Recommended camera settings#
Focal length needed to frame it#
For a subject about 260 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) | 23 mm | 34 mm | 15 mm | 11 mm |
| 10 m (33 ft) | 45 mm | 69 mm | 30 mm | 23 mm |
| 15 m (49 ft) | 68 mm | 103 mm | 45 mm | 34 mm |
| 20 m (66 ft) | 91 mm | 138 mm | 61 mm | 45 mm |
| 30 m (98 ft) | 136 mm | 206 mm | 91 mm | 68 mm |
| 50 m (164 ft) | 227 mm | 344 mm | 152 mm | 114 mm |
About the Northern Elephant Seal#
The northern elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris) is one of two species of elephant seal (the other is the southern elephant seal). It is a member of the family Phocidae ("true seals"). Elephant seals derive their name from their great size and from the male's large proboscis, which is used in making extraordinarily loud roaring noises, especially during the mating competition.
Summary adapted from Wikipedia via iNaturalist (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Field-craft tips#
- Haul-outs: stay back so seals don't flush into the water.
- Boat motion adds blur — keep 1/1000 s minimum and use stabilisation.
- Sightings peak in January and April, 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 Earless Seals#
Frequently asked questions#
What lens do I need to photograph a Northern Elephant Seal?
At about 260 cm long, a northern elephant seal fills a third of a full-frame image at 10 m with roughly 45 mm, or at 20 m with 91 mm.
What shutter speed should I use for a Northern Elephant Seal?
1/1000 s when it's still; 1/2000–1/3200 s for action.
When is the best time to photograph a Northern Elephant Seal?
Observations in North America peak in January and April. 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