Today, with the growing demand from wildlife photographers to capture magical moments between wild animals and their natural environment without interfering or frightening them, the question arises as to how camouflage can be used to take photos in these conditions. Let's find out what the advantages and disadvantages of camouflage are in wildlife photography, and what equipment and clothing you need to get the shots you want without disturbing a wild animal.
What is camouflage netting for wildlife photography?
Camouflage is the use of patterns, speeds and colours in an outfit to minimise environmental visibility. It has been used for hunting for hundreds of years, and is now frequently used by wildlife photographers. Camouflage clothing helps photographers to blend into the environment and go unnoticed. The aim is to avoid frightening wild animals and to get close enough to take intimate photos without disturbing them. Used as a blind or as a ghillie, camouflage netting allows you to get as close as possible to animals with your lens and even fool the animal's sense of smell to get some great shots. This will increase your chances of success in being as unobtrusive as possible and enable you to conceal your human form even in tall grass. Military camouflage netting is still the most versatile, and its material resembles a 3d outfit or a hunting blind (ghillie outfits). There are several techniques for successfully photographing birds, for example, but it's better to choose a lightweight fabric rather than a long-sleeved 3d ghillie outfit. Your objective remains the same: to be discreet.
What do you need for wildlife photos in camouflage?
Good camouflage is important, but it's not enough to guarantee optimum performance. Before going out on the prowl, you should also take into account the specific geographical and climatic location of the wild animal you want to photograph. We recommend using several materials separately or in combination (e.g. foil, camouflage netting, lightweight synthetic fibre, etc....). Plain tops and bottoms have the added advantage that they can be dyed to match local habitat colours for an even more discreet look in the field.
Certain things such as a sturdy camera with good lenses, a torch (for making the owl call, for example) a stable tripod and a rucksack to keep your gear in while walking are also necessary. This will also provide better protection for your equipment in bad weather.
Advantages and disadvantages of camouflage for photographic hunting
The greatest advantage of using camouflage is that it will make you less visible to wild animals, so you'll be able to get closer more easily. This makes it possible to observe and photograph specimens that would otherwise be too frightened by a human presence. You will also be able to get closer to these animals to capture intimate and extremely detailed photos.
However, the risk of being noticed is greater with camouflage than without (given that animals are sensitive to both smell and the colour and texture of materials). What's more, maintaining total silence or remaining motionless for long periods can be difficult if your outfit isn't properly designed.
Where can you do wildlife photography while camouflaged, without clothes or accessories?
Nature reserves are certainly the best places for this type of activity, as they are usually designated models where wildlife protection laws are strictly enforced. Nearby areas that do not yet belong to a reserve can also be considered a good option if the rules in force are strictly adhered to - without disturbing or harming the environment.
Find a professional guide to wildlife camouflage photography
If you want to find a professional guide to accompany you on your camouflage photography trip, start by searching specialist websites or forums dedicated to wildlife photographers. Local associations can also be a good source of information and support for finding qualified professionals who can guide you to maximise your chances of capturing interesting and authentic wildlife photos using camouflage.
Conclusion on camouflage for wildlife photography
Camouflage is a very common practice among wildlife photographers. It allows photographers to blend in with their surroundings and get closer to animals, making for more intimate shots. Although there are certain risks in using it, it is very important to understand that camouflage is a form of protection for the wild animals you are photographing and not a means of disturbing them. For the majority of wildlife photographers, wearing camouflage netting, camouflage clothing and other styles adapted to their needs is the ideal equipment.
Finally, to stay within the law and avoid inflicting any ill-intentioned harm on nature, it may be a good idea to seek out a professional guide to accompany you on your photographic journey using camouflage. With a little knowledge, a lot of training and the right outfit, this practice can be very lucrative - while respecting the wild animals whose photos you take.