Camouflage Leaf Screen Setup for Garden Wildlife Photos

By Wildlife Watching Supplies - Kevin Keatley - Wildlife Watching Supplies | Published: 2026-10-16

Category: How-to Guides

A step-by-step guide to setting up a lightweight leaf screen camouflage hide in your garden for bird and wildlife photography, using A1 Leafscreen material and simple supports.

Quick answer

To set up a camouflage leaf screen for garden wildlife photography, drape lightweight A1 Leafscreen material over a simple frame or existing structure, positioning it between you and your subject. Keep the screen slightly higher than your lens height and leave small gaps for your camera and lens to see through, while concealing your silhouette. Secure the bottom and sides to prevent flapping, and check that the screen blends with your garden's natural colours.

Choose the right spot and screen size

Pick a location where wildlife already feels safe—near a feeder, birdbath, or favourite perch. Set your screen so you are downwind and have a clear line of sight to your subject. For most garden setups, a 1.5m x 1.5m screen (A1.1 size) is enough to hide a seated photographer, while a larger 3m x 1.5m (A1.2) or 2.9m x 2.1m (A1.2L) screen gives more coverage if you stand or want to include a tripod. The A1 Leafscreen material is lightweight nylon, similar to what the British Forces use, and comes in Green/brown or Hardwoods Green—choose the pattern that best matches your garden's foliage.

Build a simple support frame

You don't need a permanent hide. Use two garden canes, tripod legs, or even a rotary washing line to drape the Leafscreen over. For a quick setup, push two canes into the ground about 2m apart, drape the material over them, and secure with clips or pegs. If you're using a tripod, you can drape the screen directly over it, but make sure it doesn't interfere with camera controls. The material is lightweight, so it won't strain supports. For a more stable option, use a length of cord between two trees or fences and hang the screen like a curtain.

Position the screen for concealment and visibility

The screen should hide your body but allow you to see and shoot. Sit or stand behind it, then adjust the height so the top edge is just above your eye level. Cut or fold small openings for your lens and maybe a second for your eyes if you're using binoculars. Avoid large gaps that expose your face or hands. If you're using a flash, consider a C90 Camera flash cover to conceal the flash head and standby lights—it's made from waterproof material and fits most major brands. The cover also helps with weather protection.

Secure the screen against wind and movement

Lightweight material can flap in the breeze, which spooks wildlife. Anchor the bottom edge with pegs or stones, and tie the sides to your supports. If you're using a scrim scarf like the B14 Scrim Scarf/Net, you can drape it over your head and shoulders for extra concealment when you need to move slightly. For car-based photography, you can drape Leafscreen over car windows to turn your vehicle into a hide—just ensure it's secure and doesn't obstruct your view.

Blend the screen into the environment

A new, crisp camouflage pattern can look out of place. If possible, let the screen weather outdoors for a few days before use, or rub it with soil and leaves to dull the colours. Position it so it sits among natural vegetation—behind a bush or between branches. The A1 Leafscreen is available in Green/brown and Hardwoods Green; the latter suits woodland edges, while Green/brown works in most gardens. Remember that wildlife notices movement and shape more than colour, so breaking up your outline is key.

Step-by-step setup

Scout your location: Watch your garden for a few days to identify where birds and animals appear most. Set up your screen 3–5 metres away from the action, with the sun behind you if possible. Checkpoint: Ensure you have a clear, unobstructed view and that your scent won't drift toward the subject.
Prepare your screen and supports: Unfold your A1 Leafscreen and decide on the size. For a seated position, the 1.5m x 1.5m is usually enough. Gather two garden canes or a tripod, plus pegs or clips. Mistake to avoid: Don't use shiny or noisy supports that might reflect light or scare wildlife.
Erect the screen: Push canes into the ground, drape the Leafscreen over them, and adjust so the top edge is just above your eye level when seated. Secure the bottom with pegs and the sides with clips. Checkpoint: The screen should not flap in the wind; if it does, add more anchors.
Create lens and viewing openings: Cut or fold small openings for your lens and eyes. Keep them as small as possible to maintain concealment. If using a flash, fit a C90 Camera flash cover to hide the flash head and standby lights. Mistake to avoid: Openings that are too large or ragged will draw attention.
Blend and settle in: Dull the screen's appearance with dirt or leaves if it looks too new. Position natural vegetation around it. Then sit quietly and wait for wildlife to return—it may take 10–15 minutes. Checkpoint: If animals seem wary, check for movement, noise, or exposed skin, and adjust accordingly.

Product facts

A1 Leafscreen Camouflage Material: Lightweight nylon camouflage material, similar to what the British Forces use. Available in three sizes: 1.5m x 1.5m (Green/brown), 3m x 1.5m (Green/brown), and 2.9m x 2.1m (Hardwoods Green only). The lightweight nylon makes it easy to carry and set up quickly, while the size options let you choose coverage for sitting or standing. The Hardwoods Green option is ideal for woodland gardens.
C90 Camera flash cover: Camera flash cover with easy pull-on design, elastic fit around flash head with draw cord at base, long enough to cover flash, wireless trigger and mount, conceals standby lights, made from waterproof material, one size fits all major brands, available in camouflage patterns or plain colours. This cover hides reflective surfaces and lights that can alert wildlife, and its waterproof material protects your flash in damp conditions.
B14 Scrim Scarf/Net: B14 Army Green Scrim Head & Shoulder Net, 100% cotton, 1m x 1.10m. Ideal for camouflaging yourself or your camera equipment. Can also be used as a screen on a car side window. This net adds an extra layer of concealment for your head and shoulders, and its cotton material is breathable for comfort during long waits.

Once your screen is set up, leave it in place for a few days so wildlife becomes accustomed to it. You can then enjoy closer, more natural photographs with minimal disturbance.