Be Ready And Follow The Action

^{Note: This tip comes from page 16 in Tobie Schalkwyk’s free eBook - Bird Photography: Photographing Birds of Prey}

When you see a hawk, prepare for action. This skilled hunter will often perch on a branch or tall light pole, searching for prey, especially if other birds’ nests are nearby.

It is crucial to be aware of owls and nest locations as they are particularly vulnerable to having their young snatched away if their nesting area is discovered.

Capturing Ospreys, fish eagles, and other fish hunters is one of bird photographers’ most highly prized photos.

However, do not be deceived by Audubon magazine’s perception that it’s easy to photograph these birds as they pluck a fish out of the water!

I have heard that most of these ‘extraordinary’ shots are staged by letting a fish carcass float on top of the water.

While some may or may not agree with the baiting technique, it is one way to get the shot.

A fast-focusing lens and a lot of patience are significant assets in this case!

If you see one of these birds perched at the water’s edge, wait it out. Something is guaranteed to happen – it’s only a matter of time!

When it does, keep on refocusing as you follow it.

When it’s getting ready to grab its prey, start with continuous shooting. Give it a second, then resume shooting as it leaves with its target.

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!)