There is something magical about connecting with a nature
being. I like human beings too, don’t get me wrong…but I feel privileged when a
nature being lets me into their world. It’s as if they are saying to me: “you
are trustworthy”.
I recently shot some photos of a couple of fawns in our yard
and didn’t realize that our neighbor was watching the process at the time. I
saw him a month or so later and he said something to the effect of “ How did
you get so close? They run away when they see me”. I guess my answer would be I
go into my Dr. Dolittle mode. It’s a sort of communication mode I suppose where
I gently talk to them as if they can understand me and perhaps they can who
knows? Maybe it’s not even so much about what I’m saying but rather the intent
behind what I’m saying. Animals can sense your energy or vibe. That’s why an
animal like a horse with attitude will buck you right off its back if it senses
you are afraid and not in charge.
When I get overly excited about shooting a nature being
weather it’s a butterfly or a deer or even a bear and I have more of a stalking
energy about me I generally do NOT get a shot. They sense that they are being
stalked even if it is only camera that is being used for the “hunting”.
I’ve had quite a bit of luck when I ask them “ can I take your picture?” as
well. As crazy as that sounds it really does work! And don’t forget to say
thank you when they let you get a shot.
Do you have to be in that calm happy place to photograph
nature beings? I don’t think so… because even if you are super stressed out, if
you have the time, it’s a great time to go for a nature walk which in itself
will often set you on the path to calmness and that oneness with nature
feeling. Once there, shoot away! It’s a special feeling when you reach that
still calm place and you will know when you do because that is when nature
beings begin to trust you and let you photograph them.
Happy shooting everyone. J
