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In this episode, host Court Whelan sits down with professional photo guide and Director of Photo Expeditions at Natural Habitat Adventures, Mike Hillman. Mike shares invaluable insights on wildlife photography, from mastering perfect pawsture in bear photography to the art of bird photography and finding your personal photographic style. We also dive into intentional camera movement (ICM), editing techniques that harness the psychology of the eye, and the logistics behind planning the perfect photo expedition. Plus, Mike gives us expert advice on photographing in the dramatic landscapes of Canyon Country. Whether you're a budding wildlife photographer or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with tips to elevate your craft!

Show Notes:

Episode Highlights:

• (02:26) Mike Hillman’s journey into wildlife photography and guiding
• (06:49) How zoo photography helps develop wildlife photography skills
• (12:06) Bear photography tips, including the concept of perfect pawsture
• (15:56) Bird photography techniques—capturing behavior, using depth of field, and composition
• (26:49) Defining personal photography style and the creative potential of intentional camera movement (ICM)
• (31:37) Editing workflows—masking, vignetting, and the psychology of the eye
• (38:13) What makes a great photo expedition? Planning, subject selection, and guiding philosophy
• (41:07) Photographing in Canyon Country—handling contrast, night photography, and essential gear
• (46:17) Mike’s favorite lenses for wildlife and landscape photography
• (50:40) Must-have photography tools—including an unexpected use for a toothbrush!

Resources & Links:

• Connect with Mike: MikeHillmanMedia.com | Instagram: @WildVenturer
• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow The Wild Photographer on YouTube for more photography tips

Sponsors:

• Art Helper AI – A game-changing tool for photographers to market their work. Use code WILD for a free 30-day pro trial at ArtHelper.AI
• LensRentals.com – Rent specialty camera gear with 15% off using promo code wildphotographer15 at LensRentals.com
• Shimoda Designs camera backpacks. Perhaps the best camera bag designed to-date.  My new go-to!

Thanks for Listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share it with fellow photographers. Stay inspired and keep capturing the wild world around you!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Wildlife Adventures
05:03 The Journey into Wildlife Photography
07:53 The Role of Zoo Photography
10:42 Mastering Bear Photography
15:37 Bird Photography Techniques
18:50 Talking about Gear
25:43 Embracing the Moment in Wildlife Photography
26:37 Defining Personal Photographic Style
30:21 The Art of Editing: Techniques and Tools
37:16 Directing Photo Expeditions
37:33 New Chapter
37:45 Planning the Perfect Pho

• Check out Court’s photography and conservation work: CourtWhelan.com
• Follow Court Whelan (@courtwhelan) on YouTube for more photography tips
• Sign up for Court's conservation, travel and photography blog at www.courtwhelan.com