Zoo photography can be a good way to practice photographing animals before you capture them in the wild. It is a great way to practice taking pictures of animals in a more controlled and predictable environment. You may have to work with fences or bad lighting, and you might also need to be careful not to get distracted by people wearing bright pink clothes.
When I was a young photographer living in North Wales, my first trip to Chester Zoo involved taking my camera. I was fascinated by the Lions and Giraffes.
Recently, however, I visited the Bristol Zoo Project using my camera with just one lens. It was strange to be back in a Zoo since I usually photograph animals in the New Forest or on the Somerset Levels.
It was more difficult for me to get the perfect background because of some of the unnatural surroundings, but it was much easier to get close-up shots of animals without having to become some sort of Ninja.
This post will share some of my zoo photography tips so that you, too, can improve your zoo photography game!
Why Zoo Photography is Great Practice
Zoo photography allows you to capture exotic animals without having to travel to distant corners of the world. In my youth, the zoo provided me with the best training for wildlife photography.
Zoos are great places to learn how to deal with limitations like crowds, fences, and difficult lighting. They’re also a great way to develop patience and problem-solving skills while in the field.
Best Time For Zoo Photography
Choose dates that are not in high demand, such as winter weekdays. This is because the weather will be cold and people may be less interested. It’s not a good idea to struggle to find a place to take pictures when the children are on half-term.
The golden hours of zoo photography are early morning and late afternoon. The light is softer and flattering, and the animals are more active at these times. The midday sun can be difficult to see. It creates harsh shadows, and animals tend to retreat into shaded areas.
An overcast day is ideal for Zoo photography. Diffused light means you can take a good shot from any angle.
You can find shaded areas to shoot in or a place where the sun is behind the animal, which will act as a light source.
What gear do you need for Zoo Photography?
Your gear can make or ruin your zoo experience. If you use a wide-angle lens, you won’t be able to get many photos without fences.
If you are a beginner, you may have a limited budget or be hesitant to invest in gear you don’t know if you will use.
You can be encouraged by the fact that this image was captured at Chester Zoo in 2010 using an entry-level DSLR and a budget telephoto zoom lens. Do you know why it is still one of my most popular photos, even after 15 years? It gets stolen every time.
As a beginner, here’s what I recommend:
Telephoto lens
A telephoto lens is the perfect tool for capturing animals from a distance or with enough space to shoot through fences. Back in the day, I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a fancy lens, so I chose this one. I was very happy with it. It was easy on my bank account, but it did a good job as a first lens.
These lenses are still budget-friendly, even if you’re on a larger budget.
Macro lens:
Consider taking close-ups of smaller animals like insects or amphibians. For this, you will need a macro lens. My first macro lens is also the telephoto I mentioned earlier. This lens does both. It’s not going to get you quite as you would like, but it is a good starting point.
You can start with this Sigma Macro 105mm if you’re looking for a macro lens. It’s part of my kit even after all these many years.
Polarising filter
If you’re going to be shooting through glass in the zoo, a polarising lens like this one is a great tool. This will reduce reflections and glare. Make sure to get the right size filter for your camera lens.
Best settings for Zoo Photography
Mastering your camera settings is important for overcoming the unique challenges that zoo photographers face. However, it can seem overwhelming at first.
You’ll have to deal with obstacles and unpredictable animals. This is a great opportunity to practice your settings.
Here are some settings that you may need to use:
Aperture
Use a large aperture (f/2.8-f/5.6, if your lens has this capability) in order to blur out the background. This will make the animal more visible. You can blur fences both in the foreground and the background by using a wider aperture.
If you are using a budget-friendly lens, I understand that your aperture might not be as wide as the suggested f numbers. In that case, open your aperture to as wide a setting as your lens can go.
Shutter speed
Set a high shutter speed (1/1000s and higher) in order to freeze movement, especially when dealing with very active animals, like birds or monkeys. You can capture interesting moments and funny facial expressions without any blur. A wider aperture will let more light into the camera, allowing you to use a higher shutter speed.
ISO
Adjust your ISO if the wider aperture does not let in enough light for you to use a fast shutter speed. In bright conditions, ISO 100 is a good starting point. However, if there’s not enough light to use this setting, you can increase it. Be careful not to create more digital noise or grain. Test your camera’s capabilities.
Focus Mode
Use continuous Autofocus (AF C) to track moving objects. Single-point focusing is a good way to focus on specific features.
How to position yourself for great Zoo photography
In zoo photographs, positioning is key. When choosing the best spot to stand, there are a few factors to consider.
Avoid the fence
Get Close: A wide-opening lens can blur the fence into the background. The animal’s face should not be directly against the wall.
Angle Matters: Align your camera parallel with the fence to be able to blur it.
Work with Openings Some enclosures have no fences. These include areas with glass panels and open viewing, which are ideal for viewing.
How to Work Around the Glass
Press your lens against the glass. This reduces glare and reflections.
Use the polarising filter . This small accessory helps to reduce reflections. It is also good for shots that include water.
Be on the lookout for Smudges . You can use a soft cloth to clean glass surfaces or move your lens away from any marks.
Watch Background
What’s behind the subject? If there are people in bright clothing in the background, a photo of a Lion will lose its impact. You can move around to find a better composition, or you can use a larger aperture to blur out the background.
The background of this image, for example, ruins the picture.
This background is awash with people and barriers.
This one’s background is cleaner, and the large aperture has blurred out the fact that it was shot through a fence.
The Art of Being Patient and Waiting
In fact, patience is the most important skill for photographing animals in full stop. Animals have their own pace, so waiting for the perfect shot is often necessary.
Tips on Patience
- Study Animal Behavior Spend some time observing the animal’s daily routine. You can anticipate great moments by knowing when animals are likely to move and what they do.
- Settle in: Choose a nice spot and settle down there. The more relaxed you are and the less intrusive you can be, the more natural their behaviour will be.
- Burst mode: Take a series of photos to make sure you don’t lose the perfect moment.
The picture of the black and white Lion from earlier in this post is a good example of what you need to do before getting a great shot. I waited for ages before the Lion woke up. He was back asleep less than 30 seconds after I snapped the picture. I waited for 30 seconds to get the shot. That is animal photography.
Capturing Interaction and Emotion
Images with emotion, motion or interaction are some of the most captivating zoo photographs because they tell a story.
Here are some tips for capturing these moments.
Focus the Eyes: The eyes are a window of emotion. Focusing on an animal’s eyes can bring your photograph to life.
Interaction: Watch animals interact with each other and their environment. Learn their behaviour.
Be Prepared: Make sure your camera is set to the correct settings. Animals won’t wait until you are ready.
Examples of What Not to Do in Zoo Photography
It’s not every picture that will win, but being aware of the common mistakes can help.
Here are some “don’ts” when it comes to zoo photos:
Fences in Focus
Problem: The fence or animal in the image is clear, but the wall is blurry.
Fix: Position your lens near the fence and use a wide aperture to blur out the wall.
Distractions and Crowds
Problem: Background cluttered with other people
Fix: Reposition yourself or wait for a more quiet moment to include them in the picture.
Poor Lighting
Problem: Sharp shadows or overblown Highlights
Fix: Take pictures early in the morning or late at night when the sun is low or during a cloudy day. You can even use the backlight of the sun or wait until an animal goes into the shade.
Connectivity Problems
Problem: Either the animal appears uninterested, or the shot is lifeless.
Fix: Watch for animal movement or to see if the animal is looking up/at you. Animals grazing or napping is not always interesting. Wait for something to happen, and then wait some more.
Best Spots for Zoo Photography
You can often get up close to the animals in some zoos.
The open aviary is perfect for bird photography. A butterfly house offers a great opportunity for macro shots. Bristol Zoo Project has an amazing Lemur walkthrough that allows you to get close-up images of the incredible eyes. There is also a Bear Wood where you can walk on an elevated platform to see Wolves and Bears together (except in winter when they hibernate), as well as other areas of the woods with Lynxes and Wolverines.
If you plan to visit a zoo, check to see if there are any special exhibits or walkthrough enclosures to get you closer to animals.
Ethical Considerations in Zoo Photography
Photographing in zoos can be a great experience, but it is important to respect the animals.
Do
- Respect Barriers: They are there for your safety as well as the welfare of animals.
- Reduce Stress: Do not bang on glass or make loud noises in order to attract an animal’s interest. Leave them alone.
- Support Conservation Conservation efforts are undertaken by many zoos. Choose a zoo whose priority is animal welfare. I understand that a zoo, regardless of its conservation efforts, is not ideal. Unfortunately, humans have destroyed habitats and have poached animals for profit. Conservation zoos can be important for endangered animals, but the question of whether a zoo is ethical remains. You can make your own decision, but avoid zoos with a low rating for animal welfare and little conservation effort.
Don’t
- Do not use Flash, as it can cause animals to be startled or distressed.
- Do not overstay your welcome. If the animal is uncomfortable with you being there, it’s best to move on or take a short break. It is important to put the animals’ well-being first.
Final Thoughts on Zoo Photography
How do you take better zoo photos?
Use a telephoto to blur fences and backgrounds while focusing on the animals. Shoot in the early morning or late afternoon for soft, natural lighting. Use a large aperture and position yourself near the fence or window to minimize distractions. Patience and observation are key to capturing natural and emotional moments.
Zoo photography goes beyond taking photos of animals. This art form teaches patience, how to work within constraints, and how to create stunning images.
These zoo photography tips will help you improve your skills in animal photography before going out into the field.
Please post any questions you may have about improving your photography skills at the zoo in the comments. Please share your best zoo photos and tips, as there is always more to learn.
