Mastering Bird Photography in Rain, Fog, Mist, and Snow

^{Note: This tip comes from Audubon’s article - Tips for photographing birds in different weather conditions}

Rain and mist can turn an ordinary bird photograph into a piece of art, infusing mood, texture, and drama into the composition. These weather conditions not only make the scene more dynamic but also emphasize the bird’s resilience in its natural habitat.

Raindrops clinging to feathers or mist softening the background can evoke emotions and tell a richer story. However, waiting for perfect weather isn’t always practical. That’s where a small spray bottle proves useful. It lets you simulate rain or dewdrops for a controlled and creative shoot.

Preparation is crucial when photographing in actual rain or mist. To safeguard your camera gear, utilize a rain cover or waterproof housing. A longer focal length lens can assist in maintaining distance while keeping your subject in focus.

Overcast skies during rain naturally diffuse light, softening harsh shadows and enhancing the visibility of details in feathers. Position yourself strategically to capture interactions, like a bird shaking off water droplets or finding shelter under a leaf.

Use a faster shutter speed to freeze rain or mist in the frame, while a slower shutter speed can create artistic streaks of falling water.

A spray bottle filled with water is a versatile tool for creating controlled effects. Mist the surrounding foliage to add glistening highlights or create an artificial "rain" effect around your perch setup. Combine this with backlighting during the golden hour to make the droplets shimmer like tiny jewels. Ensure your spray bottle produces a fine mist instead of heavy streams for a more natural appearance. This technique is particularly effective in setups where birds frequent feeders or specific branches.

Ethics should always guide your work. Avoid spraying water directly on birds to ensure their safety and comfort. By creatively using rain, mist, or a spray bottle, you can enhance your bird photography with atmospheric elements that make your images stand out.

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!)