PicsArt Monthly PicsArt Monthly Magazine June Issue 2015 | Page 35

No matter what I do I can’t seem to get close-ups of birds, from my patio to a hill in the backyard about 20 feet away. I have a Nikon DSLR with a 100-300m lens. I do a great deal of bird photography and you are correct, it’s not easy. Birds are skittish, and you often need to use a lens of 400mm or longer mounted to a tripod. Like most wildlife photography, it’s helpful to remain patient and wait for the right moments while observing quietly through the viewfinder. You may also want to consider looking into a portable blind. This will allow you to get closer without scaring them away. Finally, be sure to wear muted colors, and refrain from making any sudden movements. Once the birds understand you are not a threat, you’ll have a better chance of photographing their natural behavior. PicsArt Monthly |35