A photo walk with an experienced Florida bird photographer is a great way to learn new skills and techniques for finding, approaching, and making great photographs. On this Photo Walk we will visit Circle B Bar Reserve in Polk County, not far from Orlando. This expansive conservation park has a network of trails that take visitors through the woods, along the lake, and through the marsh. Common birds include the Anhinga, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Purple Gallinule, Common Gallinule, Double-crested Cormorant, White Ibis and more. If we get lucky we might even spot a Painted Bunting! We will also see lots of alligators.

We will be walking two to four miles on the trails so wear appropriate footwear. The mosquitos are no joke and about the size of a small bird, so I recommend long pants and shirt and lots of insect repellant.

What you will learn

• How and why to work in various camera modes, including aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual.

• Best practices for approaching wild birds without disturbing them and other important aspects of ethical bird photography. 

• Recognizing bird behavior and how to use that knowledge to create better images.

• How to find the best angles and perspectives to create more pleasing images.

• How to see, evaluate, and understand light.

• How to consider the total composition of the scene including the subject and background.

• How to evaluate wind and sky conditions and understand how they affect bird photography.

What you should bring

• Camera and lens(es). Telephoto primes or zooms in the 200-600mm range.

• Optional:

  • A way to stabilize your camera and lens, e.g., tripod or monopod

  • Insect repellant

  • Water to drink (it’s hot in Florida!)

What’s not included

• Transportation to and around Circle B Bar Reserve

• Local lodging and food

Cost

• $75/hour for up to 4 attendees