The combination of fall color change in the trees, shorebirds and other feathered flyers migrating through Missouri, and the ongoing Innsbrook Property Owner Photo Contest make this an ideal time to review some pointers. Wildlife and nature are both challenging and rewarding to photograph. Try these tips to make the most of your expedition to your backyard backwoods or beyond.

If you have an SLR-type camera, don’t skimp on the glass. The best way to get up close to any kind of animal is to have a long lens. Usually a zoom lens topping out at 300 mm will be sufficient.

When photographing animals, focus on the eyes of the animal – especially when using a longer lens – to get the most striking shot possible.

Photo by William A. Moran

Animals love to move fast. Try the “sports” mode of your digital camera to give you the best shutter speed and exposure setting.

Photo by Don Bloomfield

Explore your camera’s Macro mode – sometimes close-up images of small wildlife, insects and flowers can be just as rewarding as the big game.

Photo by Jen Cochran

Patience is key. Animals don’t know that you are waiting for them to yawn. Butterflies don’t realize you want them to open their wings. Holding out that extra few minutes may reward you with a once-in-a-lifetime shot.

Photo by Judy Pailer

Photograph animals in their natural setting so your pictures tell more of a story.

Photo by Geo W. Miller

Know your wildlife and be aware of your surroundings! Some of your “models” are docile creatures, and some are more dangerous. Make sure you understand the difference.

These next couple of weeks should be a great time to take photos around Innsbrook, with the background a beautiful kaleidoscope of fall colors. If you’re an Innsbrook property owner, make sure to submit your photos to the photo contest. You have until October 31!

What is your favorite type of wildlife to photograph?

-Adapted from a Cabin Life magazine article by Geoff Coalter, “Canon USA”.