WHO SHOULD ATTEND:  Intermediate Amateurs, Advanced Amateurs, Professionals

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:  You need to be experienced with your camera to make suggested setting changes in the field without hands-on assistance and comprehend the rationale behind the recommended settings (including exposure mode, f-stop, shutter speed, ISO, metering mode, focus mode, assessing histogram and highlight information, and making corresponding exposure compensation changes). This is not a workshop to learn how to use your camera.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Participants must be in good health, able to walk on uneven terrain with tripod/camera/lens and able to stand at all times to photograph the bears. You must be able to carry your gear without assistance. There will be no exceptions to these requirements.

Minnesota is the most northern state outside of Alaska, and has 90,000 miles of shoreline, more than California, Florida and Hawaii combined. There are an estimated 12,000-15,000 black bears in Minnesota. Photographing the North American black bear is the purpose of this 3-day photo workshop.  Emphasis will be on helping you to capture incredible photographs of black bears of all sizes and especially  cubs born over the winter.  This workshop provides an amazing in-field photographic experience for black bears.  Participants must 18+ years old to attend the workshop.

Highlights

• An informative online webinar presentation in advance of the workshop that covers wildlife photography composition tips, camera settings and recommended gear. It will also include and illustrative slideshow of photos with camera settings taken by Kathleen at the Sanctuary to prepare you to maximize your camera’s potential while shooting.
• 3 full-days access to photograph black bears and other wildlife, closed to the public. The most common lens focal length is 100-400 mm.
• Workshop size is limited to 10 participants so you’ll have plenty of one-on-one time with Kathleen to ask questions and get coaching specific to your individual photographic needs.

Includes

• Before the workshop:
  • An online recorded webinar prior to the workshop that covers wildlife photography composition tips, camera settings and recommended gear to prepare you.  You will have access to both the recording and the webinar materials.
  • Detailed handout of what to bring, the itinerary, what to expect and more
  • Introductory session on bear safety, bear behavior, and black bear natural history
• During the workshop:
  • 3 full days photographing black bears
  • Group and one-on-one guidance on location throughout each photo session to ensure you get the most out of your camera, including optimal shutter speed, aperture, ISO and exposure compensation settings
• After the workshop:
  • Group gallery for sharing people pictures

Excludes

• Airfare to Minnesota
• Lodging
• Ground transportation
• Meals