Bird photography can be a challenging endeavor, even for experienced photographers. Birds are often small, fast moving targets that can be difficult to capture sharply in an image. One of the most useful features for bird photography is advanced autofocus systems that can reliably track and focus on birds in flight. There are a number of camera makes and models from entry-level to professional that offer specialized bird autofocus modes.
What is bird autofocus?
Bird autofocus refers to autofocus systems that are specifically designed to detect, track, and maintain focus on birds while photographing them. Standard autofocus systems are designed to focus on stationary subjects or subjects moving predictably across the frame. Birds in flight, however, move unpredictably and can change direction, altitude or speed abruptly. Bird autofocus uses advanced autofocus algorithms, metering sensors and eye-tracking technology to keep rapidly moving birds in focus.
The best bird autofocus systems use a combination of phase-detection pixels on the image sensor itself combined with depth-tracking and eye/face detection through the camera’s metering system. This allows the camera to track the distance and movement of a bird and accurately maintain focus even with erratic movement. Many bird autofocus modes use an initial focus point selected by the photographer and then attempt to track the subject as it moves across the frame.
Key features of bird autofocus
– Phase detection AF points – On sensor phase detection pixels or dedicated AF sensor provides fast continuous AF.
– Advanced subject tracking – Can accurately track erratic movement of birds and maintain focus.
– Automatic eye/face detection – Detects eyes/faces of birds to precisely focus on eye.
– AI algorithm trained for birds – Machine learning optimized for detecting/tracking birds.
– High drive speed (FPS) – Allows capturing fast bursts for action.
– Customizable tracking sensitivity – Tuning of AF system for responsiveness vs stability.
Camera makes and models with bird autofocus
Many camera manufacturers now offer bird autofocus modes in their cameras, from entry-level models up through high-end professional cameras. Here are some of the top cameras that have specialized bird AF modes:
Canon
– EOS 7D Mark II
– EOS 80D
– EOS 90D
– EOS R5/R6
– EOS R7/R10
Canon’s “Intelligent Tracking and Recognition” system uses AI algorithms optimized for tracking birds. High-end models include customizable tracking sensitivity.
Nikon
– D500
– D7500
– D6
– D850
– Z 5
– Z 6II/Z 7II
Nikon’s auto-area AF modes include bird detection. The D6 flagship offers “3D-tracking” that locks onto birds and maintains focusing even with obstructions.
Sony
– A6400
– A6600
– A7R IV
– A9 II
Sony’s “Real-time Eye AF” and “Real-time Tracking” leverage AI subject recognition specifically tuned for birds. Works in conjunction with rapid burst shooting.
Fujifilm
– X-T3
– X-T4
– X-H1
– X-Pro3
– X-S10
– GFX100S
Fujifilm’s “AF-C Custom Settings” allow you to customize tracking sensitivity, speed tracking, zone size and acceleration/deceleration tracking for birds.
Olympus/OM Digital Solutions
– E-M1X
– E-M1 Mark III
The E-M1X has an “Intelligent Subject Detection AF” system with deep learning AI trained to detect birds for continuous focus. Customizable tracking speeds.
Panasonic
– Lumix G9
– Lumix GH5/GH5S
– Lumix G95
Panasonic’s “Depth from Defocus” system calculates distance to subject for predictive AF. “Face/Eye/Body/Animal Detect” AF modes specifically detect birds.
Bird photography technique tips
While having advanced autofocus capabilities in your camera is a major plus, there are techniques that can help you get better bird photos. Here are some quick tips:
– Use fast shutter speeds (1/1000s or faster) to freeze motion.
– Lower your aperture as much as possible for increased depth-of-field.
– Use continuous shooting drive modes to capture sequences.
– Pan smoothly by tracking the bird as you press the shutter.
– Try panning techniques to blur the background and freeze the bird.
– Position yourself properly based on bird behavior and predictable flight paths.
– Use camouflage/blinds to get closer to skittish birds.
– Be patient and take lots of shots to get a few great ones. Good luck!
Camera settings to use for bird photography
Configured your camera properly will give you the best chance to capture sharp, well-exposed photos of birds in flight. Here are key camera settings to use:
Shooting mode – Use shutter priority (Tv or S) or manual (M) to control shutter speed.
Shutter speed – Use a fast shutter of 1/1000s or higher to freeze motion.
Aperture – Select the widest aperture available for a shallow depth of field.
ISO – Raise ISO as needed to get proper exposure with fast shutter.
Focus mode – Use AI Servo AF (Canon) or Continuous AF (Nikon, Sony) for moving subjects.
AF mode – Select your camera’s specialized bird autofocus mode.
AF area – Use Zone AF or Wide/Tracking AF to keep bird within focus zone.
Drive mode – Choose a continuous high-speed burst mode to capture sequences.
Exposure comp – Increase EC if bird is backlit to properly expose.
Challenges of photographing birds in flight
Capturing sharp, well-composed photos and videos of birds inflight brings unique challenges including:
– Unpredictable movement – Birds can swiftly change direction, altitude and speed.
– Small size – Smaller birds like songbirds are harder targets.
– Speed – Birds like raptors can dive at 200+ mph.
– Erratic flight paths – Birds movements can be sporadic and irregular.
– Sudden appearance – Birds often emerge quickly from cover.
– Insufficient light – Fast shutter speed requirements can max out ISO.
– Depth of field – Hard to get full bird in focus at large apertures.
– Distractions – Branches, leaves can obstruct the view.
– Harsh light – Bright sun creates high contrast, shadows.
– Backlighting – Dark silhouettes against bright sky.
– Distance – Getting close enough for detail.
Overcoming these challenges requires patience, specialized gear and practice photographing bird behavior.
Best times and conditions for bird photography
To maximize your chances of getting great bird photographs, take advantage of the best times of day and atmospheric conditions:
Early morning – Birds are most active at dawn and early morning light is often ideal.
Late afternoon – Another peak activity time and warm light before sunset.
Overcast/cloudy days – Softer light and reduced shadows are better for exposure.
After rain – Raindrops and wet foliage amplify colors and details.
Spring migration – Increased bird activity and interesting species variety.
Dawn/dusk – Lower light brings out color saturation.
Golden hour – Warm light enhances bird plumage.
Against dark backgrounds – Isolates subject and makes autofocus tracking easier.
Breaks in foliage – Clean background and unobstructed view.
Stationary perches – Popular bird observation spots.
How weather conditions affect bird photography
Weather conditions can have a significant impact on results when photographing birds. Here is how different types of weather affect your ability to photograph birds:
Sunny – Can create harsh shadows and high contrast. Angle light is needed.
Partly Cloudy – Ideal lighting. Provides soft light and reduces shadows.
Overcast – Flat lighting reduces contrast and color but makes exposure easier.
Foggy/Misty – Diffuses light nicely but reduces visibility. Captures mood.
Rainy – Ruffles feather plumage. Enhances colors and details. Can deter activity.
Snowy – Contrasts nicely against white backgrounds. Reduces mobility.
Windy – Makes flight and action photography more challenging.
Front/Back-lit – Can create silhouetted exposures. Use exposure compensation.
In general, partly cloudy or overcast days offer the most favorable conditions by providing soft, evenly diffused light perfect for bird photography.
Ethical practices for bird photography
When photographing birds, it’s important to follow ethical practices that ensure the well-being of your subjects. Here are some guidelines:
– Don’t disturb natural behavior – Use appropriate lenses/distance and avoid startling birds.
– Mind nesting seasons – Stay away from nests with eggs or fledglings.
– Don’t bait – Don’t use bird calls or food to lure birds unnaturally.
– Use blinds properly – Minimize time in a blind near nests.
– Be aware of stress signs – Agitated behavior or alarm calls are signs to back off.
– Follow regulations – Respect restricted areas, nesting seasons, etc.
– Don’t restrict movement – Never restrain birds or block them in enclosures.
– Avoid disruption of habitat – Stay on marked trails and keep carbon footprint low.
– Prioritize welfare over photography – Put the bird’s safety and well-being first, before getting the shot.
Following these common sense practices lets you capture natural bird behavior while ensuring your actions don’t negatively impact your wild subjects.
Post-processing tips for bird photos
Post-processing allows you to finesse your bird photographs by adjusting exposure, enhancing details and correcting flaws:
– Adjust highlights/shadows – Recover over/underexposed areas of image.
– Increase vibrance – Make colors in plumage more intense.
– Selective sharpening – Sharpen bird but not background.
– Reduce noise – Minimize noise at high ISOs.
– Crop creatively – Isolate specific parts of bird.
– Darken distractions – Downplay distracting branches, leaves, etc.
– Boost contrast – Add pop with S curves & contrast adjustments.
– Layering – Combine elements from multiple exposures.
– Dodge & burn – Lighten or darken certain areas as needed.
– Reduce background blur – Increasing clarity of backgrounds.
– Add vignette – Draw attention towards bird subject.
A few simple post-processing tweaks can take your bird photographs from good to great!
Conclusion
Specialized bird autofocus modes available on most major camera brands are a game changer for bird photography. Features like eye-tracking AF, customizable tracking settings, AI subject detection and rapid burst shooting modes allow you to reliably capture sharp images of birds in flight. Combining the right camera gear with proper photographic technique and field craft gives you the best opportunity to get amazing bird photos. With practice and persistence, you’ll be ready to capture beautiful bird images worthy of any nature photography portfolio. The journey starts by selecting a camera with the latest bird autofocus technology to take your avian photography to the next level.
