Photographing Puffins at Bullers of Buchan, Aberdeenshire
The Bullers of Buchan in Aberdeenshire is a unique gem for photographers and bird enthusiasts alike. Its stunning cliffs and diverse birdlife make it an irresistible destination. As a passionate photographer, I found myself drawn to this location in July 2024, with a specific goal in mind: capturing the charismatic puffins and their elegant neighbours, the razorbills.
Arriving two hours before sunset, I was greeted by a serene atmosphere and mild weather. The wind, blowing steadily from the south, added a dynamic element to the environment but, fortunately, my chosen spot was sheltered from the gusts. The light was perfect—soft and golden, casting a magical glow over the sea, turning it a deep, mesmerising blue.
Equipped with my trusty Nikon D850 and a Tamron 150-600mm G2 lens, I was ready for action. Given the dimming light, I set my ISO between 1600 and 3200 to ensure sharp, well-exposed shots of the fast-moving birds. Panning to capture their flight was a delightful challenge that tested my skills and patience. Mastering this technique requires practice, but the reward of freezing a puffin in mid-air is incomparable.
Bullers of Buchan offers two excellent vantage points for observing and photographing the birds. From these locations, I could watch the puffins' behaviours and patterns undisturbed. Despite the favourable conditions, I was surprised by the scarcity of puffins. It’s likely many were still out at sea, hunting for sand eels. Nonetheless, the moments I did capture were magical.
One of the highlights of the trip was witnessing a puffin return from the sea, its beak brimming with sand eels, glistening and wet. This sight alone made the trip worthwhile. Another unforgettable moment was my slow, careful approach to a puffin, getting within two meters without causing it any distress. This experience took patience and respect for the bird’s space, but the payoff was an intimate glimpse into its world.
Photographing these birds required creativity and a keen eye for unique angles. I focused on zooming in closer and capturing the puffins from different perspectives, aiming to create something distinct from the usual puffin shots. The light played a crucial role in highlighting the vibrant colours and textures of their feathers against the dramatic backdrop of the sea and cliffs.
Throughout the evening, I met a couple of fellow photographers, equally enchanted by the puffins. Sharing tips, stories, and the occasional laugh added to the joy of the experience. The camaraderie among bird photographers is one of the many aspects that make such trips memorable.
Reflecting on this adventure, I can’t help but think about the future. The idea of hosting small group photography workshops in 2025 has been on my mind. The Bullers of Buchan, with its breathtaking scenery and rich birdlife, would be the perfect setting for these workshops. Helping others capture the beauty of puffins and other seabirds while honing their photography skills sounds incredibly rewarding.
In conclusion, photographing puffins at the Bullers of Buchan was an exhilarating and fulfilling experience. The combination of stunning landscapes, captivating wildlife, and the thrill of the perfect shot makes it a must-visit location for any wildlife photographer. I look forward to returning and continuing to explore the endless photographic opportunities this unique spot offers.
