast in post if scene feels flat

Dappled Forest Light

  • Tricky—meter for subject, not background

  • Spot metering + exposure compensation = control

Backlight

  • Silhouettes, rim light, mood

  • Slight underexpose; isolate shape or detail

Adapt Fast: Light & Behavior Shift Tips

  • Subject enters shadow → Raise ISO or widen aperture

  • Light gets harsh → Use exposure comp (-0.3 to -1) to protect highlights

  • Action picks up → Go to faster shutter, increase ISO

  • Animal stops → Drop shutter speed, regain detail

  • Subject turns → Watch catchlight and light direction

Use Light Direction Creatively

  • Front Light ➤ Clarity, eyes sharp

  • Side Light ➤ Texture, drama, depth

  • Back Light ➤ Mood, silhouette, halo effects

Common Pitfalls (and Fixes)

  • Blown highlights on pale animals → Underexpose slightly, check histogram

  • Motion blur in low light → Prioritize shutter speed, stabilize lens/body

  • Underexposed in shadows → Use +EV or spot meter on subject

  • Distracting backgrounds → Reposition or shoot wider open

Field Ethics & Behavior

  • Move slow – sudden gestures spook wildlife

  • Know your species – anticipate moments

  • Shoot silent – use silent shutter if available

  • Stay low – shoot eye-level for impact

  • Respect distance – lens > lure

Natural Light Checklist

◻️ Subject lit? Directional light?

◻️ Shadows or highlights blowing out?

◻️ Eyes visible & sharp?

◻️ Fast enough shutter for action?

◻️ Clean background or silhouette opportunity?

◻️ Mood: clarity, texture, or drama?

Trust your instincts. Let the light lead.

Stay patient, shoot RAW, work with the wild—not against it.

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Anthony Stark
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