World Photography Day: five top tips for wildlife photography

To mark yesterday’s World Photography Day – a global celebration of the craft, art, science and history of photography – here are five top tips to keep in mind when you’re next snapping away out in the wild.

1. Start with something familiar

The best way to capture something beautiful, is to make sure that you feel comfortable with your surroundings in the first place. Whether that’s sat in your back garden or hiking through a nearby forest, being in a familiar environment will instantly put you at ease.

2. Take the time to get to know your subject

It’s often said that you should never work with children or animals… however, if you’ve got the patience to get to know your subject and you help the animal you are trying to photograph learn to trust you, you will be rewarded with the most fantastic shots.

3. Practice makes perfect

It’s very unlikely that you’ll get the perfect shot in one take. Instead, expect to take hundreds – if not thousands – of photographs in order to get a few good ones. Just think, the more you take, the more of a chance you will have of capturing something wonderful.

4. See it through someone else’s eyes

It’s easy to dismiss a picture when you’re sifting through hundreds. However, don’t get rid of them completely. Save them away from your favourites and take a look at them with fresh eyes a few days later. You never know, you might even surprise yourself with some new favourites!

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5. Not sure where to begin?

If you’ve read these top tips and are now ready to go but you’re not quite sure to know where to begin, read up on the knowledge of the are around you. Knowing the best spots to see wildlife and when you’re most likely to get the perfect shot by asking your neighbours and other locals, will help you out in the research stages of your new passion for wildlife photography.