Spring is a great time for bird photography

Spring brings a lot of migratory birds with their colorful feathers, sound, and activity. Birds that are rarely seen in other seasons pass through or settle in local habitats to breed, making it an ideal time to photograph both familiar and rare species. The soft, warm light of the season adds a beautiful glow to photos and the lush landscapes provides vibrant backgrounds.

Check out these tips to get the most out of your bird photography.

• Use a telephoto lens – A fixed or zoom lens with at least 300mm of reach allows you the reach to photograph birds from a respectful distance without disturbing them.

• Shoot early or late – Birds are most active at dawn and dusk, and the lighting is ideal during these golden hours.

• Be patient and still – Birds are easily startled. Find a good spot, stay quiet, and wait.

• Focus on the eyes – A sharp eye gives your photo life and personality, even if other parts of the bird are slightly blurred.

• Know your subjects – Learning bird calls and behaviors helps you anticipate their actions and find them more easily.