Many people have an opinion about what one should and should not do when photographing birds.
I will not judge or set strict rules for others. Instead, I will simply share the ethics and behaviour that I personally follow when photographing birds:
Keep Your Distance
Use a telephoto lens of at least 500mm (full-frame equivalent) — preferably more when photographing smaller birds.
Only approach slowly if you can clearly see that:
- The bird and its behavior are not affected by your presence.
- Your presence does not prevent the bird from foraging or engaging in other natural behavior.
- Ideally, the bird should not see or hear you at all.
- If you notice that a bird regularly returns to a specific spot (for example a small opening in the ice in winter), avoid positioning yourself directly at that location. Keep your distance and follow the other guidelines. In some situations it is best to leave and allow the bird to remain undisturbed.
Getting Closer
If you want to photograph a bird up close, use a bird hide or camouflage yourself properly and wait for the bird to appear on its own.
You can also sometimes use a large tree or another structure (for example a wall) as cover if you encounter something interesting during a birding trip. Again, patience is essential — remain hidden for as long as necessary.
One should, as a general rule, be very cautious when approaching nests and birds that are breeding. Plan your approach in advance and carefully consider your entry, positioning, and exit before entering the area. The breeding season is the most sensitive phase in a bird’s life cycle, and even small disturbances can have consequences that are not immediately visible.
The most important principle is that the bird’s behaviour must not change as a result of your presence. If a bird hesitates near the nest, alters its approach, calls repeatedly, or delays exchanges between adults, these are clear signs of disturbance — and you should withdraw immediately. The absence of flight does not necessarily mean the bird is unaffected.
Always use natural cover or appropriate camouflage, and make sure you are in position well before the birds return. Avoid movement when birds are near the nest, and maintain a stable position throughout the session. Frequent adjustments or repeated visits can increase stress levels and should be minimized.
It is important to accept that not all situations are suitable for photography. If conditions require you to get too close in order to capture the image, it is better to refrain.
Plan your visits thoughtfully, minimize your impact, and always prioritize the well-being of the bird over the photograph.
General Principles
- Always respect the birds and their environment. Do not treat birds simply as “photo models.”
- Ethical bird photography is not only about the images you obtain, but also about the situations you choose to walk away from.
- Learn about the species’ habitat and often fascinating behavior — there is much to learn from it.
- Remember to give more than you take from nature. This mindset will lead to the most meaningful experiences.
- The best bird photographs usually come from preparation, patience, and dedication. If your bird photography suddenly feels too easy, it may be a sign that something is not right – and the above mentioned ethical principles may have been compromised.