Seabirds on the Yorkshire Coast
About the workshop
A special place
The course takes place at Bempton Cliffs on the Yorkshire coast. This is a very special place with around half a million birds gathering here for the breeding season. You'll see everyone's favourite - the puffin, the gigantic gannet with its 2 metre wingspan, raucous razorbills, the charming guillemot and countless kittiwakes and fulmars.
Course contents
This course is as much about the art of photography as it is the technical. You will leave the day with lots of wonderful portraits and action flight photos.
We will cover:
- Composition
- Making the most of the light
- Foregrounds and backgrounds
- Tracking and focusing on birds in flight
- Choosing the right camera and lens settings
- Understanding the tools available to you to judge exposure
Timing
We will meet half an hour before sunrise so that we can make the most of the golden morning light (subject to the weather conditions). So it's important to be there on time.
The workshop will last until lunchtime, but the site is open all day and you are welcome to stay on afterwards and continue to practice what you've learned.
If the weather impacts the workshop (such as unexpected thick fog - which can sometimes happen at the coast), I will extend the end time to ensure you get the full experience you've paid for.
See more
Check out these videos of seabirds on the Yorkshire Coast:
Key information
Event type: Workshop up to 4 people
Start time: 5am
Equipment needed: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a lens of 400mm+ at full frame, 300mm+ at APS-C and 200mm+ at micro four thirds. If you have a shorter focal length telephoto (eg 70-200mm) you may find this useful in addition to the longer lens as the birds can get incredibly close at times. If you have teleconverters, a tripod or monopod, please bring them, although they aren't essential.
Children: Under 18s are welcome if accompanied by an adult. The adult must either be a paying workshop participant or pay their own site entry fee.
Location: Yorkshire Coast
Site entry charges: Included in the cost of the workshop.
Duration: 7 hours minimum
Accessibility: We will be walking throughout the workshop. The longest walk is about 20 mins. The terrain is fairly flat. To capture some types of shots you will need to be able to lie down or kneel - if this isn't possible, there are plenty of other shots to capture.
Comfort: Food and drink are not included. Refreshments available from a café from 9am. Toilets available after 9am. You will likely need to bring drinks or a flask to see you through the session. Please consider sunscreen/sunblock as we will be outside for a long time. At this time of year you might find insect repellent useful.
Parking: Car park available, no charge
Public transport: Not possible at this location/time of day.
Accommodation: Not included. There are campsites and B&Bs nearby. One campsite is within walkable distance, for others you will need to drive. Booking in advance is recommended.