Bird Photography - 24 hours in my photo blind

I decide to sleep in my photo blind to hopefully get the opportunity to photograph the shy birds. Behind the scenes about the wildlife photographer’s alarm clock and more. Open full description for more information.
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Location: Denmark
Day: 7°C (44,6°F)
Night: 2°C (36°F)
A few questions:
1. From where did you get the blind?
Home made - I got it from a friend four years ago. I have modified it a bit with a foam floor. It is really heavy so I had to move it to the field with a tractor and put it on some logs to avoid the moisture destroying the wood. I would like to modify it so that I have windows 360. I would like to make some changes in the blind, so that it is more comfortable to lay down in there.
2. What do you use for baiting the birds?
I most often use road kills that I find when I drive around. Sometimes one of the farmers has some bones after slaughtering - I also use that. I prefer road kills though because they are natural and because I move them from the road and avoid further kills of scavengers like craws, ravens and foxes. I have an extra freezer to store these road kills. I am very aware not to bait too often. Usually 5-10 times during one season. I do not want to disturb the natural behaviour of the wildlife by making them used to a feeding spot.
3. Is it bad for nature to bait?
The short answer is yes and no. From a “disturbing the balance in nature” it can be a bad idea to bait. But then again when it comes to disturbing nature, we humans are doing a pretty good job on that in almost everything we do, and I do believe all baiting can not be put in the same category. Feeding the birds in the garden outside your window is baiting, but I believe it helps some birds to survive in an area where people have taken over their habitat and replaced the woodlands and meadows with roads and concrete buildings.
It is all a balance and it should in my opinion not be judged as a right/wrong question. It is more complex.
I am very aware of not to bait too much and too often. My focus is on not letting the animals getting too used to a food source that they then depend on. It is more like a snack once or twice a week with months of not baiting.
Just my opinion and it might change as I get more knowledge.
4. How do you record through your viewfinder?
I use an Atomos Ninja V that I have connected to the camera. I find it rather difficult to use for general wildlife photography because it add both weight and volume. I think it is worth it though since it allows me to sometimes share my view through the camera.
5. What camera and lens are you using and why?
In this video I am using the Canon R5 for photography and the R6 for vlogging. The lens on the Canon R5 is the 200-400 with build in 1,4x converter.
6. Are you using Canon now?
I recorded the video just before I delivered back the equipment back to Canon. At the moment I am photographing with Nikon.
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All the best
Morten

[@alexadventures5620]

It’s incredible how much effort Morten puts into the cinematography of these videos, filming it alone with those nice details it’s such an effort, it always deserves a like

[@MichaelSeneschal]

That little dog is wonderful. :)

[@onkargurav6855]

😘😂😂😂

[@keitha.9788]

The dog is the brains of this operation..............

[@user-rj4ih9hm5x]

m.kzbin.info/door/ZrEjzAJ3AdShOyywXxzRKQ

[@dakika1545]

Loved it too...

[@mustangspitfire6835]

Yes he is, a great companion.

[@amberluecke6644]

Bjorne’s little snore is adorable. It’s fantastic you are able to include him in your outings.

[@TheWillRogers]

The scene with Morten laying out all of the batteries and memory cards feels like any "last stand" action movie where the people in the house are just laying all their ammo near the windows for easy access.

[@nomadcompany]

u would be American then lol

[@dannyboy8474]

@@nomadcompany rifle behind every blade of grass... and we like that.

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

@@dannyboy8474 Glad you pointed it out. It did seem like stacking ammunition. Better to have that, and not need it, than it is to need it, and not have it. And all that. Totally American.

[@justinholding02]

Only an American would have thought of that..

[@momobadilak]

@@justinholding02 or an action movie buff :)

[@user-ch7xh3dq8f]

A documentary-like video. It's healing.

[@cliftonwhittaker260]

Really love your little dog, Morten. I had a little photography/camp dog for many years. She was a real joy as I know yours is/was. :) You have a great respect for your subject matter and a wonderful philosophy of photography.

[@hermanvanmanen1650]

Wow! I really love this! I am now 15 years old and I am already doing nature photography. This is really my dream for the future. I myself once stood in a forest in front of the birdies. And then I found out that it is so soothing. I can see myself doing this in the future. Bring your dog, bring your camera, bring a sleeping bag, etcetera. Thank you very much for this video. I watch all your videos because I just think it's impressive how you do this! Super thanks!

[@LordRoxy]

Yet another lovely film Morton and lovely to see you with your wee dog. Thanks for sharing this.

[@mr.bengalhacker8858]

Love from india...♥️♥️♥️

[@Daniel_fotos_da_varanda]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nH2nppt6m8h_rpI

[@harinand9034]

Bharat mata ki jai

[@harinand9034]

😎

[@raynaeyaert]

Got to love the Moose Humping Coffee Mug!LOL

[@MrRobravlin]

One of the best videos on wildlife photography.

[@picapica42]

Saved this one so I could watch it with a cup of tea. I always forget you have hooded crows in Denmark and get very confused for a second 😅 Bjørn is such a good boy! He snores about as loud as my dog. 😄

[@norskattforfun8575]

Beautiful photos and Bjorn is so sweet

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

I'm glad I read the -for more information- before I shot my mouth off. What a great old weathered building. Some of those birds look like what we call magpies over here.

[@TheCaptainWalter]

Wonderful episode Morten - this has all the feel of a wildlife documentary. Love the fact that Björn is snoring away at 9:58.

[@raomudasir6490]

I loved that sliding tripod/ camera stand of yours.. Very practical solution for tight space of blinds..

[@methodical100]

Who else noticed the picture on the coffee cup in the behind the scenes lmao i want that cup lol

[@bozhidarmadzharov7066]

It looked like yerba mate ( gourd ) cup.

[@aleckelly2706]

Looks like two Moose getting fresh😂

[@johannesimmonen2125]

you can find it in google Aamupano -kahvimuki

[@Daniel_fotos_da_varanda]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nH2nppt6m8h_rpI

[@Nolimitfeb]

Great video! Definitely enjoyed the moose’s banging on your coffee mug lol

[@publiedos]

...devotion is what you see in Bjorn eyes... pure love and company "see you ALWAYS out there"...

[@samlee2944]

Morten, your videos make me feel at peace in this crazy world. Thank you!

[@itsmidingdalbong22]

That dog is so sweet❤️❤️

[@pgabrielchannel1034]

The little music background ❤️

[@55whiplash]

Your passion and great attitude are infectious. The one line about how grateful you were to get your amazing pictures made me respect you as much as your great talent for both photo's, and your amazing videos which are so well done. Very inspirational, we should all look for things we are thankful for everyday.

[@sailingorzu]

21h, I’m watching your video and instantly need a coffee !

[@julioamaral4391]

Hello Morten! Good to hear from you! Tks!

[@aljo.antony]

Love you Morten for respecting nature above your gains. I wish that every humans on earth follow this.

[@CharlesMercer]

How do you always manage to rivet my attention? You are amazing. And that companion of yours is the best. (Björn).

[@martinjurica7773]

Hi Morten beautiful and instructive video thank you

[@peterlebengood7160]

Another truly great video. For me, your thoughts at the end of the video were priceless. I’m in an area of the U.S.A. where outdoor photography has just exploded. It’s become a highly competitive game if you will. The impact on the wildlife and environment is painfully obvious. We need photographers such as you to continue to educate/remind us of the impact we have when we step into nature. Well done Morten!

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

Good post.

[@rogeriopeccioli1616]

Exclente morten video. Thank you for making the video caption active. It helps your followers in Brazil a lot. Big hug

[@andyblessett1282]

Another fabulous episode, many thanks for sharing. Your little friend snoring was just so funny!

[@JohnPaul-ii]

Always interesting Morten. A great philosophy of not disturbing the subjects that you are trying to photograph. Thanks for sharing again Morten. Stay safe 😷🇦🇺

[@robertlawrence7958]

Your point about the number of photographers is very valid. As you say, photography now is easy. There is no longer any skill in obtaining a correctly exposed image and that encourages more and more people to take up the hobby. Sharing images on social media has become an addiction, an endless self perpetuating desire to gain more ego boosting 'likes'. And the outcome of that is often the overwhelming pursuit of a picture no matter what the cost. So many times I hear about people flocking to locations where a certain animal has been seen and that location has been posted on social media. Quite often, those subjects are the only subjects that these people get to photograph simply because they lack the knowledge, or even the desire to achieve the knowledge, that is required to successfully photograph wild creatures. I very rarely post on any social media and I never disclose the whereabouts of my subjects except to an extremely limited number of like minded individuals whom I can trust. Its not because I am selfish, it is simply because I do not want the animals that I photograph to be disturbed by people who basically have no idea how to behave around wildlife. These sorts of people usually have a short interest span and within a short space of time will move on to another hobby, where hopefully their behaviour will have less of a harmful impact. Sorry for the rant but it is a topic I feel very strongly about. Good video and I am well impressed with Bjorn. If I took my wife's dogs out with me I wouldn't see a single animal or bird 🙄

[@bird_boy_lens6891]

Totally satisfied. Love you sir. Amazing Photography.

[@momentlichfotografie4903]

Wonderful Shots!!! Thanks for taking us with you!

[@yashikjaydev4310]

The way that dog listen is very cool 😎

[@Eddiewalkerpr]

I love all the effort you put into your videos. Hollywood should make a movie about you.

[@DEV-ey8jb]

The doggy is so adorable 😍

[@benvivian8040]

I think Bjorn must be the most obedient dog in the world. Such a brilliant companion!

[@giuseppecapilli6719]

The one and only Morten Hilmer. Thank you!

[@phillloyd47]

Bjorn steals the show!

[@Santos-oc2no]

each time i see one of your videos is hapiness and power!!!! thank you very much Morten!!!

[@scooter5193]

Beautiful dog. So well behaved. You have done an excellent job with him. I really enjoy watching your channel - you have so much genuine passion for nature and photography.

[@ronvelner6530]

It's all about responsibility, good that you mention the vulnerability of the animals.

[@GiuseppeGessa]

I completely agree with you, and infact I always put my phone in silent mode

[@Bautaen202]

Best thing to watch on YT is yet another new video from you Morten Hilmer. Really enjoy it and it is so inspiring. You are so dedicated to this. Love your work 👍🙏🤗

[@MrMrWattz]

23:37 such a valid point! I’ve often thought this over the years, it’s so easy to forget you’re disturbing nature when trying your best to capture a nice image. And then as you walk back to your car/home you see 5 or so other photographers heading to the same ‘secret’ spot. Respect is the key word

[@Daniel_fotos_da_varanda]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nH2nppt6m8h_rpI

[@merkin22]

I live in a large urban city, but at the 53rd parallel north, so we have many corvids, including many, many black-billled magpies, and I'm with you -- I just love their, what I call their personal chatter with each other, noises, which I can hear even from my downtown balcony. I'm also a fan of their louder noises (though it put a bounty on their heads for years, sadly). Another very enjoyable video, thanks. I'm very envious of your permanent blind! I've bought a portable blind (tragopan) and can't wait for the ice to give way to open water on the wetlands and lakes around me and the return of the migratory birds -- the Canada geese have started to arrive, but it's really the blackbirds I await! Cheers!

[@mekong_art]

Красивые кадры получились!

[@davidmarecek9402]

Your message about photographer/nature visitor on end of video Is great. I Wish that there would more people like you with such respect to nature around us. Its trully dependent on humans. Thank you for motivating others to be better people when they are outsider. You have my great respect And i Wish you only the best in your life Morten.

[@al3xtt]

Amazing. The dog is sooo cute.

[@reswin6016]

No words to describe the vibe u given through thz video.....thnx man !

[@irfansoda1126]

Damn the mug 😆

[@barmalini]

When i think coffee I think Morten, when I watch Morten i need coffee. Great video, as usual!

[@KGsPhotography]

Thanks for a great video Morten. What a beautiful way to spend time with mans best friend! I really need to put my phone on flight mode more. Cheers Keith

[@RogerJones-mountfield]

I like the Blackbird alarm, mine is a Golden Oriel 👍🏼 the hair and beard are coming on well 😂

[@reubenhibbert7610]

I look forward to these every week.Thank you so much this is so inspiring to watch.

[@Kuragari10]

A appreciate that you point out that nature cannot speak for itself. To paraphrase Dr. Seuss - We must speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues. So very few people appreciate that simple fact.

[@fjmkllnT]

Incredible.

[@EnvyDesignGroup]

Such beautiful and oh so soothing work Morten. Thanks for sharing.

[@Sashman077]

Morten, you are an amazing film maker on top of being an incredible photographer. I have been following you for a more than a year and really appreciate your efforts in sharing your passion and knowledge. So grateful to have found your channel.

[@yiangaruga4928]

14:55 That's just an incredibly gorgeous shot.. Patience really pays off and there's nothing better than having a great photo as a memory of a great session

[@k.ftzmafita6166]

P1

[@emrazum]

3:10 Only the beginning of the video and you've already got a killer shot. Amazing content

[@italiano3818]

The dog is a true friend. I have four Regards

[@Canadiansasquatchbrewery]

Great stuff as always. I like the going and camping out in the blind to make sure you could capture the birds. Cheers!

[@vincentdc211]

Great video as usual! As a photographer myself, I learn from watching these. But holy moly the long advertisements!

[@ryanwalker7307]

Your vids help me escape reality. Thank you

[@samarth9341]

This fantastic piece of information and more eithical way to to photograph birds and animals. Thank you 😊🙏

[@fusionsmarty]

In Germany it‘s even forbidden to use bird sounds to attract birds, because you disturb the animals or could even cause them to leave their breed area. (Which doesn‘t mean that even wildlife photographers won’t do it) Thanks a lot for speaking about it and for all that great content!

[@ikicaq]

What a great video. You are not only a great photographer, but a great person. You can tell that by the passion and love you have for animals. Your pooch is awesome too.

[@chewmintzer5598]

Beautiful lesson from the video that every nature photographers should know and practise in the field. Thank you Morten.

[@DennisHealyIsMe]

I love wildlife photography so it's easy to watch videos about it, but yours are so relaxing. I think the music and the way you share your excitement and passion are what make your channel the best. Thanks for all your efforts!

[@ElusiveFrame]

Another calm and intriguing one. Thank you Morten, and congrats on 400k! 🤓

[@irisotte83]

Loved this video👍, always happy a new Morten video is up😁

[@cindyconlin1]

I’m enjoying your videos very much! Trying to watch one each evening. Loved seeing your sweet dog participating with you in this vlog!

[@davidpearson3579]

I really appreciate and enjoy watching your adventures. Sometimes it's even better than a good book. And I agree with you we should respect wildlife when we are out there enjoying nature.

[@andresgabrielalboresponce9906]

I do not know anything of photography, but you are so great at doing that bro, and the way you speek on the videos it makes it something beautiful and mainly accecible, I love your channel bro, you are doing a great job.

[@kandhalkeshvala8328]

Thank you very much for uploading Sir, great video as always.

[@sergiocompany8683]

I loved this video. Now I wonder ... How do you do if Börn wants to pee? 😂

[@przyroda_w_obirktywie]

as always, a great movie and great shots. 👍📷

[@techinfoindia9727]

Great...Photography🤗

[@maurosegurah]

Great video!... thanks for sharing with all of us

[@RogerJones-mountfield]

As a post script I 100% agree with you about using bird song to attract birds, something I have also stopped for the same reasons

[@PetriKoivistoPhoto]

Thanks Morten. Very entertaining video. Your videos get better an better all the time!

[@mazutcali9471]

I like his green coffee cap!

[@IHCOYT]

Man these are so awesome. That was very practical and thank you for taking about the impact we have on nature.

[@firstfreonwarrior]

You pup is lovely, snooring in the background creased me up!

[@vladimirk9722]

Пёс прям все со взгляда понимает!!!

[@valscherrer6319]

Lovely work - again - as allways. And also the mug :-) :-) :-)

[@RiccardoLaTorre]

Great video as always Morten, you’re such an inspiration for me, thank you for sharing this with us! Best regards from Italy, Riccardo

[@maltepaulsen4311]

great video as always morten! Thank you so much for inspiring me all the time!

[@Riverrockphotos]

What a great idea to use bird sounds.

[@syedzohair]

This gives peace to my heart and mind🌹

[@JeffWeymier]

What a beautiful place and great setup. Love your work.

[@richardmoult9781]

Great video and some wonderful images

[@ddbrazeale]

Thanks for sharing this awesome video.

[@michaelb885]

Nice photos! The Red Tailed hawk was by far my favorite!

[@Ihwaz13]

You got the genus right, it's a common buzzard (Buteo buteo), from what I can tell its the european equivalent to the red-tailed hawk.

[@slarti42uk]

Such a relaxing joy to watch your work. Excellent points about the collective impact, so easy to forget we're all just one among many following the same goals to take photos like these.

[@shaunpell4926]

Thank you Morten. Great video, I agree, we have to be mindful of wildlife, it's a fine balance between sharing images that heighten the public's perception of nature and help conservation, and disturbing the animals. I think you've got the balance right. 👍

[@tonymckeage1028]

Great Bird Photography Vlog, thanks for sharing