How-To Take Terrific Avian Pictures

After hours of waiting, dozens of mosquito bites, and much persistence, you finally spot him: the yellow-throated warbler. Stealthily, you reach for your camera and click!

A few days later, you head for the photo lab, eager to see your shots. What is that tiny yellow speck in the tree in your pictures? You guessed it!

Shooting pictures of canaries in a cage is as easy as shooting fish in a barrel. Out in nature, however, this is a considerably more challenging prospect. How can you take memorable and even artistic photographs of birds in the wild?

Choose Your Weapon: Digital or Film.

Digital cameras are a godsend for fledgling photographers, as they offer unlimited margin for error. Click and delete until you have the images you want.

For experienced shutterbugs, traditional film cameras may capture higher-quality and higher-resolution images, although digitals are quickly catching up.

Get Up-Close and Personal.

This is the most important thing you can do, and it is the tallest order of all. Extreme patience is required, along with a bit of know-how and some creative props.

Dress for the part. Wild bird photography is a bit like hunting. After all, you are looking for the right shot. Wear camouflage clothing to become nearly invisible. Pull on a pair of high boots, so you can tromp through weeds and waters. Tuck your hair up into a camouflage or bush hat.

Build a blind. Hunters set up tarps, bales, and other props to hide them from their quarry. Photographers do too. Rig up a hiding place, strategically located where you expect the birds to be. (Look for nests, droppings, and other clues.) Even a tent will suffice, particularly if it is green, khaki, or other earthy tones. Be sure to set it up a day or two before you plan to use it, so the birds will forget it's there.

Watch the birdie! Some photographers simply park a car, as in a nature preserve, and shoot from there. If you feel like being particularly surreptitious, you might drape a blanket, tarp or tablecloth over the windows to prevent glare. You can peek out from underneath it to capture the ideal image.