Capturing The Uplands: Tips & Tricks for Upland Photography
Introduction
Blog Written by Garrett Rawlings - Final Rise Team Member & Content Producer
Upland hunting is more than a pursuit—it’s a tradition, a story, and a way of life worth preserving. I’ve spent countless days in the field this past year documenting these moments. Along the way, I’ve learned that capturing upland hunting on camera is less about creating “content” and more about telling a story—authentically, frame by frame.
From the dogs on point, to the flush of a rooster, to the quiet reflection after a hunt, every detail matters. Here’s what I’ve learned about filming and photographing upland hunting in a way that honors the traditions and showcases the lifestyle.
The Pace of Upland Hunting Behind the Lens
Unlike other hunts, upland hunting moves at a unique rhythm. Birds flush unexpectedly, dogs lock on point, and hunters must adapt in real time. For photographers and filmmakers, that pace creates incredible opportunities but also demands patience and awareness.
Instead of forcing staged shots, the goal is to capture the natural flow—the connection between hunter, dog, and bird. These are the moments that preserve the authenticity of the uplands and resonate far beyond social media.
Learning from Hunters and Dogs
Before gear comes understanding. My growth as a storyteller in the upland space came not just from time behind the camera, but from time with experienced hunters and their dogs.
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Hunters bring instinct, habitat knowledge, and traditions that help guide where and how to capture moments.
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Dogs provide some of the most powerful visual cues—when they lock on point, track a bird, or retrieve with pride, it tells the story better than words ever could.
Watching and learning from both has been my favorite part of filming in the uplands.
Respect in Storytelling: How We Portray the Hunt
Every image carries weight. How we photograph and film hunting shapes how outsiders view it—and how hunters themselves preserve it. Respect for the animal, the land, and the tradition should always sit at the heart of the craft.
A few key practices make a difference:
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Respectful animal handling – Clean birds and present them in a way that honors their beauty.
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Authenticity over drama – Avoid over-staging shots; let the hunt speak for itself.
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Cultural stewardship – Remember that the camera helps carry forward traditions for future generations.
Coming from a non-hunting background myself, I’ve seen firsthand how respectful portrayals can positively impact how hunting is perceived by those outside the community.
Essential Camera Gear for Upland Hunting Photography & Film
This isn’t a film set—you won’t be hauling light stands and giant lens kits into the field. Upland hunting photography and film require gear that is lightweight, durable, and versatile enough to handle rugged terrain and unpredictable weather.
My Recommended Camera Bodies
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Sony A1 – Fast, versatile, and reliable.
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Sony FX3 – Great for cinematic video in the field.
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Sony FX6 – A workhorse for professional productions.
For those just starting out, there are plenty of affordable camera bodies that can still deliver excellent results without breaking the bank.
Must-Have Lenses
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24-70mm zoom lens – Perfect for capturing wide shots of landscapes and close-up moments of hunters and dogs.
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70-200mm zoom lens – A go-to for dynamic action shots, flushes, and longer-distance storytelling.
Durability matters. Cheap glass and fragile bodies won’t last long in the uplands. Invest in solid gear that can take a beating and keep shooting.
Why Filming and Photographing Upland Hunting Matters
At its core, documenting the uplands is about more than creating beautiful frames—it’s about preserving culture, honoring traditions, and inspiring future generations.
Whether you’re new to photography, a seasoned hunter looking to document your own experiences, or a filmmaker passionate about outdoor storytelling, remember: every shot contributes to the broader narrative of the upland tradition.
Final Thoughts
Upland hunting photography and film are as much about respect and authenticity as they are about skill and gear. By spending time in the field, learning from hunters and dogs, and focusing on the story rather than just “content,” we can help preserve the heritage of the uplands for years to come.
So grab your camera, respect the hunt, and get after it.
- Garrett