I’m excited to share that I have joined the team at New Zealand Photography Workshops to help lead the 4 Day Wildlife Photography Masterclass. I attended this workshop in May 2022 and had a fantastic 4 days of photography as I outlined in my workshop report. The idea was raised then of Edin and I running the workshop so for the latest workshop I attended as an extra facilitator to pick up some tips on the logistics. Edin and I have facilitated workshops together in the past and it is always enjoyable to work together and share knowledge with other photographers.
The Wildlife Masterclass a great opportunity to spend 4 days immersed in wildlife photography with a small group of like-minded photographers. The Otago Peninsula is a perfect location with numerous and varied wildlife opportunities.
Orokonui Ecosanctuary is always a favourite of mine but can have challenging conditions despite abundant subjects so is a good learning opportunity.
There had been news of a Leopard Seal at Aramoana so we made a detour after Orokonui. No Leopard seal was seen but there were Kekeno/NZ Fur Seal and the courting Tara/White-fronted Terns were a delight, offering opportunities for birds on white.
Hoiho/Yellow-eyed Penguins are a possibility although not guaranteed due to their declining numbers. We lucked out again this time at Penguin Place.
My highlight is always the charter trip on the Monarch. Having the whole vessel to ourselves enables plenty of space and great opportunities on albatross. In May, Bullers Albatross dominated and in November Salvins take the limelight amongst a number of other pelagic species.
The sheer number of opportunities allows time for some experimentation to achieve some different images.
The final part of the workshop is printing up 2 large format images for each photographer. I really enjoy seeing the prints as in my view it is the ultimate way to present and appreciate an image. It is really rewarding to see such lovely images emerging from shared experiences.
Having attended this workshop as a paying participant and again as a facilitator I can highly recommend it as an opportunity to push your photography forward. I’m excited to be involved and planning with Edin for the next Masterclass in May 2023. Our aim is to take you through the whole wildlife image making process from planning and capture, through processing to optimise your digital negative, and finally to print. If you’re keen to join us for 4 days of wildlife photography book in through the NZ Photography Workshops site.
