SHUTTERBUGS

Tips on using a hide for bird photography
by Dave Bakewell

• Don't use a hide for nest photography, or anywhere else where it may attract unwelcome attention and jeopardize the welfare of the birds (not only from humans — crows are inquisitive creatures, as are dogs).

• Choose a site that you know birds will come back to again and again (e.g. a forest pool, a high tide roost, etc). Doing preparatory fieldwork is essential for successful siting of the hide.

• If the birds come at set times (e.g. high tide) get there early, before they arrive.

• Bear in mind the direction of the sun when siting your hide.

• The best hide is one that can be made of material available on site and left in situ, so that the birds will become familiarized to it.




• Choose the site carefully — should be on level ground if possible, in shade if possible; check for active ants' nests, or you could have an uncomfortable seat!

• Make sure you have as much ventilation as possible.

• Take lots of fluid into the hide with you. You could be there for a few hours and you will lose a lot of body fluids. Take sweets or electrolyte fluids to avoid the possibility of dehydration.

• Take a large towel or several small towels to wipe your sweat and keep it off camera equipment. A hat can help keep sweat out of your eyes.

• Make sure the seat you use is comfortable. Consider adding a cushion. What is 'comfortable' for ten minutes may be very uncomfortable after an hour or more!




• Check the view from your hide before settling down. It may be necessary to do some minor 'gardening' to remove stray fronds that may block your shot.

• Take several test shots after getting into to your hide to make sure you have the best camera settings.

• Once comfortable inside your hide, keep movement to a minimum. Be prepared for a long wait, but be ready — your target bird may already be watching you and be about to step out in front of your hide!

• Once a bird does arrive, resist the temptation to immediately start taking pictures. For the first few seconds the bird will be on high alert and will probably be scrutinizing you. Keep very still till the bird relaxes, after which it is more likely to tolerate the sound of the camera and small movements.

• Last thing before entering your hide, something to remember about making calls:

  • Answer the call of nature!
  
  
  • Put your phone on silent mode, so that someone calling you won't startle the bird at the vital moment

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