Face to Face with a Rattlesnake: The Thrill (and Challenge) of Snake Photography

Photographing snakes is one of those experiences that’s equal parts nerve-wracking and awe-inspiring. These elusive creatures are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly into their environment and often disappearing before you ever get a chance to raise your camera. Capturing them on film takes patience, knowledge of their behavior, and above all,  respect for their space.

The golden rule of snake photography? Safety first. Never risk getting too close or disturbing the animal. A telephoto lens is usually your best friend, letting you frame intimate shots without putting yourself in striking distance. Natural light works wonders in revealing the texture of their scales, while a well-placed flash can bring out colors and patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed.

An Unforgettable Encounter in the Mountains

On a hike in the mountains above Los Angeles, I set out with nothing more than my macro lens, hoping to capture the delicate beauty of wildflowers. That’s when I spotted something coiled between the rocks, a baby Diamondback rattlesnake.

The challenge? My 60mm f/2.8 macro lens was completely wrong for the situation. To fill the frame, I’d have to get dangerously close. Curiosity (and maybe a little adrenaline) pushed me forward, inching closer until I was about six feet away. The snake held perfectly still.

Against my better judgment, I crouched down, then stretched out flat in the dirt. With the camera resting just three feet away from the 12-inch rattler, I fired off shot after shot, hoping one would lock into focus. Each miss tempted me to move just a little bit closer. Finally, I froze, realizing my “pucker factor” had hit its limit.

That’s when it happened, the rattlesnake began to move. Not away, but toward my lens. Heart racing, I stayed perfectly still, finger pressed lightly on the shutter. To my amazement, the young rattler calmly approached and “posed” just inches from my glass, giving me the kind of intimate shots I never thought possible.

The Lesson

Snake photography isn’t just about getting the picture. It’s about respect, for the animal, for the environment, and for your own limits. Sometimes the best images come when you stop pushing and let nature decide the moment.

So the next time you’re out with your camera and stumble upon a snake, remember: stay calm, keep your distance, and let the encounter unfold naturally. You might just walk away with not only a striking image but also a story you’ll never forget.

The photographs contained in this website may not be reproduced without the express consent of Shutter Bison.