National Geographic Photographing Birds

There are an estimated 85 million American birders, and just about every one carries a camera. But there's an art to capturing birds on film--and who better to reveal the tricks of the trade than two of National Geographic's foremost birders/photographers? This appealing and informative guide is packed with practical know-how, presenting a wealth of techniques, tips, and hard-won wisdom about everything from the best equipment to use to how to lure or stalk birds until you have the perfect shot. You'll learn how to get close--but not too close--to a nest, how to frame a bird in full flight, how to cope with challenging weather or difficult lighting, and much more. Interspersed throughout the book, wonderful visual essays offer vivid examples of birding photography at its dramatic best, along with commentary on how the shot was taken and how its elements combine to create an effective, arresting composition. And, unique among books in its field, this one covers not just traditional film but also the latest developments in cutting-edge digital equipment and its particular strengths and weaknesses, complete with expert advice on editing and printing with a computer. Based on many years of research, experiment, and practical experience, this handy guide will get novices off the ground with ease, and even the most advanced bird photographers will find their work soaring to new heights.