Take pictures like a professional

Photographer Iain Green – who organises Wildlife Wonder photo workshops for children, schools and community groups at wildlifewonder.co.uk – has these tips for taking wildlife photos:

1 Head to parks, churchyards, ponds, canals and nature reserves – all offer great opportunities

for wildlife photography. Try to visit through the changing seasons.

2 Search for bold colours, striking patterns and interesting textures and shapes. Experiment

with different ideas to create beautiful photos.

3 Change your viewpoint. Get down low to take photos from the same level as the plant

or animal. Try this with flowers.

4 Look straight up or down to discover strong natural patterns in plants and trees. This is a

great way to photograph autumn colours or bare trees in winter.

5 Include background as well as the main subject because this will give more of a story.

6 Avoid blurry images; hold your camera steady with thumbs below and fingers on top.

7 Be careful when taking pictures against a bright background because your subject may

come out too dark. With a compact camera you can fix this with the +/- Exposure button – press +1 or +2 to add more light.

8 Find out about the nature you hope to see: books, websites and wildlife charities are

great resources. Staff at nature reserves will be very happy to help too.

9 Don’t disturb the animals or plants you’re photographing. Tread carefully and don’t

make too much noise.

10 Now get outside and photograph! The more time you spend outside exploring

and learning about your camera the better.

WORK WITH BLUR

Out-of-focus eyes might ruin a photo, but blurred wings or legs can help

to emphasise fast-moving action.

SCAVENGERHUNT

ALAM

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