Before the Shutter
A bird lifts from the water. An alligator's eyes break the surface. For a moment, the subject, the light, and the background come together. Knowing what to do with that opportunity takes observation, practice, and an understanding of your camera.
In Before the Shutter, Louisiana photographer Eric McVicker guides readers through the decisions that shape a wildlife photograph, from planning an outing and finding subjects to choosing camera settings, anticipating movement, and recognizing a composition worth waiting for.
Built around his photographs and experiences in the field, this illustrated guide explains exposure, autofocus, long-lens technique, light, composition, and respectful approaches to wildlife. Behind-the-photograph examples reveal the choices that made an image work, while missed shots and alternate frames help readers understand what went wrong and what to try next.
Practical exercises, troubleshooting guides, and camera-bag references turn each lesson into something readers can use. The instruction continues beyond the outing, with guidance on selecting keepers, editing thoughtfully, and presenting a finished body of work.
Written for beginners and developing photographers, Before the Shutter uses Louisiana's wildlife and landscapes to teach skills that travel anywhere. It encourages readers to understand the equipment they own, pay closer attention to the natural world, and make each photograph with greater intention.
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