Learn wildlife photography – photographing ducks and swans
Freshwater 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 learn wildlife photography. 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 courting 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.
These species are great to start with as you learn wildlife photography. They often let you get close and are large enough 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.
Example images
Here are a sample of images I have taken from freshwater lochs, like the one we will be using. This shows the range of species you can expect to see.
What to expect on the day
This is a practical, field-based wildlife photography workshop with expert guidance throughout. This is the best way to learn wildlife photography:
- 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
I focus on small groups as this is the best way to learn wildlife photography:
- Small group allows personal coaching
- At least 2 for workshop to go ahead
- Max group of 4 people
Who this workshop is for
This workshop is for you, if you are setting out to learn wildlife photography:
- A beginner to wildlife photography
- New to using manual or semi-manual settings
- Wanting to gain confidence photographing wildlife
You don’t need prior experience—just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
We will be walking several miles on this workshop so please let me know in advance of any accessibility needs.
Accessibility
This workshop can be adapted for those with accessibility limitations (for example users of a power chair or wheel chair). Please get in touch to discuss your requirements. I am committed to making my workshops as accessible – everybody should be able to learn wildlife photography. Please see my accessibility policy for more information.
Recommended equipment
You don’t need the most expensive camera to take part and start to learn wildlife photography. But ideally, you will have:
- A DSLR or mirrorless camera
- A telephoto lens (something with a range of 100–400 mm is ideal)
- Spare batteries and memory cards
- Clothes suitable for the weather (footwear will get muddy)
If you’re unsure about your gear, feel free to get in touch before booking. I will be happy to help you.
Location
My first choice location for this workshop is Gartmorn Dam in Clackmannanshire. This location has been carefully selected for the accessibility along with the variety of wildfowl present all year around. If other locations have better wildlife, I may use other location in Central Scotland (e.g. Hogganfield or Linlithgow) but plenty of notice will be provided.
Ethical approach
Respect and protection of wildlife is at the heart of everything I do. This workshop follows a strong ethical approach to have minimal disturbance and a positive experience for both wildlife and participants.
Booking & availability
All workshop bookings are subject to our standard terms & conditions.
Small Group Workshops – £55 per person
Availability is limited. This is because I keep groups small so that you enjoy personal tuition and the highest quality experience. I recommend you book in advance.
Private Workshop – £150 per booking
Alternatively I can offer bespoke private workshops tailored to your specific needs. I can often offer these at shorter notice. This is because, I do not need to get other bookings to make workshop cost effective.