Portable one-person hides
Portable hides are in essence miniature tents and are designed for more independently-minded photographers. They come in a range of designs and styles and, in the past, they were box-like in appearance and used rigid poles and guy ropes to keep their shape. Nowadays, the most frequently used hides are domes whose metal poles ensure they remain reasonably rigid. Typically, they have a canvas covering that is patterned with a choice of designs, with woodland/leaf pattern being a popular option. Portable hides offer the photographer the chance to take unique images, with opportunities for manipulation of perches and background at feeding stations, and beside water. If sited appropriately, a well-placed hide will blend in with the landscape, but, from a bird’s point of view, the introduction of a relatively large new structure into their environment will not go unnoticed. Arguably, the most important function a hide performs is to disguise the human form – many species are distinctly wary of people. If the species you want to photograph is wary, consider introducing the hide to the location in stages, moving it closer to your chosen spot over a period of hours or even days, if the hide’s security is not an issue. Sometimes though, it pays just to put it in place in one go and reduce the disturbance caused to a minimum. Bear in mind, though, that it can take a while for birds to accept a hide. So, if you want to use the best morning light for your photography, you might want to put it in place before dawn, when there is just enough light to see what you are doing. Or, as an alternative, get a friend to accompany you to the hide, and leave once you are installed – this deception is reckoned to put some bird species more at ease with a new hide. Remember, too, that a hide is only as good as its occupant, so keep movement within to a minimum, avoid flapping canvas and observe silence – birds have ears after all. With the privilege of using a hide comes responsibility: avoid attracting attention and leave the scene as you found it when you dismantle your hide.