Don't Stare

[Steve]

I know this is "just" a Possum but it fits the thread. I noticed it at about 75 yards coming across the yard at the nature center parking lot. So I moved next to a tree and just stood there. He only noticed me when I got nervous and moved away! He darn near walked over my feet! Sometimes good things come to you!

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LOL, yeah, those little guys are all but blind - hold still and they come right at ya!

 

[Bill Schone]

I know this is "just" a Possum but it fits the thread. I noticed it at about 75 yards coming across the yard at the nature center parking lot. So I moved next to a tree and just stood there. He only noticed me when I got nervous and moved away! He darn near walked over my feet! Sometimes good things come to you!

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That is outstanding! Great shot.

 

[markymark]

Depends on the bear. For black bears, staring will assert your dominance. For grizzlies, you're issuing a challenge!

Maybe a good idea to remember not to get that round the wrong way!…

 

[markymark]

I know this is "just" a Possum but it fits the thread. I noticed it at about 75 yards coming across the yard at the nature center parking lot. So I moved next to a tree and just stood there. He only noticed me when I got nervous and moved away! He darn near walked over my feet! Sometimes good things come to you!

View attachment 10534

 

[markymark]

Nice shot

 

[PhilcTx]

In addition to suggestions above for stealthy approach to critters - use a zig-zag approach instead of a direct frontal assault.

 

[Flyboy]

Some animals react negatively if you crouch for a photo. Crouching or kneeling is prohibited at the Vince Shute bear refuge. Bison in Yellowstone are very uneasy if you are close and crouch for a shot (don't ask for details on how I know this) .

A little on the job training, eh?

 

[Howard5252]

I have found that talking to Anoles will allow you to slowly get very close, even bending down right next to them. Just talk in a matter of fact voice and they'll sit still and listen. Predators don't talk. I generally give them compliments, telling them how handsome they are; they seem to like that!

 

[Steve]

I have found that talking to Anoles will allow you to slowly get very close, even bending down right next to them. Just talk in a matter of fact voice and they'll sit still and listen. Predators don't talk. I generally give them compliments, telling them how handsome they are; they seem to like that!

I have deer in my local park that act the same when you talk gently to them. Like you say, I think it's that predators are silent - and certainly not complementary!

 

[Capturingtheunseen.com]

Trying to get closer to a wildlife subject? One rookie mistake is fixating on that subject and not breaking eye contact as you move toward it.

Cuz you know what else does that?

Predators!

Instead, only glance occasionally toward the subject as you approach and avoid as much direct eye contact as you can. You'll find they often let you get closer. Once in range, slowly move your camera into position and shoot as quickly as possible. Sometimes they see the lens as a big "eye" and it can cause alarm.

So true. Don't stare and keep moving.

 

[jeffnles1]

Depends on the bear. For black bears, staring will assert your dominance. For grizzlies, you're issuing a challenge!

I think I'll stand back at a safe distance and let someone else issue the challenge.

 

[Roaring 40s]

Clothes matter too I've found, with birds.

A brown and black flannel shirt and grey felt hat has become my uniform.

The hat might signal 'edible' (ie. rabbit) to Australia’s raptors

 

[Flyboy]

Depends on the bear. For black bears, staring will assert your dominance. For grizzlies, you're issuing a challenge!

Yeah...we gave our Scouts a tip for telling if it is a Black Bear or a Grizzly. You climb a tree. The black Bear will climb after you . A Grizzly will shake you out of the tree!

 

[markymark]

You guys are sooo lucky to have animals in your countries like bears, mountain lions, wolves & all that other dangerous stuff to photograph!… All if any predators found in Britain can be dealt with by just raising your voice & a bit of harsh language!!

 

[Nikondale]

I shoot animals the same way my Dad taught me, use hunting techniques. Camo, a blind, or the use of natural cover all work well.