observing, photographing or both equal.

[DaiTheDragon]

I was just wondering, with regards to your particular interest, which comes first, observing, photographing or both equal.
For me its photography although I have to observe to be able to photograph but I don't often go out with just my binoculars just to observe.

Dai

[cannylad]

Hello Dai, it used to be observation was the most important aspect for me as i needed to remember as much detail for recording purposes. Now i often try for a photo as quickly as i can and work it out later at my leisure.

I think a bit of both is the best as photos do not recall jizz to well, but can be very useful for plumage etc.

For insects a photo is definitely required by myself as i am not to well versed in ID skills here.

regards brian.

[digi]

To be able to get a good photograph observing and staying in one place for some time is essential for me.

Digi

[Bushcraft]

Originally Posted by DaiTheDragon

I was just wondering, with regards to your particular interest, which comes first, observing, photographing or both equal.
For me its photography although I have to observe to be able to photograph but I don't often go out with just my binoculars just to observe.

Dai

Hi,

Observing is most important IMO, this is the best way to learn. Taking pics is great fun but you can and do miss a lot of the subject when setting the camera up and going for that perfect shot, etc. I often go out without my camera and lenses but when I leave these at home I will always see more, no its not just luck but its because im actually looking for different things. Just my opinion but I think many birders and wildlife spotters in general will agree.

Best wishes
Kris

[nightshade]

I just get caught up in the magic of the moment,the camera is quite often forgotten

[glsammy]

Photography for me, I hardly ever go to just view. If I did, I could guarantee to see something I would have dearly loved to capture.

[Ollie]

For me it's photography. I spent many years just observing with binoculars and telescope and like to think that during those years I learnt a lot about wildlife in general. However, since aquiring a camera and lens capable of catching those special moments my priorities have changed more to the photography aspect, although I do agree that capturing those moments still does require one to stand still and observe quite a lot.
Roger

[rlchew]

For me .... both equal.

From when I was a young kid to fairly recently, observation (birds and mammals) was my main interest.

However, last year I bought a DSLR which opened up the world of photography and developing my 2 websites. In addition, photography has created an interest in other wildlife, particularly butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies.

So now I would say both equal .... but the combination of binoculars, telescope, tripod, camera and lens is somewhat heavy and cumbersome so sometimes for the benefit of my back and limbs I make a choice as to whether it is an "observation day" or a "photography day" . Today is neither as it is grey and drizzly and I have other things to do .

Richard

[Beryl]

For me it's both really.
If I know there are birds around I will stand for ages just observing movement until I get my shot, som times I don't get it, but just watching birds is really great as they do much more than just hop from branch to twig, thay play and swing. I like the entertainment as well as the photography and mallard ducks provide such good entertainment, often make me laugh out loud

[Owl-Light]

Hi Dai

Both equal for me. Looking for a shot involves active observation anyway and often seeing the results reveals a great deal more than I even knew was there, especially with Macro work. I don't have the right camera equipment right now to take the best distance shots unfortunately. So I tend to take binoculars along and lament the absence of a huge camera lens, when I see things I'd love to have captured on camera.

Gotta keep saving those pennies

Sheryl

[Kev Lewis]

Photography first always. If I don't have a camera I can't see the point in walking lol

[wildone]

Depends on what I am going out for. If its birds, then because my camera is not good enough to take birds, I observe. On the other hand if it is Wildflowers and Fungi then I still like to observe but if I see something different I use the camera. Sometimes I like to take the camera in the hopes that I will see something to snap.

[ogwen]

I'd have to agree with Kris. I'd miss what the mammals/birds were doing with fidling with my camera.... not to mention I wouldn't get a brilliant picture. They tend to move off before I can click the button . I prefer just to watch their behavior and movement.

[Forestknights]

Observation for me. I need to be out in the wilds watching animal behaviour. I am now getting more into the photography side. Planning to buy a DSLR soon. I dont what to experience life through the lense of a camera.

I am often travelling in pretty wild conditions and worry that I will spend more time worrying about my camera than enjoying the freedom.

[Lincs Yellowbelly]

Observing easily for me i just love watching wildlife and aren't mega interested in trying to get a picture of it, and i don't really have the equipment to do so anyway.

I suppose for me its just being outside in the middle of nowhere and trying so watch wildlife doing it's thing

[Alan]

Probably equal.

I usually study the wildlife in a particular area (obviously local patches), and if I think there might be a photo opportunity there, I plan for it. These days I don’t normally go out with the photo gear and wander around looking for something to photograph (I’ve had my fill of roaming around for hours without taking the camera out the backpack!). I usually know what I want, and where I’m going first. I’ll only go out if the lights in my favour. Otherwise, it’s just binoculars and notebook/sketchbook for me.

It has to be said though, if I’m travelling a fair distance. I will take the photo gear, but again, I usually plan for good light/weather.

[Fourwings]

Both equal for me.

Good observation technique is essential if you wish to learn about a particular species, this knowledge you have gained can then be put to good use perfecting your fieldcraft skills which in turn will enable you to get that definative image.

[jerryh]

Both equal for me but, like Richard, I'd say different times and places for different activities. I do some wildlife sound recording as well, so that adds a third option with another bulky set of equipment!
I will often get to a location early to, say, do some sound recording then switch to birding when everyone else is up and making noise!
I do always take my binoculars with me whatever I'm doing. I find they help to spot and identify potential photo subjects - and if I want to change from photography to observation briefly, I have that option
One thing I'm certain about is that I can't give enough attention to any activity if I try to do more than one thing at a time.

Jerry

[Jonny]

Good question, and one that pops up from time to time, though never a poll, as far as I know.
I agree with what bushcraft says. It is important to observe, so to learn, and if you are concentrating on getting the perfect shot, you don't always get the full picture. I love to capture what I see, for the record and to show people what I have seen, but I do sometimes leave the camera at home.........