Newfoundland Photography Workshops for Puffins, Gannets, Migratory Whales and Other Wildlife
Are you an amateur photographer with a passion for wildlife? Do you dream of capturing awe-inspiring images of seabird colonies, majestic whales, and other incredible wildlife? Look no further! Akari Photo Tours invites you to join our unforgettable six-day photography workshop in Newfoundland, a hidden gem for nature photographers.
Why Choose Newfoundland for a photography workshop?
Newfoundland, Canada, is a photographer’s paradise. It offers a unique blend of rugged landscapes, abundant and accessible wildlife, and breathtaking coastal scenery. This destination promises endless opportunities to capture the essence of nature in its most untamed form.
Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve, located on the southwestern tip of the Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland, is a premier destination for wildlife photographers, especially those seeking to capture the majesty of northern gannets. Here's why Cape St. Mary's is considered one of the best locations in North America to photograph these magnificent seabirds:
Northern Gannet Colony in Cape St. Marys
Cape St. Mary's is home to one of the most accessible and significant northern gannet colonies in North America. Thousands of gannets nest on the towering sea stacks and cliffs known as Bird Rock, providing photographers with incredible opportunities to capture their striking plumage, impressive wingspans, and dramatic aerial displays. The sheer number of gannets and their close proximity make this location unparalleled for photographing these dynamic birds.
Dramatic Coastal Scenery
The cliffs and sea stacks at Cape St. Mary's create a dramatic and visually stunning backdrop for wildlife photography. The rugged terrain, combined with the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, enhances the visual impact of your photographs. The contrast between the bright white gannets and the dark, rugged cliffs provides striking compositions that highlight the natural beauty of this location.
Accessible Viewing Areas
One of the key advantages of Cape St. Mary's is the ease of access to prime viewing and photography spots. A short, well-maintained trail leads visitors to within meters of Bird Rock, allowing for close-up and unobstructed views of the gannet colony. This accessibility means photographers can capture detailed and intimate images of the birds without disturbing their natural behaviors.
Ideal Lighting Conditions
The geographic location of Cape St. Mary's offers excellent lighting conditions for photography, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon. The soft, golden light during these times enhances the colors and textures of the gannets' plumage and the surrounding landscape. The long daylight hours during the summer months also provide ample time for photographers to explore and capture the perfect shot.
Other Seabird Species
In addition to northern gannets, Cape St. Mary's is a haven for a variety of other seabird species, making it a rich and diverse location for bird photography. Some of the other notable seabirds that can be found here include:
Common Murres: These sleek, black-and-white birds nest in large numbers on the cliffs, providing opportunities to capture their dynamic behavior and interactions.
Black-legged Kittiwakes: With their distinctive black wingtips and graceful flight patterns, kittiwakes add to the diversity of photographic subjects at Cape St. Mary's.
Razorbills: These striking seabirds, with their thick, black bills and contrasting plumage, are often seen nesting alongside the gannets and murres.
Great Cormorants: These large, dark seabirds can be spotted drying their wings on the rocks or diving for fish in the ocean below.
Unique Behavioral Displays
Cape St. Mary's offers photographers the chance to capture unique and dramatic behavioral displays of northern gannets. During the breeding season, gannets engage in elaborate courtship rituals, including bill fencing and synchronized flying. The sight of gannets diving into the ocean from great heights to catch fish is both thrilling and challenging to photograph, providing an excellent opportunity to hone your skills and capture dynamic action shots.
Atlantic Puffins in Elliston
Nestled on the rugged coast of Newfoundland, Elliston is a hidden gem for wildlife photographers, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture the enchanting Atlantic puffins. Here's why Elliston stands out as one of the best locations to photograph these charming seabirds:
Accessibility and Proximity
Unlike many other puffin colonies that require boat trips or challenging hikes, Elliston offers remarkably easy access to its puffin nesting sites. A short, scenic walk from the town brings you to prime puffin viewing areas, allowing photographers of all levels to get up close and personal with these captivating birds.
Vibrant Puffin Population
Elliston is home to one of the largest and most accessible puffin colonies in North America. During the breeding season, thousands of puffins congregate on the coastal cliffs, creating a bustling and dynamic environment. This abundance of puffins ensures that photographers have ample opportunities to capture a variety of behaviors and interactions, from flight and feeding to socializing and nesting.
Stunning Coastal Scenery
The dramatic coastal cliffs of Elliston provide a breathtaking backdrop for puffin photography. The rugged landscape, with its jagged rocks and sweeping ocean views, enhances the visual appeal of your images. The contrast between the vibrant puffins and the stark beauty of the cliffs makes for striking compositions that truly capture the essence of Newfoundland's wild beauty.
Ideal Lighting Conditions
Elliston's geographical location offers photographers the advantage of optimal lighting conditions, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The soft, warm light during these times enhances the colors of the puffins' distinctive beaks and feathers, adding depth and richness to your photographs. The long daylight hours in the summer also give you ample time to explore and capture the perfect shot.
Close Encounters
The puffins in Elliston are relatively accustomed to human presence, allowing photographers to get closer than in many other locations. This proximity enables you to capture detailed, intimate portraits of the birds without disturbing their natural behavior. Whether you're using a telephoto lens to zoom in on individual puffins or a wide-angle lens to capture the entire colony, the opportunities for stunning close-up shots are endless.
Whale Watching Extravaganza
Newfoundland’s coastal waters are a playground for migratory whales, and our workshop includes an exhilarating whale-watching expedition. Picture this: you’re on a boat, camera in hand, as a humpback whale breaches the surface, creating a spectacular splash. The sheer size and grace of these marine giants will leave you in awe. Our guides will help you master the art of whale photography, from selecting the right settings to timing your shots perfectly.
Diverse Wildlife Encounters
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Newfoundland is teeming with diverse wildlife, from playful seals to elusive foxes. We’ll explore locations where you’ll have the chance to photograph Moose, Caribou, Beavers, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitats. Whether you’re capturing the serene beauty of an Eider duck on a quiet lake or the dynamic energy of a fox on the hunt, our workshop will hopefully provide you with countless opportunities to hone your skills and expand your wildlife portfolio.
Expert Guidance and Personalized Attention
At Akari Photo Tours, we believe in providing a personalized and enriching experience for all our participants. Our workshops are led by experienced photographers who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping you achieve your photography goals. With small group sizes, you’ll receive individual attention and guidance tailored to your skill level, ensuring that you get the most out of your time with us.
Connect with Fellow Enthusiasts
One of the greatest joys of our photography workshops is the sense of community and camaraderie that develops among participants. You’ll connect with fellow photography enthusiasts who share your passion for wildlife and adventure. Together, you’ll embark on daily excursions, share tips and techniques, and celebrate each other’s successes. By the end of the workshop, you’ll not only leave with stunning photographs but also with lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.
Exceptional Hospitality and Accommodations
Newfoundland is renowned for its incredibly welcoming and warm-hearted people, often referred to as some of the friendliest in Canada. Visitors are often struck by the genuine hospitality and kindness extended by the locals, who are always eager to share their rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes with newcomers. Whether you're chatting with a shopkeeper in St. John’s, enjoying a home-cooked meal at a local B&B, or seeking directions on a winding coastal road, Newfoundlanders are quick to offer a smile, a story, and a helping hand. Their welcoming nature not only makes you feel at home but also enhances the overall experience of exploring this beautiful province, ensuring that your visit to Newfoundland with us is memorable and filled with heartwarming encounters.
Our accommodations are meticulously selected to offer you the utmost comfort and convenience, ensuring an unforgettable photography experience. At Cape St. Mary’s, we stay at a delightful hotel just 20 minutes from the bustling seabird colony, allowing us to maximize our time capturing the stunning gannets and other seabirds. Nestled in a serene setting, this charming retreat provides the perfect balance of rustic charm and modern comfort.
Our boutique hotel near the Puffin colony is a true gem, located just a 30-minute scenic drive away. This cozy haven is also perfectly situated in one of the best areas to photograph majestic migratory whales, giving you unparalleled opportunities to capture the beauty of these incredible creatures.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Photo Workshop
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore Newfoundland’s wild wonders with Akari Photo Tours. Whether you’re looking to enhance your photography skills, build your portfolio, or simply experience the thrill of photographing some of nature’s most captivating creatures, our workshop is designed for you. Pack your camera and your sense of adventure, and get ready to capture the magic of Newfoundland.
Ready to Embark on Your Next Photography Journey?
Spaces for our Newfoundland photography workshop are limited, so don’t wait! Sign up today and secure your spot on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Let Akari Photo Tours take you on a journey that will inspire your creativity, ignite your passion for wildlife photography, and leave you with memories to treasure forever.
Join us and discover the wild beauty of Newfoundland through your lens. We can’t wait to see the incredible images you’ll create!
For more information and to book your spot, visit our website at Akari Photo Tours and follow us on social media for updates and stunning wildlife photography tips.