The Wildlife Photography Academy

Dirty Secrets of the photo workshop business

admin — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:51:52 +0000

I’m writing this article because frankly, I’m upset. It seems that every time I meet with photographers who have attended a previous photography workshop, at least one of them has a horror story about a previous experience. After hearing the stories, I’m surprised they were able to put the bad experience behind and have the fortitude to try again with another workshop leader. What’s really upsetting about a lot of things I hear about the photography workshop business is that it casts a dark shadow on the entire industry. I know that there are a lot of great folks who put on workshops (and in spirit of full disclosure, I have a workshop company myself) and it is unfortunate that many of our peers only seem to be in it for purely selfish reasons. The stories I’ve collected come from the nature photography business. I suspect they occure in other specialties as well, but my direct experience is with the folks who attend nature photography workshops.

Let’s go over a few of the complaints and flesh them out.

Herman the Hoary Marmot is upset about this too!!!

Very often it seems as if the workshop leader is there to pad his or her portfolio and has little interest in teaching, providing instruction or even the occasional hint. This is probably the single biggest complaint I hear. People do understand that it can be helpful for the workshop leader to have their camera with them and even if they make occasional images. But when people have to struggle with the workshop leader for a prime shooting location or when they get an annoyed look or attitude when they have a question, there is a definite problem. If I were planning to go on a photography workshop, my number one question and concern to the workshop leader would be: “Do you photograph during your workshops?”

I think the following story, told to me by one of my workshop peeps (who we’ll refer to as Mr. X) at my June workshop in Montana illustrates the situation elequently. Mr X is on a photo workshop in Churchill, Manitoba for Polar Bear photography. One afternoon Mr X and the workshop leader go out by themselves in a vehicle to find critters to photograph. They spot an Arctic Fox out on a lake, get out of the vehicle (remember this is Churchill and Polar Bears can literally be anywhere) and start working their way across the lake to get into position to make some pictures. Apparently the ice isn’t that thick and Mr. X partially breaks through the ice and fortunately saves himself by catching himself with his camera which is soaked (and broken as it turns out). Additionally, Mr. X has managed to get his clothing wet and needs to get back to the warmth of the vehicle. So, what happens? The workshop leader stays out on the ice to photograph the Arctic Fox and leaves Mr. X to make his way back, across the ice and the tundra, to the vehicle. In addition to being wet, freezing and embarassed, Mr. X is now terrified at the prospect of running into a Polar Bear by himself without his “expert” by his side. What sort of workshop leader, let alone human being, leaves another person in this predicament? Is it so important to get another fifty images of an Arctic Fox or could it possibly be the right thing to do to accompany the paying client, you know the person who is inadvertently paying for you to pad your portfolio, back to the vehicle?

How about a workshop leader who austracizes people who don’t use their brand of camera? Another fellow at my last workshop had attended a workshop with this professional photographer a number of years ago. At the beginning of the workshop they went over the sort of equipment that everyone was using. Out of about twenty participants only about four others were using my workshop person’s brand of camera. Those in the minority were told, in no uncertain terms, that they’d backed the wrong horse and hadn’t made an intelligent purchasing decision. Those folks felt entirely austracized during the trip and didn’t get a lot out of the workshop. Is this kindergarden or what? Who gives a poop what brand of camera people decide to photograph with? Seriously!!!

And then there’s the story about another workshop leader, who I’ve heard the same story about from three or four sources. This workshop leader has the sort of personality where he can convince folks to spend money on things they might not otherwise do. He’s bragadocious and isn’t afraid to exagerate his accomplishments or influence in the industry. But, he built up a good following of folks interested in pursuing a career as a professional nature photographer, that regularly attended his wildlife photography workshops. Eventually, he convinced a number of them that they should submit their photos for inclusion in a book that his publishing company was putting together. The main caveat being that they had to pay many thousand dollars to participate. In addition to a number of copies of the books, they were promised fame and fortune for their participation and of course the elusive accomplishment of being “published”. The book was eventually produced and the participants received their copies of the books. But the printing quality was brutal and the length wasn’t what had been promised and it turns out the foreward to the book, written by a well known photographer, wasn’t even written by him. But of course the real disappointment came when all of their copies of the books languished in their basements and garages (because folks were embarassed about the quality) and the promised fame and fortune never happened. Later folks discovered that the only one who made any money from the deal was, wait for it; wait for it; you guessed it, the workshop leader! Shocking! (Sarcasm intended).

There is also a workshop leader who collected tip money from his workshop participants, supposedly to give to the guides helping out with the workshop, which magically never made it into their hands but ended up at home with the workshop leader. One of the workshop attendees (this time we’ll call her Ms. X) was attending two workshops back-to-back at the same location and each workshop ended up having a different leader. When Ms. X found out that the money collected as a tip from the first group never made it into the hands of the intended recipients, she was furious. Immediately upon returning home she confronted the workshop leader via email and never received a reply. Eventually about six weeks later, she received a copy of a cancelled check made out to the guides with a small hand-written note stating “I heard you were concerned about this”. That’s all well and good (and apparently the guides did eventually receive the money) but it wasn’t until several weeks _after_ the workshop ended and the confrontational email was sent. Talking with the guides later, Ms. X learned that they hadn’t received tip money before from this workshop leader so apparently the scam had been going on for some time until he finally got caught! Can you imagine the gull of this “leader”? And yes, he still runs photo workshops to this day but strangley not with those guides or their company any longer.

I’ll leave you with one final story told to me by a number of people. It seems that there was a workshop leader who would charge extra if folks wanted to car pool with him to the photography locations! I’m not talking about just a share of the gas money extra, but way beyond that for the “privledge” of being in his presence and soaking up his expertise on the rides to different locations. What I really wonder about is how there was any room for additional riders in the vehicle with the size of this guy’s ego? Come on now, an up-charge for riding with him? Holy arrogance Batman!

All that being said, there are a lot of great nature photography workshop leaders out there. You just need to do your homework and make sure you know what you’re getting. I know that I personally model my workshop business as the antithesis of what you’ve read above. Like many of my peers, I am there foremost and primarily to help my peeps go home with great photos. I’m there for them, and not vice versa.

Do you have a workshop story to share? Please leave the names out of it, but we’d love to hear the stories.

Winter Wildlife 2010

admin — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 19:02:18 +0000

Winter Wildlife 2010 Instructional Photography Workshop

Triple D Game Farm, Kalispell, Montana

Presented by Paul Burwell Photography

Download the workshop PDF here

Snow Leopard standing on the top of a hill in the snow - CA

January 29th -February 1st, 2010

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography workshop at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana. This workshop will help you create stunning images of wildlife animals at the Triple D Game Farm. A winter workshop provides the opportunity to add a suite of wildlife images with the animals in their finest coats of the year. In 3 days you can amass a tremendous portfolio of animal photographs while learning the tips, tricks and techniques that will help you create truly captivating images.

Winter wildlife models usually include: bobcat, coyote, wolf, lynx, mountain lion, marten, snow leopard and fox.

This workshop includes:

The opportunity to photograph extremely healthy and happy wildlife surrogates in natural surroundings at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana
- A minimum of 8 sessions photographing the animals over 3 days
- The benefit of Paul’s years of experience photographing at Triple D and scouting the locations
- You will be safely closer to animals like Cougars, Lynx and Snow Leopards than you ever imagined possible
A copy of Paul’s book, Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques
Small group size to a maximum of 8 participants allows for maximum flexibility
The opportunity to bring at least 10 images with you for critiquing
A CD to take home containing an electronic version of the workshop material
Paul’s undivided attention during the photo sessions to help you get the most out of your investment
- Paul has an extensive history of working with and educating adults from his prior experience as the President of an Internet firm
The opportunity to learn techniques for preparing images with Photoshop, developing a managed workflow and archival strategies
- Professionally designed, printed and bound coffee-table book of the group’s achievements during the workshop
- Participants have an opportunity to submit images they’ve made during the workshop for inclusion in the book.
- One copy of the book will be distributed to each participant
The option to submit up to 10 photographs from this workshop for a detailed written critique of each submitted photograph

Grey wolf and a shadow watch intently through the falling snow - CA

Notes from the Instructor…

My Triple D workshops are limited to 8 participants. This small group size allows for maximum flexibility in obtaining all types of shots including portraits, behavior, close-ups and special requests where possible. You’ll also have the flexibility to easily move to different positions to get the shots you are looking for. You will be able to benefit from my years of experience photographing at Triple D and scouting the various shooting locations. This will help make sure you go home with the best photos possible.

I was the President of an Internet services company for over 10 years where I developed an extensive history of working with and educating adults. I am currently a contributing editor for Outdoor Photography Canada magazine and a professional nature photographer. Some individuals seem to run workshops in order to subsidize their own photography shoots. But, unlike those workshop leaders, I am exclusively there to help you get the best shots. You won’t need to worry about interrupting my photography to ask a question or get advice. This workshop is more than just a series of photo sessions with the wildlife models. It is a full featured workshop offering a complete educational experience.

The staff members at Triple D are simply tremendous and they’ll work with us to help get you a tremendous series of shots. Jay and Kim Deist, the owners of the Triple D, are tremendously generous hosts who provide a terrific service to photographers.

Each participant will receive a copy of my book, Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques. Familiarizing yourself with the book in advance of your trip to the Triple D is an excellent way of preparing for your visit. The Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques book forms the basis for the educational portion of the workshop.

If you are wondering where to stay in Kalispell, options range from the very affordable Triple D Guest Cabin to one of the hotels that offer discounts for Triple D guests. Please contact me for more information.

Young Puma sitting on a snowy ledge - CA

Itinerary

January 28th Evening: Orientation meeting at the Triple D offices.
January 29th – 31st Mornings: The morning of each day will feature photography sessions with the wildlife models at various shooting locations.
January 29st – 31st Afternoons: This time will be available for instruction as well as free time to work on images.
February 1st – Weather day, or can be used to add additional sessions
February 1st – Noon – Workshop comes to an end

Workshop Costs

$1395 US Dollars
- $200 US Dollars deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of $1195 US dollars due by November 28, 2009
Time and weather permitting, additional sessions may be added for $150 per session
Accompanying non-photographer $50 per day

Policies and payment information available here.

For additional information, please contact us at:
E-Mail: Contact us Electronically
Phone Toll-free: 1-877-778-1745

California Wildlife 2010

admin — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 19:00:55 +0000

California April 2010 Wildlife Instructional Photography Workshop

Near Mariposa, California

Presented by the Wildlife Photo Academy

Download the workshop PDF here

Mountain Lion staring from the top of a rock - CA

April 10th – 12th, 2010

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography workshop in stunning central California just outside Mariposa.
View Larger Map

In conjunction with the Triple “D” Game Farm, this workshop will help you create stunning images of the wonderful wildlife transported to the Bisset Ranch set amongst colorful rocky outcroppings, crystal clear creeks and ponds, waterfalls and old-growth oak trees. In 3 days you can amass a tremendous portfolio of animal photographs while learning the tips, tricks and techniques that will help you create truly captivating images.

The workshop dates have been selected to take advantage of the lush green spring foilage and wildflowers found in the foothills of the Sierra Mountains.

Wildlife models can include: bobcats, coyotes, wolves, otters, bears, mountain lions, raccoons, skunks, porcupines and foxes.

Consider spending an optional extra day for a Day on the Ranch. We’ve arranged access to a real working ranch so you can photograph running horses, ranch hands working with cattle and further opportunities to capture images of the true western ranch lifestyle.

The wildlife workshop includes:

The opportunity to photograph extremely healthy and happy wildlife surrogates in natural surroundings on private land near Mariposa, California
- A minimum of 8 sessions photographing the animals over 3 days
- The benefit of Paul’s years of experience photographing Triple “D” wildlife models
- You will be safely closer to animals like Cougars, Wolves and Bears than you ever imagined possible
A copy of Paul’s book, Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques
Small group size to a maximum of 12 participants allows for maximum flexibility
A CD to take home containing an electronic version of the workshop material
Paul’s undivided attention during the photo sessions to help you get the most out of your investment
- Paul has an extensive history of working with and educating adults from his prior experience as the President of an Internet firm
Professionally designed, printed and bound coffee-table book of the group’s achievements during the workshop
- Participants have an opportunity to submit images they’ve made during the workshop for inclusion in the book.
- One copy of the book will be distributed to each participant
The option to submit up to 10 photographs from this workshop for a detailed written critique of each submitted photograph
Each participant will receive a commenerative T-Shirt celebrating this special trip

Baby Bobcat standing on an old log - CA

Notes from the instructor…

Our California Triple D workshops are limited to 12 participants. This group size allows for maximum flexibility in obtaining all types of shots including portraits, behavior, close-ups and special requests where possible. You’ll also have the flexibility to easily move to different positions to get the shots you are looking for. You will be able to benefit from my years of experience photographing the Triple D wildlife models. This will help make sure you go home with the best photos possible.

Paul Burwell was the President of an Internet services company for over 10 years where he developed an extensive history of working with and educating adults. He is currently a contributing editor for Outdoor Photography Canada magazine and a professional nature photographer. Some individuals seem to run workshops in order to subsidize their own photography shoots. But, unlike those workshop leaders, he is exclusively there to help you get the best shots. You won’t need to worry about interrupting his photography to ask a question or get advice. This workshop is more than just a series of photo sessions with the wildlife models. It is a full featured workshop offering a complete educational experience.

Each participant will receive a copy of Paul’s book, Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques. Familiarizing yourself with the book in advance of your trip to the Triple D is an excellent way of preparing for your visit. The Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques book forms the basis for the educational portion of the workshop.

If you are wondering where to stay in Mariposa, we can provide you with recommendations for local accomodation with discounts for Triple D guests. Please contact us for more information.

Itinerary

April 10th – 6:30AM – Orientation Meeting at the Triple “D” Camp Site
April 10th – 12th Each day will feature photography sessions with the wildlife models at various shooting locations.
April 13th Optional Day on the Ranch

Wildlife Workshop Costs:

$1,750 US Dollars
- $300 US Dollars deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of $1,450 US dollars due by February 9, 2010
$2150 US Dollars for combined wildlife workshop and Day On the Ranch
- $300 US Dollars deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of $1,850 US dollars due by February 9, 2010
Time and weather permitting, additional wildlife sessions may be added for $150 per session
Accompanying non-photographer $75 per day

Horses running through a creek

Day on the Ranch Costs:

$550 US Dollars
- $200 US Dollars deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of $350 US dollars due by February 9, 2010
- Accompanying non-photographer $75 per day

Policies and payment information available here.

For additional information, please contact us at:
E-Mail: Contact us Electronically
Phone Toll-free: 1-877-778-1745

Grizzlies of the Khutzeymateen 2010

admin — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 17:00:40 +0000

Grizzlies of the Khutzeymateen 2010 Photography Tour

Along the Khutzeymateen Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Grizzly sow and her cub

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography tour in search of coastal Grizzly Bears along the Khutzeymateen Valley along the beautiful coast of British Columbia, Canada. At 39,000 hectares the Khutzeymateen Valley is Canada’s only sanctuary for Grizzly Bears. We’ll take a float plane about 40 kilometres (25 miles) to and from Prince Rupert, British Columbia to reach this beautiful and remote portion of the planet where between 40 and 60 Grizzlies live amongst the gigantic Sitka spruce trees. In addition to Grizzly Bears, we’ll look for opportunities to photography Black Bears, Humpback Whales and, if we’re lucky an elusive coastal Grey Wolf.

This tour includes:

Accommodation at the Eagle Bluff Bed and Breakfast on May 18th.
Breakfast at the Eagle Bluff Bed and Breakfast on May 19th.
Accommodation and meals aboard a 71′ sailing ketch whose crew have over 25+ years of experience guiding Bear tours
- Meals will occasionally be eaten picnic style during shore excursions
Shore excursions on the boat’s motorized inflatable
Full use of the boat’s equipment including kayaks
A small group size, limited to 7 participants
A tour for photographers by photographers
All meals from lunch on the first day to breakfast on the last day.
Exploration of the spectacular BC coast with its inlets, rivers, waterfalls, old-growth forests and wildlife.
Healthy, hearty food including seafood, fresh salads, fruit, home-made soups and fresh baked breads and goodies
Opportunity to become one of the tiny percentage of people who have viewed this amazing part of the coast and this unique bear.

Notes from the Tour Leader…

It is important to me that the trip be limited to individuals with a true passion for photography who can get along well in a group. A good group gives everyone the opportunity to share the prime shooting positions and works together to make sure that everyone is having a tremendous trip. For this reason, perspective participants will be interviewed to help determine their compatibility with the group. The group size is being limited to 7 participants to maximize comfort aboard the boat and minimize any crowding that might occur at shooting locations. This will help make sure participants go home with the best photos possible.

Individuals interested in a trip like this are often stuck in a tour with a mixture of vacationers, sight-seers and photographers. This can cause conflicts in the tour activities due to the differing levels of interest. By limiting the trip to serious photographers we can concentrate on photographic opportunities.

Itinerary

May 18th: Arrive from home in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada. Flight to Prince Rupert and overnight accommodation at a bed & breakfast is NOT included in the tour pricing.
May 19th: We depart Prince Rupert, British Columbia via float plane to rendezvous with the boat
May 19th – 22nd: We’ll be cruising, photographing, sleeping and eating on our comfortable home for the trip, a 71′ sailing ketch.
May 22nd: Arrive back in Prince Rupert, British Columbia our final destination after breakfast. Overnight accommodation at a bed & breakfast is NOT included in the tour pricing.
May 22nd: Depart for home. Cost of the flight home from Prince Rupert is NOT included in the tour price.

Tour Costs

$2,995 Canadian Dollars. Current currency exchange information between the Canadian dollar and your currency is available here.
- $1,000 Canadian dollar deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of $1,995 Canadian dollars due by February 17, 2010

Policies and payment information are available here.

For additional information, please contact us at:
E-Mail: Contact us Electronically
Phone Toll-free: 1-877-778-1745

Spring Wildlife 2010

admin — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 19:01:25 +0000

Spring 2010 Wildlife Instructional Photography Workshop

Triple D Game Farm, Kalispell, Montana

Presented by Paul Burwell Photography

Download the workshop PDF here

Playful Bobcat kitten on top of a rocky hill - CA

June 19th – 22nd, 2010

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography workshop at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana. This workshop will help you create stunning images of cute baby wildlife animals at the Triple D Game Farm. Photographs of cute baby animals are amongst the easiest to sell images. In 3 days you can amass a tremendous portfolio of baby animal photographs while learning the tips, tricks and techniques that will help you create truly captivating images.

Spring wildlife models can include: bobcat kittens, coyote pups, wolf pups, lynx kittens, mountain lions cubs, raccoons, skunks, bear cubs and fox kits.

This workshop includes:

The opportunity to photograph extremely healthy and happy wildlife surrogates in natural surroundings at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana
- A minimum of 8 sessions photographing the animals over 3 days
- The benefit of Paul’s years of experience photographing at Triple D and scouting the locations
- You will be safely closer to animals like Cougars, Lynx and Siberian Tigers than you ever imagined possible
A copy of Paul’s book, Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques
Small group size to a maximum of 10 participants allows for maximum flexibility
The opportunity to bring at least 10 images with you for critiquing
A CD to take home containing an electronic version of the workshop material
Paul’s undivided attention during the photo sessions to help you get the most out of your investment
- Paul has an extensive history of working with and educating adults from his prior experience as the President of an Internet firm
The opportunity to learn techniques for preparing images with Photoshop, developing a managed workflow and archival strategies
Professionally designed, printed and bound coffee-table book of the group’s achievements during the workshop
- Participants have an opportunity to submit images they’ve made during the workshop for inclusion in the book.
- One copy of the book will be distributed to each participant
The option to submit up to 10 photographs from this workshop for a detailed written critique of each submitted photograph

Snow Leopard kitten walking - CA

Notes from the Instructor…

My Triple D workshops are limited to 10 participants. This small group size allows for maximum flexibility in obtaining all types of shots including portraits, behavior, close-ups and special requests where possible. You’ll also have the flexibility to easily move to different positions to get the shots you are looking for. You will be able to benefit from my years of experience photographing at Triple D and scouting the various shooting locations. This will help make sure you go home with the best photos possible.

Itinerary

June 18th Evening: Orientation meeting at the Triple D offices.
June 19th – 21st Mornings: The morning of each day will feature photography sessions with the wildlife models at various shooting locations.
June 19th – 21st Afternoons: This time will be available for instruction as well as free time to work on images, visit Glacier National Park, or just relax.
June 22nd Morning: Weather Day – If not required as a weather day extra sessions can be added for $150/session.
June 22nd Noon: Workshop comes to an end.

Workshop Costs

$1395 US Dollars
- $200 US Dollars deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of $1195 US dollars due by April 18, 2009
- Time and weather permitting, additional sessions may be added for $150 per session
- Accompanying non-photographer $50 per day

Policies and payment information available here.

For additional information, please contact us at:
E-Mail: Contact us Electronically
Phone Toll-free: 1-877-778-1745

Loons and Other Delights 2010

admin — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 18:00:58 +0000

Loons and Other Delights 2010 Instructional Photography Workshop

Lac Le Jeune, British Columbia, Canada

Presented by The Wildlife Photography Academy

[Show as slideshow]

June 25th – 29th, 2010 and/or June 30 – July 4th, 2010

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography workshop in beautiful Lac Le Jeune, British Columbia. This workshop allows you to get close to Common Loons, young and old, from our floating photography stations. Depending on seasonal conditions, we hope to have the opportunity to photograph nesting loons along with loons with chicks.

We will also go on safari at various points during our time together to seek out other photography opportunities for species like Mountain Bluebirds, Hummingbirds, Woodpeckers, Flickers, Grebes and Ducks.

This workshop includes:

Paul’s undivided attention during the photo sessions to help you get the most out of your investment
- Unlike many workshop leaders, Paul does not photograph during the sessions
- The benefit of Paul’s years of experience photographing wildlife in many different situations.
Lodging and all meals at the Lac Le Jeune Resort and Conference Centre
- Use of the conference centre’s facilities including their numerous boats
Small group size to a maximum of 4 participants allows for maximum flexibility
The opportunity to learn techniques for preparing images with Photoshop, developing a managed workflow and archival strategies
A CD to take home containing an electronic version of the workshop material
The ability to bring at least 10 images with you for critiquing
The opportunity to submit up to 10 photographs from this workshop for a detailed written critique of each submitted photograph
- Professionally designed, printed and bound coffee-table book of the group’s achievements during the workshop
- Participants have an opportunity to submit images they’ve made during the workshop for inclusion in the book.
- One copy of the book will be distributed to each participant

Itinerary for workshop 1 (June 25 – June 29)

June 25th – Get yourself to Lac Le Jeune in beautiful British Columbia, Canada where you’ll check into your comfortable room and sit down to a wonderful orientation dinner with your group
June 26th – 28th
- Early Mornings – We’ll be out on the water, first thing in the morning, looking for the Loons and their chicks. We’ll be photographing close down to water level so your shots will have that intimate look
- Later Morning – Breakfast at the lodge before we head out into the area around Lac Le Jeune for other wildlife photography opportunities
- Lunch – We’ll be brown bagging our lunches as we’re out and about in the area surrounding Lac Le Jeune finding other photography opporunities
- Afternoon – A chance to review and download images and discuss workflow and Photoshop techniques
- Early Evening – We’re back out on the water for some more Loon photography
- Later Evening – We’re back at our resort for a wonderful dinner
June 29th
- Early Morning – We’ll be out for our early morning Loon excursion, followed by breakfast
- Later Morning – A final breakfast opportunity with the group
- Noon – Checkout time

Itinerary for workshop 2 (June 30 – July 4)

June 30th – Get yourself to Lac Le Jeune in beautiful British Columbia, Canada where you’ll check into your comfortable room and sit down to a wonderful orientation dinner with your group
July 1st – 3rd
- Early Mornings – We’ll be out on the water, first thing in the morning, looking for the Loons and their chicks. We’ll be photographing close down to water level so your shots will have that intimate look
- Later Morning – Breakfast at the lodge before we head out into the area around Lac Le Jeune for other wildlife photography opportunities
- Lunch – We’ll be brown bagging our lunches as we’re out and about in the area surrounding Lac Le Jeune finding other photography opporunities
- Afternoon – A chance to review and download images and discuss workflow and Photoshop techniques
- Early Evening – We’re back out on the water for some more Loon photography
- Later Evening – We’re back at our resort for a wonderful dinner
July 4th
- Early Morning – We’ll be out for our early morning Loon excursion, followed by breakfast
- Later Morning – A final breakfast opportunity with the group
- Noon – Checkout time

This workshop will get you closer to Loons and their chicks than you ever imagined possible. Because the Loons have become so accustomed to anglers on the lakes surrounding Lac Le Jeune, they’ve grown incredibly tame. Often the problem is getting too close instead of not being able to get close enough. We’ll have access to our lodges compliment of boats and accessories from a larger pontoon boat to smaller outboard fishing and rowboats and canoes and kayaks.

When we’re not photographing Loons, we’ll head into the surrounding countryside around Lac Le Jeune to look for other wildlife photography experiences. Previous years have yielded Mountain Bluebirds, Hoary Marmots, Red-necked Grebe, Red-naped Sapsucker and Northern Flicker, all within a 30 minute drive of our lodge.

About the leader

I was the President of an Internet services company for over 10 years where I developed an extensive history of working with and educating adults. I am currently a contributing editor for Outdoor Photography Canada magazine and a professional nature photographer. Some individuals seem to run workshops in order to subsidize their own photography shoots. But, unlike those workshop leaders, I am exclusively there to help you get the best shots. You won’t need to worry about interrupting my photography to ask a question or get advice. This workshop is more than just a series of photo sessions. It is a full featured workshop offering a complete educational experience.

Single Workshop Costs

$1,995 Canadian Dollars (Click here to convert to your local currency)
- Includes 4 nights accommodation and all your meals from dinner on the 25th to breakfast on the 29th before you check out
$400 Single supplement for non-shared sleeping accommodations (limited availability)
$300 deposit required upon reservation with balance due by March 25, 2010

Combined Workshop Costs (Save $400)

$3,590 Canadian Dollars (Click here to convert to your local currency)
- Includes 8 nights accommodation and all your meals from dinner on the 25th of June to breakfast on the 4th of July before you check out
$800 Single supplement for non-shared sleeping accommodations (limited availability)
$300 deposit required upon reservation with balance due by March 25, 2010

Policies and payment information available here.

For additional information, please contact us at:
E-Mail: Contact us Electronically
Phone Toll-free: 1-877-778-1745

Finnish Brown Bears Tour 2010

admin — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:05:34 +0000

Finnish Brown Bears Photography Tour

July 5th – 11th, 2010

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography tour for an amazing opportunity to photograph wild Brown Bears in the forests of northeastern Finland; prime natural habitat. We’ll take advantage of the 24 hours of daylight prevelent in the area this time of year to photograph the bears as the move about the forest during the evening hours. In the professionally designed hides located throughout the forest, we’ll be photographing these amazing animals up close and personal, but in a safe way. In addition to Brown Bears, we hope to be able to photograph other critters including Elk, Squirrel, Wolverine, Pine Marten and wolves.

Although these are wild animals and as with all wild animals, there can be no guarantees, most evenings should see plenty of opportunities for photography. Cubs are born in the spring of each year and if we’re lucky we’ll see some Brown Bear Sows along with their cub(s).

We’ll be photographing from the semi-permanent hides our hosts of built into the forests. By putting two people together in a hide one individual can sleep while the other keeps watch for bears. This helps make sure that no one misses a shot. We’ll be photographing from a total of five different hides to make sure that everyone gets some different opportunities to go home with some great and varied photographs. The hides we’ll be using are purposely designed for photographers and photography. These small cabins have small viewing windows with camouflaged openings for cameras and lenses. You can either use one of the supplied beanbags or bolt your own tripod head onto a support.

All the hides include comfortable chairs and cots. Sleeping bags are provided for those who want to catch a nap. Please note that it is not possible to leave the hides during the evening. Once you’re at the hide, you’re there until the following morning.

During the early summer it never really get darks and even after it gets darker around 23:30 in the evening, it is still possible to photograph using ISO settings of 800 or higher.

[Show as slideshow]

This tour includes:

All transfers between the airport in Kajaani, Finland and our location in the forest
Accommodation in a double room
All meals from dinner on the first day to breakfast on the last day.
Nights in five different hides (or blinds) in locations along a forest, swamp and pond.
A small group size, limited to 7 participants
A tour for photographers by photographers
Special low pricing for this exploratory tour

This tour does not include:

Flights to or from Kajaani Finland (via Helsinki, Finland)
- At the time this information was prepared, a flight from New York to Helsinki was less than $1,000 US dollars and a flight from Helsinki to Kajaani (via Finnair) was about $275 US dollars.
Trip and Health Insurance
Snacks or drinks
Gratuities

Notes from the Tour Leader…

I have lead numerous photography tours and workshops. My testimonials speak for themselves. If you’re looking for a great time photographing wild Brown Bears with a group of like-minded individuals where we leave the attitude and ego at home, this is a tour for you.

It is important to me that the trip be limited to individuals with a true passion for photography who can get along well in a group. A good group gives everyone the opportunity to share the prime shooting positions and works together to make sure that everyone is having a tremendous trip. For this reason, perspective participants will be interviewed to help determine their compatibility with the group. The group size is being limited to 7 participants to minimize any crowding that might occur at shooting locations. This will help make sure participants go home with the best photos possible.

Equipment Required

The bears are typically between 10 and 50 metres (30 to 165 feet) from our hides. This means that regular zoom lenses in the range of 70-200mm or 100-400mm are very useful. You might even want to bring a wide-angle zoom (24-70mm) for those times when the bears get really close to the hide. You can bring a longer super-telephoto lens, but they usually aren’t required unless you’re doing nose or eyelash studies. I’d suggest bringing a couple of camera bodies (just in case), a ball or gimbal tripod head, batteries and extra batteries (there is no electricity in the hides so your batteries need to last the evening), chargers for said batteries, lots and lots of memory cards along with some device (or two) to back them up to like a laptop or a portable storage device. Leave your tripods at home because there isn’t room in the hides for them. Also, don’t worry about brining along your flash because flash photography is not allowed from the hides.

Fitness Level Required

In order to reach the hides, we need to make a short, 30-minute hike over somewhat uneven terrain. Most people find the 24 hour daylight a much greater physical challenge than getting themselves and their gear to and from the hides. With our visiting the hides from about 17:00 in the afternoon (5:00pm) until 07:00 in the morning, your body will need to adjust to a different schedule than it is probably accustomed to. The local time where we will be is 6 hours ahead of the North American Eastern time zone, 8 hours ahead of Mountain Time Zone and 9 hours ahead of the Pacific Time Zone. In terms of Grenich Mean Time, the local time is 2 hours ahead. Because of the difference in time, most people use the daytime hours to sleep and catch up on their rest.

Itinerary

July 5th
- 12:55 – Depart Helsinki, Finland via Finnair
- 13:55 - Arrive at Kajaani, Finland airport
- Transfer to our accommodations
- Dinner

July 6th
- 08:00 – Breakfast
- 12:00 – Coffee
- 15:00 – Lunch
- 16:30 – Travel to the professional bear-hide with a packed dinner

July 7th
- ~07:00 – Return from the Bear-hide
- 08:00 – Breakfast
- 12:00 – Coffee
- 15:00 – Lunch
- 16:30 – Travel to the professional bear-hide with a packed dinner

July 8th
- ~07:00 – Return from the Bear-hide
- 08:00 – Breakfast
- 11:00 – Transfer to Second location
- 15:00 – Lunch
- 16:00 – Travel to the professional bear-hide with a packed dinner

July 9th
- ~07:00 – Return from the Bear-hide
- 08:00 – Breakfast
- 12:00 – Coffee
- 15:00 – Lunch
- 16:00 – Travel to the professional bear-hide with a packed dinner

July 10th
- ~07:00 – Return from the Bear-hide
- 08:00 – Breakfast
- 12:00 – Coffee
- 15:00 – Lunch
- 16:00 – Travel to the professional bear-hide with a packed dinner

July 11th
- ~07:00 – Return from the Bear-hide
- 11:00 – Transfer to Kajaani, Finland Airport
- 14:25 – Finnair Flight Departure to Helsinki, Finland
- 15:25 – Flight arrives in Helsinki, Finland
- Depart for home

Tour Costs

€1,295 Euros (One thousand, two hundred and ninety five Euros) – Check out our currency converter located here.
- €395 Euros Deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of €900 Euros required by May 5, 2010

Policies and payment information are available here.

For additional information, please contact us at:
E-Mail: Contact us Electronically
Phone Toll-free: 1-877-778-1745

Summer Wildlife 2010

admin — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 19:01:22 +0000

Summer 2010 Wildlife Instructional Photography Workshop

Triple D Game Farm, Kalispell, Montana

Presented by Paul Burwell Photography

Download the workshop PDF here

Canada Lynx kitten peering out from behind a log - CA

July 20th – 23rd, 2010

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography workshop at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana. This workshop will help you create stunning images of the wonderful wildlife at the Triple D Game Farm. Summer is the most popular time of year to travel to Triple D. You’ll be photographing a combination of mature and cute baby animals. In 3 days you can amass a tremendous portfolio of animal photographs while learning the tips, tricks and techniques that will help you create truly captivating images.

Wildlife models can include: bobcats, coyotes, wolves, otters, lynx, mountain lions, raccoons, skunks, tigers, bears and foxes.

This workshop includes:

The opportunity to photograph extremely healthy and happy wildlife surrogates in natural surroundings at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana
- A minimum of 8 sessions photographing the animals over 3 days
- The benefit of Paul’s years of experience photographing at Triple D and scouting the locations
- You will be safely closer to animals like Cougars, Lynx and Siberian Tigers than you ever imagined possible
A copy of Paul’s book, Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques
Small group size to a maximum of 10 participants allows for maximum flexibility
The opportunity to bring at least 10 images with you for critiquing
A CD to take home containing an electronic version of the workshop material
Paul’s undivided attention during the photo sessions to help you get the most out of your investment
- Paul has an extensive history of working with and educating adults from his prior experience as the President of an Internet firm
The opportunity to learn techniques for preparing images with Photoshop, developing a managed workflow and archival strategies
Professionally designed, printed and bound coffee-table book of the group’s achievements during the workshop
- Participants have an opportunity to submit images they’ve made during the workshop for inclusion in the book.
- One copy of the book will be distributed to each participant
The option to submit up to 10 photographs from this workshop for a detailed written critique of each submitted photograph

Siberian Lynx kitten lying on an old log - CA

Notes from the Instructor…

Itinerary

July 19th Evening: Orientation meeting at the Triple D offices.
July 20th – 22nd Mornings: The morning of each day will feature photography sessions with the wildlife models at various shooting locations.
July 20th – 22nd Afternoons: This time will be available for instruction as well as free time to work on images.
July 23rd Morning: Weather Day – If not required as a weather day extra sessions can be added for $150/session.
July 23rd Noon: Workshop comes to an end.

Workshop Costs

$1395 US Dollars
- $200 US Dollars deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of $1195 US dollars due by May 19, 2010
- Time and weather permitting, additional sessions may be added for $150 per session
- Accompanying non-photographer $50 per day

Policies and payment information available here.

For additional information, please contact us at:
E-Mail: Contact us Electronically
Phone Toll-free: 1-877-778-1745

Fall Wildlife 2010

admin — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 19:01:37 +0000

Fall 2010 Wildlife Instructional Photography Workshop

Triple D Game Farm, Kalispell, Montana

Presented by Paul Burwell Photography

Download the workshop PDF here

Cougar walking across the top of a ledge - CA

October 8th – 11th, 2010

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography workshop at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana. This workshop will help you create stunning images of wildlife models at the Triple D Game Farm. The cooler temperatures of fall signal the animals that it is time to start building those fur coats for the coming winter. In 3 days you can amass a tremendous portfolio of animal photographs while learning the tips, tricks and techniques that will help
you create truly captivating images.

Fall wildlife models can include: bobcat, bear, coyote, wolf, lynx, mountain lion, snow-leopard, porcupine, raccoon, skunk, otter and fox.

This workshop includes:

The opportunity to photograph extremely healthy and happy wildlife surrogates in natural surroundings at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana
- A minimum of 8 sessions photographing the animals over 3 days
- The benefit of Paul’s years of experience photographing at Triple D and scouting the locations
- You will be safely closer to animals like Cougars, Lynx and Snow Leopards than you ever imagined possible
A copy of Paul’s book, Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques
Small group size to a maximum of 10 participants allows for maximum flexibility
The opportunity to bring at least 10 images with you for critiquing
A CD to take home containing an electronic version of the workshop material
Paul’s undivided attention during the photo sessions to help you get the most out of your investment
- Paul has an extensive history of working with and educating adults from his prior experience as the President of an Internet firm
The opportunity to learn techniques for preparing images with Photoshop, developing a managed workflow and archival strategies
Professionally designed, printed and bound coffee-table book of the group’s achievements during the workshop
- Participants have an opportunity to submit images they’ve made during the workshop for inclusion in the book.
- One copy of the book will be distributed to each participant
The option to submit up to 10 photographs from this workshop for a detailed written critique of each submitted photograph

Badger brandishing a claw outside of den - CA

Notes from the Instructor…

Itinerary

October 7th Evening: Orientation meeting at the Triple D offices.
October 8th – 10th Mornings: The morning of each day will feature photography sessions with the wildlife models at various shooting locations
October 8th – 10th Afternoons: This time will be available for instruction as well as free time to work on images.
October 11th Morning: Weather day. This day is reserved to make up for inclement weather or to allow participants to add additional sessions
October 11th – Noon: Workshop comes to an end

Workshop Costs

$1395 US Dollars
- $200 US Dollars deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of $1195 US dollars due by August 7, 2010
- Time and weather permitting, additional sessions may be added for $150 per session
- Accompanying non-photographer $50 per day

Policies and payment information available here.

For additional information, please contact us at:
E-Mail: Contact us Electronically
Phone Toll-free: 1-877-778-1745

Spirit Bears 2010

admin — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 18:00:08 +0000

Spirit Bear 2010 Photography Tour

Along the coast of the Great Bear Rain Forest, British Columbia, Canada

Kermode "Spirit" Bear

September 8th – 15th, 2010

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography tour in search of the Spirit or Kermode Black Bear along the coast of the Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia, Canada. Spirit Bears are Black Bears with a recessive gene that causes their furs to be white. They are not albinos and are not Polar Bears. About 10% of the Black Bears in the region are Spirit Bears. In addition to Spirit Bears, we’ll look for opportunities to photography Grizzlies, Black Bears, Humpback Whales and, if we’re lucky an elusive coastal Grey Wolf.

Our hosts originated Spirit Bear tours into this rain forest, and still offer professionally guided bear tours. They have had 100% finding Spirit Bears for their clients the last couple of years but since we are dealing with nature and wildlife, there are no guarantees that we’ll find a Spirit Bear.

This tour includes:

Accommodation and meals aboard a 71′ sailing ketch whose crew have over 25+ years of experience guiding Spirit Bear tours
- Meals will occasionally be eaten picnic style during shore excursions
Shore excursions on the boat’s motorized inflatable
Full use of the boat’s equipment including kayaks
Opportunity to visit a remote native village along the coast.
- There are no roads to the village and therefore all visitors arrive by boat
- We’ll have the opportunity to learn of the history and ecology of the area from the natives
A small group size, limited to 8 participants
A tour for photographers by photographers
All meals from lunch on the first day to breakfast on the last day.
Exploration of the spectacular BC coast with its inlets, rivers, waterfalls, old-growth forests and wildlife.
Healthy, hearty food including seafood, fresh salads, fruit, home-made soups and fresh baked breads and goodies
Opportunity to become one of the tiny percentage of people who have viewed this amazing part of the coast and this unique bear.
Special low pricing because this is the first year I’ll be running this tour
- Prices will increase for 2010

Kermode "Spirit" Bear

Notes from the Tour Leader…

It is important to me that the trip be limited to individuals with a true passion for photography who can get along well in a group. A good group gives everyone the opportunity to share the prime shooting positions and works together to make sure that everyone is having a tremendous trip. For this reason, perspective participants will be interviewed to help determine their compatibility with the group. The group size is being limited to 9 participants to maximize comfort aboard the boat and minimize any crowding that might occur at shooting locations. This will help make sure participants go home with the best photos possible.

Itinerary

September 7th: Arrive from home in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada. Flight to Prince Rupert and overnight accommodation at a bed & breakfast is NOT included in the tour pricing.
September 8th: We depart Prince Rupert, British Columbia via float plane to rendezvous with the boat
September 8th – 15th: We’ll be cruising, photographing, sleeping and eating on our comfortable home for the trip, a 71′ sailing ketch.
September 15th: Arrive in Bella Bella, British Columbia our final destination. Overnight accommodation at a bed & breakfast is NOT included in the tour pricing.
September 15th: Depart for home. Cost of the flight from Bella Bella is NOT included in the tour price.

Tour Costs

$4,995 Canadian Dollars. Current currency exchange information between the Canadian dollar and your local currency is available here.
- $1000 Canadian dollar deposit required upon reservation
- Remainder of $4,995 Canadian dollars due by June 7, 2010

Policies and payment information are available here.

For additional information, please contact us at:
E-Mail: Contact us Electronically
Phone Toll-free: 1-877-778-1745