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This episode is dedicated to the fundamentals—the essential building blocks of great wildlife photography. Whether you’re just stepping into the world of nature photography or you’ve spent years in the field, revisiting the core principles can sharpen your eye and elevate your work.

In this episode, we break down what I consider the six cornerstones of wildlife photography: composition, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, focus, and editing. These aren’t just technical settings—they’re the tools that shape your ability to tell compelling stories through your images.

We begin with composition, exploring everything from the classic rule of thirds to more nuanced tools like the phi grid and exaggerated framing. We’ll also touch on strategies for capturing wildlife in its broader landscape, and how to approach moments of behavior with both creativity and technical precision. From there, we move through the vital exposure triangle—understanding how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO work together—and close with a look at editing as the final, intentional step in the process.

This is a practical guide to grounding your photography in strong technique, while allowing space for creative decision-making and artistic growth.

Special thanks to our sponsor, ArtHelper.ai, whose AI-powered platform helps photographers transform finished images into powerful content. Use promo code WILD for six months free.

Let’s get started—this is Wildlife Photography 101.

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)

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Hey friends, welcome back to The Wild Photographer! Today, we’re diving into one of my favorite rabbit holes in photography—macro. And not just any macro… I’m talking about a quick and dirty (but oh-so-aesthetic) technique that lets you capture stunning macro shots without even bringing a macro lens. Yep, you heard that right.

As a biologist and entomologist turned travel photographer, I’ve always had a deep love for the miniature world—those textures, patterns, and critters that usually go unnoticed. But let’s be real: when you're packing for a trip, you can't always justify hauling a full macro setup. That’s why I’ve dialed in a portable, practical method using your everyday lenses—think 24–105mm or a basic kit lens—and I’m breaking it all down for you in this episode.

Whether it’s a dew-drenched wildflower or the intricate veins of a rainforest leaf, I’ll walk you through the physical setup, manual focus tricks, camera settings with and without flash, and the creative flair that turns good shots into great ones. I even cover editing tips to make those textures pop and that drama sing.

So if you’ve ever wanted to make small things look big (and beautiful), grab your gear—or even just your backyard—and let’s explore how to bring the tiny into focus in a bold new way.

Let’s get wild. Let’s get macro.

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)

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In this conversation, Alex Bogaard shares his journey into photography, discussing the balance between commercial work and personal passion. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, building a portfolio, and developing a personal style. Alex also highlights the significance of storytelling in photography and how it can be used for conservation efforts. He provides insights on engaging clients, maximizing digital exposure, and the importance of appropriate gear for travel photography. The discussion concludes with advice for budding photographers and a look at Alex's upcoming projects.

Find more from Alex on Instagram at @alexbogaard and his website at www.alexbogaard.com

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)

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In this episode, the host discusses the technique of 'shooting to crop' in photography, particularly in wildlife photography. The conversation covers the importance of camera settings such as ISO, shutter speed, and aperture to ensure high-quality images that can withstand cropping. The host also emphasizes the significance of editing techniques and the role of camera gear in achieving the best results. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights for photographers looking to enhance their skills in capturing distant subjects.

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)

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Photographing wildlife at night is tough, but there's a formula I've found that works incredibly well. It produces high quality, even low ISO, inspiring images of rarely seen animals we may encounter on wildlife photo adventures.

In this episode I also go over the tools and specific camera settings, along with lessons and techniques from over 20 years on this topic for how to capture stunning nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.

Sponsors & Promo Code:

LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

Takeaways

• Nighttime wildlife photography is challenging due to low light.
• A good flashlight is essential for illuminating subjects. No flash--too harsh!
• Using a headlamp helps in adjusting camera settings in the dark.
• Spotting wildlife at night can be easier with a guide.
• Any camera can work, but DSLRs or mirrorless are preferred.
• Fast lenses are not always necessary for nighttime wildlife photography.
• Manual plus auto ISO is a great setting for low light.
• Underexposing the shot helps capture the essence of night.
• Editing can enhance the darkness around the subject.
• Macro photography can be done without a dedicated macro lens.

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, Marlo Shaw, a talented artist and photographer, shares her insights on the intersection of art and photography, emphasizing the importance of color theory, composition, and the creative process. She discusses her experiences with art shows, the techniques she employs in polar photography, and her strategies for capturing wildlife, particularly polar bears. Marlo also delves into the intricacies of photo processing and editing, highlighting her personal style and the significance of confidence in a photographer's journey.

Mentioned in the Episode

Marlo's Website

Michael Freeman's books on Composition and Color Theory

Poster Jack Photo Printing Website (Marlo uses for her work)

Arthelper.Ai - art promo tool using AI. use code WILD for 30 day free trial

Lensrentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off

Shimoda Designs - Whelan10 for 10% off (I mention the ActionX40 Backpack)

Takeaways

• Photography is a form of visual art that shares principles with painting.
• Color theory plays a crucial role in both photography and painting.
• Rules in art and photography are meant to be broken for creativity.
• Art shows can significantly enhance an artist's visibility and sales.
• Patience is essential when photographing wildlife to capture authentic moments.
• The perspective from which a photo is taken can change its impact.
• Dark and moody images can evoke strong emotions in viewers.
• Efficient photo processing is key for managing large volumes of images.
• Confidence in one's skills is vital for growth as a photographer.
• Sharing work leads to learning and improvement in photography. 

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)

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Summary
In this episode, Court Whelan shares his insights on traveling with camera gear, focusing on the joys and challenges of preparation, lens selection, and the importance of accessories. He discusses strategies for packing, flying with gear, and maintaining equipment while traveling, emphasizing the need for careful planning to ensure a successful photography trip.

All Gear Mentioned in List Format (and easy purchase links)

Promo Codes:

LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off

ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off

Arthelper.Ai - WILD for 30 day free trial of Pro Version

Takeaways

• Traveling with camera gear can be stressful but rewarding.
• Prepping for a trip is part of the photography journey.
• Selecting the right lenses is crucial for different photography styles.
• A second camera body can significantly increase your shooting opportunities.
• Always bring extra batteries and memory cards on trips.
• Packing strategies can help protect your gear during travel.
• Never check sensitive camera equipment in luggage.
• Humidity can cause camera fogging; keep gear cool and dry.
• A lens pen is an effective tool for cleaning your camera.
• Planning ahead for gear needs can enhance your photography experience.

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)

Send us a text

In this episode, Court discusses five techniques to inject creative vision into photography, emphasizing the importance of breaking traditional rules and experimenting with different perspectives and methods. From composition to intentional motion blur, each technique is designed to enhance creativity and encourage photographers to think outside the box.

Takeaways

• Inject creative vision into your photography on any camera.
• Exaggerate composition to break traditional rules.
• Intentional motion blur adds a unique element.
• Top-down perspectives provide a fresh view.
• Black and white photography enhances contrast and mood.
• Change camera angles for creative effects.
• Spot metering can create unique lighting.
• Experiment with different techniques for creativity.
• Photography is an art form that thrives on creativity.
• Always strive to refresh your perspective in photography.

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)

Send us a text

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!

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!

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)

Send us a text

In this episode of The Wild Photographer, host Court Whelan dives deep into the world of tripods and stabilization techniques essential for photographers. He discusses the importance of tripods, the differences between cheap and expensive options, and the various types of tripod heads. The episode also covers travel tripods, monopods, and alternative stabilization methods, along with recommendations for top brands. Finally, Court shares tips for achieving silky water photography, emphasizing the necessity of using a tripod for slow shutter speeds.

Takeaways

• Tripods are essential for slow shutter photography.
• Investing in a quality tripod can enhance your photography.
• The type of tripod head can significantly affect usability.
• Carbon fiber tripods offer a great balance of weight and stability.
• Travel tripods should be sturdy enough for field use.
• Monopods provide a lightweight alternative for stabilization.
• GorillaPods are versatile for travel and quick setups.
• Silky water photography requires careful shutter speed management.
• Understanding tripod leg mechanisms is crucial for ease of use.
• Choosing the right tripod brand can impact your photography experience.

Court's Websites

• Check out Court’s photo portfolio here: shop.courtwhelan.com
• Sign up for Court's photo, conservation and travel blog at www.courtwhelan.com
• Follow Court on YouTube (@courtwhelan) for more photography tips
• View Court's personal and recommended camera gear

Sponsors and Promo Codes:
LensRentals.com - WildPhotographer15 for 15% off
ShimodaDesigns.com - Whelan10 for 10% off
Arthelper.Ai - WILD for a 6 month free trial of Pro Version

AG1 - Daily (and Travel) Nutrition (use link for free travel packs and other goodies)