Wild animals are going to do as they wish; there is no recomposing or adjusting them, you just need to be ready. When they decided to do something interesting or spectacular you one should have your eye on the viewfinder and not messing around with setting or fiddling knobs. In a few short minutes, Danish photographer, Morten Hilmer, reveals his “three best custom settings” for capturing stunning images of animals.

That said, these tips have applications for other genres of photography also, like sports, aviation, and others. Furthermore, they are applicable to any major camera brand, though you will have to figure out how to navigate their menu set-ups.

[REWIND: 7 Top Tricks For Nikon Users To Get The Most Out Of Nikon Cameras]

While you can take pictures of animals resting, it’s more common/exciting to see them in action running across the plain, pouncing on prey, or jumping with excitement. Capturing these moments requires a bit of skill with constant attention.

a herd of deer are silhouetted as the sun rises behind them. Demonstrating the planning a professional photographer goes through
Photo by Square Mountain Photography

Hilmer doesn’t like to remove his eye from the viewfinder in order not to miss the shot. He has set up custom camera settings to make adjustments without looking at the back of the camera. He says the custom settings enable him to shoot faster, and more efficient, without missing a fleeting moment.

Whether you are trying to capture a tower of giraffes in the savannas of Africa or a scurry of squirrels in your own backyard some of the best tools in your bag can be patience and persistence. A successful wildlife photographer will have an absolute command of their camera to the point it becomes an extension of who they are.