Backyard Bird Photography

Step 3 Become one with the environment

The closer the better is a good rule of thumb when taking action photos. But how close can you get to feeding birds? If the birds are feeding, as soon as I walk into the area, they spook and fly away. I find if I sit down even 10 feet from the feeders and remain very still, they slowly return and the feeding frenzy eventually resumes. Fast movement will scare them again, but I can get away with slow movements. They quickly become accustomed to the click of the camera.

Get comfortable. Bring food and drink. Sync your favorite podcasts, book and music and fire up your ipod. Dress appropriately. Have a comfortable chair. All of these things will help you patiently wait for your models to appear.

You can get very elaborate and build a duck blind. If you do, create an Instructable. I don't see one here.