Hi everyone, it's Cindy Goeddel @goeddelphotography and this is Day 5 of my week-long takeover. Thank you for following along.
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As a permitted Yellowstone photography instructor and guide, I love to share my passion for winter wildlife photography with others. Before heading out with a new group, I share these fundamental tips on approaching wildlife:
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In Yellowstone you must stay at least 25 yards away from all wildlife, and at least 100 yards away from wolves and bears. This is especially important in winter, as it’s vital not to disrupt or stress an animal when its reserves are at their lowest. Study your subjects ahead of time to learn their behaviors and, if you see signs of stress or changes in behavior, you are too close. No photograph is worth jeopardizing the well-being of any wildlife.
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Try not to stop and get out of your vehicle right in front of your subject, as it is a surefire way to disrupt its behavior and cause stress. Don’t approach the wildlife and then start fumbling with your camera trying to attach it to the tripod. It causes a disturbance in front of the subject and other photographers. Set-up, meter and then approach when you are ready to photograph. I find it works really well to use a vehicle as a blind while setting up and metering.
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To get closer without scaring the subject away, I employ the staggered dis-interested amble and try to move 10-20 yards at a time while watching for any change in behavior. If behavior changes, I stop and wait for it to normalize. One tight group is better than individual photographers spread out. Take care not to encircle the creature or block it's path. It is of equal importance to be careful not to disrupt them when you have finished photographing and are departing.
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