Category: Updates from the Studio

At the Garden Studio, we take great pride in capturing stunning images of birds in their natural surroundings.
However, there’s a lot more to those captivating shots than meets the eye.
In this post, we want to shed some light on what goes on behind the scenes to set up those perfect moments.
From attracting birds to keeping pesky squirrels at bay, our efforts create a harmonious environment that allows us to capture the beauty of nature.

To entice birds into our garden, we’ve dedicated a specific area to provide them with a habitat that feels like home.
Alongside our ground-level plants and flowers, we have strategically placed feeders to offer a reliable food source.
These feeders, which are usually hidden from view in our images, play a crucial role in attracting our feathered friends.

One of our key setups involves utilizing shepherd’s hooks to suspend feeders at a height of 8 feet above the ground.
This elevation helps to keep the birds safe from potential predators while providing them with a comfortable feeding spot.
Additionally, we have incorporated a clever twist by attaching a hanging plant on the other side of the shepherd’s hook.
This ingenious addition specifically targets hummingbirds, as their affinity for nectar-rich blooms is well-known.

While squirrels bring their charm to the garden, they can sometimes become a nuisance when they devour all the birdseed intended for our feathered visitors.
To prevent them from outsmarting our feeder setup, we’ve applied a simple yet effective technique.
The shepherd’s hooks have been coated with vegetable oil, acting as a deterrent for squirrels attempting to climb up.
The oil leaves a harmless, yet unpleasant residue on their paws, making the climbing experience less appealing and discouraging them from reaching the feeder.

Even though we have taken measures to attract birds and deter squirrels, it’s important for us to maintain the authenticity of the garden’s appearance.
Our goal is to create an environment that feels as natural as possible, ensuring that the birds and other wildlife are comfortable and at ease.
The careful selection of plants, positioning of feeders, perches, and use of subtle props all contribute to the overall aesthetics while preserving the essence of a genuine natural habitat.

The beauty captured in our garden studio images is a testament to the effort and thought put into the setup behind the scenes.
By creating a welcoming atmosphere for birds, incorporating the shepherd’s hook setup, and outsmarting squirrels, we have cultivated an environment that allows us to witness nature’s wonders up close.
Our commitment to preserving the natural appearance ensures that the images we capture truly reflect the beauty and harmony of the avian world.
Next time you admire our bird photography, remember the intricate details that make those shots possible.

Following our previous blog post on creating natural settings for bird photography, we’re excited to provide a follow-up that delves deeper into the topic.
In this edition, we’ll explore specific examples and techniques used in our Garden Studio throughout the seasons to attract birds and create natural-looking scenes.
From using pumpkins as bird feeders in Autumn to selecting vibrant flowers for hummingbirds in Spring, we’ll cover it all.
Let’s dive in!

During Autumn, our Garden Studio embraces the spirit of the season by using hollowed-out pumpkins as bird feeders.
We carve out the pumpkins and fill them with birdseed, creating a playful and natural-looking feeding station.
This technique not only attracts birds but also adds a touch of seasonal charm to our photography setup.
While pumpkins may eventually be enjoyed by hungry raccoons, they provide temporary yet visually appealing feeders for birds.

In the Winter months, after the pumpkins have served their purpose or been consumed, we switch to free feeding using natural logs and branches. These rustic feeders blend seamlessly into the environment and create a truly natural setting.
Birds can perch on the branches and enjoy the provided food, allowing for more authentic photographs.
By incorporating these natural elements, we enhance the sense of realism in our bird photography.

When Spring arrives, we focus on attracting colorful bird species such as Purple Finches and Gold Finches.
One effective way to do this is by planting vibrant flowers that catch their attention from above.
Choosing a variety of colorful flowers not only adds beauty to the setting but also entices the birds to visit.
It’s important to note that the flowers and settings that attract finches may differ from those that attract hummingbirds.

To attract hummingbirds, it’s crucial to provide ample nectar-producing flowers. 
While the color red is highly attractive to hummingbirds, it’s equally important to prioritize flowers that produce abundant nectar.
Some examples of hummingbird-friendly flowers include bleeding hearts, impatiens, petunias, salvias, bee balm, columbine, cannas, viburnums, and honeysuckles.
A well-designed hummingbird garden should feature flowers that bloom at different times, ensuring a consistent food source for these enchanting creatures.

By continuing our exploration of creating natural settings for bird photography, we’ve uncovered specific techniques used in our Garden Studio throughout the seasons.
From utilizing pumpkin bird feeders in Autumn to selecting colorful flowers for vibrant bird species in Spring, each season presents unique opportunities to enhance our bird photography setups. Remember, the key is to strike a balance between providing a natural environment for birds and capturing captivating images that showcase their beauty.
So, get inspired, experiment with different ideas, and enjoy the wonders of nature while honing your bird photography skills.