How AI Is Unlocking the Secrets of Bird Communication
I ran into a Youtube Video by Hannah Fry about animal communition and AI. I did some further research and came up with this post. I think there will be a revolution in how we photograph birds over the next few years. This is exciting!
AI is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it raises real concerns about privacy, misinformation, and the dehumanizing aspects of automation. But on the other hand, it holds incredible potential in areas I care deeply about—like bird photography and wildlife observation.
Personally, I use AI tools like Merlin Bird ID almost daily. Whether I’m on a boat in a cypress swamp or walking a wooded trail, I rely on Merlin’s sound ID feature to help identify birds by their calls. It's a game changer. But what excites me even more is the potential for AI to not just identify species, but to recognize behavioral patterns. If a certain call means feeding or territorial defense, knowing that in real time could completely transform how and where I set up for a shot.
This got me thinking: could we someday get real-time insights into species like Osprey? Their vocalizations are frequent and varied, especially around nests and during feeding. I haven’t found a comprehensive breakdown yet, but I’m on the lookout for research into decoding Osprey calls. If AI could help me understand what an Osprey is "saying," it could be a revolution in storytelling through photography.
Why Bird Communication Matters
Birds use sounds for far more than just attracting mates or warning of danger. Their songs and calls carry a range of meanings—some of which we’re only now beginning to grasp. Studying this behavior can:
Offer insights into bird behavior and ecology
Help track population changes and habitat health
Contribute to our understanding of language evolution
How AI Is Changing the Game
AI models can analyze thousands of hours of field recordings and pick up on patterns the human ear might miss. Some exciting developments include:
Birdsong translation: AI trained on labeled datasets is beginning to differentiate context-specific calls.
Species identification: Tools like Merlin Bird ID and BirdNET can now identify species in real time by sound alone.
Social interaction analysis: AI is helping researchers study how birds interact with each other over time.
The Role of Citizen Scientists
Platforms like eBird and Xeno-Canto make it possible for everyday birders to contribute sound recordings and observations. These community-generated datasets feed directly into AI systems, refining them over time. That means the next time you upload a dawn chorus recording, you might be helping decode avian language.
What This Means for Photographers and Naturalists
As someone who spends hours in the field, I can see how these tools open up new layers of awareness. Imagine setting up for a photo and your phone quietly tells you that a certain call indicates feeding behavior nearby. It adds a new dimension to both observation and storytelling.
Looking Ahead: From Songs to Meaning
The ultimate goal? Understanding not just what birds are saying but why they’re saying it. AI is paving the way for a deeper, more nuanced understanding of avian lives, and as technology evolves, our connection with wildlife could grow more potent than ever.
Using ChatGPT to Improve Your Photography
Using ChatGPT to improve photography is a game-changer. Whether you're in the field, editing at home, or growing your photography business, AI can be a powerful assistant. From quick camera settings to SEO optimization, let’s explore how ChatGPT can take your photography to the next level!
A Real-World Example: ChatGPT Saves the Day in the Field
Just yesterday, I was out photographing with a friend who was using a Canon R5 Mark II. He wanted to check his histogram in the EVF to fine-tune his exposure, but he couldn’t remember how to enable it. Instead of fumbling through menus or searching for the manual, I simply pulled out my phone and asked ChatGPT. Within seconds, I had the answer:
👉 Press the "i" button multiple times to bring up the histogram
Problem solved, and he was back to shooting without missing a moment!
This is just one example of how using ChatGPT to improve photography can be a huge time-saver—especially when you're in the field and need quick, accurate answers.
How ChatGPT Can Enhance Your Photography Workflow
1. Researching Camera Settings in the Field
Ever struggled to remember which button does what on your camera? ChatGPT can quickly retrieve information about menu settings and button functions so you can make adjustments on the fly without digging through a manual.
2. Enhancing Post-Processing with Keywords and Captions
Metadata matters! If you’re uploading images to a portfolio or stock site, strong keywords and compelling captions improve discoverability. ChatGPT can generate relevant keywords based on your photo’s subject, location, and style, helping you reach the right audience.
3. Writing Blog Posts and Articles
Photography blogs boost engagement and establish your expertise, but writing can be time-consuming. ChatGPT can help structure articles, refine content, and suggest SEO-friendly phrases to attract more readers.
4. Planning Photo Shoots Like a Pro
ChatGPT can assist with scouting locations, finding the best shooting times, and offering creative shot ideas for a fresh perspective. It’s like having a research assistant for your next trip!
5. Choosing the Right Gear for Your Needs
Not sure if you should upgrade to the latest lens? ChatGPT can break down gear specs, compare options, and help you decide based on your shooting style and budget.
6. Improving Image Editing and Workflow
From Lightroom shortcuts to advanced Photoshop techniques, ChatGPT can guide you through various post-processing workflows to enhance your images faster.
7. Optimizing Your Website and Social Media for SEO
Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist showcasing your work, SEO is key. ChatGPT can help craft better titles, meta descriptions, and hashtags to drive more traffic to your site and social media.
8. Growing Your Photography Business
From drafting emails and client proposals to brainstorming marketing strategies, ChatGPT can help streamline the business side of photography—so you can focus more on shooting.
How to Quickly Access ChatGPT on Your Smartphone
One of the best ways to make ChatGPT a true photography assistant is by setting it up for quick access on your smartphone. Here’s how you can do it:
On iPhones with the Action Button (iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max)
I personally use the Action Button on my iPhone to bring up ChatGPT instantly. Here’s how to set it up:
Go to Settings → Action Button
Choose “Shortcut”
Create a Shortcut that opens ChatGPT or triggers Siri to prompt ChatGPT
On iPhones Without the Action Button
If you don’t have an Action Button, you can still access ChatGPT quickly using:
Back Tap Gesture (Double or Triple tap the back of your iPhone)
Go to Settings → Accessibility → Touch → Back Tap
Set it to launch ChatGPT
Siri Shortcut
Use the Shortcuts app to create a voice command that opens ChatGPT
Example: “Hey Siri, open ChatGPT”
On Android Phones
For Android users, there are similar ways to speed up ChatGPT access:
Custom Gesture on Gesture-Based Navigation Phones
Use apps like Tasker or built-in Android gestures to open ChatGPT with a swipe
Google Assistant Integration
Set up Google Assistant to trigger ChatGPT via a shortcut
Home Screen Widget
If using the ChatGPT app, add it to your home screen for one-tap access
By setting up quick access, you can use ChatGPT effortlessly while shooting, editing, or researching photography techniques—saving time and keeping your focus on creativity.
Nikon Z8 Custom Setup and Field Guide–My Approach
I’m planning a photo shoot tomorrow morning, so I’m reviewing how I set up my Nikon Z8s. The settings are largely the same on the Nikon Z9, but this post is not for users of other cameras. Sorry.
This guide will walk you through setting up your Nikon Z8 to maximize efficiency with back button focus, playback customization, AF modes on the record button, ISO on the lens control ring, subject detection toggle on the Fn2 button, and exposure delay mode on the playback button. I’ve also included a field guide for those using these settings. When away from the camera for some time, I forget what I’ve set, so I created this guide to ensure things are set correctly. After feeding it a list of functions I have been using on the camera, I've used ChatGPT to write this. I’ve added a downloadable quick reference as well as detailed information.
1. Set Back Button Focus on the AF-ON Button
Back Button Focus allows you to separate focusing from the shutter button, which is ideal for many photographers.
Steps:
Open the Menu → Navigate to Custom Settings Menu (Pencil Icon)
Go to a11: AF Activation
Select "AF-ON only"
This disables autofocus from the shutter button and assigns it to the AF-ON button instead.
Optional: Disable Shutter Release AF
Go to a4: AF-ON + shutter and set it to Off to prevent the shutter button from triggering autofocus.
2. Set Playback to the Display Button
This setting moves playback to the DISP (Display) button, making image review quicker.
Steps:
Go to Menu → Custom Settings Menu
Navigate to f2: Custom controls (Playback)
Select DISP (Display) button
Choose "Playback"
Press OK to confirm.
3. Assign AF Modes to the Record Button
This lets you switch AF modes quickly by pressing the record button.
Steps:
Go to Menu → Custom Settings Menu
Navigate to f2: Custom controls (Shooting)
Scroll to Movie Record Button
Set it to "AF-area mode"
Press OK to save.
Now, pressing the Record button will bring up AF mode selection.
4. Assign ISO to the Lens Control Ring
This allows quick ISO adjustments without taking your hand off the lens.
Steps:
Go to Menu → Custom Settings Menu
Navigate to f9: Customize command dials
Select "Customize control ring"
Set it to "ISO sensitivity"
Press OK to confirm.
Now, rotating the lens control ring will adjust ISO.
5. Assign Subject Detect to Fn2 Using My Menu
This enables quick toggling of Subject Detection from the Fn2 button.
Steps:
Go to Menu → MY MENU
Select "Add items"
Go to Custom Settings Menu → a3: Auto-area AF face/eye detection
Add it to My Menu.
Now, Assign it to Fn2 Button:
Go to Custom Settings Menu
Navigate to f2: Custom controls (Shooting)
Select Fn2 button
Choose "MY MENU"
Press OK to save.
Now, pressing Fn2 brings up My Menu, allowing you to toggle Subject Detection quickly.
6. Assign Exposure Delay to the Playback Button
Exposure delay helps minimize camera shake by delaying the shutter after pressing.
Steps:
Go to Menu → Custom Settings Menu
Navigate to d4: Exposure delay mode
Set it to 1, 2, or 3 seconds as needed.
Assign it to the Playback Button:
Go to Custom Settings Menu → f2: Custom controls (Shooting)
Select Playback button
Set it to "Exposure delay mode"
Press OK to save.
Now, pressing the Playback button will enable/disable Exposure Delay Mode.
Final Check
Test each customization to ensure it works as expected.
Adjust settings based on your shooting preferences.
Now your Nikon Z8 is fully optimized for quick access to essential functions! 🚀 Let me know if you need further refinements.
Nikon Z8 Custom Setup – Field Guide
Optimized for Quick Access to Focus, Playback, AF Modes, ISO, and Subject Detection
1. Using Back Button Focus (AF-ON)
What it does:
The shutter button only takes the picture (no autofocus).
Autofocus is now triggered only by the AF-ON button.
How to use it:
Press and hold the AF-ON button to autofocus.
Release AF-ON to lock focus.
Press the shutter button to take the photo.
When to use it:
✅ Great for wildlife, sports, and portraits to prevent focus shifting between shots.
✅ Ideal for recomposing after locking focus.
2. Reviewing Images with the Display Button
What it does:
The DISP (Display) button now opens image playback.
How to use it:
Press the DISP button to enter playback mode.
Use the sub-selector joystick to navigate images.
Press the DISP button again to exit playback.
When to use it:
✅ Quick access to review shots without moving your thumb off the grip.
3. Changing Autofocus Modes with the Record Button
What it does:
Pressing the Record button lets you quickly change AF modes.
How to use it:
Press the Record button to bring up AF mode selection.
Use the front command dial to toggle between AF modes:
Single-point AF (precise focusing)
Wide-area AF (for tracking subjects)
Auto-area AF (full-frame subject detection)
Press OK to confirm the selection.
When to use it:
✅ Perfect for switching between different autofocus needs, such as static subjects (Single-Point AF) and moving subjects (Wide-Area AF or Auto-Area AF).
4. Adjusting ISO with the Lens Control Ring
What it does:
The control ring on the lens now adjusts ISO.
How to use it:
Rotate the lens control ring📖 Nikon Z8 Quick Settings Reference Table
This table provides a quick overview of the custom settings and their assigned controls for your Nikon Z8 setup. Keep this handy for easy reference in the field.
FunctionButton/ControlHow to UseBest ForBack Button FocusAF-ON buttonPress AF-ON to focus, release to lock focusWildlife, sports, portraitsPlaybackDISP (Display) buttonPress DISP to review imagesQuick image reviewChange AF ModesRecord buttonPress Record → Use front dial to switch AF modeFast AF mode switchingAdjust ISOLens control ringRotate the lens ring to adjust ISOQuick exposure adjustmentsToggle Subject DetectionFn2 button (via My Menu)Press Fn2 → Select detection modeSwitching between people, animals, birds, vehiclesEnable Exposure DelayPlayback buttonPress Playback to toggle exposure delayTripod shooting, reducing shake
5. Toggling Subject Detection via the Fn2 Button (My Menu)
What it does:
The Fn2 button opens My Menu, giving you fast access to Subject Detection settings.
How to use it:
Press Fn2 to open My Menu.
Select "Auto-area AF face/eye detection" and toggle it On/Off.
When to use it:
✅ Use when photographing people, animals, or vehicles.
✅ Turn Off for landscapes or when AF is struggling with the wrong subject.
6. Activating Exposure Delay with the Playback Button
What it does:
The Playback button now toggles Exposure Delay Mode to reduce camera shake.
How to use it:
Press the Playback button to enable/disable Exposure Delay.
Choose a 1s, 2s, or 3s delay in the menu.
When to use it:
✅ Great for tripod shooting to avoid vibrations (macro, long exposures).
✅ Turn Off when shooting handheld.
Final Notes
Test your setup in different shooting conditions to get comfortable.
These settings optimize speed, control, and efficiency in the field.
Practice switching AF modes, adjusting ISO, and using back button focus so they become second nature.
Enjoy shooting with your custom-tuned Nikon Z8! 🚀📷
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📖 Understanding and Using Subject Detection on the Nikon Z8
The Nikon Z8 features advanced subject detection modes, allowing the camera to automatically recognize and focus on specific subjects such as people, animals, birds, vehicles, and airplanes. Understanding when and how to use each mode will improve your autofocus accuracy in different shooting conditions.
🔹 How to Access and Change Subject Detection Modes
Since we’ve assigned subject detection to the Fn2 button using My Menu, you can quickly switch between modes:
Press the Fn2 button to bring up My Menu.
Select "Auto-area AF face/eye detection".
Choose the appropriate subject detection mode for your scene.
Press OK to apply.
📷 Subject Detection Modes Explained
Each mode is optimized for different types of photography. Here’s how to use them effectively:
👤 People Detection
What it does: Detects human faces and eyes, prioritizing sharp focus on them.
Best for: Portrait photography, events, street photography.
How it works:
The camera automatically identifies faces.
If multiple people are detected, use the joystick to select the preferred subject.
Works in Auto-Area AF mode.
Tip: If subject detection struggles in dim light, switch to Single-point AF for more precise control.
🐶 Animal Detection
What it does: Detects dogs, cats, and other mammals, prioritizing their eyes for sharp focus.
Best for: Pet photography, wildlife photography (excluding birds).
How it works:
Works similarly to people detection but optimized for furry friends.
The camera identifies the face and eyes of the animal.
Tip: If the animal is partially hidden or at a distance, switch to Wide-Area AF instead of Auto-Area AF for better accuracy.
🦜 Bird Detection
What it does: Specifically designed to detect and focus on birds’ heads and eyes, even in flight.
Best for: Bird photography, especially birds in motion.
How it works:
Works best with Auto-Area AF or Wide-Area AF.
Can track birds in flight, ensuring sharp focus.
Tip: Pair this with Dynamic-Area AF for more control when birds are moving through complex backgrounds.
🚗 Vehicle Detection
What it does: Detects cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, prioritizing helmets or windshields for focus.
Best for: Motorsports, street photography involving vehicles.
How it works:
The camera locks onto the vehicle’s windshield or driver’s face.
Tip: Works well in tracking mode (3D-tracking AF) to follow fast-moving vehicles.
✈️ Airplane Detection
What it does: Recognizes airplanes and locks focus on their bodies or cockpits.
Best for: Aviation photography, airshows.
How it works:
Works best in Auto-Area AF or Wide-Area AF.
Tip: Use Dynamic-Area AF if the background has multiple planes.
⚡ Best Practices for Subject Detection
✅ Use the right detection mode for your subject. If photographing birds, don’t leave the camera in “People Detection.”
✅ Combine Subject Detection with the right AF-Area Mode:
Auto-Area AF: Best when the subject moves unpredictably.
Wide-Area AF: Good for controlling which part of the frame the camera focuses on.
Dynamic-Area AF: Helps when a subject moves in a busy scene.
✅ Be mindful of background clutter. Subject detection might struggle if the background is busy or if multiple subjects compete for attention.
✅ For small subjects, zoom in or use a longer focal length. Birds far away may not be detected easily.
🎯 Final Thoughts
By assigning Subject Detection to the Fn2 button, you can quickly switch between modes based on your subject. Mastering this feature will improve autofocus speed and accuracy, helping you get sharper images with minimal effort.
🚀 Now go out and test different subject detection modes in real-world shooting!