Recommended camera settings#
Focal length needed to frame it#
For a subject about 50 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) | 116 mm | 174 mm | 77 mm | 58 mm |
| 10 m (33 ft) | 232 mm | 347 mm | 155 mm | 116 mm |
| 15 m (49 ft) | 348 mm | 521 mm | 232 mm | 174 mm |
| 20 m (66 ft) | 464 mm | 695 mm | 309 mm | 232 mm |
| 30 m (98 ft) | 696 mm | 1,042 mm | 464 mm | 348 mm |
| 50 m (164 ft) | 1,160 mm | 1,737 mm | 774 mm | 580 mm |
About the European Rabbit#
The European rabbit or common rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is a species of rabbit native to southwestern Europe (Spain, Portugal and Western France) and northwest Africa (Morocco and Algeria). It has been widely introduced elsewhere, often with devastating effects on local biodiversity. However, its decline in its native range (caused by the diseases myxomatosis and rabbit calicivirus, as well as overhunting and habitat loss), has caused the decline of its highly dependent predators, the Iberian lynx and...
Summary adapted from Wikipedia via iNaturalist (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Field-craft tips#
- Backlit ears at sunrise make classic portraits.
- Get down to eye level; a long lens with close focus (or an extension tube) helps with small subjects.
- Sightings peak in April, May, June, July, August and September, 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 Hares and Rabbits#
Frequently asked questions#
What lens do I need to photograph a European Rabbit?
At about 50 cm long, a european rabbit fills a third of a full-frame image at 10 m with roughly 232 mm, or at 20 m with 464 mm.
What shutter speed should I use for a European Rabbit?
1/800 s when it's still; 1/2000 s for action.
When is the best time to photograph a European Rabbit?
Observations in North America peak in April, May, June, July, August and September. 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