GET WINTER-READY
Locate your subjects, and get the right gear without breaking the bank
Winter is a wonderful time to spot wildlife, no matter where you are – close to home or in far-flung corners of the world, in urban areas or even in your back garden. Commonly found species include squirrels, birds, owls, otters and deer. However, before grabbing your camera and heading out, it’s important to do some research. By connecting with a local nature reserve and using helpful resources such as the RSPB website in the UK, forums, and apps, you’ll learn more about rare sightings and be able to identify the species you photograph. To increase you chances of capturing great winter wildlife images, consider starting a photographic diary or journal. By keeping track of sightings and recording all the information in one place, you’ll start to see connections and build your knowledge. Record important details, including the date, time, and weather conditions, to create a valuable resource.
As the winter season varies around the world due to the Earth’s tilted axis, winter wildlife photography can be enjoyed all year round. When the North Pole tilts towards the sun it’s summer in the northern hemisphere, and when the South Pole tilts towards the sun it’s winter in the northern hemisphere. This means that north of the equator, winter runs from December to February, and south of the equator it runs from June to August.
To capture powerful images, travel isn’t always necessary; hidden gems can be found in local forests or nature reserves. However, when travelling overseas, it’s highly recommended to book an experienced guide. A guide will help you stay safe in cold and sometimes treacherous winter landscapes, while also directing you to the best locations. Additionally, they can supply local knowledge that may otherwise take years to build – this is especially important for wildlife that gives birth to their offspring, since some species do so in the winter months and so are particularly sensitive to any disturbances.