The fascination of nature photography

In the field of art, nature is undoubtedly the primary source of inspiration. In the field of photography, too, nature exerts a very special charm. Unlike a portrait shoot in a studio, for example, which can largely be planned in advance, in nature photography you have no choice but to trust in chance and bring plenty of time with you. Time is especially important if you intend to photograph animals.

The special thing about nature photography is certainly the fact that it is suitable for every photographer. So no matter if you are a beginner, advanced or professional, in nature you will also find beautiful motifs regardless of your experience level.

General tips for getting started in nature photography

If you want to go out into nature to take beautiful pictures, then you should think about your equipment in advance. Because you can't just quickly grab a lens or other accessories from the cupboard.

The right lens

What you should never forget is to pack a suitable lens. At this point, however, we cannot make a general statement about which lens you should pack. After all, everyone has different goals and ideas, and the choice of subject is also different in nature photography. But even if we cannot make a universal recommendation here, the lenses for nature photography should fulfil a few factors:

• For example, a good zoom lens with a large aperture can be useful. Equipped with such a lens, you can photograph animals from a distance without disturbing or startling them. Such a lens is also suitable for panoramic landscape shots.
• If you would like to try your hand at night photography, you should make sure that you pack the fastest lens possible.
• In principle, light to medium telephoto lenses and wide-angle lenses are also suitable for taking pictures of landscapes.

Other accessories for nature photography

• When you take your camera and equipment outside, you should be aware that the camera and accessories are exposed to dust, dirt and water. A waterproof camera bag is a good idea. Your camera should also be splash-proof.
• As mentioned above, time is of the essence, or rather not of the essence, in nature photography. Since you are likely to be somewhere without access to a PC or hard drives for an extended period of time, you should pack a sufficient number of memory cards.
• For extremely high or low ambient temperatures, you should also have extra batteries with you.
• It is helpful for nature photography if you invest in a solid and stable tripod. This is an indispensable aid, especially for longer exposure times. There are now very good and light travel tripods. These can be "folded" small and compact so that they can easily find a place in your backpack or bag.

The right hardware is not everything

Of course, good equipment is a good basis for nature photography. But it is by no means a guarantee for beautiful photos. Other decisive factors for beautiful photos include a good eye, a certain approach and the right technique.

Aspects such as patience and finding the right time are of enormous importance, especially in the field of nature photography. Beginners in particular often lack the necessary patience to take unique pictures and so it is not uncommon for compromise shots to be taken because people give up too quickly.

In any case, we hope that the time factor will not deter you from exploring the fascinating field of nature photography.