Learning Wildlife Photography and Animal Behavior

During my photography career, I’ve photographed different genres in order to learn all I can about photography. I’ve explored macro, landscape, still life, as well as other genres. The most recent genre I’ve been working on has been wildlife. Although I enjoy photographing large mammals, the reality is that birds are the most available wildlife to me. Learning wildlife photography and animal behavior has been instrumental in achieving wildlife photographs.

Being able to predict behavior enables a photographer to achieve a desired image. For me that has been huge. Along with patience, predictability of animal behavior is instrumental in making wildlife photographs that tell the story of their innate habits. Learning bird behavior by observing them for a long period of time is helpful. Living within the boundaries of the Pacific Flyway, I’ve had many opportunities to observe and photograph waterfowl for the past couple of winters. On this particular day, courting behavior of the Northern Pintail was clearly on display.

Northern Pintail

As you view these images, you can see posturing by the males to attract the females. They raise their chests/breasts out of the water, then lower and then raise their tails in the air. They appear to strut a bit.

The other behavior that was dominant was the chasing of other potential male competitors away from the desired female. This was actually quite comical to me as there was one male who was frantically chasing off other males. Did he get the girl? I have no idea, but he certainly gave a valiant effort!

The primary behaviors of the day were feeding, preening, courting, and defending. It was a busy morning!

Steps for Learning Wildlife Behavior

When learning wildlife behavior, I think the most important thing is observation. Identify the animal you want to photograph, find a location where you can quietly observe in a secluded manner. Once the animals are used to you being in a location and don’t feel threatened, you can begin to observe their natural actions.

Other helpful ways are to research, read, and take note of what other wildlife photographers do. There are countless videos on YouTube that are very helpful. My friend has taught me a lot about wildlife photography. So, finding a mentor can also be helpful for learning wildlife photography and animal behavior.

Hiring a guide is also a very worthwhile option for learning animal behavior and wildlife photography. The few occasions that I’ve hired a guide have been absolutely beneficial. I’ve come away with increased knowledge about the animals and some fantastic photos.

Observing and Photographing Northern Pintails

The drake on the right has his tail elevated and is clearly ‘courting’ the female.

This female pintail had lots of admirers!

Success!

As a fine art photographer interested in nature photography of all kinds, I can highly recommend joining the Nature Photographer’s Network which is a wealth of information for nature photographers. Be sure to check it out!

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As a published, featured northern California fine art photographer living in the greater Sacramento area, I specialize in fine art landscape, nature, and still life photography. My style is authentic, fresh and personality-driven. I offer several educational opportunities including workshops and photography mentoring. You can learn about them by going to SERVICES and WORKSHOPS. While currently living in rural northern California with my husband and a couple thousand walnut trees, I post regularly to Instagram.

Please CONTACT ME with any questions or to schedule your learning session.

Serving Yuba City/Marysville, East Nicolaus, Wheatland, Lincoln, Woodland, Davis, Roseville, Rocklin, and the greater Sacramento area.

(530) 633-7575

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