If you’ve just started out with photography as a hobby, and want to get the right kit to take exciting wildlife photography, we’re here to help you choose what to buy.
Working with a sensible budget of £2,000, we’ve shortlisted all the gear you need to take up wildlife photography.
For £2,000, you’ll be able to get a solid, weatherproof camera body. You’ll also have room for a couple of good lenses, with plenty of scope to then upgrade later should you wish.
You’ll need a long lens, as animals tend to run away if you try to get too close. Shooting wildlife, you’ll be outside a lot, so making sure your kit’s protected is vital. Then there’s a bunch of other gear that’ll make your life easier in the field. To help you out we’ve put together a buyer’s guide with a few suggestions to get you up and running...
![NIKON D7500](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/5f22/9644/059e/c94b/11b5/fe52/Nikon_d7500.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
This DX-format body is ideal for wildlife photography. The cropped sensor will give 1.5x the focal length of your lens, it's weather-sealed so fit can stand up to the elements, and it has an 8fps motor drive and 51-point autofocus.
![NIKON 70-300MM F/4.5-5.6 VR](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/5f22/9a3d/d0c3/ae74/2a69/d4da/Nikon_70-300mm_lens.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Getting close to wild creatures requires a telephoto lens. Using a cropped sensor is the best way to get some extra reach, turning this 300mm into a 450mm lens. VR is also a blessing.
![LEXAR 128GB 250MB/S](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/5f22/9ae3/0db4/930d/8c16/a4b3/61eX8CsYdsL._AC_SL1100_.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
You won't get far without something to record your images on. Choose a fast memory card that won't slow down your motordrive.
![NIKON 10-20MM F/4.5-5.6 VR LENS](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/5f22/9d5e/540f/fd78/a69b/7740/71Uf7pTzKoL._AC_SL1400_.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Having a single telephoto zoom doesn't give you much flexibility. Having access to a wide-angle zoom will free up some space to include the surrounding scenery in your shot.
There is nothing worse than a low battery flashing up as you're waiting for that perfect moment. Always pack a spare.
A monopod will help support your camera's weight on long shooting days in the wild without being cumbersome like a tripod.
![LOWEPRO FASTPACK BP 250 AW II](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/5f22/b004/d0c3/aec7/4669/d5f9/lowepro.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Car parks don't make the best backgrounds, so you'll need a bag to carry your gear into the field for best results.
![STORM JACKET SLR PRO](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/5f22/ac15/3e6b/8d00/cef6/d4f7/rain_cover.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Water and electronic devices don't mix. A weather-sealed camera and lens are a great help but it's best to be prepared.
For longer trips, you'll want a way to back up your images. My Passport allows you to leave the laptop at home.