Recommended camera settings#
Focal length needed to frame it#
For a subject about 25 cm long filling a third or half of the frame width horizontally.
| Distance | ⅓ of frame (FF) | ½ of frame (FF) | ⅓ of frame (APS-C) | ⅓ of frame (MFT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 m (16 ft) | 227 mm | 336 mm | 151 mm | 113 mm |
| 10 m (33 ft) | 454 mm | 672 mm | 302 mm | 227 mm |
| 15 m (49 ft) | 680 mm | 1,007 mm | 454 mm | 340 mm |
| 20 m (66 ft) | 907 mm | 1,343 mm | 605 mm | 454 mm |
| 30 m (98 ft) | 1,361 mm | 2,015 mm | 907 mm | 680 mm |
| 50 m (164 ft) | 2,268 mm | 3,358 mm | 1,512 mm | 1,134 mm |
About the Common Nighthawk#
The common nighthawk (Chordeiles minor) is a medium-sized crepuscular or nocturnal bird within the nightjar family, whose presence and identity are best revealed by its vocalization. Typically dark (grey, black and brown), displaying cryptic colouration and intricate patterns, this bird is difficult to spot with the naked eye during the day. Once aerial, with its buoyant but erratic flight, this bird is most conspicuous.
Summary adapted from Wikipedia via iNaturalist (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Field-craft tips#
- Roost on branches or the ground by day — camouflage is perfect, use eye-AF.
- Mostly crepuscular: lean on a fast lens, high ISO and stabilisation; keep distance and avoid flash at nests.
- Sightings peak in May, June, July and August, which is when you'll have the most chances.
Ethics#
- The welfare of the animal comes first: if it changes its behaviour because of you, you are too close.
- Stay on trails, respect closures around nests, leks, dens and haul-outs.
- Avoid playback and baiting in sensitive seasons; never bait predators.
- Don't share precise locations of rare, nesting or roosting animals publicly.
Frequently asked questions#
What lens do I need to photograph a Common Nighthawk?
At about 25 cm long, a common nighthawk fills a third of a full-frame image at 10 m with roughly 454 mm, or at 20 m with 907 mm.
What shutter speed should I use for a Common Nighthawk?
1/250–1/500 s when it's still; 1/2000 s for action.
When is the best time to photograph a Common Nighthawk?
Observations in North America peak in May, June, July and August. Early morning and late afternoon give the best light and activity.
Sources & licences#
- iNaturalist — Observation data CC BY-NC; photo licence as credited
- Wikipedia — CC BY-SA 4.0
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources