One of the most brilliant sounds in the forest is that of our songbirds singing. As a bird photographer who spends many hours hiking in the woods, their bright delightful calls and songs brighten any day.
Posing Tip
When songbirds are singing, the good news is that they may perch in one spot for a few seconds. They may hop from branch to branch but the stops are usually long enough to compose a few shots. The barn swallow below would leave and come back to the same perch. Instead of moving the camera, I kept my focus on the perch and waited for him to return.
Suggested Settings
When birds are singing, their bills are open, their heads, wings and bodies may be moving as as they are belting out their songs. To freeze the movement, a shutter speed of 1/500 and higher is suggested. For smaller songbirds f/8 or f/9 should provide ample depth of field on the bird with a softer background. Larger songbirds may need an f/9 to an f/11 to get the whole body in focus.
Optimal Songbirds Singing Time
Particularly in the spring, birds’ songs and calls echo through the woods and in backyards. It’s the time in which the males actively seek their partner for breeding. The Savannah Sparrow was quite vocal and remained in this spot for several minutes.
Bird Safety
The Common Redshank below was another poser calling for a mate. Using a telephoto lens, I was able to photograph the music in action without causing him to take quick flight. Breeding season is intense and they need their energy to mate and raise young, not fleeing from photographers.
Connect with nature and our birds by taking a walk in the fields, the woods, stopping and listening. Nature will guide your way.
You may enjoy – Behind Every Photographer
