Ethical Practices in Nature
Over the years of learning photography (and ‘I am still learning’ ~ Michelangelo), I’ve transitioned through many genres of photography. Some of these genres I’ve keep in my wheelhouse; others I have let go. The newest genre for me is that of wildlife. This is my take on nature, wildlife, and ethical practices.
I KNOW wildlife photography requires great persistence, dedication, and tolerance for having very little control over the subject matter. Or, it can entail shooting in the most uncomfortable conditions. You know what I’m talking about. There are those ethical photographers who explore and wait for days, weeks, even months, in storms or hot deserts or freezing temperatures for the chosen animal to cross their path in order to attain an image of their natural behavior or even their very existence. I am not that patient nor tolerant, however, I’m trying! I am finding photographing birds and other small animals very satisfying, even exciting, and I’m honing my ethical practices in nature.
Let’s Photograph Wildlife
When my friend, Amy Ames, invited me to go shooting wildlife with her, I definitely said, ‘YES’! It’s not the first time we’ve shot together, but it might have been the most fun and interesting!
Being very cognizant of the guidelines of the ‘Nature First’ principles, we were quite careful not to disrupt the natural routines of the wild animals in the area. By using long lenses and keeping a careful distance, we were able to observe these animals as they went about their day, dawn to dusk, hunting for food for themselves and their offspring. Great patience is required for wildlife photography. So, that in itself was a challenge for me. But so worth it!
Off to Find the Foxes
We managed a few sightings and photographs the first afternoon of our arrival. We woke early the following morning and headed toward the area where we thought we’d have the best chance of photographing the foxes. As the sun rose, sure enough, we could see them as they left their dens, ran across a huge meadow, and began their day searching for food. We positioned ourselves within the vehicle, windows down, cameras ready, and waited for the opportune moments to present themselves. We were not disappointed! A vehicle makes a very good ‘blind’.
Then we were off to the second location where we were not able to use the car as a blind, but remained a comfortable distance from the wildlife. Eagles, rabbits, and foxes were the most prevalent species we watched and photographed as they went about their business of survival.
Day 1 - the afternoon of our arrival.
Day 2 - It was a little drizzly, but that didn’t stop us.
The morning began with an encounter with this red fox thoroughly scanning the meadow for a meal. Red foxes can be orange, silver, gray, black, or multi-colored.
Is anyone else reminded of Little Red Riding Hood’s, “My, what big eyes you have!”?
This beauty, too, was intent on finding food. She was quite serious about her task and mostly ignored us while we both kept our distance from one another which was a very good thing.
This fox paused to give us a look before continuing the business of the day - SURVIVAL.
Day 3
We observed adult foxes, adolescents, and kits grooming, hunting and playing. The little kits were so entertaining to watch. Their energy seemed boundless as they chased and spared. At first I likened them to kittens, then puppies, as they entertained us with their antics. Although, I believe this behavior is training for their coming independence.
If your sibling is in your way, just go over them!
Some good natured rough and tumble.
Ready to pounce!
The chase was on!
Late evening of our last day was complete with observing and photographing the adolescent foxes in the area. Not full adults with babies of their own, but soon ready to to take that next step into fox adulthood. They chased and played and tumbled, taking time for a brief rest before beginning the sparing again.
Doesn’t this little one have the sweetest face?
I hope you enjoyed this peek into our little adventure. I’m looking forward to more escapades photographing our beautiful world of wildlife, nature, and landscapes.
Always remember, nature first. Put nature’s needs ahead of your own and leave no trace of having ever been to a particular location. Take only pictures, leave only footsteps.
All images are available for purchase. Go to SHOP.
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As a published, featured northern California fine art photographer living in the greater Sacramento area, I specialize in fine art landscape and still life photography. My style is authentic, fresh and personality-driven. I offer prints for sale and several educational opportunities. You can learn about them by going to SERVICES or WORKSHOPS. While currently living in rural northern California with my husband and a couple thousand walnut trees, I post regularly to Instagram.
Please CONTACT ME with any questions or to schedule your learning session.
Serving Yuba City/Marysville, East Nicolaus, Wheatland, Lincoln, Woodland, Davis, Roseville, Rocklin, and the greater Sacramento area.
(530) 633-7575
Nestled along the rugged coastline of Northern California, Point Reyes National Seashore stands as a beacon of natural beauty and biodiversity. This pristine stretch of land encompasses over 71,000 acres of protected wilderness.