A photo walk with an experienced Florida bird photographer is great way to learn new skills and techniques for finding, approaching, and making great photographs. On this photo walk we will visit Fort De Soto Park which is located in the Tampa Bay area. Fort De Soto is arguably the best bird photography hotspot in Florida.

Depending on the time of year we will either photograph shore birds or warblers. For most of the year, shore birds are the star of the show. Common shore birds include the Reddish Egret, American Oystercatcher, Black Skimmers, Great Egrets, Little Blue Herons, Gulls, Terns, pelicans, and plovers of every variety. During spring migration in April and early May, the photo walk shifts to warbler photography. I will take you to all the regular hot spots where we’ll hope to find Painted Buntings, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Indigo Buntings, Scarlet Tanagers, Orioles, Magnolia Warblers, and more. You never know what you’ll find during Spring migration!

No matter the season, Fort De Soto is always a great place to photograph birds and soak in some Florida sun. Come join me!

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 and sunscreen

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

  • We will walking, sitting, and possibly laying in the sand, so wear appropriate shoes and clothing.

What’s not included

• Transportation to and around Fort De Soto

• Local lodging and food

Cost

• $75/hour for up to 4 attendees