sabbath999
No longer a newbie, moving up!
- Joined
- Apr 11, 2007
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- 2,701
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- Location
- Missouri
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Just out of interest, i was wondering what you need to take photos at the zoo, and if anyone has any tips. I've heard that a rubber lens hood is good as you can put it right up against the glass, but are there any other tips, like what speed film you'll need, and what focal length lens is needed?
Well, here's a shot list from somebody who has shot pictures in a zoo or two.
1) Do not go on a weekend.
2) Do not take your children if you have them... unless you just want pictures of your kids.
3) Wear a red jacket that you can take off for behind glass pictures (reducing glare). Animals track red.
4) If you want a critter's attention, try rattling your keys. This sometimes reminds them of a keeper bringing dinner.
5) If you have to shoot through a silver fence with the sun on it, don't waste your time. If you can find a dark spot on it though (a friend holding a cap to make one dark spot) you will be able to shoot through it OK with a 300mm or longer lens, as long as the critter isn't close to the fence.
6) If you shoot through a fence, shoot wide open.
7) Focus on the eyes. They MUST be crisp or the shot won't work.
8) Use a fill flash for catch lights in the critters eyes... even if you are a long way away and have a puny flash it will still work.
9) Watch for wear spots in the grass. Critters follow the same path time and again, so plan for it.
10) Wear a black hat, you can use it to shield fence and glass glare.
11) Go early, critters are more active then.
12) If the critter is doing something, take lots of shots and throw the bad ones away later.
13) Don't let the goat lick your lens.
14) Black swans are mean.
15) Some of the best shots are people looking at the animals. If you plan to publish, don't shoot people's faces.
16) Polarizer (obviously)
17) High shutter speeds are a must, animals move quick. Push your ISO up if you have to, better to have a bit more noise than everything blurry.
That's all for now.