Do you drool over the superb nature photography found in glossy magazines and long to be able to produce images that are even half as good? Do you wish you had the time and the money to travel to far off lands in search of exotic locations and even more exotic wildlife? Do you feel restricted and frustrated?

No worries! You can get great opportunities for fantastic images easily and cheaply and right on your doorstep.

How? By going to your local zoo or safari park.

Most of us live a reasonable distance from wild animals in captivity. The ethics may disturb some, but the fact is that most establishments are clean, safe for the animals and regularly inspected and kept to a high standard. Some institutions have animals in minimally-restricted areas affording even better opportunities for the photographer.

If the idea is beginning to appeal then think on further. Most establishments would be only too pleased for you to purchase an annual (season) ticket - in this way you can contribute towards the upkeep of the animals and visit as often as you wish.

No more rash rhino shots or lifeless lions. Now you can stay all day, in one location if you want, and be ready to capture the animals going about their daily business. And, unlike the far off locations, there will be places to eat, drink, rest and keep warm nearby!

With an annual pass you can visit at times that suit you and therefore almost certainly avoid the crowds at peak times. This will give you time and space for your best shots.

You may even be able to negotiate a "special" visit with some of the staff. Being around the animals when they are being washed, fed and otherwise cared for can be a great inspiration for some unusual images. Why not ask the groundstaff and animal keepers?

With he right equipment and technique you can avoid the appearance of animals in cages or pens and many of your shots , whilst not winning Wildlidfe Photographer of the year, will look professional, authentic and pleasing. Most importantly, you will have had a great time and a perfect opportinity to photograph unusual animals. And your payment will help towards their care.

Eric Hartwell runs the photography resource site http://www.theshutter.co.uk and the associated discussion forums as well as the regular weblog at http://thephotographysite.blogspot.com

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