When I started bird photography, my approach was simple: center the bird in the frame. It seemed logical since my camera’s autofocus points were right in the middle of the viewfinder. This method made it easy to ensure the bird was in focus. However, as I got more involved in photography—exploring the work of accomplished photographers and taking a beginner’s course by Melissa Groo—I realized there was much more to framing a bird than keeping it in the center.
Here are some lessons I’ve learned that can help you improve your bird photography, especially if you’re just starting out.
Give the Bird ‘Room’ in the Frame
One of the biggest framing breakthroughs came when I started paying attention to a bird’s gaze. By giving the bird space in the frame in the direction it’s looking or moving, you create a more natural and dynamic composition. This took time to get right. I made plenty of mistakes that couldn’t be fixed during editing, but practice helped me see and plan the shot better.
Consider the Bird’s Surroundings
When a bird lands, take a moment to assess the scene. Where did it come from? Where is it positioned? Is it about to take off again? This quick analysis helps you frame the shot more effectively. Pay attention to background distractions like branches or bright patches of light, and adjust your position to minimize them. Also, think about zooming in or out to capture the bird and its environment in a balanced way.
Observe and React to Behavior
Birds are constantly on the move, and their behavior can create amazing photo opportunities. Are they hunting for food, feeding, singing, or interacting with other birds? For example, if a bird lands with an insect in its beak, it might be about to eat. Framing the shot to include some space for the action allows you to capture the moment naturally. Keep watching for subtle movements—sometimes a shift in posture or a turn of the head can make all the difference.
Focus on the Head and Eyes
A bird’s eyes are key to creating engaging photos. Even if the bird’s body isn’t fully visible, a sharp, well-lit eye draws the viewer in. Track the bird’s head as it moves, and adjust your framing to ensure the eye is a focal point. This extra attention often makes a good photo great.
Take Multiple Shots
Birds won’t stay still for you, so don’t be afraid to take several pictures in quick succession. Use burst mode if your camera has it, or take single shots as the bird moves. Adjust your framing and zoom as needed to account for its position and behavior. The more pictures you take, the better your chances of capturing something truly special.
Here are some examples with some subtle differences between each picture:
Eastern Bluebirds placed at the center of the frame
The photo places the birds right of center to allow more space in the direction of their gaze.
Pileated Woodpecker placed at the center of the frame.
Pileated woodpecker moved slightly left in the frame allowing more space in the direction of it’s gaze.
Practice Makes Progress
These tips have helped me improve my framing, but the real secret is practice. I often photograph common birds, like Northern Cardinals, to refine my skills. With each session, I gain a deeper understanding of how to observe, compose, and react in the moment.
As you develop your own bird photography style, remember to follow ethical guidelines to ensure the well-being of the birds you photograph. With patience and persistence, your framing skills—and your photos—will only get better. Happy shooting!
