Recommended camera settings#
Focal length needed to frame it#
For a subject about 225 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) | 26 mm | 40 mm | 18 mm | 13 mm |
| 10 m (33 ft) | 53 mm | 79 mm | 35 mm | 26 mm |
| 15 m (49 ft) | 79 mm | 119 mm | 53 mm | 39 mm |
| 20 m (66 ft) | 105 mm | 159 mm | 70 mm | 53 mm |
| 30 m (98 ft) | 158 mm | 238 mm | 105 mm | 79 mm |
| 50 m (164 ft) | 263 mm | 397 mm | 175 mm | 131 mm |
About the Steller Sea Lion#
The Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus), also known as the northern sea lion and Steller's sea lion, is a near-threatened species of sea lion in the northern Pacific. It is the sole member of the genus Eumetopias and the largest of the eared seals (Otariidae) and is also the largest species of sea lion. Among pinnipeds, it is inferior in size only to the walrus and the two species of elephant seals.
Summary adapted from Wikipedia via iNaturalist (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Field-craft tips#
- Harbours and piers give close but legal views.
- Boat motion adds blur — keep 1/1000 s minimum and use stabilisation.
- Sightings peak in 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.
More Eared Seals#
Frequently asked questions#
What lens do I need to photograph a Steller Sea Lion?
At about 225 cm long, a steller sea lion fills a third of a full-frame image at 10 m with roughly 53 mm, or at 20 m with 105 mm.
What shutter speed should I use for a Steller Sea Lion?
1/1000 s when it's still; 1/2000–1/3200 s for action.
When is the best time to photograph a Steller Sea Lion?
Observations in North America peak in 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