As a photo trip leader and one of the top wildlife photographers in the country, Grant Atkinson has spent many hours behind the shutter honing his skills. We asked him to share some tips for fellow photographers.

Grant Atkinson: Of course every wildlife photographer has their own style and way of working, but for me being calm and totally patient, is what gives me the best results.  Taking my time to watch, to really watch and observe closely, what my subjects are doing, can sometimes pay dividends. Doing so I learn enough about how they might act, that I can be ready for it when it happens.  

I believe that if you love nature, respect the wildlife, and enjoy every minute in the presence of wild animals, the images will come by themselves.  Whilst I am observing, I also try to keep looking around me, as new or unexpected subjects can sometimes show up with little warning. For this I make sure to always keep my cameras switched on, with an open aperture and fast enough shutter speed, which allows me to react instantly to a new subject showing up.

For more of Atkinson’s work, please visit his website.

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