What Is A DSLR Camera Trap & How Does It Work?

If you follow me on any of the social media channels, you have likely heard me talk about DSLR camera traps. I use them extensively to capture extraordinary images of wildlife in their natural habitats. So, what exactly is a DSLR camera trap you ask? In this blog, I’ll answer that question and explain the differences between camera traps and trail cameras.

Trail cameras (sometimes referred to as game cams) and DSLR camera traps are both valuable tools in wildlife research and photography, but they have distinct differences both in their functionality and design. A trail camera is typically a standalone unit that is motion-activated and primarily used for capturing wildlife in its natural habitat without direct human intervention. These cameras are often used for wildlife monitoring and research, and they are designed to be durable and weatherproof for long-term outdoor use. On the other hand, a DSLR camera trap involves the use of a DSLR camera paired with additional equipment such as motion sensors, remote triggers, and off-camera flashes, to capture images in a more controlled setting. A DSLR setup gives photographers much more creative control over the composition and settings of the images, making it ideal for capturing high-quality photographs of elusive or nocturnal wildlife. While both types of cameras serve the purpose of capturing wildlife images, their differences lie in their level of automation, versatility, and the degree of control they offer to photographers.

Your basic trail camera, useful for documenting wildlife, whether in be in your backyard or your local forest preserve

When I talk about “remote camera trapping”, many folks (wrongly) assume I am using just your average, off-the-shelf trail camera. I assure you, that is certainly not the case! A basic trail camera is simply not capable of achieving the level of resolution and detail a DSLR camera can, no matter what the manufacturer claims in terms of megapixels. Many trail camera companies are now touting “18 megapixel” cameras, and some even claim “22 megapixels” or higher. Sounds good, right? Not even close! Trail camera companies use a process called interpolation to achieve these inflated, unrealistic megapixel numbers. Interpolation uses software to enlarge from the native resolution of the camera, which, in most basic trail cameras is actually closer to 4-5 megapixels at best, hardly enough to produce a print, let alone a quality print. When images of such low quality are blown up via software, the final result is a highly pixelated, blurry image. You could simply not create an image worthy of printing using one of these off-the-shelf trail cameras. With that being said, trail cameras are a valuable tool for wildlife research projects as they are inexpensive and can record video, which can be more valuable to researchers than stills alone.

Just some of the equipment necessary for a DSLR camera trap — Perfect for capturing high-quality images of wildlife in their natural habitat

For the type of fine art photography that I do, I use native high-megapixel DSLR (or digital single-lens reflex) cameras, the same cameras most photographers are using these days to capture high-quality imagery. Because the cameras are often deployed in the field for extended periods of time, I construct weatherproof enclosures for the cameras. The camera is then connected, often wirelessly, to an infrared sensor capable of detecting heat and/or movement. When an animal walks past and the sensor detects movement, for example, a signal is sent to the camera to take a picture, or several pictures, depending on how I have set it up. To capture images of animals at night, remote flashes must also be incorporated into the setup. Now when the sensor detects either motion or a heat signature, the signal is sent to both the camera and the flashes to trigger simultaneously. The goal is not to just light up your subject using flash but to light it in the most natural and creative way possible. There are far too many camera trap images out there that simply scream “flash photo!”. If all you are trying to do is document a species, that may be completely fine, but if you’re trying to create art, this isn’t the way to go about it. One of the fundamentals of being a photographer is being able to not only understand but also “see” light, and that goes for flash photography as well. I want my images to appear as natural as possible, and this requires a lot of foresight and thought when setting up the camera trap. Often times you will only get one shot at an image, so it’s important to pay attention to every single detail. When I’m setting up a camera in the wild, I may spend 6-7 hours, sometimes longer, getting everything positioned perfectly.

A DSLR camera trap in the field

As you can see, there is far more that goes into creating one-of-a-kind images of wild animals using DSLR camera traps. To me, though, the extra effort is worth the reward. There is simply no better way of capturing images of rare and elusive wildlife. Along with the equipment, being a good naturalist can be an invaluable skill in a camera trapper’s toolkit. Being able to read tracks and signs left behind by animals can help you locate the best areas to place a camera. Understanding animal behavior is another very important skill one must learn to be truly successful. Once you find that perfect location in the wild, the next thing you’ll need to have, as in all wildlife photography, is a lot of patience! There have been times when my cameras have been out for months and months before they ever captured my target species, and sometimes it just doesn’t work out. Over time, you will learn not only from your successes but also from your mistakes. That will not only make you a better photographer but a better naturalist as well.

Below you will find some examples of what is possible when using these sophisticated remote camera traps! If you’re a wildlife/nature photographer or enthusiast, and you’d like to learn more about DSLR camera trapping, my eBook is the most comprehensive guide out there on the subject. It’s packed with everything you need to know not only to get you started, but also to help you succeed in the art of DSLR camera trap photography. The tips and techniques I share are designed to fast-track your success and save you from years of costly mistakes. From the novice to the veteran camera trapper, everyone will benefit from the wealth of information that is included in this guide. I’ll put a link down below if you’re interested in elevating your wildlife photography to the next level!

Visit the link below to learn more about my eBook, “The Ultimate Guide to DSLR Camera Trapping” ⤵