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Birds in flight are some of the most captivating and challenging subjects in wildlife photography. In this episode, I dive into the art (and a little science) of capturing those perfect airborne shots. Whether it’s a puffin soaring over Alaskan cliffs or a spoonbill gliding over Florida’s wetlands, photographing birds in motion allows you to capture their behavior, beauty, and raw essence—but it’s no easy feat.

I share three key techniques to take your bird-in-flight photography to the next level. From the fundamentals of full-zone and continuous autofocus to the game-changing advancements of modern autofocus tracking, this episode is packed with practical advice for photographers at all levels. I also break down essential camera settings, like how to nail your shutter speed (hint: fast is key), why f/8 is a sweet spot for aperture, and how to let auto ISO handle the rest.

You'll also hear tips on zooming out for easier tracking, using high drive motors for action-packed shots, and even leveraging advanced features like eye-tracking autofocus. Plus, a bonus tip on using image stabilization effectively for panning shots!

Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife photographer or just starting out, these strategies will help you transform fleeting moments into stunning images. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to bring a little more "wow" to your wildlife photography. Don’t forget to drop me a message with your own questions—I’d love to feature them in future episodes!

Expect to Learn:

• Mastering Autofocus: Full Zone and Continuous Mode
• Leverage Autofocus Tracking for Precision
• Optimize Camera Settings for Birds in Motion
• Zoom Out to Keep Birds in Frame
• Use High Drive Motors for Action Shots

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

LensRentals.com. Use WildPhotographer15 promo code for 15% discount.

Find Me:
YouTube: @courtwhelan
Instagram: @court_whelan & @the.wild.photographer
Website: www.courtwhelan.com
Email: wildphotographer.podcast@gmail.com

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In this episode of The Wild Photographer, host Court Whelan delves into the fascinating world of conservation photography with Dana Cama. A passionate storyteller and dedicated conservationist, Dana shares her journey of blending art with advocacy to inspire change and connect audiences with nature’s beauty and challenges.

Dana provides a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process, discussing how she captures compelling stories through her lens and uses her platform to raise awareness about critical environmental issues. She emphasizes the power of intentional storytelling and building connections, offering valuable insights for aspiring photographers and conservation enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, an environmental advocate, or simply curious about the intersection of art and activism, this episode will leave you inspired to look at the world through a new lens.

Expect to Learn:

• The role of storytelling in conservation efforts.
• Tips for crafting impactful narratives through photography.
• How to build meaningful connections with your audience.
• The challenges and rewards of balancing art and advocacy.
• Practical advice for aspiring conservation photographers.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:01:11] – Introduction: Court introduces Dana and sets the stage for the discussion.
[00:04:17] – Dana’s Journey: Dana shares her beginnings in conservation photography and her motivations for blending storytelling with environmental advocacy.
[00:14:57] – The Power of Storytelling: How Dana uses photography to spark conversations and inspire change.
[00:21:39] – Social Media Strategies: Navigating the technical and emotional aspects of conservation work through social media.
[00:49:14] – Practical Advice For Beginners : Dana’s recommendations for budding conservation photographers.
[01:05:50] – Closing Thoughts:Where can people find Dana on social media?

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

LensRentals.com. Use WildPhotographer15 promo code for 15% discount.

My Full Camera Kit:

• Canon R5 Body
• Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8
• Canon RF 24-105mm f/4
• Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1
• Canon RF 70-200 f/2.8
• Canon EF Macro 100mm f/2.8
• Canon RF 50mm f/1.8
• Peak Design Carbon Fiber Tripod

Follow Court on Socials:

• Website: https://www.courtwhelan.com/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@courtwhelan
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/court_whelan/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildphotographer.podcast
• Buzzsprout: https://thewildphotographer.buzzsprout.com/
• Email: Wildphotographerpodcast@gmail.com

Follow Dana Cama on Socials:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DanaCamaPhoto/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danacama/
• Website: Dana Cama Photo
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danacama/

Send us a text

In this enlightening episode of The Wild Photographer, Court Whelan, a seasoned wildlife photographer and conservationist, takes listeners on a journey into the heart of nature photography. Sharing his personal experiences and expertise, Court unravels the secrets behind capturing stunning wildlife moments. From understanding animal behavior to mastering the art of storytelling through images, Court emphasizes the power of photography in connecting people to the natural world.

Listeners will discover practical tips and ethical considerations for wildlife photography, as Court highlights the importance of patience, preparation, and respect for the environment. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply curious about the craft, this episode offers an inspiring and educational perspective on how to create impactful images that tell powerful

Expect to Learn:

• How to use patience and observation to capture the perfect wildlife moment.
• The best equipment and settings for wildlife photography.
• Techniques for shooting in challenging environments.
• Ethical considerations for photographing animals in their natural habitats.
• Tips on storytelling through photography.

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

LensRentals.com. Use WildPhotographer15 promo code for 15% discount.

My Full Camera Kit:

• Canon R5 Body
• Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8
• Canon RF 24-105mm f/4
• Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1
• Canon RF 70-200 f/2.8
• Canon EF Macro 100mm f/2.8
• Canon RF 50mm