iPhone for bird photography: What you need to know

The iPhone is a great photography tool for professionals and amateurs alike. The camera technology in this smartphone allows users to experience superior quality without expensive equipment, which makes it more accessible than ever before. However, one photography discipline that can be expensive to tackle is bird photography.

For new photographers working on a tight budget, using their iPhones to get started in bird photography is a good idea. Los Angeles-based retired photographer Robert Testagrossa shares that it’s important to acknowledge that the iPhone is a tool powerful enough to take snaps of birds. The lack of zoom and other features can be compensated by effective composition. Practice capturing images with the bird in the center, followed by the rule of thirds.

As much as possible, shoot on manual mode. Newer iPhone models allow users to choose from different modes such as portrait, square, and others. Take advantage of these features to get the most out of the subject and the moment. Tap on the screen right where the bird is for better focus. There’s nothing more annoying than seeing the image and noticing the subject out of focus.

Forget about the zoom feature and try to get as close as possible to the bird, but only when it’s safe. Part of shooting manually is walking up to the subject for better composition. Robert Testagrossa reminds his readers to shoot with the sun at their backs. Lighting can make or break a photo. With the sun on their backs, one can capture the beautiful colors and details of the birds.