How a Top Waterfowl Photographer Plans, Hides, and Captures the Shot (Ep 741)
Ducks Unlimited Podcast
Ducks Unlimited Inc.
4.9 • 599 Ratings
🗓️ 20 January 2026
⏱️ 48 minutes
🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS
🧾️ Download transcript
Summary
Learn how pro waterfowl photographer Phil Kahnke scouts, sets up, and times the moment for jaw‑dropping duck images—and how it improves your hunting.
Host Matt Harrison interviews photographer and lifelong hunter Phil Kahnke, known for striking waterfowl images and a methodical, hunt-first approach behind the lens.
Kahnke traces his path from a hand‑me‑down film camera to modern digital work, explaining why his scouting mirrors a duck hunt and why perfect light, wind, and hide are non‑negotiable. He shares close calls on the ice, gear he won’t work without, and why hiding is the single most underrated factor for success—whether you carry a gun or a camera.
Takeaways:
- The one moment that proved he could make magazine‑quality images
- Why success is “10x harder than a duck hunt” and how he prepares
- Hiding as the critical skill: getting birds below the horizon
- Light, wind, access, and backgrounds—how he chooses a spot
- Pintails as the wariest, redheads as camera‑friendly, and why cans thrill him
- Ethics in wildlife photography: wild birds, wild places, honest portrayal
Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org
SPONSORS:
Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.
Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:
Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.
Transcript
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| 0:00.0 | At World Whiskey Society, we're serious about two things, ducks and drams. |
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| 0:27.9 | Shop the full flight now at world whiskey.com. |
| 0:31.3 | And when you buy any two ducts unlimited bottles, you'll get 10% off your order at world whiskey.com. |
| 0:40.6 | Can we do a mic check, please? |
| 0:41.9 | Everybody, welcome back to the Ducks on the podcast. |
| 0:43.9 | I'm your host, Dr. Mike Brazier. |
| 0:45.7 | I'm your host, Katie Burke. |
| 0:47.0 | I'm your host, Dr. Jared Henson. |
| 0:48.8 | And I'm your host, Matt Harrison. |
| 0:50.4 | I'm your host, Matt Harrison. |
| 1:03.6 | Welcome to the Ducks Unlimited podcast, the only podcast about all things waterfowl. |
| 1:08.8 | From hunting insights to science-based discussions about ducks, geese, and issues affecting waterfowl and wetlands conservation in North America. |
| 1:11.6 | The D.U. Podcast, sponsored by Purina Pro Plan, the official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited. |
| 1:17.6 | Purina Pro Plan, always advancing. |
| 1:20.6 | Also proudly sponsored by Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails. |
| 1:24.6 | Whether you're winding down with your best friend or celebrating with your |
| 1:27.8 | favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly. |
| 1:48.8 | Hey everybody and welcome back to the Ducks Limited podcast. |
... |
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