The Right Tool for the Job: Nature Photography Camera Basics

Nature and wildlife photography require more than fancy gear. You’ll need basic technical knowledge and confident camera use.

Reader Contribution by Andrew Weidman
article image
by Andrew Weidman
Juvenile Bald Eagle In Sunset Rays

I get a lot of attention when I’m out shooting photos. Or rather, my gear gets a lot of attention. It’s not intentional; it’s just that I use a big lens. A mount-the-camera-on-the-lens big lens. People will say things like, “I’ll bet you get great pictures with that camera!” That’s true, in a sense, but it’s only part of the story. I doubt anyone ever looked at an artist’s brushes and said, “I’ll bet you can paint a real masterpiece with those!” The other part is in knowing how to use the tools at hand.

There are quality tools and poor tools, and improper tools. A pipe wrench makes a lousy hammer — but I guarantee we’ve all banged on a pipe or two with one. Because it’s what we had at the moment. But the best tool for any job is the one you know how to use.

There’s a saying: “The best camera for the occasion is the one you have with you.” That’s true, in two different directions. The first way, the obvious way, is you won’t be taking any pictures with the camera you don’t have. Yes, that’s obvious, but it’s true. I always travel with my camera bag, including on my daily commute, just in case. There are a lot of days it just goes along for the ride, especially this time of year. The surprise roadside shots I’ve gotten, like the juvenile bald eagle in the last sunset rays, have made it more than worth the effort of schlepping the bag around everywhere.

Entry-Level Cameras for Wildlife Photography

Online Store Logo
Need Help? Call 1-800-234-3368