10 Parks Photography tips from Ralph Lee Hopkins

Parks Photography tips from Ralph Lee Hopkins
Catching photographing wildlife in the Park could represent the most exciting and unforgettable feels you may get in the Park.

The Park offers entire landmarks and ecosytems presenting complete collections of the flora and fauna that really amazing to photograph.In this article Ralph Lee Hopkins from National Geographic share 10 Parks Photography tips that he determined all over years of shooting photos, both indoor and outdoor the park. Some you might have already discovered, and some might not hold to you.

1. Get out before sunrise.

This is when most people are still sleeping, and the animals are up and out. The morning mist still lingers, and, if lucky, some ground fog may add to the atmosphere. In addition, the wind is usually calm at this time, making for easy macro shooting.

2. Stay out late as well

The best light for photography happens when the sun is low along the horizon. We call this the “golden hour,” when the light is like butter, and everything looks great.

3. Stay until dark for low-light scenes

With the new digital cameras, we can just about shoot in the dark. Animals come out as darkness approaches, and we can get these shots of them by turning our ISO up, making the cameras more sensitive to light. (read article abou Photographing Low light portraits)

4. Experiment with wildlife and technique

Try to experiment with panning the animals as they move. They may be walking, running, or flying, but by slowing down the shutter speed and moving the camera, some really nice “action shots” can be achieved. This time, turn your ISO down, making the shutter speed about 1/15th of a second (to start). Experimentation is the name of the game here, and with digital, we can see our results instantly.

5. Don’t forget to enjoy your surroundings

During the middle part of the day, when the light is not so good, leave your camera, and get out and hike. Enjoy the sights, smells, and sounds of the park. Of course, keep in mind what might make a good image with the right light, but mostly enjoy.

6. Find a subject and try something new

When you find an interesting subject, look at it from different angles. This not only will change your perspective, but also allow you to see how the light changes the image. Don’t always shoot with the sun over your shoulder. Move to get the sun at a right angle, or shoot into the sun, a technique called backlighting.
(read article about Backlighting in photography, Simple way for dramatical photo ) .

7. Don’t put your subject in the middle of the frame

OK, shoot it that way if you like, but then try placing the subject in different parts of the frame. Remember, with digital cameras it’s all free—the only thing you’ll spend is your time looking at the images later.

8. Try a polarizing filter

This filter increases contrast, takes haze out of the atmosphere, and takes reflections off water surfaces. The filter needs to be turned while you look through the camera to see the effects, but I use it all the time. Yes, it takes away almost two stops of light, but you can always turn up the ISO to compensate.

9. Respect the wild animals in our parks

Remember that they are wild animals and need their space to stay wild. Maybe more important, your own safety is at stake here. Keep your distance.

10. Hike out on your own

I find that most people in our parks stay near their cars when taking pictures. Find a trail and head out. You may find that you can leave the crowds behind, have a better experience, and make better pictures. Be sure to plan ahead by checking out the park’s safety tips, and always adhere to any rules and guidelines.

Hopefully you'll determine something in this 10 Parks Photography tips that will assist you get the shot you want on your next trip.

Source : http://photography.nationalgeographic.com/

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