• Overview

• Who should attend

• What’s included

• What’s not included

• Class prerequisites

• Recommended Gear

• About the instructors

• Lodging

• Registration and policies

• FAQs

About the Area

Sarasota, Florida, located on the Gulf Coast, is a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. In February, while New England is still deep in winter, Sarasota offers a sunny, mild climate—the perfect escape. This region is rich with birdlife, wetlands, and coastal landscapes, making it ideal for capturing wading birds, birds in flight, and wildlife in natural, beautiful light.

From the sprawling wetlands of Myakka River State Park to the active birdlife of Celery Fields and Venice Rookery, participants will have access to a diverse mix of habitats. Expect to photograph herons, egrets, ospreys, pelicans, and the occasional gator—all while building your confidence behind the camera.

Trip Locations Include

• Myakka River State Park

• Celery Fields

• Venice Rookery

• Venice Beach

• Lido Beach

• ...and more!

Who Should Attend

This workshop is perfect for beginner to intermediate photographers who are familiar with their camera’s manual settings (shutter speed, aperture, ISO) and are excited to explore bird and wildlife photography.

You don’t need prior wildlife experience—just a passion for learning, a love of nature, and maybe a willingness to wake up early for that golden morning light.

This is a great fit if you:

• Enjoy travel and photographing the outdoors

• Want to build skills through hands-on, in-the-field learning

• Appreciate a friendly, low-pressure group environment

Whether you're new to wildlife photography or looking to sharpen your skills, you’ll leave with more confidence, better photos, and some great memories.

What You’ll Learn

• How to choose the right camera settings for wildlife and bird photography

• Understanding shutter speed, aperture, and ISO for action shots

• Using focus modes for birds in flight

• Mastering panning techniques and tracking moving subjects

• Composition for wildlife images

• One-on-one support for your personal goals and gear

What’s Included

+3 days of photography instruction 📷

Learn in the field with experienced, patient instructors. You’ll receive group lessons and one-on-one support, tailored to your level.

+ Bird and Wildlife Knowledge 🦜

Develop your skills on and off the field for identifying birds and learn about the wildlife Florida has to offer. 

+ Transportation during class 🚐

Our group van ensures easy travel to and from all locations. Park entrance fees are included for those who ride in the van.

+Complimentary airport shuttle ✈️

For those flying into Sarasota/Bradenton (SRQ) and staying at the group hotel, complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off is included.

+ Breakfast 🍳

The BPW is picking up the check for breakfast. Each morning you can enjoy a hot breakfast in the hotel’s stylish restaurant.

+ State park entrance fees 🎟️

No need to worry about tickets—we’ve got you covered.

+Healthy snacks and water 🍎

We’ll have snacks on hand to keep you fueled and focused.

+ Digital Workshop Guide 📘

We’re providing participants a helpful guide to preparing for your trip, which will include an itinerary, a breakdown of suggested gear, and other helpful checklists.

+ A preliminary 45-minute workshop (virtual) 👨‍💻

A 45-minute virtual meeting to review the schedule, safety info, gear tips, and meet your instructors and fellow photographers.

What’s Not Included

+ Lodging and airfare

Participants are responsible for arranging their own flights and accommodations. A group rate is available at Voco Sarasota, which includes a well-appointed room, breakfast, and airport shuttle. After registration we’ll share a link to book your room and apply the group rate.

+ Meals (other than breakfast)

We’ll provide great dining suggestions and offer optional group dinners for anyone who wants to socialize.

+ Camera, laptop, and personal equipment:

We’ll send you a detailed gear guide after registration. Equipment rentals can be arranged through our trusted vendors.

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Class Prerequisites

This workshop is designed for all skill levels, but especially beginners. You’ll be guided through the basics at a relaxed pace, while more experienced participants will benefit from well-timed photo stops and personalized coaching.

We recommend familiarity with:

+ Manual exposure settings on your camera (shutter speed, aperture, ISO)

• Digital Cameras I or Camera Basics 1-3

+ (Recommended) Familiarity with bird photography & lenses:

• Intro to Bird Photography (in person)

• Bird Photography Basics (online)

• Digital Cameras II

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

• A standard zoom lens 24-105mm

• Telephoto lens (100–400mm, 200–600mm, or similar)

• Wide angle lens (optional)

• Tripod

• At least 2 camera batteries

• 2–3 memory cards

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

• Lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker

Chris Sanchez: Founder of the BPW, Chris has spent over 12 years making photographs around the world for work and for fun. A lover of all things food-related and astrophotography, Chris has more snacks in his bag than lenses, but still gets great photos. If you need a snack... you know who to ask.

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. 

Registration and Policies