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1 to 1 and 1 to 2 Wildlife Photography Workshop

The workshop is aimed at beginners just starting out as a basic introduction to wildlife photography, or those who perhaps have already taken the initial plunge but would like to take their skills to the next level. In either case the tuition given will be appropriate to the photographer’s aims and requirements. Todays DSLR cameras offer a multitude of functions within their menus. Sometimes the complexity of these can really frustrate users leaving them with no option but to simply select Auto functions whenever possible.

I always shoot in Manual mode because it gives me far more creative control. If you're currently shooting in Auto mode but would like to experiment with Manual, then with your agreement I will show you how to utilise your camera's basic settings such as shutter speed, aperture control, ISO selection, metering, and focus mode selection relative to the main wildlife photography categories described below. 

 

Workshop Description

Essentially the session will focus (no pun intended) on the main categories of bird photography, these being Portrait shots, Action and Behaviour shots and Birds in Flight shots.

 
 
 
Portrait Shots

To get a good portrait image that "ticks all the boxes" so to speak, the wildlife photographer needs to consider a number of points before taking the shot. Among these are whether to use a landscape or portrait format, consideration of the background, the composition, the focusing area, ISO selection etc.

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Action and Behaviour Shots
 
In most cases good action shots are achieved by anticipating what's likely to happen next. This is where the photographer's wildlife knowledge really counts. During the workshop I will also provide tips on various species to help you get that great action shot.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Birds in Flight Shots
 
Bird in flight (BIF) shots are the most difficult of all the categories to master. Larger birds such as herons and geese are the easiest to begin with because they fly relatively slow with fewer wingbeats compared to say a wood pigeon. During the workshop we'll explore the main skill areas needed for BIF photography including focus technique, shutter speed selection for given situations and the basic camera / lens handling skills necessary for success. The session will provide a good basis for this difficult area of wildlife photography, such that with practice over time your BIF skills will pay dividends!
 
 
Workshop Location and Facilities 
 
The following locations are offered for tuition. All are within a reasonable distance from my home and hopefully anyone in the region will be able to select a workshop site that's in a convenient location to them.
  • Rutland Water - Anglian Bird Watching Centre, Oakham. (Leicstershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust)
  • Potteric Carr Nature Reserve - Doncaster. (Yorkshire Wildlife Trust)
  • Attenborough Nature Reserve - Nottingham. (Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust)
  • Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve - Coventry. (Warwickshire Wildlife Trust)
  • Old Moor Nature Reserve - Barnsley. (RSPB)
  • Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve - Tamworth. (RSPB)
Notes:
  1. Unless you're a member of the relevant Wildlife Trust or RSPB as appropriate, you will have to pay an entry fee for the reserves which includes parking. In most cases this is no more than £6 for the day.  
  2. We will spend a fair amount of time in hides that are open to other people on the reserve. 
  3. If you have a different site preference other than the above, please mention it in your enquiry and I will advise if the location is possible and if any further travel expenses would be required.
 
 
What's Needed ?
  • DSLR Camera
  • Lens with a focal length of at least 300mm
  • Memory Cards
  • Appropriate clothing for the weather - please try to avoid bright colours
  • Appropriate footware for walking over possible uneven / muddy ground
  • Your necessary food and refreshments.

 

How Long Is The Session ?

  • The workshops are only available Monday to Thursday inclusive.
  • Full sessions last for approximately 6 hours, usually from around 10:00 until 16:00.
  • Half sessions of approximately 3-4 hours are also available.

 

How Much Does It Cost ?

1 to 1 Sessions 

  • Full session is £120. Deposit of £35 required please at time of booking.
  • Half session is £70. Deposit of £35 required please at time of booking.

1 to 2 Sessions

  • Full session is £90 each. Deposit of £35 each required please at time of booking.
  • Half session is £55 each. Deposit of £35 each required please at time of booking. 

 

How To Make an Enquiry and Book a Session

Please click on the Contact Me link on the main menu and let me know your requirements and I'll get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you.

 

 

Wildlife Photography Workshops - Deposit and Balance Payments

 

1 to 1 Workshop Payments

Workshop Deposit Payment£35

Full Session Balance Payment£85

Half Session Balance Payment£35

 

 

1 to 2 Workshop Payments

Workshop Deposit Payment£70

Full Session Balance Payment£110

Half Session Balance Payment£40

 

Terms and Conditions

  • Bookings will be confirmed by e-mail from Michael Taylor on receipt of the deposit amount due which is non-refundable. The remainder of the balance for the booked workshop is payable one week before the workshop date. 
  • Cancellations made by the client prior to 14 days of the booked workshop date can be rearranged once only without loss of the deposit. 
  • If Michael Taylor has to cancel a workshop booking then either an alternative date can be arranged or a full refund of monies paid will be made if requested. Michael Taylor will not be liable for any further costs.
  • Michael Taylor cannot be held responsible for any accident or personal injury to a client or damage to any of the client's personal items when attending a Wildlife Photography Workshop.