# Photograph Animals Patiently

Part of the Photography Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/photography/guide/index.md)

*5. Field Practice: Requirement 5*

> **5d.** Animal shot

Animal photography teaches patience faster than almost any other kind of subject. Animals do not care about your timing, and they rarely hold still exactly where you want them.

### Start where success is likely

A pet, farm animal, zoo animal, or backyard bird can all work. The requirement does not say the animal must be wild. What matters is that you create a strong image while respecting the subject.

### What improves an animal photo

- focus on the eyes when possible
- get down closer to the animal's eye level
- leave space in front of the direction the animal is looking or moving
- wait for alert ears, open eyes, or interesting behavior

> **Safety First!**
>
> Do not approach wildlife too closely, bait animals for a photo, or disturb nests, dens, or resting places. If your presence changes the animal's behavior, you are too close.

### Patience beats chasing

Instead of chasing the animal, choose a good spot and wait. Animals often return to a comfortable behavior if you stay calm and predictable. That usually produces a better photograph and a safer experience.

![Annotated photo showing a Scout crouching to photograph a dog from the dog's eye level](https://ik.imagekit.io/doulacoop/tr:w-800/mbu-assets/merit-badges/photography/guide/animal-photo-eye-level?v=5d8e4077)

When you show this photo, talk about how you balanced patience, distance, and timing.

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