Hobby photography, any camera
Photograph the wildlife in your backyard, and the pets on your sofa
Beginner guides to settings, light and patience. Every setting here is a starting point, not a rule, and it works on a camera or a phone with manual (Pro) mode.
Find your first shot| Subject | Shutter speed | Best light |
|---|---|---|
| Birds at a feeder | 1/1000 s or faster | Golden hour |
| Sleeping cat | 1/125 s | Window light |
| Dog running | 1/1000 s or faster | Open shade |
| Squirrel on a fence | 1/500 s | Morning |
Where to start
Backyard birds and wildlifeFeeders, fences and patience: how to get close without disturbing anything.
Pets at homeEye level, window light and a toy just above the lens.
Light outdoorsGolden hour, open shade and what midday sun does to fur and feathers.
Camera settings explainedShutter speed, aperture and ISO, one setting at a time.
Latest guides
- How to Photograph the Moon: 5 Beginner Settings & Looney 11 RuleLearn how to photograph the moon with sharp crater detail. Master the Looney 11 rule, telephoto focal lengths, exposure settings, and night framing techniques.
- Cat Photography: 3 Indoor Light Setups & Action RulesMaster cat photography with our comparison of 3 indoor light setups. Learn camera settings, silent shutter techniques, and toy engagement for indoor cats.
- Wildlife Photography Tips: 5 Ethical Myths vs Field FactsMaster essential wildlife photography tips for beginners. Separate ethical field myths from facts when photographing backyard squirrels, deer, and woodland animals.
- Dog Photography Tips: 7 Field Rules for Expressive Action & PortraitsDiscover proven dog photography tips for capturing sharp action shots and expressive portraits. Master ground-level positioning, eye autofocus, and safety rules.
- Shutter Speed for Animals: 5 Action Rules & Data TableMaster shutter speed settings for wildlife and pets. Learn exact shutter speed values for running dogs, flying birds, and resting pets with our field reference data table.
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