Top 10 tips to 'shoot' wild birds

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South China's Guangdong Province is a bird paradise thanks to its abundant natural resources and suitable weather. Every year birds fly in masses into the region to spend their winter.

The provincial forestry bureau has released the top 10 bird-watching spots in Guangdong, following an extensive selection process and reviews by experts.

Bird-watching is not a hobby to be taken lightly, because nothing is left to fate. The activity requires knowledge, planning and hours of sitting still – so patience is a virtue here.

We've compiled a few essential tips for novice bird watchers to click that perfect shot! Fetch your binoculars and wear a pair of comfy shoes because your journey to chase birds starts now.

The top 10 bird-watching spots in Guangdong Province. /Designed by Li Xiaojie

Tip 1: Find a place and do your homework

Different bird-watching places have different landscapes and bird species. Gathering information about your destination helps you plan your journey better. If you intend on going to a hiking area such as the Nanling National Nature Reserve, you might want to bring hiking equipment with you and clothes that make your movement flexible and convenient.

Hikers slowly scale a hill. /VCG Photo

Tip 2: Choose your lens

The long-focus lens is the most common lens in photographing wild animals. It allows photographers to stay at a relatively far distance from the birds, hiding behind bushes or trees to take pictures without disrupting the birds' habitat.

Birds are not that hard to spot. /VCG Photo

Tip 3: Know your birds

You don't have to be an ornithologist, or bird expert, to appreciate the beauty of birds. Reading about your birds of interest, what they like to eat and where they like to stay, can be very helpful for you to track them and enjoy them in their natural habitat.

A European goldfinch flies among tree branches. /VCG Photo

Tip 4: Know your camera

The three basic camera skills you need to grasp are how to adjust the light if you find out the background is too bright; how to switch to high-speed shooting mode if the birds are flying; and how to focus on the birds instead of the trees around them.

A slow-motion photo of a hummingbird. /VCG Photo

Tip 5: Use a steady tripod

The advice to "always bring a tripod" has become a cliché but we cannot stress enough how important this is for professional photographers, especially those interested in wildlife. A tripod not only gives you a sharper shot but also saves you the trouble of holding the heavy camera.

Shooting a sunset with a dramatic sky is made easier with a tripod. /VCG Photo

Tip 6: Focus on the eyes

The eyes are the windows to the soul, so make sure you get the birds' eyes clear and sharp. Beginners might want to have the auto-focus function enabled for an easier shot.

Up close and personal with a blue-winged Pitta. /VCG Photo

Tip 7: Keep an eye on wind direction

Knowing where the wind is blowing helps you find your footing to avoid birds catching your scent, and makes a world of difference for flight photography. Birds use wind to take off and land. Put yourself in the right position so that you can capture those amazing moments.

A great egret hovers above the water. /VCG Photo

Tip 8: Don't forget about the background

Backgrounds are also an important component of a picture. Even though your main subject is the bird, but a good photo composition separates amateurs from pros.

Birds flying away. /VCG Photo

Tip 9: Be patience and on standby

The fascinating thing about photographing birds is that any moment can be a Kodak moment. The birds won't pose for you. So be patient for that moment and get ready to press your shutter.

A wildlife photographer waits in the bushes. /VCG Photo

Tip 10: Be an ethical wildlife photographer

The Guangdong provincial government has banned catching and hunting wild birds over the next five years to crack down on illegal bird trade. From January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2023, bird-catching and trading are prohibited within Guangdong Province. Respect animals as well as nature so that we can all enjoy more great moments.