KENYA

Join us at the best areas of Kenya for the greatest variety of wildlife with visits to Lake Nakuru and the Maasai Mara. We don't want to rush you from one location to the next...missing all the action to travel time. This adventure offers unlimited game drives, enabling us to stay out all day if the sightings and weather conditions are optimal. Each participant will have a full row in our specially designed Toyota 4x4 Landcruisers giving you much needed space and the freedom to photograph from either side of the vehicle or out the top. The small group sizes also afford you individual attention and a comfortable environment to learn. Each vehicle will have a Nature's Photo Adventures professional photographer ready to share techniques and answer any questions you may have.Lake Nakuru National Park is renowned as a bird sanctuary with over 400 bird species including huge flocks of flamingos. The park is situated in the Great Rift Valley and there are areas of the park where we will get out of the vehicles to capture the action. It's a paradise for mammals including endangered black rhinos, white rhinos, two species of waterbuck and it's also one of the only places to see the highly endangered Rothschild Giraffe which only has a few hundred members left in the wild. The park has a healthy population of predators: Lions, Leopard, Cheetah, Hyena and Jackals and there's lots of action at this time of year. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is where you will witness one of the greatest wildlife spectacles of the world, the Great Migration. Nowhere in the world is there a movement of animals as immense as the wildebeest migration where over two million animals migrate from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to the greener pastures of the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. We have timed this safari to arrive for the peak of migration activity as well as the large number of predators which are drawn to the area because of the abundant prey. The lions, hyenas, leopards, cheetahs and lesser predators await the migration with eager anticipation and the chances of seeing predators hunting is excellent. Watch the large number of Wildebeest and other vegetarians cross the Mara river, the frantic crossings are filled with danger as crocodiles lurk in the water. In the Maasai Mara they will be stalked, hunted and run down by the larger carnivores. The Mara has one of the largest densities of lion in the world and it's no wonder this is the home of the BBC Big Cat Diary. The Mara is split between two districts - Narok on the eastside of the river which is managed by the KWS and the TransMara on the western side managed by the Mara Conservancy. To take advantage of everything this park has to offer including vastly different landscapes, we will be staying on both sides during our visit.DATES: Aug 14 - August 24th, 2012 Workshop Leader: Megan LorenzFlight Destination:Nairobi - Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)Price: $8700 Deposit $2000 USDIncluded: All accommodation and meals, bottled water. Private transport in a luxury 4x4 safari vehicle (3 photographers per vehicle) Unlimited game drives. All national park, reserve, and conservation feesAll transportation including airport transfers.Complimentary enrolment in www.amref.org emergency air evacuation service. Services of an English speaking driver/guide, cook and porters. Beanbag Filler, Wifi internet.Not Included: International flights ,Visas,Driver/guide/cook/porter gratuities. Dinner on first and last night in Nairobi.Telephone bills, laundry, and any items of a personal nature.Travel insuranceWorkshop Overview ItineraryDay 1: Arrive in Nairobi and your driver/guide will be there to transfer you to the Fairview Hotel where you will spend your first night. This beautiful hotel sits on five acres of landscaped gardens unmatched by any other Nairobi city hotel and the comfortable rooms offer every modern facility, including high speed wi-fi. There are 5 restaurants on site, a huge garden with numerous natural rock waterfalls, a large pool and walkways. Spend your time photographing the birds and roaming the grounds before we meet for an informal orientation dinner as the light fades.Day 2: After an early breakfast, depart for a scenic drive down into the Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park, a bird and rhino sanctuary and also a World Heritage site. Stop enroute at the Great Rift Valley for the stunning views. After a game drive in the park we will arrive at our accommodations to check-in. This small and exclusive camp is nestled between the “honeymoon hills” and set in beautifully landscaped grounds with natural foliage. The tents are furnished with understated luxury and are decorated in calming safari tones, natural woods, wrought iron and crisp cottons. All tents have the following facilities: four poster beds & mosquito nets, en-suite with shower and flush toilets, hot and cold running water, writing desk, a private veranda overlooking the plains and voltage at 240 volts. Have lunch before heading out for an afternoon game drive to spot the unrivalled wildlife in the park. Dinner and overnight in our luxury tented camp and fall asleep to the haunting sounds of the night.Day 3: Full day to explore Lake Nakuru National Park photographing the wildlife, practising in-flight shooting of the various waterbirds and visiting Lion Hill, Baboon Cliff and Out of Africa lookouts for the spectacular scenery. Dinner and overnight in our luxury tented camp.Day 4: Early morning we leave Lake Nakuru and drive to the Maasai Mara stopping for any photo opportunities along the way and arriving for check-in and lunch at our new camp. This Camp is well positioned to enjoy the migration and the rolling plains around the camp are teeming with wildebeest, gazelles and zebras. We'll be situated right in the center of their migration path! The Camp is uniquely laid out over the sprawling grounds that include rolling manicured greens, a virtual mini forest of indigenous shrubs and exotic trees, a large pond stocked with fish, mini bird sanctuary, inviting pool area with bar and an authentic Maasai Village adjoining the camp. All tents are large and comfortable, tastefully furnished with double and twin beds, wardrobes, writing desk and safari chairs. They are also equipped with ensuite bathrooms with permanent showers and flush toilets, hot & cold water running water and 240W voltage. You may not want to leave - but right after lunch we will depart on our afternoon game drive returning to the camp at dusk for dinner and image review. Day 5 & 6: Full days focusing on predators and migration crossings. Since we don't change camps on these days, our schedule is completely flexible and we'll make the most of the sightings and light. Dinner and overnight at our luxury tented camp.Day 7: Check-out of our tented camp first thing in the morning and after a full morning’s game drive we reach our lodge in the Trans-Mara where you check in and have a couple of hours to enjoy lunch and relax during the hottest part of the day, when animals are generally less active and hiding from the midday sun. The lodge is located at the very centre of the famous ‘Mara Triangle' of the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve. Set high on a bush-cloaked hill with long views over the savannah and down to the winding coils of the hippo-filled Mara River. The lodge blends international sophistication with raw African beauty. The central bar and dining areas enjoy spectacular views, as does the rock-surround swimming pool. Each luxurious room has uninterrupted views, private balcony, full washrooms, wifi, 240 voltage and a spacious seating area. We will depart for next drive early in the afternoon and will return to camp once the light fades so you can have a well-deserved dinner, sit by the pool and explore the lodge grounds.Day 8,9,10: Full days in the Mara Triangle. Since we don't change camps on these days, our schedule is completely flexible and we'll make the most of the sightings and light. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.Day 11 After our last game drive we will depart the Maasai Mara early in the afternoon and return to the Fairview Hotel where you will want to relax, have a farewell dinner and pack for tomorrow's departure.Day 12: Breakfast, checkout of the Fairview Hotel and visit the Nairobi National Park and the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage for a unique experience after which you will be transferred to the airport to depart Kenya.After dinner each night if you still have any energy, join Megan to review your images from the day , go over Photoshop techniques, workflow or photography instruction.Key Learning Objectives:Light: Learn about the different types of light and the pros and cons of each. Proper exposure of your subject in diverse lighting conditions.Apertures & Shutter Speeds: Here you are taught about the different modes on your camera and the effect your aperture setting has on your images. Composition: Learn how to improve your photography by applying simple ‘rules’ of composition. Autofocus & Techniques: Here you learn how to keep the focus on your subject whether taking a portrait or photographing action!Additional Options:-sunrise balloon and champagne breakfast-night drives within the Maasai Mara-cultural visit to a Maasai Village-trip extensions to Samburu or AmboseliPlease read our refund policy. Deposits are non-refundable.

Just Launched!

View Photo Gallery Shiny JAPAN

JAPAN

JAPAN IS A WINTER SPECTACULARAn opportunity to photograph the world's largest owl, the Blakiston's Fish Owl. Incredible concentrations of White-naped and Hooded Cranes at Arasaki, some at almost touching distance! Lying at the opposite end of the vast continent of Eurasia from the British Isles is the archipelago of islands that forms Japan. Westernized and yet profoundly Oriental, Japan remains an enigmatic land to westerners, few of whom know much about it beyond its shiny consumer exports. Stretching from the sub-tropics in the Ryukyus to the cool temperate latitudes in Hokkaido, these beautiful islands with their jagged and broken coastlines possess some of the most attractive scenery in eastern Asia. During the winter months that Japan really comes into its own, for then it plays host to some of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth and this tour provides the opportunity to experience the best photographic opportunities that Japan has to offer. DATES: Jan.29th –-Feb.8 2013 (11 days) / Feb.8-12th 2013 Arasaki Cranes Extension (4 days) Group Size Limit: 10 Min. 4 Price: $6995 Arasaki Cranes Extension $2799 Deposit: $2000 USD. Includes: All transportation (including all flights during workshop), all accommodations, all meals, some drinks, all excursions, all entrance fees, leader services. Tipping is not customary in Japan. Does not include: Travel and flights to Tokyo, Japan or night prior to start of workshop startSingle Room Supplement: (provisional): Main Tour: US$305 (excluding 3 nights at Rausu). Arasaki Extension: US$75 (Tokyo only). Species: The incomparable Japanese Macaques (a.k.a. Snow Monkeys) of Nagano. Amazing dancing Red-crowned (or Japanese) Cranes on Hokkaido. Up close and personal experiences with incomparable Steller's Sea-Eagles (as well as their smaller relatives, the White-tailed Eagle!). A chance to photograph the world's largest owl, the Blakiston's Fish Owl. Incredible concentrations of White-naped and Hooded Cranes at Arasaki, some at almost touching distance! A visit to upcountry Japan (the ‘real’ Japan) is an experience in itself and one that requires of the traveller a spirit of adventure and a willingness to adapt to new ways of doing things. Simple things like eating Japanese food, sleeping on futons and bathing in an ‘ofuro’ are very different from back home, but will be great fun if you are tolerant of cultural differences. The difficulty of travelling around in a country where few people speak a foreign language of any kind are the main reasons why only a few non-Japanese birdwatchers have explored the islands. A superb travel infrastructure, mostly comfortable accommodations, interesting food and friendly, helpful people make travelling through Japan a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Workshop OverviewDay 1 The tour begins this morning at Narita Airport near Tokyo. We will then transfer to central Tokyo where we will board our train to Nagano, and then drive on to our accommodation for a three nights stay. Days 2-3 We will spend all of our time in and around the Jigokudani Yaen-Koen Wild Monkey Park. Although Jigokudani translates as Hell’s Valley, it is anything but. In this season the land is largely snow-covered, and against a dramatic back drop we will have great fun photographing the magical ‘snow monkeys’. Made famous by numerous television documentaries and magazine articles, the Japanese Macaques here are both bold and entertaining! With their thick coats covered in snow and ice, they squabble and chase each other over the rocky snow-covered hillsides, perhaps pausing to climb up and play on an unattended tripod before dipping into their natural, thermally-heated ‘hot tub’ for a steamy soak! Up to a hundred or more macaques visit this incredibly scenic site and the whole experience of being in amongst these charismatic primates is quite exhilarating! Day 4 After a last early morning with the ‘snow monkeys’ we’ll return to Tokyo and take a flight to Kushiro on the northern island of Hokkaido for a three nights stay. Days 5-6 Our main priority will be to photograph the magnificent Red-crowned (or Japanese) Cranes which in the winter months are concentrated in the complex of damp fields and marshlands to the north of Kushiro. We shall begin our day at a river where many of the cranes roost, hoping it is cold enough to create ideal photographic conditions. As steam rises from the river, the cranes slowly wake up and begin bugling, the thick hoar frost on the riverside trees adding to the romantic scene as steam comes from their bills. Once the temperature creeps up, the cranes leave their roost and move off to feed, allowing for some flight shots. In the morning a large flock, generally of over 100 birds, gathers at one of the places where they are regularly fed. At this season the Red-crowned Cranes are dancing frequently and as one pair begins its courtship dance the infection spreads through the flock like a wave until dozens of striking black and white birds are leaping into the air or throwing back their heads and bugling towards heaven. It is a thrilling spectacle, and as we photograph this wonder of nature we will truly appreciate why we have come all the way to this remote corner of Japan. During the afternoon we will visit another feeding area which offers further fantastic opportunities and we may even see cranes fighting with White-tailed Eagles which come down to snatch their prey! Day 7 After another morning with the Red-crowned Cranes, we will drive across eastern Hokkaido to Rausu, situated at the base of the Shiretoku peninsula on the east coast of Hokkaido, for a three nights stay. Days 8-9 During our time at Rausu we will have two main photographic objectives, namely the amazing sea-eagles and the awesome fish-owls! Although conditions vary from year to year (and indeed from week to week!), there is usually some pack-ice close to Rausu. Weather and ice conditions permitting, we will take a couple of trips out to the pack-ice for what has to be one of the most amazing adventures any photographer can go on! Setting off in the dark, we will soon be accompanied by hordes of gulls as we head over to the pack-ice on a boat laden with treats for our avian friends. Soon some bigger shapes appear, and as the sun rises we will be surrounded by incredible Steller’s and White-tailed Sea-Eagles! Over the next few ours we will be totally awestruck, watching dozens of these giants fighting over fish just a few metres away with towering snow-covered peaks as a backdrop. With luck, we’ll get sunrise shots, action shots, flight shots and extreme close-ups! It really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! With luck, we will also see some impressive Largha Seals hauled out on the ice and there will also be good chances to photograph Glaucous, Glaucous-winged and Slaty-backed Gulls at close quarters, and we may find some approachable ducks, including gorgeous Harlequin Ducks, in the harbour. During our stay we will also pay a visit to some Whooper Swans in their winter wonderland. Photographing these swans and some superb, tame, Northern Pintails, against snow, provides some great opportunities, especially if a blizzard sweeps across them! By night, we will set ourselves up adjacent to a small river where the incredible Blakiston’s Fish Owls come to fish and we should have opportunities to photograph this giant owl fishing at down to 12m range! The owners of our minshuku put out a few small fish for them at a floodlit pond and it usually does not take too long before this huge owl puts in an appearance, gliding down to the edge of the pond, hopping into the water and grabbing fish! A pair of Blakiston’s Fish Owls regularly comes to the pond, sometimes with their young, and the birds often make several visits during the course of the night making for some exhilarating photographic experiences. Day 10 After a final opportunity to admire and photograph the wonders of Hokkaido, we will return to Kushiro airport and catch an afternoon flight to Tokyo for an overnight stay at Narita Airport. Day 11 The tour ends this morning at Narita Airport, near Tokyo. Arasaki Cranes Extension Itinerary Day 11 This morning we'll take a flight to Kagoshima on the southern island of Kyushu. From here we’ll proceed to Arasaki for a three nights stay. Days 12-13 The fallow rice paddies around Arasaki are the site of one of the largest winter gatherings of cranes in all Asia. Depending on the winter, up to 10,000 Hooded Cranes are to be found in the area, in addition to up to 3500 superbly elegant White-naped Cranes, making for one of the world’s top birding spectacles. During our stay in and around the reserve we shall enjoy some wonderful close-up views of the cranes, especially when large numbers gather directly outside the guesthouse in which we will be staying in the very heart of the reserve. Here they come to feed on the maize and fish put out for them by the owner, who is also the reserve warden. At this season there is constant activity as small groups of cranes, often still in family groups, bugle energetically or dance into the air. Others form flocks and fly off, trumpeting loudly as they circle upwards before moving away to feed in the rice fields. There are great opportunities for flight shots, including at sunrise and sunset, as well as amazing close-up opportunities and flock shots. We will be on the lookout for the odd Sandhill, Common, Demoiselle or Siberian Crane, which may also be photographable, and there is also the opportunity to get great shots of Black-eared Kites and various wetland species. Day 14 After a final early morning photographing the cranes of Arasaki, we will return to Kagoshima airport and take an afternoon flight to Tokyo for an overnight stay at Narita Airport. Day 15 The extension ends this morning at Narita Airport, near Tokyo. Accommodation & Road Transport: The western-style or Japanese-style hotels are mostly of a good standard. At Arasaki (for three nights) and at Rausu (for three nights) we will be staying in Japanese-style guesthouses (minshuku) to enable us to be on the spot for the photography. These will be spotlessly clean and quite comfortable, but it should be appreciated minshuku are quite simple establishments with Japanese-style futons to sleep on rather than conventional beds. There may be two or more people per room and bathroom facilities are shared. Road transport is by minibus and roads are good. Climate: Rather variable. It will be quite mild (i.e. merely cool) in Kyushu, but it will be cold in Honshu and it will be cold or very cold in Hokkaido. It may rain at times in the south, or snow in the north (where snow will be lying on the ground), but the weather is predominantly dry and sunny at this season.
Snowy Monkey Japan.JPG

Shiny Shiny COSTA RICA SHORT

CENTRAL AMERICA

COSTA RICA SHORT TRIP

COSTA RICA SHORT TRIP

Costa Rica 7 Days / 7 Nights

Long trip 10 days in November >>>

HUMMINGBIRDS, TROPICAL BIRDS, JUNGLE, MOUNTAIN LANDSCAPES AND MORE Costa Rica is a country in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the east and south, the Pacific Ocean to the west and south and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Costa Rica, a name which means "Rich Coast" is full of life for all nature lovers and those looking for a central american adventure. Join our group as we take in the breath taking mountain views, absorbing the fresh air and enjoying the local coffee in a diverse country full of nature, wildlife ideal for birders, photographers and all those who would like to experience the south american culture. Costa Rica photo trip is an experience of a lifetime and Nature’s Photo Adventures will do everything to make sure you capture exceptional images and memories. Escape to Central America with tropical birds and multi-coloured hummingbirds flying around you. Take a journey on a nature trail and take colourful images of frogs and other macro images. Take in the mountainous views and diverse landscapes as we journey to one of the most bio diverse countries. On this adventure we will be providing all multi-flash set ups, all you require is your camera lens and gear. For birders and nature lovers this adventure is perfect for anyone to watch and hear beautiful interesting sounds and sights everywhere. COSTA RICA SHORT(7 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS) Workshop Leader: David Hemmings Price $2699Included: All accommodations, meals starting at the welcome dinner in San Jose. Travel to each workshop activity, park fees, etc. Not Included: Flight to San Jose, Costa Rica, gifts, personal items, alcoholic beverages. Travel insurance.Visa's etc. Airport Destination: Juan Santa Maria International Airport ( SJO ). You will be given a confirmation notification when to book your flight. Time Zone: CST Weather Conditions: Mid 20’s to mid 30’s in Celsius. Medical: No vaccinations are mandatory. You may want to check with your local medical travel clinic to ask about what, if any, vaccines you might want to consider. Clothing: Conservative, light weight safari clothing. Long pants, long sleeve shirts. Hat. Sunglasses. Be sure to cover all areas to avoid insect bites. Shorts and sandals are fine for the lodges in the evenings. Bug spray.Day 1 San Jos?/Hotel BougainvilleaArrival to Costa Rica. Meet our representative at the Juan Santamar?a International Airport and transfer to your hotel near the capital city of San Jos?, the Hotel Bougainvillea where NPA’s David Hemmings will be awaiting your arrival. Those who arrive early can take the afternoon to photograph the beautiful orchids and other tropical flowers in the hotel’s expansive tropical gardens. The Hotel Bougainvillea has wireless Internet throughout the grounds and in the rooms available for US $5 per day. Hotel Bougainvillea overnight, (D). Day 2 San Jose to Rancho NaturalistaAfter breakfast, we travel to the beautiful area of Cordillera Talamanca on the Caribbean slope where we will visit one of the premier bird photography locations in Costa Rica, Rancho Naturalista. This is a bird photography paradise with over 400 species being spotted at the lodge. Most rooms have a few of the spectacular the Volcan Turrialba. The lodge is situated in 50 hectares (125 acres) of protected primary pre-montane Caribbean slope rainforest. Other habitats within the grounds include semi-wooded pastures and seasonal mountain streams. The extensive network of good trails provides access to diverse sections of the forest, these trails range from easy to more strenuous although the birding rewards make the tougher hikes worthwhile. Two very popular areas within the forest are the Hummingbird Feeders and Hummingbird Pools which give people stunning close-up views of the signature bird of Rancho Naturalista, the Snowcap, and a plethora of other species. This variety of habitats at Rancho Naturalista is the key in attracting the huge numbers and range of birds present. Rancho Naturalista is located in Endemic Bird Area Number 19 and therefore is home to a number of highly sought specialty species. Hotel Bougainvillea (B), Rancho Naturalista Lodge overnight (L, D) Day 3 Rancho Naturalista LodgeThis morning we will be setting up our multi flash photography station for some amazing hummingbird images. We will also be set up with our cameras in different spots to photograph such species as the Collared Aracari, Blue-crowned Motmot, White-crowned Parrot, Keel-billed Toucan and the Tropical Parula. Hummingbird species should include White-necked Jacobins, Violet-crowned Woodnymph, Brown Violetear, Green Hermit, Green Thorntail, Violet Sabrewing and the Green-crowned Brilliant. After a delicious lunch, we will do more hummingbird photography and perhaps hit a trail or two in search of more exciting species to photograph.Rancho Naturalista (B,L,D) Day 4 Rancho Naturalista Lodge Today will be a repeat of day 3 with lots and lots of photography. We will focus this morning on trying to get images of the rare and wonderful Snow-capped Hummingbird. In the late afternoon and early evening we will be looking to photograph the beautiful Purple-crowned Fairy. Rancho Naturalista (B,L,D) Day 5 Rancho Naturalista / Savegre Mountain Lodge After breakfast, we will set out for our next destination, the Savegre Mountain Lodge. Located in San Gerardo de Dota, a small community in the Talamanca Mountains, Savegre is at an elevation of 2200 meters (7220 feet). The forest around the hotel is one of massive oaks, colorful plants, and an incredible variety of animal life. There are numerous insects, mammals, and amphibians dwell in the forest, and the pristine valley is a paradise for birds, over 170 species of birds can be seen in this cloud forest. This area is home to the magnificent Resplendent Quetzal. Other species we will look for to photograph include the emerald Toucanet, Flame-colored Tanager, Elegant Euphonia, Golden-olive Woodpecker and many more. Hummingbird species include Fiery-throated, Steely-vented, Scintillant, Volcano and many more.Ranch Naturalista (B) Saverge Mountain Lodge (L,D) Day 6 Saverge Mountain Lodge After breakfast today, we will spend our time between shooting hummingbirds with multi flash set ups and walking the grounds and trails for other exotic species. This will be a relaxed pace day with plenty of time for both shooting and relaxing with your favorite book.Bosque de Paz overnight (B, D), local restaurant (L)Day7 Saverge Mountain Lodge As Day 6 above.Savergre Mountain Lodge (B,L,D)Day 8 After breakfast at Savergre we will head back to our hotel in San Jose for a farewell dinner with the group.Overnight at Hotel Bouganvillea and fly out on Friday April 15th.Learning Objectives:Light: Learn about the different types of light and the pros and cons of each. Only once light is understood can a photographer begin their journey in earnest! Apertures & Shutter Speeds: Here you are taught about the different modes on your camera and the effect your aperture setting has on your images. Composition: Learn how to improve your photography by applying simple ‘rules’ of composition. Autofocus & Techniques: Here you learn how to keep the focus on your subject whether taking a portrait or photographing action! Histograms & Exposure Compensation: Learn to expose correctly using your histogram as a faithful guide. Photoshop Simplified: Watch as your workshop leader shows you a few simple techniques to enhance your images! Equipment: What equipment is essential for a wildlife photographer and what piece of equipment should you purchase next? The presentations are informal and questions can be asked both during and after! While this particular workshop is primarily aimed at photographers of all levels, non-photographing spouses and partners are encouraged to come along and enjoy a sublime wildlife experience. You are welcome to accompany the photographers to share in the wonder and the biodiversity .Once the feedback and presentation session has concluded, there is some downtime and a scrumptious lunch before the afternoon drive commences (with more wildlife viewing on offer and practical photographic tutoring). The evenings entail a splendid dinner and more informal opportunity, for those whose photographic appetites are not yet saturated, to discuss any photographic topic whether relating to the day’s experiences and lessons or whether completely unrelated. Recommended Equipment: SLR Digital Camera of any sort. Two camera bodies will avoid you having to change lenses and potentially missing out action. Preferably a minimum of 300mm lens with converters. A 500mm lens with a 1.4 tc. is perfect. For multi flash photography a 300mm/400mm or a 100-400 or 80-400 is perfect.For Nikon users, the 200-400 F4 VR lens is great for this trip. This lens is relatively light, pin sharp and combined with a 1.4 converter you will seldom need anything else. The zoom capability will also allow you to compose efficiently meaning that you will seldom miss an opportunity. For Canon users, we recommend a 70 -200mm F2.8 or F4, combined with a longer prime lens. The compact 400mm F5.6, which although lacks IS, is still sharp and incredibly light and manoeuvrable. Alternatively, the 500mm F4 with a 1.4 converter will be a fine prime of choice. A 600mm F4 is also a fine option but remember that manoeuvrability is essential in wildlife photography and this lens is big and heavy. Any other lenses that you might have (i.e. wide angle, portrait or macro) should be brought along. These are small and light so why not pack them? We recommend at least bringing a wide-angle lens for landscape shots. Your own camera support is a must. A heavy duty carbon fire tripod with a Gimbel head or ball head is best. Remember to use tripods and heads that are rated for more than your equipment actually weighs.A flash and an off-camera flash cord are very beneficial to bring as well. We will be using flash often in the shadowy area of the rainforest and jungle. A Wimberley off-camera flash bracket is highly recommended to set the flash away from the camera. This will prevent our subjects from acquiring the dreaded steel eye! Memory cards & card reader plus a storage device to download your images onto are also important. In this day and age memory cards are stable and we recommend a number of 8G–16G Sandisk cards. Please read our Refund Policy and complete the Liability Waiver. Do not book your flight until we confirm.

Shiny Shiny

Join Today! Select Payment Option:

BELIZE-ECUADOR

SOUTH AMERICA

Belize

Belize

Ecuador coming soon join the wish list See the photo gallery of 2011 photos

BELIZE

UNSPOILED BEAUTY Savanna's, Jungle & Pine ForestsBelize offers landscapes from savannas, jungle, tropical settings, mountain pine forests and stunning waterfalls. Due to the size of this country photography, birding and sightseeing opportunities are endless. Experience wide variety of habitats, fauna, wildlife and 587 bird species including tropical birds, hummingbirds, the largest flying bird in the Americas the Jabiru Stork. It holds a variety of raptors including the endemic Orange Breasted Falcon, Plumbeous Kite, Harpy Eagle, Ornate Hawk Eagle. Be sure to see over 100 different birds on this adventure. Species Include: Black Headed Trogon, Violaceous Trogon, Collared Aracari, Keel Billed Toucan, Slaty Tailed Trogon, Tody Motmot, White Whiskered Puffbird, Red Legged Honeycreeper, Olive-Backed and Scrub Euphonias, Golden Fronted Woodpecker, Orange Breasted Falcon, Green Jay, Acorn WoodpeckerDates: March 23rd - April 1st 2012 - 10 Days / 10 Nights Price: $4199 Deposit $1500 Single Supplement $500Optional Trip Extension: Mountain Pine Ridge: 3 extra days added to the above dates in Mountain Ridge Pine Forest to photograph the endangered and beautiful Orange Breasted Falcon! Price for Extension: $1,795.00 USD Duration: Extension: (2 Nights/3 Days)Maximum Group Size: 6 Participants Flight Destination: Belize City, Belize Workshop Leader: David Hemmings Physical Activity Level: BasicIncluded: All expert photo instruction, guides, drivers, land transportation. Airport pick up and drop off. All accommodations (including first night), based on double occupancy Not included: International airfare to place of tour origin. Any additional nights accommodation outside of the tour dates. Additional tips for staff such as guides and camp staff. Fees for passport, visas, immunizations and insurance. Meals, beverages, alcoholic beverages. Laundry, phone and other items of a personal nature. Accommodations include jungle lodges, cabanas and a pine lodge in a region with one of the highest concentration of wildcats in Belize. While we drive through the outback, countryside and conservation areas watch for Road Side Hawks, Toucans, Parakeets and other wildlife including Howler Monkeys, Spider Monkeys, Jaguars, Ocelots, Pumas, Kinkajou, Deer, and Grey Fox. Tropical birds include several species of the Mot Mot, Toucan, Flycatcher, Hummingbird, Woodpecker, Tanagers, Parrot, Honeycreeper, Euphonias, Grosbeak, Oriole, Manakin, Cuckoos, Trogon, Jacamar, Puffbird, Warbler and more. You adventure starts in Belize City travelling North-West to Orange Walk and then south through remote areas ending in the Belmopan area. Visit Mayan Ruins including a King’s Tomb at Chan Chich or explore on your own with the many birding trails at Pook’s Hill. Watch Montesuma Orependelas building their nest and performing their nesting rituals (March). This photo adventure is ideal for photographers, birders and those looking to experience a range of landscapes, tropical birds and northwest and south western parts of Belize. Photographers will learn basics or improve current skills of bird photography to birds, multi-flash Hummingbirds and in flight photography. Mountain Pine Ridge Extension to search for the Orange Breasted Falcon, visit Butterfly Falls, an 80 foot waterfall and take a dip in the fresh water pool with butterflies fluttering and swifts flying above you. Watch the landscapes change from jungle hills and mountainous pine forests. WORKSHOP OVERVIEW:This photo adventure begins in Belize City, Belize. Belize City is bustling center yet has a warm and laid back atmosphere. We will be stationed here for one night at a lovely old mansion turned into a hotel. We will meet in the morning for breakfast and head out to our first destination which is the Crooked Tree Bird Sanctuary. Staying at Birds Eye ViewLodge, learn still and flight photography and proper lighting for white birds against a lagoon setting. Have the opportunity to photograph the Jaribru Stork, Northern Jacana, Black–necked Stilt, White Ibis, Black Bellied Whistling Duck, Limpkin, Great Egret, Ringed Kingfisher, Osprey, Snail Kite, Great Blue Heron, American White Pelican, Roseate Spoonbill, Black Crowned Night Heron, Green Heron, Black Collared Hawk, Little Blue Heron, Tricolored Heron, Vermillion Flycatcher, Swallows, Banaquits, Kiskadees and the Laughing Gull. We will use both a canoe and our legs as modes of transportation in and around the sanctuary. We will enjoy some really good home cooked meals Belizian style while here.After spending 2 days at Crooked Tree we will depart and head south to our second destination. We travel to Gallon Jug region staying at a luxury resort Chan Chich Lodge. Along our travels photo opportunities might include White Tailed Deer, Grey Fox, Ocellated Turkeys, Toucans, Road Side Hawks and Scissor Tailed Flycatcher. Olive-throated Parkeets have been photographed eating pink flowers from trees along the way with a variety of hummingbirds drinking nectar. We will spend our next two days of the workshop at Chan Chich. At Chan Chich Lodge you will have the opportunity to photograph Red Capped Mannakins, White Collared Mannakins, Scrub Euphonias, Black Cheeked Woodpecker, Pale-Billed Woodpeckers and many other species. Visit a lagoon to hunt for the Agami Heron, Purple Gallinule and Bare Throated Tiger Heron. White-Vented Euphonias, Olive-Backed Euphonias and Toady Motmots are also around the lodge. Photograph (nesting in March) the Montezuma Oropendola building their nest. Ocellated Turkeys are in abundance around the jungle lodge. After a long day of photography this resort offers a hot tub and swimming pool to cool off and spa services. Go on a hike photographing the Howler Monkey and Spider Monkeys. While capturing incredible photographs in the jungle setting, visit a King`s Tomb and Mayan Ruins located on the resort. You will be led on a jungle trail to photograph Slaty Tailed Trogans, Keel Billed Toucans and Black Headed Trogans. Visit an Ornate Hawk Eagle Nest on the March Workshop. From Chan Chich we move on to our next, and likely best destination, Pook's Hill Lodge.We will spend a full 4 days here to fully take advantage of the numerous species that frequent the area. The drive to Pook's Hill from Chan Chich is through some remote and beautiful areas of Belize. We will pass abandoned sawmills and passover many small rivers.Our destination, Belmopan. This is where our lodge, Pook's Hill is located. Our accomodations at Pook's Hill are nestled deep in the jungle with birds surrounding us from all directions! There are trails, open meadows and roads that all harbour numerous exotic species waiting to be photographed. Species we will be shooting include the Red Legged Honeycreeper, Violacious Trogon, Black Headed Trogan, Keel Billed Toucans, White Whiskered Puffbird, Barred Antshrikes,Crimson Collared Tanagers, Yellow Winged Tanagers, Collared Aracaris, Black Cheeked and Pale Billed Woodpeckers and more. Amazon and Ringed Kingfishers are seen regularly along the river trails. Pook's Hill is truly an exotic bird paradise. 3 Day Extension to Mountain Pine Ridge:Photograph Right: Orange Breasted FalconTravel from Belmopan to Mountain Pine Ridge where we will search for and hopefully photograph the elusive and endangered Orange Breasted Falcon! Traveling northeast from Belmopan we will arrive at the top of the mountain range where Hidden Valley Inn is nestled amongst the forest. Your journey will include a search for the Orange Breasted Falcon, Stygian Owl and Ferruginous Pygmy Owl. View King Vultures situated on King Vulture Falls. At the resort photograph Plumbeous Kite, Green Jay, Brown Jay, Melodious Black Bird, Black Hooded Oriole, Plain Chacalacca, Acorn Woodpeckers both perched and in flight. Hummingbird multi-flash photography lessons Violet Sabrewing Hummingbird, Azure Crowned Hummingbird, Ruby-throated Hummingbird. End your adventure in Belize with a hike through the pine trails to a mountain spring feed waterfalls and pool; Butterfly Waterfalls. The stunning Butterfly Waterfalls. These 100 foot waterfalls are ideal for landscape shots and a refreshing swim amongst butterflies above. Hidden Valley Inn also offers a pool and hot tub to relax after a successful day of photography. Key Learning Objectives: § Photograph birds in flight (e.g. Acorn Woodpeckers, Green Jay, Brown Jay) § Learn to capture stunning portraits of perched birds. § Proper exposure settings for challenging tropical lighting conditions. § Proper use of flash as fill or ambient lighting § How to position yourself for the best photos. § Learn basic Photoshop skills or improve those that you already posses. Recommended Equipment: § A digital SLR and a lens of 300mm or greater. § A tripod is recommended § A wide angle lens § A flash

Join Today! Select Payment Option:

Shiny Shiny

PHOTO GALLERY-CONTACT

View our Photo Gallery

Insert text here

Gallery of Client Photographs

Coming Soon

View Video Galleries

Twitterwww.naturesphotoadventures.com t 1 905 721-8726 info_naturesphotoadventures.com follow us FacebookNatures Photo Adventures