How to Photograph Small Birds: Camera Settings & Techniques (Advanced)

I'm sharing all the tricks I've learnt over the years for small bird photography. Learn how I use composition, focusing techniques and camera settings to get perfectly sharp images of perching birds. This tutorial is for more advanced and serious bird photographers. In this video I'm using a Canon 1DX and EF 500mm f4 Mark i lens, sometimes with a 25mm Extension tube.

Filmed with Canon M50 and 15-45mm lens.
Equipment: Canon 1DX Mark i; Canon 500mm f4 Mark i lens; Canon 25mm Extension Tube; Induro CT404 Tripod; Movo GH700 Gimbal

My equipment: If you purchase any of these items, that I use and recommend, through the links below I receive a small commission which is massively appreciated and helps me to keep creating new videos.

Ulanzi Products:

Amazon:

Music:
The Papergirl by The Whole Other
Ocean Beach by Dan Lebowitz
The Curious Kitten by Aaron Kenny
In the Garden by Silent Partner
Honey and Milk by The 126ers

[ReidoMato]

Paul, no words to describe how WONDERFUL are your birds photos. Thank you for sharing. Hugs from Brazil...

[gregorydobson]

Hi Paul, learning so much from your videos, as iam new to this hobby. THANKYOU.

[karenallen]

Excellent again, well explained thanks Paul

[strix_pht]

Great video, thanks for sharing this. Regards from Serbia!

[GSXRMVDUCRD]

HELPFUL. Unlike many others, Paul does not talk about confusing, ineffective focus tracking settings, which I find do not work and actually inhibit the ability to get good, in focus pictures of fast moving little birds

[EssexCountyPhoto]

Oh that fleece trick is great!!!... I'll keep an old one in my kit bag!... Thanks!

[scottpitner]

The shot I like most is the 5:18 bird.
Great perch and background color is really nice.
It has an inviting light you want to just stare at. 😳lol

[jacko]

Thank you so much for your very informative video. I point-and-shoot cameras but found that your tips apply very well.

[umajps]

Great video Paul. Lied it a lot. Very informative.

[cerealkiller]

Another video full of great tips for beginners and intermediary photographers alike.

[ketkip]

Thanks Paul for the great tips. After watching your videos I have understood the basics quite well, and now I am more confident with tweaking the settings 👍

[LWD-Hidden-Links]

Very informative thanks, I'm subscribing. I got a 300mm a few days ago and want to have a go at birds - it's twisting my head all these fast shutter speeds I had no idea, coming from 11mm landscapes, different world for me it's like I've not used a camera before - or at least not used half of mine. Your vid is helping me find my feet, thanks again!

[clivewelch]

Hi Paul great video stunning images and plenty of info cant ask for more than that. Until next time take care my friend.

[paulinefollett]

I have used the extension tube technique before and it works a treat. Thanks for the invaluable tips and tricks Paul. It is greatly appreciated.

[toniboi]

Another great video, such easy to follow instructions thank you

[CelotehWildlife]

I Like Birds and Wildlife for me every bird is beautiful

[anantdabholkar]

Very good points and insights! Thank you, subscribed.

[Derbyshire_bird_tours]

Super tips Paul, I’ve never thought about an extension tube before but may give it a go. Thanks.

[cantkeepitin]

I expected some good hints, but your video gives me so many great hints, super great!!

[laughinghyenasafaris]

Great information Paul especially your trick using the 25mm extension tube