58 NATURE AND THE CAMERA 



the branch in water or by wrapping a wet cloth 

 around it. For the sake of accuracy, arrange the 

 branch so that it will be in its natural growing posi- 

 tion; that is to say, a branch that is found growing 

 nearly horizontally should be placed in about the 

 same position, otherwise the leaves will not hang 

 correctly. In the matter of background, an artificial 

 one of any desired tone may be used or a natural one 

 of leaves, scrub, etc., will answer, but the former 

 gives the more satisfactory results, especially if the 

 cloth or whatever is used is hung at a fair distance so 

 that a branch or two may be placed between the 

 bird and the background ; this if properly arranged 

 will give the effect of natural surroundings better than 

 any other method. 



If the bird or birds to be photographed are unable 

 to fly, it will be unnecessary to have any sort of 

 enclosure ; but should they have the use of their wings, 

 an enclosure of some sort will be required, otherwise 

 you and your subject will part company. The mak- 

 ing of the enclosure is one of the things that will 

 allow of ample discussion. There are many ideas 

 on the subject, and most of the ideas are conspicuous 

 more by their bad than their good points. Some 

 people advise using a studio which is strongly lighted. 

 Apart from the objection that few can afford such a 

 luxury, the advisability of using it may be questioned. 

 Young birds are tender creatures, easily injured and 



