How to photograph deer in the wild

Photographing deer means long lenses and lots of patience. Here we share our best deer photography tips to help you bag better pictures of stags this season

Capturing wildlife is a challenge on several levels. It’s a test of your patience, dedication and, if you have a big lens, even your arm muscles. But it’s a chance to observe beautiful creatures behaving naturally, and perseverance can be rewarded with photos to be proud of.

There’s always an element of luck involved in wildlife photography, as you can never be sure that the animals will play ball, but with perseverance you can make your own luck.

Wildlife photographers will visit the same location time and time again, waiting for the right moment when animal, light and composition all come together to create the perfect shot.

It pays to be up and in position very early, as deer activity is usually most intense just after dawn.

Of course, this is often also one of the best times of the day for light, especially if you’re lucky enough to get the magic combination of morning sunlight and low-lying mist. Wild deer get spooked easily, so stay downwind, wear dark clothes and keep quiet.

Alternatively, head to a deer sanctuary or park where the animals are used to people. Here you can usually get in closer or use dedicated viewing areas.

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Gear you’ll need to photograph deer

Keep it steady
Big lenses are packed with glass and very heavy, especially ones with wide maximum apertures, so you’ll need a tripod or monopod to help keep them rock steady. Most big lenses come with a bracket so you can attach the lens to your stand rather than the camera body.

Tripod and head
A tripod with a gimbal head is ideal for long lenses as it keeps the lens steady and allows you to scan the scene. If you don’t have a gimbal head you could try a video head, as these let you pan and tilt the lens while providing a bit of friction.

Monopod
Monopods allow you to be more mobile and react quicker than tripods, although with one leg rather than three they are less steady. They take the weight of the lens and prevent vertical camera movement, which makes it easier to search a scene for wildlife.

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