Getting Closer: Rediscovering Nature Through Bird Photography

Photographer Sorrell (Fleurs Place) encourages readers to reconnect with the natural world through photography in this beautiful book, illustrated throughout with his stunning snapshots of the birds and scenery of his homeland of New Zealand. Beginning with an introduction that provides stark statistics on climate change, habitat loss, and extinction, Sorrell points to the Western world’s disconnection from nature as the root cause, one that can yet be remedied through small actions that bring humans back into contact with wildlife and open spaces. Leaving technical instruction to other books, Sorrell focuses instead on the more rudimentary aspects of wildlife photography, from how to approach one’s subject (carefully and respectfully) to considerations for light conditions, composition, and background. Sorrell also provides valuable advice on equipment, ways to stay safe outdoors, and post-processing actions such as cropping and color correction. His book demonstrates how backyards and city parks make wildlife photography an accessible hobby for all, and although Sorrell naturally focuses on the birds around him in New Zealand, his tips are applicable to any terrain or species.