Is It Really All About the Light?

A loon at last light as the gold of the setting sun strikes the water

In the evolving journey of my photography, the significance of light has taken center stage. It has become the first and most crucial element I consider as soon as I step outside. Checking the weather forecast each evening has become a ritual, not just to see if the skies will be clear or overcast, but to plan precisely how the light will interact with my subjects at different times of the day. Ideally, I aim for sunny mornings to capture that elusive rim lighting, followed by a cloud cover that softens the midday harshness, and finally, a clearing in the evening to bathe the landscape in the golden hour's glow.

A great blue heron at sunset

This shift in focus didn’t happen overnight. It took years of practice and reflection to internalize that light should dictate how I approach each shot. In the early stages of my career, like many photographers, I was primarily concerned with the subject—capturing the animal in sharp focus, with an interesting composition. However, as I studied the work of master photographers and analyzed award-winning images, it became clear that while the subject is important, light is often the defining element that elevates an image from good to extraordinary. Yes, unique behaviors or rare species can make a photograph stand out, but consistently, it's the light that brings a scene to life.

A coastal brown bear at sunrise

Consider the example of photographing bears. There is no shortage of bear images available, but the ones that garner attention are those that showcase the bear in dramatic lighting—perhaps bathed in the warm tones of sunrise or silhouetted against a fiery sunset. Similarly, foxes, with their inherent beauty and photogenic appeal, offer countless opportunities for compelling images. Yet, to create a truly memorable fox photograph, the key lies in how you use the light to enhance the scene.

A coyote at sunrise

For photographers still developing their sense of light, I often recommend using tools like the PhotoPills app. While there’s a nominal cost, the value it brings to your photography is immense. The app precisely calculates where the sun will be on the horizon at any given time, which is invaluable for planning shots with optimal rim lighting. Ideally, positioning yourself at a 45° to 135° angle relative to the sun and your subject will yield the most effective results. Shooting directly into the sun can be rewarding but is best attempted when the sun is low on the horizon to avoid overpowering the scene.

A short-eared owl with rim light at sunset

When I’m on location, my primary objective is to identify where the light will be most favorable. Whether it’s a particular branch that would frame an owl perfectly at sunrise, or a ridge where an animal might be silhouetted against the evening sky, my approach is to anticipate where and when the light will create the most dramatic impact. Patience is key—sometimes it’s a matter of waiting just a few minutes, but other times it requires returning to the same spot over several days, as I did with my award-winning fox photo. However, the payoff is undeniable when you capture that perfect alignment of subject and light; those are the images that stand apart.

Award winning fox photo with filtered light causing a special bokeh effect

Working with clients, I frequently see technically excellent photos—sharp, well-composed, with pleasing backgrounds. However, in a world saturated with competent photography, it’s the light that distinguishes an outstanding image from the rest. Unless you capture an extraordinary behavioral moment, it is the quality of light that will leave a lasting impression.

A young bull moose at sunet

Mastering light is not merely about technical prowess; it’s about developing an instinctual understanding of its nuances. The more time you spend observing how light changes throughout the day, the more adept you become at predicting those fleeting moments of magic. This demands patience, presence, and sometimes the willingness to take risks, such as setting up in conditions that might initially seem unpromising. It's this dedication to capturing the perfect light that can transform a competent photographer into a master.

A bison at sunrise in early morning fog

Furthermore, learning to manipulate light in varying environmental conditions can significantly broaden your creative scope. Overcast days, often dismissed by less experienced photographers, provide soft, diffused light ideal for intimate wildlife portraits. Misty mornings add an ethereal quality, while even the harsh midday sun can be harnessed effectively by playing with shadows and contrast. Each type of light offers a distinct character to your images, and by mastering these variations, you can elevate your wildlife photography to an unparalleled level.

Chase the light—it's the difference between capturing a mere photograph and creating a work of art.