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Contributed By: Jemma MeadAs a kid that always dreamed of being Eliza Thornberry, the top priority for any overseas trip I book will always be the local wildlife.
Every adventure is filled with unpredictability and excitement, never knowing what new species we may encounter or the behaviours we may see. The images from diving with sharks in the Bahamas, a month on safari in South Africa, and following a pod of Orca in the Salish Sea are forever etched in my brain… not to mention my hard drive. Wildlife photography is a uniquely rewarding and thrilling pursuit, allowing us to connect deeply with nature, capturing fleeting moments that showcase the raw beauty of the animal kingdom. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding enthusiast like myself, here are a few of my tips and gear picks to help you elevate your wildlife photography game.
Gear Up Like a Pro (Or at Least Look Like One)
Camera: GoPro HERO12 HyperSmooth 6.0 Waterproof Action Camera
Sure, having a fancy camera helps, but let's be real - you don't need a bazooka-sized lens to get great shots - you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve without selling a limb! I use my iPhone regularly and I never enter the water without my trusty GoPro HERO12. If you have a bigger budget, look for cameras with fast autofocus, high burst rates, and good low-light performance.
Tripod or Monopod: Joby Kit GorillaPod Starter Kit
A tripod is vital for stable shots, especially in low light or when using heavy lenses, whereas a monopod provides more mobility and is easier to carry when hiking long distances. The Joby Gorillapod is perfect if you’re packing light. You can mount anything with a ¼-20 attachment point up to 325g, and it comes with GoPro, Phone, and torch attachments.
Camera Backpack: Shimoda Action V2 X25 Starter Kit Camera Backpack
Choose one that is comfortable, doesn’t scream “I’m carrying expensive gear!”, and has lots of compartments for spare batteries, memory cards… and snacks. The Shimoda Women's Action X25 is top of the game for any environment. It features multiple attachment straps, including TPU compression straps for skis, a removable helmet holder, two removable tripod or water bottle pouches, a laptop sleeve, and a hidden AirTag sleeve!
Clothing: Kuhl Stretch Voyagr Jacket
Wear neutral colours to blend in with your surroundings, avoiding any bright tones or noisy fabrics. If you want to go full ninja you may consider investing in some camouflage gear! Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions and always be prepared for rain. The Kuhl Stretch Voyagr Women's Jacket in Sage is waterproof, soft and super lightweight. You’ll want to wear it even when it's not raining!
Sturdy Footwear: Keen Targhee IV Hiking Footwear
Ensure you can move through various terrains comfortably because blisters are not your friend when you're trekking through the wilderness! I prefer a shoe over a boot for added maneuverability. The Keen Targhee IV’s have a padded tongue and collar for enhanced comfort. Not to mention they are constructed without glue for an eco-friendly, longer-lasting bond, along with 100% recycled plastic laces!
Use Binoculars: Nocs Provisions Pro Issue 10x42 Waterproof Binoculars
Scan the area before setting up to spot any wildlife from a distance. I recently splashed out on the Nocs Provisions Pro Issue 10x42 Waterproof Binoculars and they are a game changer! Fully waterproof and fogproof, scratch-resistant, and rugged enough to take just about anywhere!
Tips for Getting the Money Shot!
Know Your Subject: Learn about the behaviour, habitat, and patterns of the wildlife you want to photograph. This knowledge will help you anticipate movements and capture more dynamic shots.
Respect Wildlife: Always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals so they can maintain their natural behaviour. Ethical photography should always be your number one priority.
Hide and Seek: Use natural cover like bushes and trees to stay out of sight, and move slowly and quietly to avoid scaring away your subjects. Animals are more likely to stick around if they don’t know you’re there.
Patience and Perseverance: Wildlife photography requires a great deal of patience. Be prepared to wait…and wait…and wait. You can always bring a book or listen to nature’s soundtrack to pass the time.
Optimal Timing: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best natural lighting and increased wildlife activity. Plus, you get to witness some stunning sunrises and sunsets! Different seasons also bring unique photographic opportunities so do your research.
Remember, the experience is just as special as the magical moments you capture so take a moment to put your camera down and really take it all in. Happy snapping!
Want to capture the perfect shot in the outdoors? Come in-store to chat with our experts or shoot us a message online and we’d love to help! Don’t forget to share your running adventures with us on Instagram at @wildearthaustralia and use the hashtag #MyWildEarth to be featured.
About the contributor:
Jemma is the Operations Manager for Wild Earth but when the weekend rolls around, she trades in her computer for a dive mask and fins. Jem has spent the past 15 years working as a dive guide, skipper, and outdoor adventure guide alongside her roles in e-commerce operations... It's all about balance! When she isn't hanging out beneath the waves with turtles and whales, you can find her on a kayak or SUP adventure with her four-legged-friends in tow!
