One aspect of photography that I really enjoy is helping others to get the most out of their cameras. I hold regular classes for beginners to help get them off "Auto" and to understand composition the exposure triangle & lighting. These days are currently being held at the hawk conservancy trust in Andover. I am currently looking at other venues such as liberty's owl & raptor centre in ringwood & marvel zoo, colden common nr Winchester.
beginners & intermediate photographers photo day
Itinery
10:30am meet in the restaurant. a table is reserved for us for the day. grab a tea, coffee or some breakfast. introductions and then a discussion about the program for the day and some basic settings that we will use. There will be a free cheat sheet which can be used for reference throughout the day. We will order and pay for our lunch if required.
11:00am we will go out and photograph some of the birds trying different settings, in preparation for the first display. I will be on hand to help and offer advice.
11:30am the first flying display "wings of Africa" in the Savannah arena. There will be lots of opportunities to photograph many species in static/perched positions and birds in flight. we will get to try different shutter speeds in relation to the bird and its activity. this display lasts about 30-40 minutes.
12:30pm Lunch. I will also have my laptop with me, so we can view some of your'e images and review them. this option does depend on the size of the group as time is limited. there may be time at the end of the day to review some more.
2:00pm The second and the biggest display, held at Reg's wildlife meadow. There will be a large variety of birds flown so lots of time to hone your skills photographing birds in flight. There could be up to 10+ birds in the air at one time. The meadow is a stunning location especially in spring/summer when all the wild flowers are in full bloom creating an amazing backdrop. This display goes on for about 45 minutes . We will have time to grab some refreshments and then explore the site and practice taking photos through fences/cages using various apertures to try & eliminate the wire fence/cage.
3:45pm the final display. the woodland wonders in the woodland arena. lighting conditions can be tricky in this arena so again I will be on hand to offer tips on different settings and focusing. This display lasts about 30-40 minutes.
4:30pm final discussion and leave site
skill level
these workshops are beginner to intermediate photographers.
Equipment recommendations
Ideally a dslr or mirrorless camera.(any brand) ideal lens would be 70-200. 100-400/500. f2.8 to f5.6 is good for most situations. if you only have a basic kit lens then maybe consider borrowing or hiring a lens for the day, they're not too expensive. make sure you have plenty of fully charged batteries and lots of memory cards, you will take lots of photos. a tripod is not advisable but a monopod could be useful.
what's included
tuition and free cheat sheet
not included
travel.entry fee to the trust, please book online. lunch and refreshments.
the site is on fairly level ground with access for wheelchairs. please wear appropriate clothing & footwear for the weather/season. please avoid bright colours.
I will check the weather forecast a few days prior and if it looks as though it will be unsuitable or the trust closes for the day a full refund will be offered or a credit towards another date. the hawk conservancy trust has 2 time tables. summer 28th march 2026 to 1st November 2026. winter. 2nd November 2026 to 25th march 2027.
costs: please contact me on johnbrownimages@gmail.com or 07973321218 with your requirements any questions and to get the latest cost & payment details.