Slow Down to See More: The Secret to Better Bird Photography

In our busy, always-on world, many of us carry a sense of urgency into everything we do -even our hobbies. But when it comes to bird photography, rushing is the fastest way to miss out on what really matters. One of the most powerful, yet overlooked, tools in your bird photography kit is slowing down.

Slowing down in nature allows you to truly connect with your surroundings. It helps you notice the details — the gentle flutter of feathers, the change in bird calls, or the shift in light through the trees. When you’re constantly on the move, it’s easy to overlook these subtle cues.

But when you take your time, you begin to see and feel more. This connection with nature not only enhances your experience but also leads to more compelling, intimate wildlife images.

Better bird photography is not just about capturing beautiful birds; it’s about telling a story, about patience, and about presence. Many bird species are wary of fast movements or loud noises, so slowing your pace and being still can help you blend into the environment. Birds are more likely to approach or act naturally around you, giving you the chance to photograph unique behaviour and candid moments.

Watch my video below for some tips I use in the field to approach birds

Slowing down also sharpens your technical skills. It gives you time to observe the light, adjust your camera settings, and carefully compose your shots. Rather than firing off hundreds of rushed photos, you can focus on creating fewer, but higher quality, images.

The goal is to become more intentional with your photography, which, more often than not, leads to more powerful results.

Taking a mindful approach to bird photography also improves your own well-being. Being still in nature, listening to birdsong, and breathing in fresh air is grounding and calming. Photography becomes not just a creative outlet but a way to de-stress and reconnect — both with nature and yourself.

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Whether you're in the forest photographing lyrebirds, at the beach watching shorebirds, or in wetlands capturing waders and ducks, slowing down helps you see more. It’s in those quiet, unhurried moments that the magic often happens.

If you’re feeling stuck or frustrated with your bird photography, try slowing down and simply observing for a while - maybe even leave the camera at home 😧 Shock horror! BUT WHY?

Because FOMO (fear of missing out) is not your friend.

I reluctantly admit I used to get a bit anxious and annoyed when I went somewhere that turned out to be bird-filled and I didn't have my camera. I was always fearing I was going to miss some amazing shot. It was stopping me from observing and enjoying the moment. Now I take deliberate walks minus the lens, to remind me to stay in the moment, relax and just enjoy - which is only going to lead to a stronger creative vision.

Want to learn more about slowing down and improving your bird photography skills? I offer bird photography workshops and private coaching sessions that focus not just on the technical side, but also on developing patience, awareness, and creativity in the field.