Zoo

Zoo - filo - Canva - Getty Images

I´m sure that lots of you would like to photograph wild animals, but that´s not always possible, or is it? But we can visit a place where you can photograph many different animals, and the best part is, they can´t run away!

What are we talking about? A zoo of course! Zoos are great places to take photos, especially if you like animals. You can get really close to the animals, and sometimes they even pose for you!

So next time when you´re visiting your local zoo with your family or school friends, take your camera along and try to get some great shots.

Giraffe in the zoo - mvdsande - Canva - Pixabay

Taking photos of wild animals in their natural habitat is the best way to get great shots, but zoos offer the next best thing. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when taking photos at the zoo:

  • Be respectful of the animals. Remember that they are living creatures, not toys. Do not harass or disturb them in any way.
  • Check the zoo´s rules and regulations regarding photography. Some zoos do not allow flash photography, so be sure to find out before you go in.
  • Be patient. The animals might not do what you want them to do, when you want them to do it. But if you wait long enough, you might just get that perfect shot!

The best lens for photographing wild animals in a zoo is a telephoto lens. This will allow you to get close to the animals without disturbing them or getting too close yourself. A zoom lens is also a good option, as it will give you the flexibility to zoom in and out as needed.

If you don’t have a telephoto lens, don’t worry! You can still get great pictures with a standard lens. Just remember to stand a little closer to the animals than if you were with a telephoto lens. You can crop the photos later to zoom in on the animal.

Snow Owl - Jan Skramlik

When it comes to composition, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, try to fill the whole photo with the animal. This will help to make your picture look more impressive. You can do this by using a telephoto lens or by cropping the photo later.

Second, pay attention to the background. If it is too busy, it will take away from the animal. Look for a background that is simple.

Finally, pay attention to the light. The best time to take photos is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is softer and more flattering. Try no to take photos in direct sunlight, as this will create harsh shadows on your subject.

Snake - Jan Skramlik

The best camera settings for photographing wild animals in a zoo

 

Set your aperture to a large number, such as f/8 or f/11. This will ensure that your photo is sharp and in focus. If you want to take portrait of the animal, set your aperture to a smaller number, such as f/2.8 or f/4. This will create a shallow depth of field, which means that the animal will be in focus and the background will be blurry.

Set your shutter speed to at least 1/250th of a second. This will help to freeze the animal’s movement and prevent blur. You should use ISO to a low number, such as 100 or 200. This will help to keep your photo from being too grainy or noisy.

If you are just starting to learn how your camera works, it is always good to use Automatic settings. Now almost every camera has it, and it will make your life much easier. The camera will automatically set the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO for you. It is a great way to learn about how these settings affect your photo.

Elephant - Jan Skramlik

Here are some other tips for taking great photos at the zoo:

 

1. Get there early. This is especially important if you want to take photos of animals that are active in the morning. Many animals are more active in the morning, so getting to the zoo early will give you a better chance of getting some good shots.

2. Plan your visit. Take a look at the map of the zoo before you go in. This way you can plan your route and make sure you don’t miss any of the animals you want to photograph.

3. Bring a telephoto lens. A telephoto lens is a must for taking photos of animals. This type of lens will allow you to get close to the action without disturbing the animals.

4. Be patient. Animals are not always helpful when it comes to posing for photos. Sometimes they hide, and sometimes they move around a lot.

5. Don´t use flash. Using flash can hurt animals and cause them to move. 

6. Get close to the animal. This will help to get clear shots with good detail. Don’t jump over the fences, of course.

7. Ask staff when is the feeding time, this can make for some interesting action shots.

8. Take plenty of photos! The animals may move or do something interesting, so be ready to take lots of pictures. That way, you’re sure to capture the perfect photo! You never know which one will turn out the best.

9. Last but not least, don’t forget to take some time to enjoy the animals!

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