Today’s ‘Photography Thursday’ Video Corner looks at some tips and tricks when photographing a common toad, then critiques a couple of the photographs taken during the shoot.

Tips for Photographing a Common Toad

• You can use any focal length macro lens to get frame-filling images (50mm - 180mm)
• Seek professional advice of you have any doubts about handling amphibians
• Set an aperture of around f/5.6 - f/8
• Take a meter reading from a neutral tone and set exposure manually on the camera
• Ensure eyes are in the same plane of focus & check for throat movement
• Shutter speeds can be slow so ensure camera is stable on a tripod or beanbag
• Consider using a polarizing filter if reflections or flare are a problem