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Hi, what I've noticed when photigraphing ducks is that I have to be 4-5 meters away from the subject to get a good detailed shot. I've noticed that most ducks etc don't come into that distance so he do you guys get the wonderful detailed shots shwn here.
You would think that at 400mm would give you great reach but it's generally outside the range of the birds.
There are a multitude of ways....many images are taken in locations (like the Zoo or a city park) where birds are very accustomed to people, many images are taken in areas where feed is provided by people on a regular basis, many people use stealth such as a camo blind or even a small boat with camo netting these are just a few ideas.
That being said, it is always the case with birds that more focal length is wanted:S3:
Depends what type of image you are after. Obviously a "habitat" type image usual has the subject smaller in the frame, thus logically farther away when the picture was taken. The reverse is true for a tight portrait. "Optimal" distance also varies with the size of the subject.
To repeat what Joel replied, city parks with ponds most often host habituated wild ducks and if legal at that spot many will come close for food offerings(e.g. cracked corn). In "wilder" areas where waterfowl tends to be more wary you may have to use concealement and patience, perhaps calls and/or decoys.
If you can get yourself out to a WWT (Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust) reserve you will have ample opportunity to photograph a huge variety of species both wild and captive. Even the wild ones will follow you about!
Contact your local birding group (there may be two in Northamtonshire) and ask for advice on hot spots for wilfowl, waders and other common birds.
A 400mm lens will be more than ample. You can get close to any bird using fieldcraft it usually invoves using a hide or some kind of cover.
If you are able to, try and cultivate a relationship with local farmers/landowners who will let you on their land, some may even let you build a hide...offer them your best photos and a bottle of drink at Christmas.
If you know little about birds then you should familiarise yourself with the Sdedule 1 list of birds in the Wildlife and Countryside Act. The birds listed in Schedule 1 are protected by law in England and it is an offence to photograph them at or near the nest during breeding season. Also note that it is an offence to photograph the dependant young. If you wish to photograph such birds then you will require a licence and to get a licence you will have to demonstrate experience as a bird photographer.
If you can, get yourself a mentor.
Good luck
