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Photographing wildlife at night is tough, but there's a formula I've found that works incredibly well. It produces high quality, even low ISO, inspiring images of rarely seen animals we may encounter on wildlife photo adventures.

In this episode I also go over the tools and specific camera settings, along with lessons and techniques from over 20 years on this topic for how to capture stunning nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.

Sponsors & Promo Code:

LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

Takeaways

• Nighttime wildlife photography is challenging due to low light.
• A good flashlight is essential for illuminating subjects. No flash--too harsh!
• Using a headlamp helps in adjusting camera settings in the dark.
• Spotting wildlife at night can be easier with a guide.
• Any camera can work, but DSLRs or mirrorless are preferred.
• Fast lenses are not always necessary for nighttime wildlife photography.
• Manual plus auto ISO is a great setting for low light.
• Underexposing the shot helps capture the essence of night.
• Editing can enhance the darkness around the subject.
• Macro photography can be done without a dedicated macro lens.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Night Wildlife Photography
04:38 Essential Tools for Night Photography
09:21 Camera and Lens Considerations
12:12 Camera Settings for Low Light
18:17 Techniques for Capturing Wildlife
23:01 Editing Night Wildlife Photos
26:55 Wild Card Tips for Night Photography

• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
• Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• View Court's recommended camera gear
• Promo Codes:
  LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
  ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
  Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, Marlo Shaw, a talented artist and photographer, shares her insights on the intersection of art and photography, emphasizing the importance of color theory, composition, and the creative process. She discusses her experiences with art shows, the techniques she employs in polar photography, and her strategies for capturing wildlife, particularly polar bears. Marlo also delves into the intricacies of photo processing and editing, highlighting her personal style and the significance of confidence in a photographer's journey.

Mentioned in the Episode

Marlo's Website

Michael Freeman's books on Composition and Color Theory

Poster Jack Photo Printing Website (Marlo uses for her work)

Arthelper.Ai - art promo tool using AI. use code WILD for 30 day free trial

Lensrentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off

Shimoda Designs - Whelan10 for 10% off (I mention the ActionX40 Backpack)

Takeaways

• Photography is a form of visual art that shares principles with painting.
• Color theory plays a crucial role in both photography and painting.
• Rules in art and photography are meant to be broken for creativity.
• Art shows can significantly enhance an artist's visibility and sales.
• Patience is essential when photographing wildlife to capture authentic moments.
• The perspective from which a photo is taken can change its impact.
• Dark and moody images can evoke strong emotions in viewers.
• Efficient photo processing is key for managing large volumes of images.
• Confidence in one's skills is vital for growth as a photographer.
• Sharing work leads to learning and improvement in photography.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Marlo Shaw: The Artist's Journey
03:37 The Intersection of Photography and Painting
18:24 Color Theory in Visual Arts
33:27 Art Shows: Insights and Experiences
44:26 Capturing Polar Bears: Techniques and Insights
48:37 Techniques for Polar Photography
51:18 Understanding Bear Behavior for Better Photography
54:21 The Importance of Photo Processing and Editing
01:07:57 Overcoming Challenges in Photography
01:16:11 Essential Non-Photo Gear for Nature Photography
01:18:47 Advice for Aspiring Photographers

• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
• Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• View Court's recommended camera gear
• Promo Codes:
  LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
  ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
  Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

Send us a text

Summary
In this episode, Court Whelan shares his insights on traveling with camera gear, focusing on the joys and challenges of preparation, lens selection, and the importance of accessories. He discusses strategies for packing, flying with gear, and maintaining equipment while traveling, emphasizing the need for careful planning to ensure a successful photography trip.

All Gear Mentioned in List Format (and easy purchase links)

Promo Codes:

LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off

ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off

Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

Takeaways

• Traveling with camera gear can be stressful but rewarding.
• Prepping for a trip is part of the photography journey.
• Selecting the right lenses is crucial for different photography styles.
• A second camera body can significantly increase your shooting opportunities.
• Always bring extra batteries and memory cards on trips.
• Packing strategies can help protect your gear during travel.
• Never check sensitive camera equipment in luggage.
• Humidity can cause camera fogging; keep gear cool and dry.
• A lens pen is an effective tool for cleaning your camera.
• Planning ahead for gear needs can enhance your photography experience.

Chapters
00:00 Intro: The Joys and Challenges of Traveling with Camera Gear
05:49 Selecting the Right Lenses for Your Trip
11:45 The Importance of a Second Camera Body
14:29 Accessories
20:28 The Role of Tripods in Photography
26:27 The Perfect Travel Tripod
29:32 Packing Philosophy for Camera Gear
35:16 Flying with Camera Gear
38:36 Protecting and Maintaining Gear While Traveling

• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
• Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• View Court's recommended camera gear
• Promo Codes:
  LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
  ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
  Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

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In this episode, Court discusses five techniques to inject creative vision into photography, emphasizing the importance of breaking traditional rules and experimenting with different perspectives and methods. From composition to intentional motion blur, each technique is designed to enhance creativity and encourage photographers to think outside the box.

Takeaways

• Inject creative vision into your photography on any camera.
• Exaggerate composition to break traditional rules.
• Intentional motion blur adds a unique element.
• Top-down perspectives provide a fresh view.
• Black and white photography enhances contrast and mood.
• Change camera angles for creative effects.
• Spot metering can create unique lighting.
• Experiment with different techniques for creativity.
• Photography is an art form that thrives on creativity.
• Always strive to refresh your perspective in photography.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Creative Vision in Photography
01:16 Thanks to Sponsors
05:31 Exaggerating Composition Techniques
09:22 Intentional Motion Blur Techniques
16:37 Top-Down Perspective in Photography
20:25 Black & White Photography
23:03 Camera Angles
24:59 A Bonus Technique

Thank you, Sponsors!

• Shimoda Designs
• Arthelper.Ai - Promo Code WILD for 30 Day PRO Trial
• LensRentals.com - Promo Code WildPhotographer15 for 15% off

My Complete Camera Kit

• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
• Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• View Court's recommended camera gear
• Promo Codes:
  LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
  ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
  Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

Send us a text

In this episode, host Court Whelan sits down with professional photo guide and Director of Photo Expeditions at Natural Habitat Adventures, Mike Hillman. Mike shares invaluable insights on wildlife photography, from mastering perfect pawsture in bear photography to the art of bird photography and finding your personal photographic style. We also dive into intentional camera movement (ICM), editing techniques that harness the psychology of the eye, and the logistics behind planning the perfect photo expedition. Plus, Mike gives us expert advice on photographing in the dramatic landscapes of Canyon Country. Whether you're a budding wildlife photographer or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with tips to elevate your craft!

Show Notes:

Episode Highlights:

• (02:26) Mike Hillman’s journey into wildlife photography and guiding
• (06:49) How zoo photography helps develop wildlife photography skills
• (12:06) Bear photography tips, including the concept of perfect pawsture
• (15:56) Bird photography techniques—capturing behavior, using depth of field, and composition
• (26:49) Defining personal photography style and the creative potential of intentional camera movement (ICM)
• (31:37) Editing workflows—masking, vignetting, and the psychology of the eye
• (38:13) What makes a great photo expedition? Planning, subject selection, and guiding philosophy
• (41:07) Photographing in Canyon Country—handling contrast, night photography, and essential gear
• (46:17) Mike’s favorite lenses for wildlife and landscape photography
• (50:40) Must-have photography tools—including an unexpected use for a toothbrush!

Resources & Links:

• Connect with Mike: MikeHillmanMedia.com | Instagram: @WildVenturer
• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow The Wild Photographer on YouTube for more photography tips

Sponsors:

• Art Helper AI – A game-changing tool for photographers to market their work. Use code WILD for a free 30-day pro trial at ArtHelper.AI
• LensRentals.com – Rent specialty camera gear with 15% off using promo code wildphotographer15 at LensRentals.com
• Shimoda Designs camera backpacks. Perhaps the best camera bag designed to-date. My new go-to!

Thanks for Listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share it with fellow photographers. Stay inspired and keep capturing the wild world around you!

• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
• Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• View Court's recommended camera gear
• Promo Codes:
  LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
  ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
  Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

Send us a text

In this episode of The Wild Photographer, host Court Whelan dives deep into the world of tripods and stabilization techniques essential for photographers. He discusses the importance of tripods, the differences between cheap and expensive options, and the various types of tripod heads. The episode also covers travel tripods, monopods, and alternative stabilization methods, along with recommendations for top brands. Finally, Court shares tips for achieving silky water photography, emphasizing the necessity of using a tripod for slow shutter speeds.

Takeaways

• Tripods are essential for slow shutter photography.
• Investing in a quality tripod can enhance your photography.
• The type of tripod head can significantly affect usability.
• Carbon fiber tripods offer a great balance of weight and stability.
• Travel tripods should be sturdy enough for field use.
• Monopods provide a lightweight alternative for stabilization.
• GorillaPods are versatile for travel and quick setups.
• Silky water photography requires careful shutter speed management.
• Understanding tripod leg mechanisms is crucial for ease of use.
• Choosing the right tripod brand can impact your photography experience.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tripods and Stabilization
04:04 All About Tripods
08:02 Choosing the Right Tripod: Cheap vs. Expensive
16:30 Understanding Tripod Heads and Their Functions
22:03 Tripod Plates and Mounts
23:42 Travel Tripods
25:48 Other Stabilization (monopods et al.)
31:03 My Favorite Brands and my Top Tripod for Everything
35:04 Listener Question: Silky Water Photography...Techniques and Tips
39:04 Setting a Timer Delay for ALL Tripod Photos

Sponsors (give them a look!)

Arthelper.Ai - an amazing AI tool to help you market, showcase, and sell your photography. Use promo code WILD at checkout for a 30 day free trial of their pro version.

Shimoda Designs Action Camera Bag - the ultimate camera backpack that is as good of a backpack as it is in protecting (and accessing) your camera gear!

LensRentals.com - use promo code WildPhotographer15 for 15% of renting (or buying) lenses

The best way you can help me and this podcast is to subscribe to my YouTube channel here.

Instagram - @court_whelan

My Complete Camera Kit

• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
• Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• View Court's recommended camera gear
• Promo Codes:
  LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
  ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
  Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

Send us a text

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Wild Photographer, Court Whelan breaks down the essential techniques for getting sharp images in both landscape and wildlife photography. He shares insider tips on shutter speed, aperture, and focusing techniques, plus the real impact of ISO on sharpness. You’ll also learn how to leverage image stabilization, drive mode, and post-processing tools like Topaz Denoise to get crystal-clear shots.

Key Takeaways:

📍 Shutter Speed & Movement: The faster the shutter, the sharper the shot—but how fast depends on your subject’s motion. For wildlife, start at 1/500s for resting animals, 1/1000s for walking animals, and 1/2000s+ for fast-moving subjects like birds in flight.

📍 Aperture & Depth of Field:

• For landscapes, aim for F8 to F11 to keep everything sharp while avoiding diffraction.
• For wildlife and portraits, focus on the eyes and adjust your aperture depending on how much of the subject you want in focus.

📍 Focusing for Maximum Sharpness:

• Hyper-focus: For landscapes, focus 1/3rd into the scene to maximize depth of field.
• Wildlife & portraits: Always focus on the eyes to make the whole image appear sharper.

📍 Stabilization & Handheld Shooting:

• Use image stabilization to reduce shake, but remember—it won’t freeze subject motion.
• Follow the Inverse Focal Length Rule as a baseline for handheld shooting.
• If using a tripod, add a 2-second delay or a remote shutter to eliminate vibration.

📍 ISO Trade-offs:

• Lower ISO = better quality, but sometimes you need to crank it up to freeze motion.
• Be mindful of noise at high ISOs—only use noise reduction software like Topaz Denoise when absolutely necessary, as it can actually reduce sharpness.

📍 Drive Mode for Extra Sharpness:

• Shooting in burst mode can help—sometimes the 3rd or 4th image in a sequence is sharper because the camera stabilizes after the initial click.

📍 Post-Processing for Sharper Images:

• Use selective sharpening on key areas like the eyes for a natural, crisp look.
• Be careful with noise reduction—it can soften details if overused.

Listener Question of the Day:

💡 How do you deal with noise reduction in post-processing?
Court explains when and how to use Topaz Denoise and Lightroom’s noise reduction to clean up high-ISO images without sacrificing too much detail.

Resources & Links:

🔗 Court Whelan’s Website & Podcast Archive
🔗 YouTube Channel – More Photography Tip

• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
• Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• View Court's recommended camera gear
• Promo Codes:
  LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
  ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
  Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

Send us a text

In this episode of The Wild Photographer, host Court Whelan discusses the art and science of photography with the talented Giulia Ciampini. As a photographer, educator, and conservationist, Giulia shares her journey from her first childhood photos to her current work in wildlife photography and photo instruction.

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Giulia provides important points on the intersection of art and conservation, discussing her philosophy of storytelling through photography, her creative process, and the importance of mastering technical skills.She also shares practical advice for aspiring photographers, touching on gear recommendations, field techniques, and the art of curating cohesive bodies of work.

Expect to Learn:

• How Giulia blends art and science in her photography.
• Tips for mastering your gear and creative process.
• The role of storytelling in creating impactful conservation photography.
• Strategies for building a cohesive photographic style and body of work.
• Insights into post-processing, gear selection, and fieldwork preparation.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

• [00:01:01] – Early Beginnings: Giulia recalls her first experiences with photography as a child and the influence of her background in biology and education.
• [00:03:37] – Art vs. Documentation: Giulia shares how she balances documenting subjects with creating artistic, emotionally evocative images.
• [00:09:25] – Hands-On Photo Instruction: Lessons from her fieldwork, including techniques for teaching photography in immersive environments.
• [00:21:29] – Defining Style: Giulia reflects on the evolution of her photographic style and how it reflects her personal growth and environment.
• [00:32:40] – Conservation Photography: Using images to inspire connection and action, and the importance of human-centric storytelling.
• [00:39:07] – Post-Processing: Her approach to editing, curating cohesive work, and creating timeless images.
• [00:45:37] – Gear Talk: Giulia discusses her favorite lenses, her new Canon R5 Mark II, and tips for traveling light with essential equipment.
• [00:56:20] – Final Thoughts: Giulia shares her excitement for upcoming projects and where listeners can connect with her online.

This episode is kindly sponsored by:
LensRentals.com. Use WildPhotographer15 promo code for 15% off.

My Full Camera Kit:

• Canon R5 Body
• Canon R5 Mark II Body
• Canon EF 16

• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
• Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• View Court's recommended camera gear
• Promo Codes:
  LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
  ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
  Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version