Urban Bird Photography Workshop

In partnership with the Atlanta School of Photography I'm leading an Urban Bird Photography workshop on Dec. 6th starting at 10 am. Join me, wildlife photographer Don Orkoskey. Learn how to create amazing photos of bird in any setting from the heart of the city to the amazing public parks and forests around Atlanta to the vast wild areas beyond.

We’ll venture to the gorgeous Clyde Shepard Nature Preserve in Decatur, home of dozens of species of birds. There, I will show you how to listen and look for birds, how to use tools such as Merlin to identify them, and how to approach and photograph them.

At the Urban Bird Photography Workshop I'll demonstrate how to get great bird photos up close or from far away and the gear you need for both. Then we'll discuss how to overcome equipment limits and share techniques for capturing birds in flight vs those perched.

You’ll learn what you should and shouldn’t do as a bird and wildlife photographer in Atlanta and beyond.

Additionally, the practical time will give you the opportunity to create amazing photos of the many birds who call Atlanta home.

Here is what to bring to the Urban Bird Photography Workshop. First know that the workshop is open to all photographers, birders, and anyone interested in learning how to photograph birds. It is recommended, but not required that you bring a camera. Here is what else you should bring:

• • A telephoto lens
    
    • • At least 200mm, 300mm or longer strongly recommended Doing so will help you capture better photos.

• • A monopod or tripod
    
    • • A gimble head is also a great option but again, isn't necessary.

• • Drab clothing
    
    • • Nothing too brightly colored as birds are very color sensitive.
    • • Camouflage isn't necessary but is great if you've got it.

• • A pair of warm, water resistant boots.
    
    • • This is especially important if it's raining!

• • Rain gear
    
    • • A poncho for yourself if there's any chance of rain.
    • • Rain covers for your camera and lens.
    • • Water resistant camera bag or bag cover.

If you don't have any of these items let me know before hand via my contact form. I'm able to provide a limited number of extra items (mostly rain gear but I also have extra monopods and tripods). Too, if you want to learn how to photograph birds before investing in gear you’re equally welcome to join us!

I specializes in headshots and corporate event photography. I'm also a passionate wildlife photographer. As such, I lead a free monthly nature photography meetup.

From long before I can remember I've had a camera in hand. From his mom's Polaroid 600 to my Pentax K1000 I bought for a high school photography class. I opened WDO Photography in 2007 after working for and learning from a number of Pittsburgh's most talented photographers.

I began teaching photography around the same time, hosting classes at Phipps Conservatory, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, and at many more great venues in and beyond Pittsburgh. Today, I'm exploring wild spaces in and around Atlanta looking for wildlife to photograph.

I've taught urban bird photography workshops in Pittsburgh several times and I can't wait to teach you all here in Atlanta! I'm also teaching Photo 1 at the Atlanta School of Photography.