Bird photography is one of the most popular genres of nature photography. Luckily in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are over 60 different bird species to observe. Here is everything you need to know about photographing birds in the Smoky Mountains:
Birds in the Smokies
Birds, by their nature, live in the moment and many have spent a lifetime of moments enjoying them for what they are; harbingers of song and flight, beauty and grace. For many, photographing birds is an extension of a life-long admiration for these beautiful creatures that always entertain with their behaviors and delight with their songs. To see a pair of Golden Eagles scribing easy circles through the mountains is, simply beyond words. To hear multiple Eastern Whip-poor-will fill the air with their song on a summer eve is one of nature’s most delightful concerts.
Getting Started in Bird Photography
Bird photography is also a very challenging endeavor, requiring specialized skills and equipment – one does not simply pick up the camera used for family vacation photos and capture compelling avian images. On the same token, having the best possible photographic gear for the task does not ensure success either. It seems the most successful bird photographers are not only skilled photographic technicians, but also have a thorough understanding of avian behavior and habitat. Most importantly, they all have a deep love and appreciation for their subjects. Photographing birds in the Smoky Mountains will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip.
Photography Techniques
There are almost as many techniques for photographing birds as there are sheer numbers of bird species. The really serious bird photographers devise their own techniques and fabricate their own equipment, using everything from floating muskrat blinds for photographing waterfowl, to artificial lighting and backdrops for photographing hummingbirds, to erecting eighty-foot towers from which to photograph nesting bald eagles. Once you “know your subject” and begin following the ABCs of bird photography, you too will be able to do the same thing. It only takes practice before you will be making impressive images of our feathered friends.
Check Out the Photography Workshops
There are photography workshops available in the Smoky Mountains Park areas throughout most of the year. You can do wonderful birding and photography throughout the different seasons in the park. Check out Smokies Photography Workshops held by the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. They offer workshops in photographing wildlife, as well as capturing the Smokies in different seasons.
Where to Stay
Are you still looking for a place to stay during your trip to the Smokies? Check out our cabin rentals near the national park so you can be close to your photography subjects. You’ll even be able to get some amazing landscape pictures from our cabins with mountain views! Enjoy other amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, home theater and wood or gas burning fireplaces.
Now that you know all about photographing birds in the Smoky Mountains, you can begin planning your next photography trip. Browse through all of our cabin rentals and make your way to the Smokies soon. We look forward to seeing you!
