URGENT UPDATE: Wildlife photographers are being urged to address the common issue of blown-out skies and empty shadows following new insights from expert Kilian. In a compelling video released today, he reveals how understanding your camera’s dynamic range can be the key to capturing stunning wildlife shots, even under challenging lighting conditions.
Kilian emphasizes that the dynamic range of a camera defines how well it can capture details in both shadows and highlights. With modern mirrorless cameras capable of 13 to 14 stops at base ISO, photographers have significantly more flexibility than with older models, which often maxed out at around 10 to 11 stops. This practical guide is essential for anyone looking to elevate their wildlife photography game.
For those who have experienced the frustration of capturing a bird in bright sunlight and deep shade, this video is a must-watch. Kilian demonstrates how exposure can be compromised when shooting wildlife, especially in harsh contrasts, such as those presented by bright skies and reflective water surfaces. He notes that raising the ISO can drastically reduce usable dynamic range, dropping it from 14 stops at ISO 100 to as low as 7 or 8 stops at ISO 6,400 due to increased noise in shadows.
Kilian provides actionable strategies for wildlife photographers, explaining the importance of protecting highlights in strong light. By adjusting exposure downwards, critical bright areas can be preserved, preventing clipping. He also discusses when to expose to the right in softer lighting conditions, ensuring shadows remain clean. For those keen on freezing motion, he stresses the balance between adjusting ISO and maintaining fast shutter speeds.
The video goes beyond technical jargon. Kilian shares field tactics, such as repositioning your subject into open shade or utilizing natural elements like trees or clouds to manage contrast effectively. He even advocates for exposure bracketing and HDR techniques, which can be beneficial in wildlife scenarios when subjects are stationary.
Most importantly, Kilian encourages photographers to make intentional sacrifices rather than striving for a “perfect” histogram. “Protect your subject first,” he advises, even if that means allowing the sky to clip or shadows to deepen. Understanding your camera’s limits through resources like Photons to Photos can help photographers gauge where their equipment struggles and adjust their techniques accordingly.
This video serves as a reminder that many iconic wildlife images may include clipped highlights or pronounced shadows, and that such contrasts can evoke powerful emotions when handled purposefully. As the photography community seeks to refine their skills, Kilian’s insights are both timely and essential.
For those eager to improve their wildlife photography, watch the full video from Kilian now and start capturing breathtaking images that tell a story. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your skills and create stunning visuals!
Alex Cooke, a Cleveland-based photographer and meteorologist, highlights the importance of understanding dynamic range in his teachings. By sharing this critical information, photographers can enhance their work and connect more deeply with their subjects.
