How many of us have secretly yearned to have a picture printed in National Geographic magazine? Or wished to see our names in the credit line of a stunning image of a stark mountain range, or a candid picture of a tiger stalking its prey? Nature photography has infinite appeal, even to the amateur photographer, but it takes a very skilled and patient person to make a name in this field.

It might take only a moment to click a special picture, but that moment only comes after hours of waiting, crouching down in unsatisfactory conditions, or fighting your way into unfriendly territory. It’s not easy to be a nature or wildlife photographer, and a committed one will win the respect of the entire profession.

Time is of the essence in nature and wildlife photography. A good photographer has to be completely prepared before he sets off for a shoot, ensuring that all equipment is in working order. While he might have to wait hours for a perfect shot, the opportunity for a great shot might suddenly present itself, and he can’t waste precious seconds fiddling with his equipment. In a candid shot there is no room for error and no second chances. No chimpanzee is going to redo his swinging act for you, and if you tarry too long, chances are you might end up as prey for your subject. However, the thrill of capturing a once-in-a-lifetime shot is hard to beat and more than makes up for the interminable time spent in freezing rain or scorching heat.

A nature photographer has to abide by one simple rule?to do no harm to his subject, be it an animal or landscape. Experienced nature photographers recommend that to take an exceptional picture, you must be able to feel some emotion for the landscape. A dispassionate photographer will never be able to take a picture that talks to the viewer. Drama is a prerequisite for creative landscape photography: A picture must tell a story.

While books and magazines are a good source of learning, the best way to improve your photography skills is to take more pictures and experiment with lighting and lenses. Beginners can hone their skills in areas where animals are used to humans, such as zoos and national parks. You don’t want to set yourself as bait for wild animals unless you know your way around a camera, and are really quick on your feet!

http://www.learndigitalphotographynow.com/