Wildlife Photography Masterclass with Ellie Rothney

Introduction

• Instructor: Ellie Rothney
• Focus: Wildlife photography at home, with a focus on woodland birds.
• Background: Ellie started photography at age 8, inspired by her father who was an amateur photographer.
• Early Experience: Used a Canon AV-1 camera in the late 1970s and early 1990s, initially photographing hedgehogs and later wildlife in Kenya.
• Career: Transitioned from marketing to becoming a full-time professional photographer, specializing in wildlife.
• Current Role: Guides and instructs people on wildlife photography.

Today's Masterclass

• Focus: Techniques for photographing woodland birds at a homemade feeding station.
• Equipment Highlight:
  • Main Camera: Canon 1DX3 with high ISO capabilities for dull lighting conditions.
  • Main Lens: Canon 500mm lens, ideal for small to large birds and mammals.
  • Backup Lens: Canon 300mm f/2.8 for fast aperture and wildlife photography.
  • Backup Camera: Canon 5D Mark IV for wildlife portraits and macro photography.
  • Additional Gear: Canon 1.4 Extender for extra reach, lens covers, spare batteries, memory cards, tripod tools, and carabiners.

Setting Up a Feeding Station

• Location: Near woodland to provide safety for birds.
• Light Consideration: Position to take advantage of natural light throughout the day.
• Background: Choose backgrounds that enhance the photograph's aesthetic.

Building the Feeding Station

• Used natural materials like old moss-covered logs.
• Bird Food: Suet and peanuts to attract species like woodpeckers and tits.
• Perches: Seasonal branches with catkins for aesthetic shots.
• Bird Feeders: Varied seeds for attracting different bird species.

Photography Techniques

• Concealment: Use pop-up hides to prevent startling birds.
• Camera Settings:
  • Aperture Priority Mode (f/5.6) for wide apertures.
  • Fast shutter speeds (1/1600 - 1/2500) to capture quick movements.
  • ISOs adjusted according to lighting conditions.
• Bird Behavior: Understand and anticipate bird movements.

Importance of Patience

• Waiting quietly for birds to approach.
• Using knowledge of bird calls and behaviors to enhance photography.

Summary

• Perch Building: Important for creating natural settings for bird photography.
• Concealment: Essential for capturing natural behavior.
• Ethics: Protect nature and wildlife during photography.
• Experimentation: Change perches and settings for varied shots.

Conclusion

• Encourage fun and enjoyment in the process of photographing birds.
• Be persistent and creative in approach.