Beginner Freshwater Wildlife Photography Workshop

Wildlife photography workshop for beginners

This is a wildlife photography workshop for beginners. Just starting with wildlife photography? If so, this workshop is perfect to help you get started. It will give you the confidence to photograph nature and gain the skills and experience to progress. We will focus on photographing birds and animals whilst walking around a freshwater loch in central Scotland. Help will be on hand throughout the workshop to help you with camera settings and supportive tuition.

I have three priorities for all my workshops. The first is to help you get better photos. The second is to support you to become a better photographer. The third is to have a magical encounter with nature.

Target species - Swans, Ducks

Typical species include Mute Swan, Grey Heron, Little Egret, Great Crested Grebe and Goosander. Coot, Moorhen, Mallard, Tufted Duck, Canada and Greylag Goose are also to be expected. In winter ducks like Goldeneye, Pochard, Wigeon and Teal are possible. In summer the breading display of Great-Crested Grebes or the arrival of ducklings may be observed. Whilst no individual species can be guaranteed (it is wildlife after all) we won't be short of species to photograph.

Habitat - Freshwater

We will be using a freshwater loch conveniently located in Central Scotland. Gartmorn Dam is my first choice. I may use Linlithgow or Hogganfield Lochs if there is more wildlife in these locations. These locations have been selected as they have a lot of wildfowl all year around.

The setting allows for close, natural encounters, perfect for beginners looking to build confidence and capture compelling images. The loch can be photographed from different perspectives. This variety makes it possible to experiment with different lighting (front, side, and back).

What you'll learn

This workshop is ideal if you’re new to wildlife photography or want to strengthen your core skills. We’ll cover:

• Camera setup made simple

• Aperture, shutter speed, ISO explained clearly

• How to achieve sharp, well-exposed images

• Basic composition techniques for wildlife

• Using different angles of light (front, back, side)

• Ethical wildlife photography

There will be plenty of hands-on guidance throughout the day. You will be part of a small group. This means there will be opportunities for one-to-one support. This support will help you get the most from your camera.

What to expect on the day

This is a practical, field-based wildlife photography workshop with expert guidance throughout:

• Welcome and introduction

• How to setup your camera for wildlife photography

• Guided shooting session as we walk around the loch

• Ongoing tuition and feedback as you shoot

• Opportunities to ask questions throughout

• Debrief and review of images - tips to improve in the future

The pace is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to learn, apply in practice and enjoy the experience.

Group size

• Small group allows personal coaching

• At least 2 for workshop to go ahead

• Max group of 4 people