January 2024 Pittsburgh’s Famous Free Nature Photography Meetup

Join in the fun Sunday Jan 28th in Frick Park at my monthly free nature photography meetup. The January 2024 Nature Photography Meetup will start at 9:30 am outside the Frick Environmental Center. Come celebrate 4 years of free interactive nature meetups with me this month!

The January 2024 Nature Photography Meetup

The January 2024 Nature Photography Meetup is part of my series of free nature meetups in Frick Park. Join me, nature photographer Don Orkoskey along with others interested in nature photography. Learn and explore our amazing Frick Park! Everyone is welcome, regardless of camera and equipment, skill level, age, and ability.

Nature Photography Meetup Details

When

January 28th 2024 from 9:30 am to approx. 11:30 am. Please note, I will be there from start to finish but we're never more than 15 minutes from the parking lot so you can leave at any time. Additionally, Frick is an amazing public park and you're welcome to stay for as long as you'd like even after I've left if you'd like.

Where

Please meet us at the end of the promenade (around the benches) beyond the Frick Environmental Center at the entrance to the meadow. There is ample free parking in and around this area including a large lot under the solar panels and parallel parking in front of the gatehouses. The address is 2005 Beechwood Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15217.

Cost

This event is free but donations are greatly appreciated. You can buy a ticket that includes a donation or donate at the event through cash, Venmo, or any other means you'd prefer. Donations are not obligatory but they do help me continue these fun and otherwise free events.

Register for the January Nature Photography Meetup here.

Your Nature Photography Meetup Host

My name is Don Orkoskey. I'm your host at the January Nature Photography Meetup. I'm a professional nature photographer and photography teacher. I host these monthly meetups for free. Typically they're held in Frick Park. Additionally, I enjoy leading walks in North Park, Raccoon Creek, and throughout the Pittsburgh area. We have so much incredible nature right here! Please, join me in exploring and photographing it.

In addition to nature photography, I'm also an event, portrait, and commercial photographer. When I'm not photographing anything and everything, you can find me playing football (soccer) or spending time with my amazing wife Zhanna.

Nature Meetup FAQ

Do you have questions about this or all of these nature photography meetups? No problem, here are answers to the most often asked questions about these photography meetups.

What types of nature photography are possible at this meetup?

Nature is unpredictable. As such, I can't guarantee that you'll see any specific animals. However, we often encounter loads of birds, small mammals, and of course tons of plants. This means you can reliably expect to have a great time creating macro photos, landscapes, photographing plants, and usually seeing at least some wildlife. Too, in warmer months you're almost certain to see insects and the birds are plentiful. Winter can be a bit quieter. However, we still often see at least a few incredible birds and other creatures.

What gear do I need to have?

First let me say that gear is important but you're welcome to join regardless of the equipment you have. In fact, even if you've only got a phone camera, that's not a problem. Photography gear is less important than your ability to find a way to use it in order to create amazing photos. That said,  since we're in a group, talking, and likely moving around a bit, if you want to photograph things which are farther away (such as birds) a good telephoto lens is a great idea. Generally speaking, at least a 300mm lens is ideal.

Are there any age or accessibility restrictions?

Everyone is welcome at these nature photography meetups. There are zero restrictions. Obviously, use your best judgement in terms of temperature and weather. That said, all ages are absolutely welcome. Too, while we often take some paths that are unpaved, I am always happy to adjust these meetups for anyone with mobility issues.

Inclusivity

I'm dedicated to ensuring an inclusive environment at every event that I host. Regardless of age, race, ethnicity, national origin, language, gender, sex, or ability. In fact, the only things not welcome at my events are hate and discrimination.