According to wildlife photographer – Joeri Leeuwerik, capturing the wilderness world and bringing it closer to people through the power of pictures can be one of the most rewarding experiences. But it can also be of the most challenging photography. You can spend all your time only trying to find your subject talk more of getting to shoot them.
“There are a lot of things that are beyond your control. Shooting animals is not like shooting models and they might not always give you the best angles. Where the animal might even appear might not make a good background for the photos and you still have to deal with light and weather, Joeri Leeuwerik says.
That is why wildlife photographers need to challenge themselves and continually develop their skills while digging deep into their creativity. Moreover, you need to understand the tips and tricks that go into capturing pictures that tell wildlife stories to the world. After all, without wildlife photography, animals we see today on TV, shows or pictures, might not have been possible today. Hence, Joeri Leeuwerik, a wildlife photography expert shares tips on how to challenge yourself when next you go picture hunting.
1. Work with one Lens
One way to go bold and creative is to limit yourself to only one lens. While working with multiple lenses means you have so many options at your disposal, going with one lens makes you think outside the box says Joeri Leeuwerik. If for instance, you are stuck with a 10mm lens, you are left with no choice but to bring out the creativity in you. Or work out more on those settings that have never been touched or even work with subjects you might otherwise not have shot. Shooting with one lens brings you out of your comfort zone and challenges you to explore different opportunities and options. After all, is said and done, you will be able to appreciate the creativity and hard work that goes into taking those wide varieties of photos. Plus, the growth and skill development.
2. Capture on the Move Images
Photography generally doesn’t move and it is a static medium of telling a story. Going out of the convention by taking on the move images is also another way of challenging yourself as a wildlife photographer. And taking on the move images go beyond conveying that a subject is moving. It is a good way of capturing the bustling wildlife while they become real and alive in the frame. “Capturing pictures on the move can also evoke emotions or communicate a mood. Choose a subject or different subjects that you will use to capture motion in your images. Let your camera be steady as you work your way towards capturing the best moments while your subject moves” Joeri Leeuwerik advises.
3. Shoot with Limit
Another way to challenge yourself as a wildlife photographer is to limit yourself to one roll of film. This will push you to be extremely careful about every shot was taken. Instead of working with a lot of films that cause you to fire away every shot hoping one will be okay. Joeri Leeuwerik says carefully treating each shot like gold that requires thoughtful moves and strategies to get the right shot at a go is the key. This way, you will approach pictures with care, intently consider the techniques and strategies, including the composition and exposure before taking a shot. You will be amazed at how much you put into capturing that perfect wildlife picture.
4. Give yourself an Assignment
This can be anything as simple as a theme such as colour or shape to a story you want to tell or emotions or feelings such as joy. This means you have to provide pictures that revolve around that story. The idea is to hone your skills to better convey feelings or tell a story through pictures.
Combining these ideas is where creativity and fun begin. By setting a goal and working towards it, you can watch your wildlife photography skills and creativity develop in no time.
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