DAVIS COUNTY — Wild animals tend to respond better when they recognize you as a kindred spirit. Several have found that spirit in photographer Jim Huddle, a self-described farm boy whose work will be on display in the Antelope Island art gallery through October and November. The work, which focuses on northern Utah beyond the city boundaries, stems from his early years out communing with nature. “I was always in the woods getting away from people,” said Huddle.

He thinks it’s the lack of that connection that leave most people so fascinated by nature photographs, many of which offer up close views of animals they’re normally lucky to catch only a glimpse of.

“They’re seeing something they’re not used to seeing — it’s a surprise to them,” said Huddle. “If you go out into nature all the time, though, you get used to it.”

At the same time, it’s his own familiarity with the great outdoors that help him get his up close and personal shots. Animals are notoriously difficult to photograph, with just as much tendency to be spooked by someone holding a camera as they are without one.

“Hunting and stalking skills come into play. You have to understand their behavior,” he said. “Like with birds, it’s a good idea to shoot from your car. It’s effective as a blind, and they won’t react to you.”

Location is also an important factor. One of Huddle’s favorite spots is Antelope Island, which he feels offers the best opportunity to be alone with nature year-round. Another spot he enjoys is Farmington Bay in winter, when the crowds get a little thinner.

No matter where you go, though, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead.

“You have to know what your subject is and where you’re going to find it,” he said. “It’s bad to drive 100 miles and strike out.”

Occasionally, though, the frustration comes long after the initial shot has been taken.

“A lot of photographers run into this. A lot of work and expense goes into what we do, but most of the people who look at our photographs don’t see the craft behind them,” said Huddle. “They think ‘oh, it’s just a photograph.’”

The animals, however, know better, and Huddle takes comfort in that.

“I enjoy my photographs for what they do for me,” he said. “I like what I do.”