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How a Top Waterfowl Photographer Plans, Hides, and Captures the Shot (Ep 741)

How a Top Waterfowl Photographer Plans, Hides, and Captures the Shot (Ep 741)

Ducks Unlimited Podcast

January 20, 202645m 35s

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Show Notes

Learn how pro waterfowl photographer Phil Kahnke scouts, sets up, and times the moment for jaw‑dropping duck images—and how it improves your hunting.

Host Matt Harrison interviews photographer and lifelong hunter Phil Kahnke, known for striking waterfowl images and a methodical, hunt-first approach behind the lens.

Kahnke traces his path from a hand‑me‑down film camera to modern digital work, explaining why his scouting mirrors a duck hunt and why perfect light, wind, and hide are non‑negotiable. He shares close calls on the ice, gear he won’t work without, and why hiding is the single most underrated factor for success—whether you carry a gun or a camera.

Takeaways:

  • The one moment that proved he could make magazine‑quality images
  • Why success is “10x harder than a duck hunt” and how he prepares
  • Hiding as the critical skill: getting birds below the horizon
  • Light, wind, access, and backgrounds—how he chooses a spot
  • Pintails as the wariest, redheads as camera‑friendly, and why cans thrill him
  • Ethics in wildlife photography: wild birds, wild places, honest portrayal


Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
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Topics

Phil Kahnke interviewwaterfowl photography tipsscouting for duck photoshide strategy for duckslight wind and background setupduck hunting skills for photographerspintail redhead canvasback behaviorethics in wildlife photographywaders and lens choiceslate season snow photo tacticsDucks Unlimited podcast