Equipment

As many photographers will understand wildlife photography can become a consuming passion; there is always a new camera or lens that one would like to have, but it is always good to remember that the equipment is not everything – as it not the camera that takes the photograph it is you!

Main Camera - Canon R5

However, that said having the right equipment certainly helps. I currently use the Canon R5 and the upgrade to mirrorless has been a game changer.

There are many great cameras on the market and the camera you choose is often personal choice, maybe what you are used to and of course budget!

I find the Canon R5 an excellent choice due to its advanced animal eye-detection, high resolution (45MP) and fast burst rates.

Canon RF 100mm - 500mm
This lens is simply great for wildlife photography offering a considerable range without the need for too many lenses, converters and the need to keep changing lenses in the wild (thus avoiding the potential for dust to clog up your sensor).

Canon RF 70mm - 200mm f/2.8
This is a Versatile, compact professional lens. It has fast autofocus and performs well in low light. Extremely useful in the early morning light and at dusk. The f/2.8 also offers the ability to blur the background and thus achieving focus on your subject.

Second Camera / Body

If you have the option to have a second body it is extremely useful. The option to shoot wide angle to include the scenery as well as having the telephoto capability ensures you can gets some lovely photos of the landscapes and the animals and birds in their environment.

Ideally it is good to aim for two bodies that are the same!

Another option is to have a compact camera as your "second" body.

Other Lenses

For general use I have the RF 24mm-240mm lens. This is a lightweight and relatively affordable lens offering an all-in-one solution.

The Canon 8mm-15mm fisheye lens. This has proved to be great fun and there have been occasions when the 180 degree circular view has offered a unique and creative output.

Along with these lenses a wide angle lens and the 70mm - 200mm afford me a full range of options for wildlife photography.