A big part of bird photography is more than just capturing the image—it’s about immersing yourself in the environment, understanding the behavior of these incredible creatures, and continuously learning.
Travis, Trav in the Bush
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Travis Layton, known as “Trav in the Bush” online, is a passionate bird photographer whose journey is an inspiring blend of adventure and dedication to his craft. His work captures the rare beauty and different behaviors of birds in their natural habitats, all while sharing his experiences and knowledge with a growing audience on Instagram. Travis’s enthusiasm for his craft is palpable, as he continually seeks out new challenges (such as his workshops) and perfects his techniques.
In this episode, Travis and I talk about:
- His transition from a multi-day hiking and kayaking guide to a full-time bird photographer.
- The role of vertical video content on Instagram in shaping his photography career.
- His favorite bird photography subjects, including shorebirds and bird colonies.
& much more!
I enjoyed my conversation with Travis as it provided deep insights into the world of bird photography and the dedication required to excel in this niche. His journey from guiding to full-time content creation is a testament to his passion and perseverance. Travis has faced numerous challenges but continues to approach his work with enthusiasm and a commitment to capturing stunning bird moments.
Q: What inspired you to transition from guiding multi-day hiking and kayaking trips to becoming a full-time bird photographer?
Travis: I was always passionate about content creation and photography, even while guiding multi-day hiking, sea kayaking, and dog sledding trips across Canada. When COVID-19 hit, and the rise of vertical video content on Instagram started booming, I saw an opportunity. I dove into creating fun and relatable content for other photographers, which unknowingly helped me build a large audience. This shift, coupled with learning about the business side of photography, allowed me to transition into full-time bird photography content creation.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in bird photography?
Travis: First and foremost, build a community. Whether it’s joining a local camera club or finding a group online, having a network of like-minded individuals can greatly enhance your learning experience and keep you motivated. If you’re aiming to go professional, understanding the business aspect is crucial. Reach out to established photographers, ask questions, and learn from their experiences. Finally, invest in good equipment within your budget, especially quality glass, and practice as much as possible focusing on clean backgrounds and natural lighting.
Q: Can you tell me about one of your most memorable bird photography experiences?
Travis: One of my most memorable experiences was a trip to Newfoundland, where I fell in love with photographing shorebirds and bird colonies like puffins, gannets, and common murres. The sheer diversity and beauty of these birds were incredible, and it deepened my passion for bird photography even more.
Killer photos. Great work.