How Bird Photography Stretched Me in Unexpected Ways
If you follow me on social media, you might have seen that I recently picked up a 100-300mm lens for my Lumix G9. In past winters, I’ve focused on shooting frozen bubbles and snowflakes, but this year, I wanted to try something different with my telephoto lens—I started photographing birds.
I’m by no means a pro, but the experience has been a learning curve. Here are three ways bird photography has stretched me this winter:
1. It’s Taught Me Patience
I’ve done nature photography for a while, but flowers and insects don’t demand much patience—except maybe butterflies. Most of the time, I can take hundreds of images in just a few hours. Birds, however, are a different story.
Finding them is one challenge. Getting close enough for a good shot? Even harder. Birds are fidgety. They move fast, and sometimes, it feels like the only way to capture them is to blend into the environment until they forget you’re there.
But in that waiting, I’ve learned to enjoy the quiet. It’s refreshing to just sit, watch, and be still. Patience truly is a virtue—and one that I’m learning to embrace.
2. I’ve Learned to Enjoy the Moment
Since I’ve started this habit of sitting and observing, I’ve become more aware of the sights and sounds around me. Some days, I’m close enough to get the shot. Other days, my lens isn’t long enough, and all I can do is watch.
I’ve seen eagles snatch fish from perfectly clear water. I’ve watched great blue herons play tag in the sky, flying like those speeder bikes from Star Wars. And then there’s the kingfisher—I see it almost every time I’m out, but I still haven’t been able to capture a photo clear enough for my app to identify it.
Since I’m still learning, I don’t always get the shot. But sometimes, I can just sit, smile, and praise the Lord that I got to witness the moment.
3. It Reminded Me to Learn From Others
Another thing I’ve had to develop is asking for help.
It’s weird being a beginner again. I’ve joined local Facebook groups to learn where the birds are, followed wildlife photographers for inspiration, and even—this is big for me—talked to other photographers in real life.
I know that’s not a big deal for most people, but as an introvert, I can sometimes be the Lone Ranger of photography. I like doing things on my own. But stepping outside my comfort zone has been rewarding.
When I picked up this lens in mid-December, I had no idea how much it would stretch me. But this journey has been fun.