Before the Shot

One-on-One Wildlife Photography Field Instruction

Price: $150 USD per person, per day (introductory rate)

Overview

Most beginners do not struggle because of their gear, their location, or their presets. They struggle because they are making decisions without understanding why they work. This is not a traditional workshop. It is focused, one-on-one field instruction designed to correct that. We work together in real conditions, at a pace that fits you and your camera. The goal is simple: to help you make deliberate, consistent decisions before pressing the shutter, and to build a repeatable approach you can apply anywhere.

Location

Wakodahatchee Wetlands in Delray Beach is the recommended location. This managed freshwater wetland offers reliable wildlife activity, elevated boardwalk access, and constantly changing light conditions. It is one of the most practical environments in South Florida for learning wildlife photography fundamentals without unnecessary variables. Alternative locations can be arranged based on your preference.

Why One-on-One Instruction

This format is designed for beginner to early intermediate photographers who want clarity, not guesswork.

Working one-on-one allows for immediate feedback and correction in real time. Instead of learning passively, you are actively guided through each decision as it happens.

During the session, we will:

Identify gaps in your understanding
Correct exposure and autofocus issues as they occur
Explain the reasoning behind each setting and adjustment
Slow the process down to ensure retention and consistency
Build confidence through repetition and clarity

There are no presets, shortcuts, or generic formulas. The focus is on understanding.

Species You Can Expect to Work With

The site consistently supports a wide range of resident and migratory species, including:

Great egret, snowy egret, tricolored heron, little blue heron, roseate spoonbill, white ibis, glossy ibis, wood stork, anhinga, double-crested cormorant, purple gallinule, common moorhen, limpkin, alligators, turtles, other wetland wildlife

This diversity allows for work across multiple scenarios, including perched subjects, birds in flight, nesting behavior, and environmental compositions, often within the same session.