Learn wildlife photography – photograph Red Squirrels
Woodland wildlife photography workshop
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 – Photograph Red Squirrel & Woodland Birds
Typical species include – Photograph Red Squirrels, 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 provides a great location to photograph Red Squirrels and gives 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
- How to photograph Red Squirrels
- 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 private woodland hides, like the one we will be using. This shows the range of species you can expect to see when you photograph Red Squirrels and more.
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
- Time to photograph Red Squirrels in a relaxed way
- 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
Who this workshop is for
This workshop is for you, if you are:
- 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.
Accessibility
This workshop can be adapted for those with accessibility limitations. We normally get a lift to the hide by 4×4 mule but walk back – approximately 300m. With advanced notice we can arrange a lift back too. You will still need to walk about 20m from the gate to the hide and back. There is restricted room inside the hide.
Please get in touch to discuss your requirements. I am committed to making my workshops as accessible. Please see my accessibility policy for more information.
Recommended equipment
You don’t need the most expensive camera to take part. 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, contact me before booking. I will be happy to help you.
Location
The workshop takes place at Argaty Red Kites using their Woodland hide. This location has been carefully selected for the quality of the hide. It has an active Red Squirrel population and lovely variety of woodland birds. An ideal place to learn woodland photography and photograph Red Squirrels.
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 – £85 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 – £240 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.