Unlocking Dynamic Shots with Transitional Bird Behaviors

^{Note: This tip comes from B&H Photo & Video’s Youtube video - Capturing the Moment With Bird Photography}

Bird photography is often linked to majestic poses, vibrant plumage, and perfectly composed flight shots. However, by focusing on transitional moments—those fleeting, unguarded actions like a mid-scratch, a yawn, or a quick preen—you can reveal a bird’s personality and add a sense of life and relatability to your photographs.

These moments highlight the subtle and often overlooked behaviors that make each bird unique, creating images that stand apart from the usual catalog of bird photography.

Patience and observation are essential for capturing these moments. Take the time to watch your subject in its natural environment, paying close attention to its behavior patterns. Birds are creatures of habit and frequently repeat certain actions, such as shaking their feathers after a bath or adjusting their perch position.

Recognizing these patterns allows you to anticipate when a transitional moment is about to happen. This is where your readiness with camera settings becomes crucial.

Use a fast shutter speed (1/1000 or faster) to freeze subtle movements, and switch your camera to continuous shooting mode to improve your chances of capturing the perfect moment.

The composition also plays a vital role in making these moments impactful. Frame your shot to include enough space around the bird to convey its environment while ensuring the subject remains the focal point. For example, a yawning bird perched on a branch with a blurred background of its natural habitat adds depth to the image.

Transitional moments also create opportunities for storytelling. An image of a bird in mid-scratch or ruffling its feathers after a dive captures the beauty and small, relatable actions that make wildlife photography so captivating.

Ethics are essential in this approach. Avoid getting too close or stressing the bird. Use a telephoto lens to keep your distance while capturing the needed level of detail. By concentrating on transitional moments, you’ll produce images that transcend traditional bird portraits.

These types of images offer an intimate and endearing view of your avian subjects that connects with viewers on a deeper level.

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!)