An eye for the birds

When you see a bird, do you really see it? I ask because it’s perfectly possible to go through life with an almost total disregard for birds. Some people positively dislike them – something about their beaks perhaps, or their feathers? Most are just indifferent. But many of us do show at least some interest in the avian world and – thanks to social media – there seems to be a growing number of bird photographers opening our eyes to these treasures. In fact, the chance to share my images easily and to learn from others on Instagram and elsewhere has rekindled in me an interest in birds that waned during my 20s and early 30s. Without the buzz of uploading the results I would probably not have made the effort and, as a result, not have rediscovered the joy of birdwatching.

I’m not an expert – either in birds (although I’m beginning to hold my own with those who are) or photography. I’ve only recently worked out how to use the manual focus on my Nikon camera, but I do have a strong sense of what I think is beautiful and a passion for birds that has its roots in childhood. What I lack in expertise, I make up for in enthusiasm, and here I hope to explain and illustrate how to become a chronicler of the breathtaking beauty on our doorstep and beyond. If I can do it, so perhaps can you. At a time of ecological crisis it is essential to remind each other of the preciousness of the natural world, and photography can offer us the key.

Trial and error

Becoming a better photographer is as much about being disappointed in what hasn’t worked, as it is about celebrating what has. I’ve never been on a camera course in my life so, for me at least, it really is just a case of trial and error. You learn just as much from that almost-amazing shot as you do from the rare occasions when you produce an image that you are actually proud of. The critical thing is to take an interest in the bird.

The more you understand about your subject, the better