From the Diary of an Image Hunter • General Subject Knowledge

3 years 7 months ago - 3 years 7 months ago #692349 by Nikon Shooter
When image hunting in Mother Nature, knowing what's happeningin
the part of the world you're in, the time of year — or specifically  
the season — what is going on and how all this affects the fauna
and the flora at the time you are there becomes crucial.

Water Birds
Water birds are most spectacular looking in Winter. Their respective
plumage is complete to protect them from the cold and colourful as
it is new and the mating season is in full swing; the season to obser-
ve and capture their beauty, their courtship and dominance fights.

When Spring comes, they're mostly already gone nesting, some oc-
casional individuals will come to feed and return to their nest. All that
is left are the birds that are either too young or too old to breed; and
they are quite less numerous than in the second half of the year.

Environment
If we stay by ponds, marshes, or any body of water, the ice and snow
are no inconvenience to dabblers like many Ducks and Swans, — if
the whole surface is not frozen that is. Divers like Tufties, Pochards,
Goosanders as well as fishers like Grebes and Kingfishers will have
a harder time when there is not enough free water. Geese are mainly
feeding on land. They will overcome the sleeping vegetation thanks to
the fat reserve they accumulated.

Moult
After the breeding season — when food sources are still abundant but
chicks are no longer so demanding — is in two ways, the ugly time of
the year. The moult drops feathers everywhere — a PITA to remove in
post — birds are less "presentable" but then birds can focus their e-
nergy on refreshing their plumage just before the migration and the
coming colder weather.

Flora

Spring and Autumn also have their challenges. Spring will spoil the wa-
ter with pollen and the ever nasty dandelion seeds — that have the sa-
me visual effect than floating feathers — and Autumn will carry lots of
dead leaves or wind broken twigs but these may some times present
great subjects.

These tips were just a hint of all that happening, there is way more. Just
get out there and explore.

Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024

The Canon 1DX Mark III is a big, burly professional camera packed with top-end features. Is it worth the investment in 2024? Find out in this detailed review!

Mar 04, 2024

In the OM-1 vs OM-5 debate, which camera comes out on top? Though they’re different cameras for different purposes, comparing them head to head clarifies which is best for your needs.

Mar 01, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Time management is a critical skill to master when you’re a photographer. But how do you get the most out of the limited time you have? Check out this guide to learn a few tricks!

Mar 27, 2024

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

Opening a photography business means undertaking various photography marketing strategies to promote your work. But you don’t want to do the same old thing - try these unique ideas!

Mar 22, 2024

The Canon EOS 80D might be a few years old, but it’s nevertheless a quality camera to invest in as a beginner or enthusiast looking for a mid-range DSLR with tons of lens options.

Mar 22, 2024

Wedding consultations are a critical part of a wedding photography gig. It’s when you learn about the couple and their wants, and present them with how you will meet those desires.

Mar 22, 2024

If you're looking for the best metal print of 2023, you'll find it from Artbeat Studios. After months of testing, Artbeat Studios beat out the competition!

Mar 21, 2024

Getting the best video shots on your camera or smartphone requires you to understand the fundamentals of composition and video editing. It helps to have the appropriate gear, too!

Mar 20, 2024

It’s easy to lose your inspiration behind the lens, especially as a beginner. These creative photography projects can help inspire you to try new techniques and improve your photos.

Mar 20, 2024