Dicas para fotografar a vida selvagem e por que a 150-500 mm funciona para mim

Long before I ever got into photography, I was fascinated by wildlife. As a child, I remember keeping lists during family vacations of all the animals I spotted. Fast forward 25 years, as I pursued a career as a professional nature photographer, wildlife remained one of my favorite subjects to capture. In this article, I’ll share my tips for wildlife photography with the Tamron 150-500mm, a lens that has become one of my go-to tools. With advancements in camera and lens technology, capturing sharp, intimate wildlife images has never been more accessible — and the Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD (Model A057) plays a huge role in making that possible.

Texto e imagens de Don Mammoser

In this article, you will learn to master these wildlife photography skills:

Capture tack-sharp wildlife images using the Tamron 150-500mm lens.
Approach and photograph animals without startling them.
Create powerful compositions with smart framing and background control.
Anticipate animal behavior to get once-in-a-lifetime shots.
Choose the right light, season, and settings for unforgettable wildlife photos.

Why the Tamron 150-500mm is a Game-Changer for Wildlife

Over the years, cameras and lenses have evolved tremendously, and today’s gear gives wildlife photographers unprecedented opportunities. The Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD (Model A057) stands out with its lightweight build, impressive zoom range, fast focusing, and outstanding sharpness.

Quick highlights of why I trust the Tamron 150-500mm:

Compact and lightweight at only 3.8 pounds
Quick, accurate autofocus for fast-moving subjects
Incredible sharpness and image quality
Perfect zoom range to keep a safe distance from wildlife

Tips for Wildlife Photography with the Tamron 150-500mm

Capturing stunning wildlife images takes more than just luck — it requires patience, planning, and the right equipment. Over the years, I’ve developed a set of strategies that consistently help me create better, sharper, and more impactful wildlife photos. Thanks to the advanced features of the Tamron 150-500mm lens, these techniques have become even easier to execute. Below, I’m sharing my top tips for wildlife photography with the Tamron 150-500mm to help you make the most of your time in the field and come home with images you’ll be proud of.

Here are some of my tips for wildlife photography with the Tamron 150-500mm ultra-telephoto lens on my Sony cameras.

TIP 1: Real-World Success: Photographing Bighorn Sheep

One memorable outing perfectly showcased how vital the right lens is. I targeted a known wintering area for Bighorn Sheep in Colorado, accessible only by hiking or mountain biking. Naturally, I brought the Tamron 150-500mm because its lightweight form made the bike ride manageable. When I located the herd, the zoom range allowed me to capture beautiful images without alarming the animals.

Quick Tips for Wildlife Encounters:

Choose lightweight gear for remote locations.
Use the zoom to stay distant and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Watch for moments when animals lift their heads or separate for stronger compositions.

TIP 2: Mastering Anticipation: Capturing Movement and Action

In wildlife photography, timing is everything. After photographing the Bighorn Sheep herd, I waited patiently and anticipated their behavior. As they crossed a river one by one, I was ready to freeze the perfect moment with a fast shutter speed and the responsive autofocus of the Tamron lens.

Action Photography Essentials:

Always anticipate the subject’s next move.
Use fast shutter speeds to freeze action cleanly.
Focus on capturing natural motion and separation between animals.

TIP 3: Getting Low: A Game-Changer for Bird Photography

For photographing waterfowl like ducks, the key is to get to eye level with your subjects. I use the flip-out screen on my Sony camera and place it on a ground pod or my outstretched leg while sitting lakeside. Thanks to the lightweight Tamron 150-500mm, this approach is easier and more comfortable.

In both my duck images (above and below), getting low created intimate perspectives and stunning backgrounds filled with autumn colors.

Quick Tips for Low-Angle Photography:

Always shoot at the subject’s eye level.
Use a ground pod or sit low to the ground.
Leverage colorful backgrounds to enhance image appeal.

TIP 4: Timing Your Wildlife Shoots with Nature’s Calendar

Another crucial aspect of tips for wildlife photography with the Tamron 150-500mm is shooting with the seasons in mind. For instance, impressive Whitetail Deer in prime condition appear during the fall rut, making autumn the perfect time for photographing majestic males.

I often use my vehicle as a mobile blind, driving through wildlife refuges. The Tamron 150-500mm’s versatile zoom lets me react instantly to scenes, adjusting my framing without needing to leave the car and risk startling the animals.

Seasonal Wildlife Photography Tips:

Spring is ideal for photographing baby animals.
Fall is best for capturing strong, healthy males.
Use your vehicle creatively as a blind to minimize disturbance.

TIP 5: Common Species Can Shine Too

Not every award-winning image needs a rare animal. Even common species like Northern Flickers (above) and squirrels (below) can yield stunning photos if you apply key photography techniques. Using the Tamron 150-500mm, I captured incredible feather detail on a Flicker and a charming portrait of a squirrel mid-stride. Thoughtful camera placement and background control made all the difference.

Tips for Photographing Common Wildlife:

Look for interesting poses and direct eye contact.
Focus on background separation for clean, bokeh-rich shots.
Treat every subject, no matter how common, with the same care and patience.

Final Thoughts: Why the Tamron 150-500mm is My Go-To Wildlife Lens

After years as a professional photographer and photo tour leader, I can say with confidence that the Tamron 150-500mm consistently delivers the performance needed for outstanding wildlife images.

On my full-frame Sony or APS-C body (where it becomes a 225-750mm equivalent!), it provides:

Lightning-fast focus
Pin-sharp detail
Comfortable ergonomics for long days in the field

With these tips for wildlife photography with the Tamron 150-500mm, I hope you feel inspired to head outdoors and capture your own unforgettable wildlife moments. Springtime is around the corner — and with it comes baby animals just waiting to be photographed!

Saiba mais sobre fotografia da vida selvagem in TAMRON Magazine Issue 14. To find out more about the Tamron 150-500mm available for Sony E-mount, Fujifilm X-mount and Nikon Z-mount mirrorless cameras, find an revendedores autorizados Tamron em sua área ou visite o site Loja TAMRON hoje.

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