If you've got hotel reservations to visit Denali National Park, you could be considering brushing up on your photography skills. With diverse wildlife ranging from Dall's sheep and caribou to grizzly bears and wolves, having your camera ready will make great memories. You'll also have a chance to photograph hundreds of species of birds. To help you capture the perfect picture, consider the following tips. 

5 Tips for Wildlife Photography

1. Try to Shoot at Eye Level

Whether it means getting low or finding a higher vantage point, shooting at eye level creates an aesthetically pleasing and relatable shot. However, photographing a bird is an exception. In this case, finding a safe vantage point for eye-level photography can be difficult.

2. Aim for Plain Backgrounds

A distracting background will take away from your subject. Therefore, you should frame the animal you seek to capture in a way that minimizes noise. Plain backgrounds against the sky, sand, or even trees can help it stick out. You can also try to shoot with the subject in focus and the surroundings slightly blurred. 

3. Capture Subjects with the Rule of Thirds

Regardless of what you photograph, using the rule of thirds instead of centering on your subject will ensure a stunning and memorable image. This technique involves offsetting the balance of the picture rather than focusing straight on it. Before leaving your hotel for the day, try practicing in your room to get a feel for this photography method. 

4. Use a Zoom Lens 

When photographing animals, maintaining distance between you and the subject will keep you safe while avoiding unsettling the creature. Use a high-quality zoom lens to capture details only seen up close without putting either of you in danger. For a comprehensive lens, try something between 28 and 300 mm.

5. Take Pictures at Golden Hour

Golden hour is the time of the day when the sun starts to set. When it's close to the horizon, you won't have harsh overhead light and dark shadows that can wash out the subject. Instead, the lighting accentuates natural details, making your animal photography pop.

If you're planning a visit to Denali National Park, ensure a good night's sleep by making hotel reservations at Totem Inn. This second-generation family-owned and -operated establishment offers a full-service facility, including comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and cable, a restaurant and lounge, and a fitness center. They also have a sauna, pool, and arcade bar for entertainment after a long day in the wild. Visit their website to learn more about their accommodations, and call (907) 683-6500 to book a hotel reservation today.