The Most Important Skill You Should Master In Wildlife Photography

People always ask me for my advice on becoming a better wildlife photographer. They always assume it's the gear that they have. Sure, the gear is essential, but a set of steak knives doesn't make someone a better cook. 

Patience is the number one skill you should learn to become a better wildlife photographer. Patience is crucial in wildlife photography for several reasons. Here is why patience is the #1 skill you should learn.

Waiting for the Right Moment: Wildlife behaviour can be unpredictable. Patience allows photographers to wait for the perfect moment to capture a compelling image, whether it's a bird taking flight, a predator hunting its prey, or an animal displaying a unique behaviour. Its patience that is going to help you capture the defining moment of an interaction.

Getting Closer: Many wildlife species are easily spooked by human presence. By patiently waiting in a concealed location like a blind, photographers can often get closer to their subjects without disturbing them, resulting in better, more intimate shots.

Natural Light: Wildlife photographers often rely on natural light for their shots. Patience may be necessary to wait for the optimal lighting conditions, such as the golden hour around sunrise or sunset, which can greatly enhance the beauty and mood of the photograph.

Composition and Framing: Patience allows photographers to carefully compose their shots and wait for the animal to move into the desired position within the frame. This attention to detail can make the difference between a mediocre photo and a stunning one.

Building Trust: Spending time observing and waiting for wildlife can help build trust between the photographer and the subject. Over time, animals may become more accustomed to the photographer's presence, allowing for even more remarkable photo opportunities.

Overall, patience in wildlife photography is not just about waiting—it's about studying your subjects before you get out in the field. It's also about being observant and willing to invest the time necessary to capture truly remarkable moments in nature.

You could always join me at one of my wildlife workshops at Akari Photo Tours.