Updated: 18 Jan 2026
Whether used for professional research, ecological monitoring or casual photography by nature enthusiasts, wildlife cameras have become an essential part of the modern wildlife photographers kitbag.
Motion cameras have become an invaluable tool for capturing wildlife especially in remote, hard-to-reach areas or if the subject animal is a potential threat to humans. As such, motion-sensor cameras will allow you to capture shots of animals, birds or insects without any human interference.
Whether you are a wildlife photographer, researcher, or enthusiast, here’s a practical guide to help you make the most of your motion cameras.
Check out the Photron Model E9•50S / E9•80S / E9•100S / E9•150S Series
The Pharsighted E9 series of ultra high-speed cameras are the world’s first backside-illuminated, full-frame high speed cameras. With unparalleled speed and unmatched light sensitivity the E9 series is ideally suited for applications requiring visualization at over 100,000fps.
Pharsighted E9 series
There are various models available with different features. To select the best one for your requirements, consider the following:
When choosing a motion camera, image quality is one of the most important factors to consider. High‑resolution photos and clear video clips can capture more details, making them more practical for both use and sharing.
In general, it is recommended selecting a camera with at least a 12‑megapixel (12MP) image sensor to improve image clarity giving you sharp and clear photos.
However, if you’re using the camera in low-light conditions, don’t sacrifice low-light performance for resolution.
In addition, it’s important to understand the camera’s video resolution (such as 1080P or higher) and the performance of its image sensor to ensure balanced image quality under different lighting conditions.
Cameras with wide angles (e.g. 120°) are better at covering the area around the trap, while a range of 100 feet is ideal.
Trigger speed is the time it takes for the camera to detect movement and start recording, usually measured in seconds.
A fast trigger speed ensures that animals are captured as soon as they enter the frame, minimising the risk of motion blur. Look for a trigger speed under 0.5 seconds for the best results.
Recovery time – the interval the camera needs before it can take the next shot — is equally important.
Choosing a wildlife camera with both a fast trigger speed and a short recovery time improves your chances of capturing great shots in the wild.
Motion Cameras
Many wild animals are most active at night, so reliable night-time recording is essential. Choose a wildlife camera with infrared night vision or low-light capability allowing for clear images even in darkness or poorly lit conditions.
There are two types of flashes:
Infrared (IR) Flash – This is ideal for night-time photography and is less likely to disturb animals, as it’s invisible to them, increasing the likelihood of capturing natural behaviour.
White Flash – This is good for daytime photography but can startle animals at night.
Wildlife cameras are typically used outdoors, so durability and waterproofing are essential. Choosing a model that is waterproof, dustproof and resistant to shocks ensures it can perform reliably in a range of extreme weather conditions, from rain to extreme temperatures.
Cameras with an IP66 rating or above generally offer better protection against rain, dust storms and other environmental challenges.
Wildlife motion camera are often left in the field for days, weeks or even months. Choose cameras that have a long battery life (many cameras last 3–6 months on a set of batteries).
Extended outdoor use requires long battery life. Choosing cameras that support long-lasting power sources, such as AA batteries or 6-volt lead-acid batteries and those with energy-saving modes, can help to extend operating time.
Some wildlife cameras even feature solar charging capabilities, making them ideal for remote locations where regular charging isn’t practical. For long-term installations, consider solar panel compatibility to reduce battery replacement needs.
Cellular cameras (such as the Spypoint Flex series) send images directly to your phone, allowing you to monitor the trap remotely, which is crucial for reducing unnecessary visits and limiting human scent.
Make sure your camera has a large storage capacity (e.g., SD cards up to 128GB) to store high-quality images and videos.
For a buying guide for the Best Trail (Motion) Cameras, click on this review from Digital Camera World
Choosing the right location is essential for capturing good wildlife images.
Start by following these tips
Animal Activity – Research animal behaviour in the area you’re targeting. Look for signs like tracks, droppings, fur or paths used by animals. Common animal hotspots include watering holes, trails, food sources and game corridors.
Height and Angle – Position the camera at an animal’s eye level for more intimate shots. If the camera is too low, you may end up with shots of the underbelly of the animal. Experiment with different angles to capture the most natural behaviour.
Cover and Concealment – Try to conceal the camera within natural surroundings (e.g., in trees, behind rocks or foliage). Avoid placing it in the open, as animals may be wary of the new object. Some cameras come with camouflage or you can use a camouflage cover for added discretion.
Proximity to Trails or Paths – Place cameras on well-used animal paths where there’s a higher chance of encountering wildlife. Avoid placing the camera too close to bait, as animals may avoid the area due to the unfamiliar scent.
Solid Mounting – Mount the camera securely on a tree, post or stand. Use adjustable straps or a tripod to ensure that the camera remains stable and in place.
Angle and Alignment – Align the camera to capture the desired area. Ensure that the lens is unobstructed and that there is enough distance from the ground or foliage to avoid triggering false images (e.g., from insects, wind or moving plants).
Field of View – Set up the camera to cover a wide area. Most cameras have a 40–100-degree field of view, which can be adjusted. Ensure the camera covers areas where animals are likely to pass by or interact.
Testing the Camera – Before leaving the camera for an extended period, do a test run. Walk in front of the camera to make sure it triggers properly and captures the right area. Adjust the sensitivity and angle as needed.
Sensitivity Settings – Cameras typically allow you to adjust the motion sensor sensitivity. Set it to medium or high sensitivity if you’re in an area with frequent animal movement, but be mindful of false triggers (e.g., from wind or small animals).
Motion Cameras
While it’s not always necessary, some photographers and researchers use bait to attract wildlife to a specific area.
If you choose to bait
Use local, Non-Toxic Bait – Avoid using anything harmful or unnatural. If you’re trying to capture specific animals, birds or insects, research what they like to eat.
Ethical Considerations – Always be mindful of the ethical implications of baiting. Baiting can alter animal behaviour, attract non-target species or disrupt ecosystems. Use it sparingly and only when necessary.
Regular Checks – If your camera is in a public or protected area, check the trap regularly to ensure it’s functioning correctly and hasn’t been tampered with.
Battery and Storage Management – Replace batteries and empty SD cards as needed. In remote locations, it may be necessary to visit the camera traps every few weeks.
Cleaning the Camera – Regularly clean the lens, infrared sensors and any moving parts. Dust or water droplets can obstruct your images.
Keep It Secure – Consider using a metal casing or lock to prevent theft, especially if you’re setting up in areas with high foot traffic or animal activity.
Data Download – Once you collect your images, download them onto your computer or device. Some modern cameras offer wireless transfer or apps that allow remote access.
Identifying Animals – Wildlife camera traps can provide a wealth of data. Consider using photo recognition software or consulting with wildlife experts to identify species in your photos. Keep a field guide handy to cross-check animal behaviours, markings and other features.
Analysing Behaviour – Look beyond the images for interesting behavioural patterns. Are certain animals more active at specific times of day or seasons? Are there any unusual interactions between species?
Motion Cameras
Timing – Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the best times to capture wildlife activity. Animals are often more active during these “golden hours.”
Patience – Wildlife photography is all about patience. Camera traps can be set for days, weeks or months, and you may only get a handful of great shots. Stay patient, and remember that some of your best shots may come when you least expect it.
Multiple Cameras – If you’re serious about capturing a range of animals, consider using multiple camera traps set up in different locations or angles. This will give you more coverage and increase your chances of getting a great shot.
Video Mode – Many modern camera traps offer video recording. Using video can provide you with more detailed behavioural footage, which can be especially useful for researchers or for documenting rare animal behaviour.
Time-Lapse Photography – Some camera traps offer time-lapse functionality, which allows you to capture long-term events or changing landscapes over extended periods.
Remote Monitoring – Consider investing in a remote monitoring system that lets you check your camera’s status and view photos in real-time through a mobile app or online platform.
Minimise Disturbance – Motion Cameras are designed to be non-intrusive, but always be mindful of the impact on the animals and their environment. Don’t disrupt nests, breeding areas or migration paths.
Wildlife Safety – Never use cameras in ways that could harm animals (e.g., baiting with unsafe foods or setting traps in dangerous locations). Always aim for a minimal impact approach.
Contribute to Conservation – If you’re capturing rare or endangered species, consider sharing your images and data with conservation organisations or wildlife monitoring projects to aid in research and preservation efforts.
Using animal camera traps for photography is a rewarding experience that allows you to witness and document the fascinating lives of wildlife.
By carefully selecting the right equipment, setting up strategically, maintaining your gear and adhering to ethical guidelines, you can capture stunning images of animals in their natural environment.
Whether you’re a photographer, researcher or just a nature lover, motion camera open up a whole new world of photography opportunities.
Many thanks for your time, as always!
Mark Brion
Linked Pages: About Mark Brion | Professional Photographer