The Canadian Bird Photographer website was conceived by David Lilly.
David Is a full-time bird photographer working out of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. David mostly photographs birds all over Alberta, but occasionally wonders to other parts of Canada.
David is the co-founder of the Calgary Camera Club. David instructs the Basic Photography module for the club. David has won many awards for his photography and have run his own photography workshops for 10 years. David's philosophy toward bird photography is, the welfare of the bird must be a priority over and above the photograph.
David is a regular writer and photographer spealizing in Bird Potography for the Canadian Nature Photographer
The purpose of this website is to bring attention to the state of the bird populations through outstanding photography and great articles. Also, to show the general public the beauty and joy birds add to our existence as a human race. Without birds our existence would seem meaningless.
Conservation and protection of the birds must be top priority for all bird photographers. Ethical behaviour around bird nests and there young will be beyond reproach.
David maintains the Canadian Bird Photographer Website www.canadianbirdphotographer.ca
Email: dlilly@shaw.ca
Here is a list of equipment I use for my Bird Photography.
Nikon D850
Nikon 2 X D500
Nikon D7200
Nikon, D610
Nikon 200 - 500mm lens
Nikon 500mm PF F 5.6VR Lens
Nikon 300mm F4 VR (Mostly for flight photography)
Nikon 70 - 200 mm 2.8 (Mostly for flight photography)
Nikon SB600 Flash with Better Bemer extender (Note: I use a flash only when necessary.)
Both Lexar and Sandisk Cards
Induro Tripod with a Benro Video Head
Fesol Monopod with Really Right Stuff Monopod Head
David Lilly is a professional Canadian Bird photographer and educator, renowned for his commitment to ethical bird photography. Currently based in Oromocto, New Brunswick, Lilly’s work spans decades and provinces, capturing the diverse avian life of Canada from the rugged coasts of his native Newfoundland to the parks of Alberta and British Columbia.
Career & Achievements
Lilly is a prolific contributor to the field, having published over a dozen technical articles for the Canadian Nature Photographer. His expertise has also been featured in publications such as PhotoLife, Calgary’s Natural Parks, and Alberta Nature Magazine.
Educator: For over 15 years, he has led photography workshops, teaching aspiring photographers how to master technical skills like flight photography and low-light shooting.
Recognition: His "remarkable" wildlife shots have earned him local acclaim and many awards for his bird photography.
On the website www.davidlillyphotography.com the are many articles and Bird photography tips
Photography Philosophy: "The Welfare of the Bird First"
Lilly is a staunch advocate for ethical wildlife photography. His central philosophy is that the welfare of the subject must always outweigh the importance of the photograph. He often critiques "staged" photography, preferring to document birds in their natural, undisturbed environments.
"Every bird has a story that usually goes unheard... My goal is to freeze those stories in time, allowing us to see the 'remarkable' details we often walk right past."
Technical Focus
A long-time Nikon shooter, Lilly’s kit often includes high-resolution bodies like the Nikon D500 paired with long glass, such as the 500mm PF or 200-500mm lenses. He specializes in:
Behavioural Documentation: Capturing natural interactions without the use of calls or baiting.
Action Shots: High-speed flight photography, often utilizing the 500mm f/4 VR for its mobility.
Conservation: Using his Canadian Bird Photographer website and Facebook page to raise awareness about declining bird populations.
Through his work, Lilly continues to support organizations like Birds Canada, using his lens to foster a deeper public appreciation for the beauty and vital importance of avian species to the human experience.
Read my Articles
Tips for Bird Photography
Email: dlillynb@gmail.com
Photo by Gabriele Ehnes-Lilly
Photo by Gabriele Ehnes-Lilly
About David
