Beginner Woodland - 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 in a natural woodland environment. 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 – Red Squirrel & Woodland Birds

Typical species include Red Squirrel, Nuthatch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Jay, Blackbird, Robin and Dunnock. We are also likely to see Tit species (Great, Coal, Blue and the occasional Long-Tailed) and Finches (Chaffinch and Goldfinch). If we are fortunate, there is the possibility of Treecreeper or Sparrowhawk. Whilst no individual species can be guaranteed (it is wildlife after all) we won’t be short of species to photograph.

Habitat – Woodland

The location I use is set in secluded woodland. We will use a hide and feeder setup. This allows us to get close and intimate views of the birds and squirrels. The forest scene will give a variety of natural backgrounds and perch locations.

The setting allows for close, natural encounters, perfect for beginners looking to build confidence and capture compelling images. With dense tree canopy there are also opportunities to learn how to make the most of the light available.

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

• Understanding natural light in woodland conditions

• 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 sessions from private woodland hide

• 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.