Spring is coming, Five Ways to Get Better Bird Photos
Spring is just around the corner here in Southern Alberta, and across much of North America, which means one thing for photographers… the birds are back.
Whether you’re an experienced wildlife photographer or just getting started, this is one of the best times of year to get outside and capture incredible bird images. The light improves, activity increases, and opportunities are everywhere.
But let’s be honest, bird photography isn’t easy.
Fast movement, tricky lighting, and unpredictable behaviour can make it frustrating. That’s exactly why I put together this video:
Five Ways to Get Better Bird Photos (Plus a Few Pro Secrets!)
Watch the Full Video Here
Want Better Bird Photos? Start With These Tips
In the video, I break down not just five—but several practical tips that will immediately improve your results.
Use the Right Lens (But Read This First)
Yes, a bigger lens can help you get closer to your subject, but before you rush out and spend thousands, there are a few important things you need to consider.
Lens Warning – Don’t Make This Mistake
Do this BEFORE buying new lenses!!!
Focus Matters More Than You Think
Birds move fast. If your focus isn’t dialed in, you’ll miss the shot. Learning how to improve your autofocus settings is a game changer.
Shutter Speed = Sharpness
If your bird photos are blurry, your shutter speed is likely too slow. Freezing motion, especially in flight, is key.
Watch Your ISO
Higher ISO helps you get the shot, but too high and you’ll lose detail. Finding the right balance is critical.
Timing is Everything
Early morning and late evening aren’t just great for light, they’re also when birds are most active.
Think Before You Shoot
The best photographers don’t just react, they plan. Understanding bird behaviour and doing a bit of research can dramatically improve your success rate.
Be Ready for Action
Birds don’t wait for you. Whether it’s a takeoff, landing, or even a mid-air interaction, you need to be ready.
Get the Right Angle
One of the biggest mistakes? Shooting from above.
Get down to eye level and your photos will instantly look more professional.
Five Ways to Get Better Bird Photos – Want to Take It Even Further?
Getting great bird photos is just the start. What you do with those images matters just as much.
At First Choice Photo Lab, we help photographers turn their images into something tangible:
- High-quality photo prints
- Professional photo enlargements
- Restoration of old photos
- Scanning of negatives, slides, and prints
If you’ve captured a shot you’re proud of, don’t let it sit on a hard drive, bring it to life.
Turn Your Bird Photos Into Artwork
There’s nothing quite like seeing your work printed and displayed. Whether it’s for your home, a client, or selling your photography, print quality matters.
Final Thoughts
Bird photography takes patience—but with the right techniques, you can dramatically improve your results in a short time.
If you found this helpful, make sure to watch the full video and keep practicing this spring.