Back in the days when digicams were still mere figments of imagination of most photography enthusiasts, SLR film cameras were only used by professionals. These cameras are built in such a way that allows the photographer to see exactly how the final picture will appear.
With the regular camera, you only see what the viewing window shows you but this is not the exact image that the camera sees. For example, you might see a clear background through the lens but when printed, the background will be blurry because the depth of field used for the shot was shallow. With a DSLR, what you see through the lens is the blurred background because this is how the final picture will be displayed.
This is also the case with Digital SLR photography. The only difference is that DSLRs use digital memory cards and light sensor chips instead of using films. The advantage that digital SLR cameras have over the regular ones is that they are faster at focusing; capable of higher ISO speeds so there is no graininess even at low light; and provide more control over exposure and depth of field. They are also more expensive and bulkier to carry.
Since you have invested in a more expensive piece of equipment, you have to make the most out of it by creating amazing photos. These digital SLR photography tips will help, especially when you are shooting wildlife.
Before shooting nature with your DSLR camera, expose it first to a green part in the scenery and then underexpose it by two thirds. Refocus on your subject and then take a shot. This results in a more detailed photograph.
When you take of wildlife, focus on the eyes instead of the bodies, because this will provide more impact to the image. Since your subject will be moving, the resulting photograph will show a blurry body. This is not a problem as long as the eyes are sharp.
Do not tightly crop pictures of moving animals but leave enough space on the photograph to show the viewer where the creature is heading. Else, it would appear as if the animal is trapped in a cage and your photo will look static instead of conveying movement.
Flying insects make wonderful subjects but because of their tiny sizes, you have to attach a macro lens to your DSLR camera. Insects move at high speeds so if you try to capture them while moving, you might get several blurred images. A good trick for better focus is to wait until they alight on a flower or a surface and then taking a shot.
Nature is full of colors so take advantage of these colors to make your images more alive. Some photographers even believe that an image with bold colors, even when it is technically inferior, will always be more interesting than a well-focused one with dull colors. For best results, shoot one with good focus and vivid colors.
Wildlife presents a challenge to hobbyists, even when following these digital SLR photography tips to the letter. However, there is nothing more rewarding that capturing an image of nature at its best.
