There are so many reasons why I love using a floating hide to photograph birds — and why I’ve been doing it for over 25 years now.
The main reason? It allows me to immerse myself in nature completely. Once I’m camouflaged and quietly waiting, birds usually don’t mind the presence of this odd, muskrat nest–like dome gently drifting nearby. Half-submerged in the water, I feel completely connected to the environment, surrounded by life. It’s peaceful, intense, and deeply inspiring. I can focus fully — no one around, just me in my floating bubble. And on trips like the one in Slovenia, where we have exclusive access to the location, there’s no risk of being disturbed. That’s how I want to experience nature — and how I truly enjoy photography.
The second reason is artistic freedom. A floating hide gives you the ability to move — slowly, quietly — around your subject. You decide how the light falls and what’s in your frame. With some patience, you can even control the distance to your subject. In a few lucky moments, I’ve managed to capture wide-angle shots of Little Bitterns!
Then there’s a third reason that has become increasingly important: originality. Shooting from a floating hide gives you a unique and authentic point of view. You won’t be standing in line at a classic Instagram hotspot, waiting to take the same photo as everyone else. Each time you wade into the water, you’re exploring new ground. You never know what you’ll encounter — and whatever you do capture is yours alone. No one is waiting behind you.
For the love of Water
On a more personal level, I just love being in the water. A true water rat, I guess. There’s a thrill in wading, in testing my fieldcraft skills again and again. Sometimes it’s so exciting, I forget to breathe. And now, with silent mirrorless cameras, I don’t make a sound — a total game-changer for getting closer to shy birds without disturbing them.
Over the years, I’ve organised floating hide trips in France, Slovenia, Poland, Bulgaria, Kazakhstan… and as I’m writing this, I’m getting ready to head back to Slovenia. There’s still room for one more photographer on this next adventure — if you’re quick to decide!
We use Mr Jan Gear floating hides — gear I helped to develop as an ambassador for the brand. If you’re curious about the hides or interested in joining one of my trips, feel free to reach out.
Join me in the water — and experience the freedom yourself!
