UPDATE: Photographers are urged to rethink their approach to wildlife photography as new insights reveal critical strategies to avoid blown-out skies and lost details in shadows. A recent video by photographer Kilian outlines essential techniques that could transform your images immediately.
Dynamic range is the key focus of Kilian’s guidance, highlighting how understanding the limits of your camera can drastically improve your wildlife shots. With modern mirrorless cameras boasting up to 14 stops of dynamic range at ISO 100, photographers can capture more detail than ever before. This contrasts sharply with older models, which often maxed out at around 10 stops.
The video presents a practical demonstration of how different dynamic range levels impact photography. Kilian illustrates the differences between 2, 4, 8, and 14 stops applied to the same landscape, making it clear how additional stops create smoother tonal transitions. This is crucial when photographing wildlife, where lighting conditions can shift dramatically in seconds.
With wildlife often positioned in challenging lighting—like a bird sitting partially in sunlight and partially in shadow—Kilian explains the pitfalls many photographers face. He warns that raising ISO can severely limit dynamic range, dropping it to just 7 or 8 stops at ISO 6400, which increases noise and reduces detail in shadows.
Kilian emphasizes the importance of the histogram as a visual tool. He notes that when the histogram hits the right edge, it indicates highlight detail is lost, not merely hidden. Adjusting exposure slightly can save crucial details. He compares the limited 256 tonal levels of JPEG images to the vast 16,000 levels available in raw files, reinforcing the advantage of shooting in raw for flexibility in post-editing.
Practical tips are also a highlight of the video. Kilian advises photographers on when to expose to protect highlights in harsh light versus when to “expose to the right” in softer light to keep shadows clean. He discusses the merits of dropping ISO or using slower shutter speeds when motion freezing is less critical.
Field tactics are explored as well. Kilian suggests simple strategies like repositioning to tuck subjects into open shade or using natural elements to reduce contrast. He also addresses exposure bracketing and HDR techniques that can be effective even in wildlife photography, challenging the notion that these tools are only for landscapes.
Kilian stresses the importance of intentional decision-making rather than chasing a “perfect” histogram. He encourages photographers to prioritize their subject, even if it means sacrificing some details like clipped skies or dark shadows when the scene exceeds the camera’s capability. He recommends checking dynamic range tests on sites like Photons to Photos to better understand camera limits.
Ultimately, Kilian reassures photographers that many beloved wildlife images feature imperfect highlights or deep shadows, reminding them that contrast can evoke emotion when utilized thoughtfully.
For full insights and practical tips, watch the video above. As wildlife photography continues to evolve, these techniques promise to enhance the quality of your shots dramatically. Don’t miss out on capturing stunning wildlife images—act on these tips now!
