Shhhh ... don't tell them it's a birding trip
- Sonia - Chief Parrot
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
The Challenges of Bird Photography and Travel
There’s a particular kind of magic in a true birding trip - the kind where dawn starts feel like a ritual, guides speak in hushed excitement, and every rustle in the canopy could be something extraordinary. But let’s be honest… that’s not always how it goes.
For many of us, “exotic birding” lives in the margins. It sneaks into family holidays, tags along on romantic getaways, and quietly rides shotgun on trips that were, allegedly, about relaxing.
I’ve personally taken very few trips where bird photography was the official agenda. But somehow, between shared meals, sightseeing, and the occasional “wrong turn” down a promising-looking track, I’ve still managed to have some incredible encounters.
Because that’s the real secret: you don’t need a full-blown birding expedition to come home with meaningful experiences (and photos you’re proud of). You just need to be a little strategic… and maybe a tiny bit sneaky.
This really came into focus on my recent trip to Indonesia — which was, without question, our annual holiday. Beaches, culture, downtime.
And… entirely coincidentally… birds.
So if you find yourself trying to balance travel with non-birding companions while still scratching that itch, here are a few lessons that have served me well..
Do your research
A little groundwork goes a long way. Tools like eBird and Merlin are absolute gold - not just for listing species, but for understanding where and when you’re most likely to find them.
Instead of wandering aimlessly (romantic in theory, frustrating in practice), you can quietly steer your itinerary toward locations that just happen to be… excellent for birds.
“Shall we check out this park?”
Translation: There were three lifers reported there yesterday.
Don’t rely on internet coverage
The places where birds thrive are often the same places your signal quietly disappears.
Before you go, download everything you might need - offline maps, your eBird lists, field guides, and especially bird calls in Merlin. When you’re standing in a forest wondering what on earth is making that sound, “buffering…” is not your friend.
Although Merlin's sound ID is sitting at about 34% of bird calls recorded to ID at the time of writing this, it's still massively valuable. I would have had no idea I was so close to some truly amazing birds otherwise - and TBH, many I didn't actually see in the thick jungle of Indonesia, but it was still a delight to hear them and have the excitement of a potential sighting.
Find a local contact
If you can, connect with someone on the ground. A local birder or guide doesn’t just know the birds, they know the rhythms, the shortcuts, the spots that don’t show up on maps.
Even a single morning with the right person can unlock opportunities you’d never stumble across on your own.
Ask around at your accommodation, drivers and other guests, you'd be surprised how many great tip off's you can get, birding is popular and everyone knows someone who's into birds.
Travel light
It’s tempting to pack for every possible scenario… but reality has a way of humbling that instinct.
One or two lenses. That’s it. I carry my birding set-up and use my iPhone for the rest. I've done the 3 lenses plus tripod before, but it's more hassle than it's worth - for me anyway.
Not only does it make you more mobile, it also makes you more present. Less time swapping gear, more time actually seeing what’s in front of you. And when a moment unfolds quickly (which birds are very good at), simplicity wins.
I bought a waterproof and lockable gun case on ebay (I paid $120AU) and cut the foam to custom-fit my camera and lens. I reversed the lens hood to get it into the smallest size possible. It's very sturdy and compact and ideal for carry-on luggage. I do feel a bit 'gangster' toting it through airports 😂
Be ready for anything (especially the weather)
Birds don’t wait for perfect conditions, and neither should you.
Rain, humidity, harsh sun, unexpected chill - it’s all part of the deal. A lightweight rain jacket, some protection for your gear (sometimes a plastic bag will do) and a willingness to embrace slightly uncomfortable conditions can be the difference between “we stayed in” and “that was the best sighting of the trip.”
Nature rarely performs on cue… but it often rewards those who show up anyway.
Get up early (yes, I know)
I realise this may be a sticking point, and partners probably won't appreciate you banging around making coffee before sunrise, but even a handful of sneaky early starts can reap rewards. Keep everyone happy by packing the night before and making a planned exit!
The world feels different at first light. Quieter, softer, more alive. Birds are active, light is gentle, and even busy places haven’t quite woken up yet.
You don’t need to do it every day - this isn’t a boot camp - but choosing a few key mornings to rise early based on favourable weather conditions can completely transform what you come home with.
Be realistic and avoid expectations
Not every outing will deliver. Not every target species will cooperate. Some days you’ll get fleeting glimpses, or nothing at all.
And that’s fine.
When birding is woven into a broader trip, success looks different. It’s less about ticking every box and more about being open to what does appear.
Lower the pressure, and suddenly everything feels like a bonus.
Keep the camera handy
Your significant other may groan ('do you have to bring it to breakfast?') but it's amazing how many great shots I picked up with my camera within arms reach most of the time.
I managed to snap this White-bellied Sea Eagle with a fish while eating my breakfast, much to the amusement of my fellow diners, who were quite excited for me and wanted to see the shots - another bonus. Having the camera opens up conversations that wouldn't otherwise happen, and it's nice to connect with other bird-appreciators.
On another morning, a lovely couple spotted me with the camera at breakfast and invited me to photograph birds in their extensive gardens just a short walk away. You never know where your camera can lead you!
Don’t overlook the “ordinary”
Some of the best moments don’t happen in remote forests or famous hotspots.
They happen in hotel gardens. Quiet streets. Roadside trees. That patch of greenery you almost walked past.
Birds don’t care about your itinerary - they just need habitat. And sometimes, the most accessible places offer the most unexpected rewards.
Blending bird photography with travel isn’t about compromise - it’s about adaptation. It’s about learning to see opportunities where others might not, and quietly shaping your journey to include the things you love.
And if you do it well?
Everyone comes home happy… and no one needs to know just how many “coincidental” birding stops were involved 😉
xx Happy Birding! Sonia
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