Home > Travel Workshops > Cape Cod: Birds & Beaches
Cape Cod: Birds & Beaches
Sept 11-12, 2026
Spend two days exploring Cape Cod’s quieter side. Explore birding hotspots, tidal flats, and coastal landscapes all during the Cape’s beautiful early autumn season.
Overview
Cape Cod in early fall is something special. The summer crowds have thinned, the light is golden, and the birds are abundant. Join the BPW for two days of guided bird and nature photography along some of the Cape’s most scenic and productive locations.
From osprey and egrets in Chatham to the tidal flats of Rock Harbor at sunset, and a morning visit to Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary — you’ll have plenty of opportunities to work on your bird photography, seascape compositions, and low-light technique. The pace is easy, the group is small (8 participants), and there will be plenty of one-on-one time with your instructors.
Whether you’re picking up a camera for the first time or looking to sharpen skills you already have, this workshop is designed to meet you where you are.
Who Should Attend
This workshop is a great fit if you:
Are a beginner or intermediate photographer eager to try bird and wildlife photography
Enjoy being outdoors and don’t mind an easy walk or two
Want to improve your camera skills in a small, supportive group setting
Are looking for a relaxed but productive escape close to home
Itinerary
The workshop will be easy paced with lots of time for making. Our schedule is tentative and may be adjusted based on weather:
Day 1 : Afternoon
We’ll meet at lunchtime in Chatham for a bird photography 101 session with opportunities to photograph shorebirds and osprey along the coast. From there we’ll move on to Fort Hill in Eastham, a well-known birding hotspot with sweeping scenic views and excellent landscape and nature photography opportunities.
Day 1 : Evening
After a snack stop, we’ll make our way to Rock Harbor where we’ll photograph low tide and sunset. The workshop is timed to coincide with low tide, offering spectacular foreground detail and coastal light.
Day 2 : Morning
For those willing, we’ll kick off the day with an optional sunrise session before heading out for a full morning of beach and bird photography, including a visit to Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.
Day 2 — Midday
After a short break, we’ll gather in a nearby classroom setting for a group editing session. Working side by side with your instructors, you’ll learn how to sort, select, and edit your images from the weekend. You’ll leave with a stronger set of finished images and editing habits you can build on. We’ll wrap up with a group slideshow to celebrate everyone’s work.
Day 2 - Optional Add-On: Sunset Whale Watch (Provincetown)
For those hungry for more, we’re offering an optional whale watching session out of Provincetown. Departing around 4pm, soon after the editing session wraps, this 3 to 4 hour excursion is timed for golden hour, giving you the chance to photograph whales and seabirds against the late afternoon light. It's a relaxed, hands-on way to practice shooting moving subjects from the water.
This add-on is optional and not included in tuition. Space is limited, and additional details will be shared after registration.
Prior to the workshop, you’ll receive a detailed itinerary with all relevant locations, addresses, and meeting times.
Topics Covered / What You’ll Learn
How to photograph birds in flight and at rest
Camera settings for wildlife and action photography
Low light and sunset photography
Intentional camera movement for creative effects
Composing dynamic landscape and seascape images
Helpful tools and apps for finding and identifying birds in the field
One-on-one support for your personal goals and gear
What’s Included
+ 2 days of thoughtful photo education
Learn in the field with experienced, patient instructors. You’ll receive group lessons and one-on-one support tailored to your level.
+ Group editing session and slideshow
At the end of the workshop, we’ll meet in a classroom environment and edit photos as a group. Instructors will work side by side with you to provide constructive feedback and editing tips. No previous editing knowledge is required, but is encouraged.
+ Digital Workshop Guide
We’re providing participants a helpful guide to preparing for your trip, including a detailed itinerary, a breakdown of suggested gear, and other helpful checklists.
+ A preliminary 45-minute meet and greet (virtual)
E-meet your fellow photographers and instructors while you learn what to expect in the field. We’ll review camera requirements and suggestions, location details, and answer your questions. This preliminary session is a recorded livestream.
What’s Not Included
+ Transportation:
Students are responsible for transportation to all photo locations throughout the workshop. We are happy to offer carpool options during the workshop whenever possible.
+ Accommodations
Students are responsible for all lodging. Cape Cod is a popular destination even in early fall, so booking in advance is recommended. The workshop will be held in and around Orleans, Chatham, Eastham, and Wellfleet.
+ Meals
All meals are not included with tuition. We will make dedicated time to eat and rest, and will always have dining suggestions on hand.
+ Camera, laptop, and personal equipment:
In our downloadable pamphlet, we will list recommended items to bring. We will also provide options to rent from us or other service providers.
Recommended Gear
A detailed gear list will be sent after registration, but here’s a general idea of what you’ll need:
DSLR or mirrorless camera
Telephoto lens (100–400mm or larger — highly recommended for bird photography)
Standard zoom lens (24–105mm)
Wide angle lens (optional)
Tripod
At least 2 camera batteries
2 memory cards
Comfortable walking shoes + water shoes if you wish to explore the flats at sunset
Light layers and a wind/waterproof jacket
Recommended Prerequisites
This workshop is ideal for beginner to intermediate photographers. New photographers will be guided at a comfortable pace, while more experienced participants will benefit from well-timed shooting stops and one-on-one time with instructors.
To get the most out of the trip, we encourage familiarity with manual exposure settings on your camera (shutter speed, aperture, ISO). The following BPW classes cover all the relevant material and are a great way to prepare:
About the Instructors
Kathy Sferra: Kathy got hooked on photography in college when she received her first 35mm camera. Nothing makes her happier than being outside with a camera, studying the landscape and looking for just the right light. Many of Kathy’s photos are taken within a one square mile of her home in Central Massachusetts or on Cape Cod.
Michelle Avery: Michelle is a lover of all things nature and enjoys sharing her passion for travel, wildlife and photography with everyone. She will be the one to go that extra mile (literally) just to make sure she’s not missing out on a great shot. When not behind the lens, Michelle can be found on the dance floor, competing in ballroom dance.
Cancelations & Refund Policies
60+ days prior to the workshop: Eligible for full refund or student credit.
15-59 days prior to the workshop Eligible for 50% refund, or 100% student credit which can be used for 2 years
Within 14 days of the workshop: Refunds are not available. However tuition can be saved as student credit for 2 years
To learn more, please review our complete description of Terms & Conditions
Have a question? Email Us!
FAQs
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Absolutely. Our workshops are open to anyone and we welcome participants from all over.
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This workshop involves easy walks on relatively flat terrain. Participants should be comfortable walking for short periods of time on sandy or uneven coastal ground.
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Yes. The pace is relaxed and instructors will meet you where you are. Familiarity with your camera’s basic settings is helpful but not required.
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Any DSLR or mirrorless camera will work. A telephoto lens (100–400mm or larger) is strongly recommended for bird photography. Rentals are available through our trusted vendors if needed.
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Of course. Most of our participants attend solo and find the small group setting a great way to connect with fellow photographers.