Do I need a camera?

Frequently asked questions about birding #13

Do I need a camera when I go birding?

No.

But I guarantee you will be saying “If only I had a camera” far too many times.

I carry a small camera bag containing a small digital camera when I go birding. They are so small, light and easy to use. I’ve got so many wonderful photos over recent months that it has totally renewed my interest in photography.

A word of warning: always take spare batteries. I had a wonderful opportunity to take a photo of a rare bird once and the batteries died just a few minutes before. I now carry TWO sets of spare batteries! I’m a slow learner.

Update November 2013:

Since writing this article I have taken many thousands of photos, both here in Australia and overseas. I have included the best of them on this site. Browse through the archives for articles which might interest you; most have at least one photo. Below is a selection of just a few.

Red-collared Lorikeet at Adelaide Zoo

Crested pigeon

White-browed Woodswallow

Sacred Kingfisher