Private Spring Black Bear Photography Workshop
Spend two days learning how to find, observe, and photograph black bears while developing the field skills needed to repeat the process on your own.
Private 1-on-1 • Limited Spring Dates • Early Booking Pricing Available
This is not a typical guided wildlife outing where you simply follow someone into the woods and hope to see an animal.
This workshop is designed to teach you how black bears use habitat in the spring, how to safely observe them, and how to position yourself for strong wildlife photographs — with skills you can continue using long after the workshop is over.
What makes this workshop different:
Private 1-on-1 instruction
Focused on repeatable field skills
Built specifically for wildlife photographers
Designed to help you work independently after the workshop
Spring Workshop Dates
This workshop is offered on a very limited number of spring dates and is booked as a private 1-on-1 experience. Each date is available to one participant only.
Available Dates
April 18–19
April 25–26
May 2–3
May 9–10
If you’re considering one of these dates, I recommend reserving it early. Once a date is booked, it is removed from the schedule.
What You’ll Learn
By the end of the workshop, you won’t just have photos — you’ll understand why those opportunities happened and how to create them again.
You’ll learn how to:
Identify the type of habitat black bears use in early spring
Recognize travel routes and feeding areas
Position yourself to observe bears safely and ethically
Set up for strong wildlife compositions before a bear appears
Adjust camera settings quickly when wildlife appears unexpectedly
Work slowly and quietly in wildlife habitat without disturbing animals
Evaluate a location and decide if it’s worth staying or moving
Even if wildlife activity is slow, you will leave with practical field knowledge you can apply immediately on your own.
Workshop Structure
This is a 2-day private workshop designed to balance time in the field with learning how to make better decisions as a wildlife photographer.
Day 1
Morning: Field session focused on habitat and scouting techniques
Midday: Photo review and discussion of what we saw and why it mattered
Afternoon/Evening: Field session focused on positioning and observation
Day 2
Morning: Field session applying the same techniques independently
Late Morning: Camera settings, positioning, and composition refinement
Wrap-up: How to continue using these techniques after the workshop
Who This Workshop Is For
This workshop is designed for photographers who want to improve their field skills, not just collect wildlife photos.
This workshop is a great fit if you:
Already own a camera and telephoto lens
Want to become more confident finding wildlife on your own
Enjoy slower, more patient field photography
Want to understand animal behavior instead of relying on luck
Are comfortable spending extended time outdoors
This workshop may not be the right fit if you:
Are completely new to photography
Want guaranteed wildlife sightings
Prefer short or fast-paced photography sessions
Are uncomfortable walking on uneven terrain
Difficulty Level & Requirements
This workshop takes place in real wildlife habitat, not a controlled environment.
Physical level: Moderate
Walking on uneven ground
Standing or sitting for extended periods
Slow, quiet movement through habitat
Possible early morning starts
Recommended equipment:
Camera capable of manual or semi-manual settings
Telephoto lens (300mm or longer recommended)
Tripod or monopod (optional but helpful)
Neutral outdoor clothing
Pricing & Availability
Private 2-Day Workshop
Early Booking Price: $875
Available Workshop Dates
Only one participant per date
• April 18–19 – 1 spot available
• April 25–26 – 1 spot available
• May 2–3 – 1 spot available
• May 9–10 – 1 spot available
What’s included:
Two full days of private instruction
Field-based wildlife photography coaching
Habitat and behavior instruction
Camera settings and composition guidance
Follow-up email support after the workshop
Availability is extremely limited
Only one participant per workshop date
Only a small number of spring dates available
To reserve a spot:
50% deposit required at booking
Remaining balance due before the workshop
FAQs
What happens if we don’t see a bear?
1
The workshop focuses on teaching the skills needed to find and photograph wildlife independently. Even if wildlife activity is slow, you will leave with knowledge you can continue using long after the workshop.
Do I need to be an advanced photographer?
2
No, but you should already be comfortable using your camera and telephoto lens. This workshop focuses more on field skills than basic photography instruction.
Is lodging included?
3
No, this workshop focuses entirely on field instruction. I will provide recommendations for nearby lodging if needed.
Can I ask questions about camera settings during the workshop?
4
Absolutely. Camera setup, exposure adjustments, and wildlife photography techniques are part of the workshop.
About the Instructor
I’m a wildlife photographer focused on creating natural, behavior-based wildlife images in real field conditions.
My goal with this workshop isn’t just to help you get photos for one weekend — it’s to help you build the confidence and field awareness needed to continue finding wildlife on your own.
I believe the most valuable skill a wildlife photographer can develop is understanding how animals use their environment, and this workshop is built entirely around that idea.
Requirements & Safety Information
This workshop takes place in a natural environment where terrain and conditions can change quickly. The goal is to create real wildlife photography opportunities while keeping the experience safe, respectful to the animals, and comfortable for both participants.
Participants should be comfortable walking a few miles during the day, including areas with uneven ground and natural terrain. Some travel may take place off established trails in order to position properly without disturbing wildlife. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.
Because this workshop focuses on wild black bears during the spring season, it is important that everyone is able to move quietly, follow instructions when wildlife is present, and remain aware of their surroundings. The workshop is designed to be safe and respectful to wildlife at all times, and no actions will ever be taken that could disturb or endanger the animals.
Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate footwear and clothing for outdoor conditions. Weather in early spring can change quickly, and being properly prepared will make the experience much more enjoyable.
All participants will be asked to sign a simple liability waiver before the workshop begins. This is standard for outdoor photography workshops and simply confirms that you understand the nature of the activity and feel comfortable participating.
What to Bring
This workshop is designed for photographers who already have a basic understanding of their camera and want to improve their ability to photograph wildlife in real conditions. Bringing the right gear will make the experience much more productive and enjoyable.
Camera Gear
A camera body that you are comfortable using in the field. The workshop will focus on real wildlife situations rather than basic camera setup, so it’s important that you already feel confident using your camera.
A telephoto lens suitable for wildlife photography is strongly recommended. A focal length in the 300mm–600mm range (or equivalent) will give you the best chance of creating strong images if wildlife appears.
If you normally use a tripod or monopod for wildlife photography, feel free to bring it, but it is not required. The terrain can be uneven in some areas, so the ability to work handheld is helpful.
Extra batteries and memory cards are also recommended so you don’t need to worry about running out of power during the day.
Clothing and Footwear
Comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction are strongly recommended. Some walking will take place on uneven terrain, and proper footwear will make a big difference in both comfort and safety.
Dress in layers that are appropriate for early spring conditions. Mornings can be cool, while afternoons can warm up quickly, especially when walking.
Neutral or earth-toned clothing is recommended when photographing wildlife, but nothing specialized is required.
Optional but Helpful
A small backpack for carrying gear
A water bottle and snacks for the day
A lightweight rain jacket in case conditions change
A lens cloth or cleaning cloth