The best times to fi nd
wildlife are during the
morning and evening
when they are actively
feeding. These times
coincide with the ‘magic
hour’ when the light is
soft, resulting in some
of the best photos.
car. When on Alberta photo junkets, I often use
a tripod that can be levelled easily on relatively
even surfaces. If you’re taking photos from a
vehicle, a window mount or bean bag is ideal.
The gorillapod can be used in situations that are
impossible for a traditional tripod.
Photo Tips
The best times to fi nd wildlife are during the
morning and evening when they are actively
feeding. These times coincide with the ‘magic
hour’ when the light is soft, resulting in some
of the best photos. Many wildlife species have a
feature that makes them stand out — for example,
the white rump patch of a bighorn sheep or mule
deer, or the shine off the antlers of a deer, elk, or
moose. Purchase a nature guide if you’re not familiar
with the wildlife where you are visiting so you know
what to look for.
Do not approach wildlife any closer than
necessary. Be patient. These creatures need space,
and will not tolerate being crowded. Watch for
signs of agitation. Bison, deer, elk, and moose may
lay back their ears, breathe heavily, stamp their feet
or snort, or charge at you. Bison are particularly
dangerous during the mid-summer rut or if you
meet one unexpectedly on a forest trail. Parks
Canada recommends that you stay a hundred metres
away to avoid provoking a charge. Never approach
a cow moose with a calf because the mother is very
defensive. Bull elk can be dangerous during the
autumn rut, but all elk are dangerous and Parks
Canada recommends keeping thirty metres away.
Never use food to attract animals for a close-up
photo. Once, I saw a doe rake a woman’s face and
body with its hooves after she had been feeding it
potato chips, which is illegal. She was hospitalized
and could have been killed. Be even more cautious
with black bears and grizzlies. I think you get the
picture why a long lens is necessary!
Top: Give elk space during photo shoots
Bottom: Do not approach wildlife any closer than necessary
news&views SPRING 2020 | 21