Why Your Wildlife Photos Are Not Sharp

Don Orkoskey | April 1, 2026

You've gone out to photograph some wildlife on a beautiful day. Everything seems to be working. The photos look great on your camera. However, when you get home your wildlife photos are not sharp. What happened?

The most likely reason is atmospheric distortion caused by the light being warped. On it's journey between your in focus subject and your camera's sensor the atmosphere can degrade your photos sharpness.

Watch the video above to learn what you can do about it. If you have any questions about atmospheric distortion please contact me. I would love to answer your questions!

Don Orkoskey

April 1, 2026

I'm full time professional event and headshot photographer Don Orkoskey. Since 2007 I've owned WDO Photography. Additionally, I teach photography in partnership with a number of amazing organizations as well as offering my own group photography classes and individual photography lessons. I teach classes for both adults and children and lead free nature photography meetups each month. I also write a monthly newsletter full of great information and maintain a list of free photography resources and have a YouTube channel to help you learn photography.

Post Categories:

Nature and Wildlife Photography

Photography Tips and Tricks

Post Tags:

atmospheric distortion

Focus

Sharpness

wildlife photography

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How To Use Your Camera Vol. 1: Exposure

Learn the essentials of exposure and how to use your camera to control the brightness in your photos.

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