“The best wildlife photos are taken when the animal forgets you are there.” — inspired by the philosophy of wildlife photographer Frans Lanting.

 

A Life with Photography and Nature -

 

Digital camera technology has evolved rapidly over the past 25 years. Yet despite all these advances, the fundamental rules of photography remain timeless.

 

For nearly five years I cherished my Nikon D850 — a camera that brought me immense joy and taught me a great deal. At one point, I even believed it might have been the finest DSLR ever made.

 

Recently, however, I felt the need to embrace mirrorless technology in order to keep pace with the evolving photographic landscape. The Nikon Z8, with its 45.7 MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor and advanced subject-detection autofocus, allows me to track people, animals, and vehicles with remarkable precision.

 

One subtle but very important advantage in nature photography is the silent shutter. The mechanical shutter of my D850 sometimes startled deer, birds, and squirrels, causing me to miss precious moments. The Z8’s silent shutter, combined with 20 fps RAW shooting speed, allows me to remain almost invisible in the wild — something that reminds me of my early years with film cameras nearly fifty years ago.

 

Keeping my F-mount lenses through the Nikon FTZ adapter has been invaluable, allowing me to continue using my trusted MC-30 remote cord while benefiting from the versatility of my existing lenses.

 

My journey with photography began in the 1970s with black-and-white family photographs taken by my father. Over time I experimented with Asahi Pentax, Canon, and Nikon cameras, gaining hands-on experience with classics such as the FM, FG, and F3. As a young reporter, I spent countless hours in darkrooms developing my own photographs from interviews and assignments.

 

Digital photography entered my life in 2000 with the Nikon D1. Early challenges with color rendering pushed me to adapt and learn continuously, leading me through cameras such as the D70, D80, D90, D600/610, and eventually the D850 — my trusted companion for nearly half a decade.

 

Today my focus is documenting the natural world. Photographing birds in their habitats has taught me patience, observation, and humility — not only as a photographer, but also as a human being.

 

I believe that the most meaningful wildlife photographs are captured when the animal behaves naturally and forgets the presence of the photographer. Respecting nature and allowing wildlife to remain undisturbed has always been central to my approach.

 

Since joining Flickr in 2013, my photography has grown into a deeper dialogue with the natural world. Over the years, some of my images have been selected for Explore galleries — a rewarding recognition of dedication, patience, and observation.

 

The discipline required in wildlife photography continues to sharpen my journalistic instincts — a reflex developed during decades of reporting. This combination of nature and storytelling helps me capture moments that feel intimate, authentic, and meaningful.

 

I am always inspired by the work of Flickr members from around the world. When my photographs are added to galleries or receive comments and appreciation, I feel grateful.

 

However, I kindly request that my watermark remain untouched and that my photographs not be republished or presented as someone else's work. For any permissions, please contact me via Flickr mail.

 

© All rights reserved – RIDVAN ERTUG

 

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