Childhood memories of playing hide and seek often evoke a sense of excitement and anticipation. In the natural world, this childhood game takes on a new dimension through the lens of wildlife photographers. Hiding from wildlife can be difficult, but doing it well can improve your chances of getting some truly amazing photos. Camouflage, the art of blending into one’s surroundings, becomes an essential tool for photographers seeking to capture elusive moments in the animal kingdom. The debate about the effectiveness of camouflage for wildlife photography seems to vary from what you read to who you talk to. Some will argue that it has little to no effect at all. That seems funny to me because the camouflage clothing industry thrives within the hunting community who have seemingly accepted its effectiveness for years. I’ve personally experienced the effectiveness of camouflage use in my wildlife photography and don’t need much convincing. From earth-toned clothing to specifically designed camouflage gear and innovative hides, photographers can employ a variety of techniques to become invisible observers. I know that camouflage won’t make you a better photographer but if used properly it will improve your opportunities.
