Bird Photography Tips. Everything you need to know in one video. (sort of) 

What I've taken from this video is that given all the seemingly overlapping and conflicting advice from a plethora of "experts" online, one can get lost and forget the primary point of photography, which to me is to enjoy yourself and be creative. Please yourself first in what you've accomplished, been able to capture, learned, experienced. Chasing after strangers approval is a never ending quest. It's your hobby, whoever you are... Your experience enjoying photography is yours alone. Get what you can afford, enjoy it, push that gear to its limits, if and when you can afford new gear, learn its intricacies and hopefully your photography will get better because of all the time you've put in learning and honing your skills not just because of the gear. The camera gear is just a collection of tools, the person uses tools to build / create. Don't forget that photography is supposed to be about enjoying you personal creative process and journey capturing moments of reality and making something out of those moments, whether its just for yourself or for others to enjoy.

Every other RU-vid video on bird and wildlife photography is about the technique, the gear, the lighting. Then there is Mr. Josh's videos. They are the inner monologue I have every weekend when I go to the regular place for my photography. Sense of calm and focus and just improvement. It is like golf. You are competing with yourself in getting the best photo. Till today. Tomorrow I will get an even better photo. And..... when I get THAT photo... that effect... anyways I am meandering now. See you all 45 million people out there.

"Nature rewards Diligence". Great advice, Josh.

Yes. Was great to see it again. Fazit: if it doesn’t work out today, try again tomorrow. And don’t let yourself be fooled by all the „ experts“.

Maybe your best video EVER... I can relate to everything you said, thought, and showed! You have a gift in communicating, Josh. Your honesty, humility, and soothing voice really connects with us viewers, and it makes us feel like we're all together in this pursuit and passion. I also like that you never talk down to us like you're the expert and we really need to see how it all should be done. Keep it up. You're making a difference. God bless.

You know what makes Josh’s videos great?? What he shows in his videos is raw and something most of us photographers can very closely relate to, you know the usual things. His videos are not just ornamented ones to grab everyone’s attention but to make the viewer immerse in it. Great job Josh! Hope you keep making these videos and happy new year 2022 to you and every one of your subscribers.

its simple, go out, learn from your mistakes, repeat and enjoy the outdoor experience.

Your video made me feel the same way. Throughout 2021, I carried tripods and bulky cameras and lenses for countless mornings. For this love in my heart, I will keep shooting until I can't move.I live in a beach city in Southern California, I hope you can come and take pictures together!

I watch a lot of videos. Mostly to improve mine and also to see/learn new. Yours are an above all. I consider them real. Thank you,

Your videos always resonate with me, because they're so much more philosophical than worrying about the technical aspects of photography. You're like a wildlife photography version of Sean Tucker. Anyway, I'm primarily a landscape photographer, but I do enjoy shooting wildlife. Lately instead of chasing the birds and just coming away frustrated and not enjoying it, I gave myself permission to be OK with that low-hanging fruit and put my feeders out and, yeah, I'm spending a ton on seed every month, but man, I feel so much more stress-free and it's a lot more relaxing and enjoyable for me. Besides, I don't see it as any more reaching for low-hanging fruit than the couple hundred photographers a day who line the parking lot at Conowingo dam not far from me to shoot the eagles. I mean, it's pretty much fish in a barrel either way, so I don't feel bad about shooting the birds from my front porch in a lawn chair with a glass of ice tea haha.

So right. I went out only last week saying I would limit myself to 100 shots, ye right!!! I just can't help myself. For years now I have taken tens of thousands of wildlife and bird images and when I get home my wife say "well" did you get some nice shots? Every time I say "yes but not the one" and my daughter just laughs and says. "Why don't you just google the shot your looking for, its easy! Sometimes I even think I will just jack it in, but theres still that desire to keep going. Kingfisher coming out of the water with wings open and a fish in its mouth is my target for 2022, ye its a common shot, but I want to challenge myself to get better and at maybe 600mm I would need at least 1/4000 or even higher to freeze that movement and lots of "good" light not managed it so far. Stay safe and keep these videos coming, your approach is unique and refreshing and you deserve 5 times the subs. Ian (UK)

On point, Josh. I like the distinction too between diligence and patience. It strikes me also that unless you’re a paid professional in this endeavour (therefore, not most photographers), one had better derive a lot of intrinsic pleasure from constantly going out, shooting, trying to get better, editing, figuring out your gear and, yes, looking at your own pictures. Failing that, your interest will wane. Balancing all the other criteria is part of the process, as it is with so many pursuits in this life. Nicely done, as usual.

My grandfather loved driving up to Bass Lake to get his hair cut. From Fresno, it was just over an hour drive. He'd visit my uncle Bob, his brother, on the way up or back. Loved the drive. Did it many times. Each time was the best. Cheers, Josh!

I started my wildlife journey five years ago with a canon rebel and an EFs lens. I've been a part time resident of Jackson, WY for twenty years so when I wanted photography advice, I gravitated toward photogs from that area. I found your channel through Steve Mathias. I live most of the time near the CA delta in the bay area and the majority of my photography experience has been in the wetlands. In five years, I've been through five bodies and now shoot an R5 w/ 100-500L glass and it does make a difference. Also have the 800mm F11. I think birds can be so incredibly challenging in comparison to large game and landscape of the Tetons bc all the same rules apply but you have to be faster. I tend to only shoot hand held in the delta and the skills I learn and practice here, carry over and help me take better photos everywhere. Good images are a culmination of so many factors but the main ingredient is love for the animals and wanting to honor them in the best possible way through our craft. Thanks for another thoughtful video.

Its a passion....nature drives you to come back every day to enjoy " the moment "...I live in Barbados , not many birds but i watch your videos and i try to search and shoot hummingbirds...thanks!

Nothing beats being out in the wild with the birds

A quote from Art Wolfe helped streamline my editing of sixty images with a bad background. "The difference between a pro and amateur photographer is that a pro knows when not to shoot." Coming from the film days I've never been a fat shooter, but that helped me.

I think your expressing something we all feel. It's nice to not be alone.

A summary of what we bird watchers think and do . Thank you

" why are there so many articles and videos on how to make your photography better?" Because society says YOUR and MY work is not good enough. My new philosophy is try to care less what others think about my images, and what society thinks. To go back to the basics with a child like passion we all can lose so easily. You are absolutely right about going back to your old content for reminders. Gear takes us down a road of comparison. It matters....but not as much as we think. It's a tough road we all go down at some point. Myself included. Honestly if people wouldn't tell me what gear they use, I wouldn't be able to tell the difference between an image taken on an r5 or a rebel t7i, on social media anyways. Print is different. The lens matters most. The rest is really lighting, angle, and patience. I honestly just want to encourage and inspire people in nature photography at this point. I'm a horrible teacher and it seems there's a never ending sea of people on youtube telling me and others how we are all doing it all wrong. For the algorithm sake, its what's trending and everyone wants to jump on the trend. Going forward im doing it all wrong on purpose..well, most..lol.. Its about the experience. The photography is just a treat. Take care josh. Great reminder. Hope you had a wonderful Christmas and here's to a great 2022 out taking photos.

Absolute truth. Brilliant, honest and poetic.

Loved this , there are times when I feel like all the pictures are just a waste , then there is that one picture that gets me all excited again and that’s why I do it , I’m always looking for that one picture that gets me excited , plus just the enjoyment of being out in nature …. Great video 👍

This video actually made me emotional. I am wanting to get back into photography and this reminded me of why I love it so much. Thank you!

I listened to this on audio in my car and I could not stop laughing. You worked yourself into my head EXACTLY!! It’s so TRUE! Thank you for posting. Probably the best bird photographer to bird photographer post ever! ❤❤

Yep - you pretty much nailed the photographer's dilemma !

Yup, you nailed it! My motivational challenge is a little different, throughout my career I loved exploring new photography genres; photojournalism, editorial, light painting, star trails, product photography, portraiture, sports, architecture, travel, macro, jewelry, museum artifacts, insects, etc. I've enjoyed it all except for wedding photography, one wedding was one too many for me. Once I feel like I've gotten pretty good in any photography genre I get bored and look for a new challenge. My most recent pursuit is birds, over the past year I've made a few photos I'm pleased (nothing at your level to be sure) with and I've sold a few prints, but already I can feel my enthusiasm for bird photography dwindling. Thanks for posting this video, it had motivated me to stick with bird photography a bit longer.

LOL great take on the state of all the advice we receive as budding bird photographers and the satisfaction of creating a good shot.

The only channel I Thumb Up before watching, just so I don't forget. It'll be good enough anyway!

i stared watching your videos about 4 month ago ,and enjoy the way you see thinks in life went it come to bird photography and camera gear . continue your great job . thank you for sharing your videos and your photos

Amazing how we can take the fun out of something that is so enjoyable, how we can turn a hobby, an enthusiasm, a joy into something critical, imperfect and dissatisfaction. I think this video highlights the struggle all creatives feel when they loose sight of the goal of being creative and try to make it into a goal, to try to achieve something rather than enjoying the process and the experience that drew them into the field in the first place. I really enjoyed watching this video, like fine art or the internal struggle of those who seek to balance the enjoyment the receive from their work and the strive for greater fulfilment.

I always say a bad day of photography is better than a good day at work. I just love being outdoors, the fresh air , being focused on what's all around me and taking it all in. Whether I hit hit the jackpot and get a handful of images I like or just one, the process is enjoyable and relaxing to me and is therapeutic. Like you I frequent many of the same areas over and over again, my wife says well don't you always see the same thing and get bored.....never, even if the subjects can be repeatable at times you always get a unique background, special look or action from the subject and of course lighting that at times just blows you away. Luv your video's, hope you had a Merry Xmas and wishing you Happy Birding and great videos for the upcoming year.

Excellent video. Captures some of my thoughts. Always comparing my images to others. Mine are never as good as those I’ve seen. So why bother. Time to get out and shoot just for the enjoyment of it all. Thanks my brother for posting this video.

A great quality video, right from the start of your channel and with great humour. I think the last tip is the best… show your wife the best photo to justify the photography gear!

Listen, this video is exactly how I feel every time I come back from a photoshoot.. the amount of times I said those exact sentences is just uncountable... Great video!

Great video to cap off the year. I’ve followed you on this RU-vid journey and gotta say the videos, the pictures have been amazing. Cannot wait to see what you do next year.

Like other commenters, I can relate to everything in this video. In particular the: "Delete, delete, delete... Did I have to take 80 shots of the same bird?" I got my first slr when I was 14 years old in 1974. Every shot cost money. I got to where I was very choosey about when I squeezed the shutter button. I learned to wait for just the right moment. Then came digital. I could shoot hundreds of images and it didn't cost me a dime. I would also have to annoy my wife by asking her to help me choose which ones to keep. There would be so many I couldn't decide. Digital does allow me to be creative for free, and attempt shots I might not have tried in my film days, but I try not to go too crazy to the point of dreading the culling and editing process.

This deserved an instant like and a sub. Hands down the most relatable video I've seen in a long time.

While watching this video something happened that never have happened before at least not to me, I acctually started to cry a bit because I realised that I was stuck in that wheel of pleasing others and had lost track on why I acctually started out with photography in the first place. After this video I really felt like snap out of it dude get back to that magical feeling of enjoying your photography for you and yourself first, thank you so much for making me realise that I need to start photograph again for me myself and I... THANKS! (Sorry for my bad English, I'm from Sweden)

Thank you for this Josh. I have been photographing birds on the Nikon P900 and as much as I complain that I have found the limitations of the camera. In reality, I was only limited in thought because I would watch thousands of videos of professionals capturing excellent images of birds and have tried everything from Manual to auto to shutter priority to aperture priority to composition and following the rules of light and its limitations. In the end, All I will be taking away with me into ripe old age and beyond are only the memories, experience, and the eternal gratefulness to nature for having shown me such a wonderful, colorful side of Life

An honest and very reflective experience, most relaxing and self aware, I now know that I'm not alone 👍

Bird photography, like most things in life, requires, you to show up everyday (or every chance) with the right tools, a relentless attitude, and passion for the work. Thanks Josh, happy holidays.

One of the best videos I have ever seen relating to bird photography. "Delete, delete, delete... why do I need 60 shots of this single bird?" = Truth!

I just appreciate your measured and insightful approach to these videos!

OMG Josh... haven't we all felt this way? So much info... so much this... so much that... do this... no do that... buy this... no don't buy gear... I don't generally comment on anyone's videos but I just have to let you know how awesome your content is! As we approach 2022 I look forward to a great year of content from my favorite photographer and awesome RU-vid content creator. and yes Josh that's you! So what are we going to do tomorrow Josh? Happy New Year!

The reason why I watch your channel is that you take great pictures and make decent videos. You do less "influencing" and more a discussion in the journey of doing a thing which happens to be photography.

Great video Josh ! I've really been struggling as of late, I feel my images are never as good as I feel they could be, I'm glad I'm not the only one that feels that way! Some of my best photos happened when I first started out, and finally realized was because I went out wherever I could, 4-5 days a week, and now I find myself going out once a week and expect portfolio shots! We really need to put in the time and enjoy our surroundings, the opportunities will come. Thanks again !

I'm not interested in bird photography, but your voice is soothing and your storytelling is great. Thanks for all the great work and photos

Came to youtube to recommend a tutorial for a beginner, but stumbled on this video. And I can't believe I was hooked enough to watch till the end. Great audio and message. Thanks for the TedTalk ❤️

Love it,what to do tomorrow,look for a better image than today. Better never stops

What a refreshing video. Really loved this. "Did you really need 60 photos of a bird on a stick?" 🙂. And yes, I found this video at the perfect time, it really helped me re-frame and inspire this aspiring bird photographer. Thank you, Josh.

Been there and thought those things. But I love getting to see details that I wouldn't otherwise. And learning about the behaviour. And catching those special moments that are so satisfying. And looking back at old photos and seeing how far I've come.

It’s definitely a never ending battle of conscience and doubt…. Happy New Year 🥳

Boy, this is a great video, better than most will understand. Applies to so much more in life than just photography. Thanks for sharing!

‘ none of that matters if you can’t find the birds ‘ . Couldn’t have said that better !

Nice Josh,, To answer your question about tommorow??? Do it all over again!!! Because that’s what we do as nature/ wildlife photographers.. Hope you had a wonderful holidays and look forward to seeing more of your art in the upcoming year.

In my yard, I have a water garden, three feeders as sunflower seed, millet and corn mixed with peanuts and one for meal worms. Then I set up my dorama where the birds will land. I have blinds set with the sun at its back. Sometimes it works and sometimes it does not but I enjoy it and it brings in wildlife. On week ends I venture out for overnight trips etc. life is good and I am older than most of you!

As we are nearing end of 23 and i am chasing gear that i need to get. This advice grounded me and set my brain to rest. Thank you

"None of that matters anyway if you can't find the birds." Great line!

I have only just come across this video although I see it is two years old now, but it really hit home with me, its so honest and so relatable. I got to say it Josh, you have really made me think again about why photography is my passion and I'm very grateful for that... I'm going to watch all your videos now, keep up the great work and I will be recommending your videos to all my like minded friends.

Love this one, you hit the nail on the head. You go out take hundreds of shots delete most of them find a few that are ok for Facebook or Instagram then... hey presto it's the one the shot that makes the whole trip worthwhile with a little bit of tweeking in post you call out to your beloved and say what do think sweetheart, "mmm she says how about a cup of tea." Bugger. LOL. 🤪

Thanks Josh. You say it exactly as it is, “Nature rewards diligence” and for me it’s more about personal reward & satisfaction. Common Kingfishers and Eurasian Otters are my nature’s reward for diligence. Keep up the good work!

I think I remember that video from back then and the feelings still ring so true. It's been awesome to watch you grow as a RU-vidr!

Love you’re perspective on all of this. Well said my friend.

Wow….that’s deep. I can relate to this, totally! Maybe I’m too worried about what to post on Instagram and forgot about the joy of photography. Maybe the best tip ever!

Best video about bird photography ever

Absolutely brilliant!

I just accidentally stumbled upon this looking for bird photography tips. This video immediately sucked me in and through the whole thing, I was laughing and by the end I was crying haha! I have NEVER felt more understood, it was like I was watching myself but in a different form. Down to you showing your wife and her saying “wow, this is probably the best picture you’ve ever taken” haha! I seriously just ended up watching this three times back to back and laughing and crying the whole time. This is seriously the BEST video on the internet. It is genuine art work, and I am a new huge fan! Thank you, Josh❤️

Excellent video Josh, You are so right, who needs 100 photos of the same bird, It is all about being outside and becoming part of their world and environment, then get a shot of them doing something you don't normally see, something with some character that shows who they are!! Awesome stuff!

I remember seeing that video when you made it. it made me laugh so hard hearing your thoughts about the myriad of variables, I'm sure we all do exactly the same but you know what none of that matters when your buzzing behind the camera because something magic is happening. now I just need a formula for disstiling the magic. I always enjoy your thoughts just as much as your visuals. happy holidays Josh and all who watch

Was going to contribute but after reading " spiders 12" earlier comment I think it's all been said brilliantly. 👍

What an absolutely amazing video - not just a technically great execution, but a cinematic pleasure too! I love the honest narration and the happy ending,. It's reassuring to know that you can't always expect to get some great shots every time you go out. But, then when you do it just pays off! Very inspirational, I will be watching this some more!

Brilliant! After doing just what you're doing for years. I finally realized that it isn't just the images I'm after, but also the experience of getting them.

Wow, one of the greatest videos I´ve seen this year. Thank you

Another poetic video Josh. With some wonderful footage and photography. It's ISO in one go as it comes from ISOS (Greek for 'equals to' in this case ASA). It's NOT an acronym for International Standardisation Organisation, as reported on their website where it's even specified. So, in one go and the super accurate pronunciation should actually be eeso with an E sound and not an I sound.

Spot on. Excellent. No need to say more.

Ive watched that one several times and it always makes me laugh because I’ve had that conversation with myself many times! The best shots I’ve ever taken was when I wasn’t looking or even thinking about what I was going to do next. Sometimes you just have to let the moment come to you. Case in point, I spent 3hrs one morning in a bird blind and didn’t photograph a single thing worth keeping so I headed home. On my way out of the park I passed this large dried up bush. As I went through the gate to the parking lot I heard a lot of chirping coming from that bush. I turned around and went back to investigate and to my surprise there were scores of beautiful birds in and around that bush. I spent the next hour taking some of the best bird shots I’ve ever taken! Go figure.

As I watch this Video again, my main takeaway is I Miss You. You are the everyday Joe who loves what he is doing, and makes us feel that we can do it also, AND HAVE FUN! And with you, I have a friend in this hobby.

Sure we all want to take that special, ultimate photo, but let's not lose sight of just being outside or wherever you favourite subjects are. Smell the roses. Thanks for posting.

Really like how you got to the essence of bird photography. We've all felt exactly what you described. Thanks, and cheers!

Hey Josh, Great video. I love how do you make a narration, is organic and true, an I can Identify with you the 99% of the time.

Everything you said is VERY true. Love it you put is so humorously. Partner is often the 1st viewer and best critic. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

I rely heavily on the rule of thirds and the law of averages...but I liked the way you said it better. I'm looking forward to tagging along on all your 2022 outings.

Brilliant !!

Honestly you have a great grasp on life and it’s perspective for mostly all the people around you 👏

just love this video

Thanks Josh, I love this video. Get out there shoot. My new motto

Thanks for sharing another wonderful video like always

I really admire your diligence in going back to the same place to photograph, I have been photographing Birds and other Nature for longer than I care to say, and lately I just don’t have “The fire in the Belly” to go out and shoot the same old things. I,m retired now so I can go anytime I want, I just need the motivation. Anyway thanks for sharing your experiences on your videos. And I wish you a very Happy New year!

Excellent video. A whole course in a few minutes, with humour too!

I love this video 😊

A very good photo journey you are telling us, exposing the various points and considerations while we are finding the perfect picture. Thanks Bayou.

This video definitely stands out

huge thanks, spot on video! God bless

Thanks Josh, your video arrived at the right time.

Great video and great reminders!

Love your videos, so relatable to me. Thank you

Loved this video, very nice reminder.

AWESOME...

What an absolutely special video, 😊

Well I've been a "Photographer" for 5 months now, spent a fortune etc, better gear, better gear, all the gear.... This video you have made is f*****g class, it had me glued but also laughing out loud, Very very good... well done Josh