How Overcast Days Can Elevate Bird Photography

^{Note: This tip comes from Spark Lark’s article - Best Tips for Bird Photography}

Many photographers shy away from bad weather, but overcast skies can be a hidden gem for bird photography.

Unlike bright, sunny days that create harsh shadows and blown-out highlights, cloudy conditions produce soft, even light that reduces contrast and allows for better detail in the bird’s feathers and the surrounding environment. This is especially useful when photographing birds with light and dark plumage, as the diffused light helps maintain balanced exposure without losing detail in highlights or shadows.

Overcast days also offer unique opportunities to capture birds behaving differently. Birds tend to be more active during cooler, cloudier weather, often foraging or preening more comfortably than in direct sunlight. Rain or drizzle can add another layer of visual interest, such as water droplets on feathers, reflections in puddles, or moody skies that enhance the atmosphere.

To maximize these conditions, use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion in low light and consider bumping up your ISO to maintain sharpness without compromising exposure.

Embracing less-than-ideal weather conditions can set your images apart by creating a moodier, more natural look. You can use the diffused light to photograph birds in their habitats, experimenting with composition and behavior-focused shots. With some preparation—like weather-sealed gear or a rain cover—you can create stunning, atmospheric bird photographs that stand out from the standard sunny-day portraits.

Don’t let a gray sky stop you—let it inspire you.

Want more? If you want to learn more about bird photography, and capture beautiful shots of your own, we recommend downloading and printing out Photzy’s 10 Bird Photography Cheat Sheets (Special bonus available now!)