Wait for It: Get the Best Bird Photos

^{Note: This tip comes from Photography Life’s article - 21 Tips for Bird Photography}

Many fantastic bird images are missed due to the photographer's impatience.

While sitting in bird blinds, I have witnessed many photographers snapping a few pictures of a bird and immediately turning their attention elsewhere. Inevitably, they miss ‘the great shot.’

A close-up profile shot of a perched bird with all the details can sometimes create a good picture. But often, it lacks excitement and feels static without any activity.

That's why it's crucial not to rush from one bird to another just after snapping their profile picture. Capturing dynamic moments—like a courtship dance, a hunting action, a wing flap, or even preening—brings your photos to life. This is where knowledge of your subject becomes invaluable. It allows you to anticipate and wait for these fascinating behaviors.

Some birds gulp air before takeoff, stretch their necks before preening, or even poop before they fly.

Mating calls often lead to courtship rituals, and a close proximity might signal a fight.

Quick Tip - Whatever the action, anticipate it and be persistent. It might not always happen, and sometimes, you'll walk away empty-handed. But when it does, you'll capture that extraordinary shot that makes all the waiting worthwhile. Patience! 

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!)