Chasing Salmon in Katmai: Up Close with Coastal Brown Bears

One of the most unforgettable moments from my recently concluded Ultimate Brown Bears of Katmai workshop came when a massive Coastal Brown Bear charged through the water in hot pursuit of a salmon. The power, speed, and sheer determination on display were nothing short of awe-inspiring.

We were treated to countless close encounters like this throughout our time in Katmai National Park — and honestly, we couldn’t have asked for better weather. Overcast skies, soft light, and active bears made for a photographer’s dream.

This image was captured using the Sony A1 II paired with the Sony 300mm f/2.8 lens. The settings were: ISO 4000, f/2.8, 1/5000s. Shooting wide open with a fast shutter speed was key to freezing the action and creating a sense of intensity and motion — while still isolating the bear beautifully from the background.

Getting low, staying patient, and being ready made all the difference. It’s these split-second movements — the spray of water, the focus in the bear’s eyes — that turn a photo into a story with high visual impact.

Huge thanks to everyone who joined me on this wild adventure. Can’t wait to share more images and memories from the trip soon!

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Bear Charging Salmon (Ursus arctos, ours brun) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mark II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens. ISO 4,000, f/2.8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Off the Trail: Meet William from Kodiak

Sometimes, the most memorable parts of a trip have nothing to do with itineraries or camera gear — they’re the people you meet along the way.

While wandering the harbour in Kodiak, Alaska (something I love to do whenever I visit a new place), I met William — a seasoned fisherman and the personality behind Happy Hookers Fishing Charters (or, perhaps, William was a deckhand for the season after a few similar gigs in Florida). With decades of stories etched into his expression, he welcomed me into a conversation like we’d known each other for years.

William has been running charters out of Kodiak for some time, taking folks out on the water to experience the incredible fishing this part of Alaska has to offer. But now, he’s gearing up for a new kind of journey — setting his sights on Central America for his next chapter.

We talked about travel, life on the ocean, and the kind of freedom that comes with following your own tide. It was one of those unexpected encounters that stays with you.

Thanks for the conversation and the friendship, William. Wishing you smooth sailing and great stories ahead — wherever the next harbour may be.

Back from Alaska: Brown Bears, Big Moments, and One Adorable Little Rock Star

After 24 hours of travel, I’m finally home—shaking off the jet lag, but still completely immersed in the wild, breathtaking beauty of Alaska. I’ve just returned from leading my Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop, and all I can say is… wow. What an experience.

We were incredibly lucky with the weather on the Katmai Coast. While it rained during our travel days in and out, we had just a couple of brief sprinkles during our eight full days in the field. For coastal Alaska, that’s nothing short of miraculous!

The group this year was absolutely wonderful—curious, adventurous, supportive of one another, and full of great energy. And my crew? Truly exceptional. Captain Angus kept us safe and steady at sea. Ruben expertly handled the skiff—getting us out to the bears and back to the ship safely—while keeping everyone entertained throughout. Joan worked culinary magic from dawn to dusk, and James was a tremendous help assisting our legendary bear guide and long-time friend, Brad Josephs. As always, Brad’s deep knowledge of both the bears and the landscape kept us safe and made every encounter more meaningful.

And the bears? They exceeded every expectation. Bigger, bolder, and more photogenic than ever. I came home with memory cards absolutely overflowing—intimate moments, golden light, misty mornings, and scenes that looked like they were highlights from a wildlife documentary.

But among all those moments, there was one tiny rock star who stole the show—and our hearts.

Meet this little “COY” (Cub of the Year)—a playful, curious, and slightly clumsy bundle of energy. Watching this cub explore the world was pure joy. Every tumble, head tilt, and wide-eyed stare reminded us of just how magical and fragile these early moments of life in the wild can be. It’s encounters like this that keep me coming back to Alaska year after year.

I captured this image with the Sony a1 II mirrorless body paired with the phenomenal Sony 300mm f/2.8 lens. The combination delivered stunning clarity and detail, allowing me to freeze a perfect moment that still makes me smile.

There are so many more stories and images to share—from quiet bear interactions to epic landscapes and the beautiful chaos of life on the Katmai Coast—but for now, I’ll leave you with this first favourite.

Stay tuned—more bears (and bear stories!) coming soon.

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Bear Cub of the Year Shaking (Ursus arctos, ours brun) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mark II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens. ISO 1,600, f/2.8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure.

Louise, Chris Dodds, Jos, Kristy, Sarah, Mike, Janice, David and James. Image courtesy of Brad Josephs (Thanks, Brad).

How I Captured a White-winged Crossbill Portrait: Eye-Level Bird Photography with a High-Key Background

Before photographing the White-winged Crossbill framed by soft yellow buttercups during my Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshops (featured in an earlier blog post), I had an unexpected and fleeting opportunity to create something even more intimate—a clean headshot of the bird perched quietly on a signpost.

White-winged Crossbills are usually restless, so when this one sat still—relaxed, elevated, and unbothered—I knew I had a rare chance. Rather than go wide, I went close, focusing on the fine feather detail, the distinctive crossed bill, and that soft, alert eye. I also made a point to get slightly below eye level—a minor adjustment that goes a long way toward creating a more intimate and engaging portrait.

The signpost itself wasn't ideal visually (dark green, with a "Do Not Disturb the Nesting Birds" message), but the overcast sky above provided the perfect high-key background. I used the soft, even overcast light to isolate the subject, allowing its subtle tones and textures to stand out without distraction.

Sometimes the best portraits don't come from hours of waiting—they appear in a blink, if you're ready and paying attention to the details.

👉 See how the rest of the encounter unfolded:

A Rare Treat: White-winged Crossbill on L’île aux Perroquets

White-winged Crossbill (Loxia leucoptera, Bec-croisé bifascié, Piquituerto aliblanco, WWCR) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @500mm ISO 40,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Capturing the Majesty: Photographing a Bald Eagle Portrait

Photographing a bald eagle—especially a close-up portrait—is one of the most rewarding and humbling experiences in wildlife photography. These birds command respect not just for their beauty, but for the power, intelligence, and intensity they project with a single glance. But getting that glance—a direct stare into the lens—is easier said than done.

This image shows the eagle's eye razor-sharp, the curve of the beak crisp, and—most importantly—a look straight into the camera. That kind of eye contact is rare; eagles don't often engage the lens like that. So, how did it come together?

Patience: The First Essential Ingredient

The first—and often most challenging—part of photographing wildlife, especially something as alert and aware as a bald eagle, is waiting. You need to have patience to let the bird get accustomed to your presence and become comfortable enough to act naturally. In this case, I spent a significant amount of time simply observing from a distance, making sure the eagle didn't feel threatened or pressured.

The key is to blend into the environment and avoid sudden movements. Let the bird dictate the pace.

Field Craft Matters

If there's one thing I've learned over the years, it's that swinging around a big white telephoto lens is the fastest way to end an encounter; you might as well wave a flag and shoo them away.

Field craft—moving slowly, using natural cover, and, where possible, setting up in advance—is essential. The goal is to make yourself part of the landscape, not a disruption to it. Using a lens with enough reach to fill the frame without stressing the subject is another key to success.

Keeping the bird at ease meant I could wait for the exact moment I was hoping for: that rare, intense, and powerful stare directly into the camera.

Technical Note: Why f/20?

In portraiture—whether of people or wildlife—the eyes must be sharp. It's where we connect, where emotion lives. For this shot, I stopped down to f/22. That might sound extreme to some, especially in low-light situations, but it was a deliberate choice.

At super-telephoto focal lengths, depth of field is razor-thin. The closer you focus, the narrower the depth of field becomes. I didn't want the beak to be sharp but the eye soft—or vice versa. Stopping down to f/20 ensured that both the eye and bill were tack sharp, creating a sense of presence and clarity that wider apertures wouldn't deliver.

Final Thoughts

I created this image through a combination of patience, thoughtful field craft, and technical discipline. But more than anything, it came from respect—for the subject, the environment, and the process.

Photographing a bald eagle isn't just about taking a picture. It's about telling a story without words, capturing a moment that reminds us why these birds inspire so deeply.

If you're lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time, do everything you can to be ready—but also remember to observe. Study their behaviour, be alert to their signals, and freeze the moment they show any sign of stress. Sometimes the best part of wildlife photography isn't the shutter click. It's the moment before, when a wild creature meets your gaze and offers you a glimpse into its world.

American Bald Eagle Portrait (Hailiaeetus leucocephalus, Pygarge a tete blanche, Pigargo americano BAEA) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @800mm ISO 6,400, f/22 @ 1/640s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

The Art of Waiting: A Lesson from Photographing Atlantic Puffins with pleasing backgrounds

One of the ongoing challenges I face while leading my Deluxe Atlantic Puffin photography workshops is helping participants understand a simple but powerful concept: waiting for the right moment often beats settling for a bad shot.

When puffins finally appear and perch out in the open, it's incredibly tempting to start clicking away. After all, we've come a long way to see them, and there they are—right in front of us. The instinct is to fill memory cards with images of these charismatic birds, even if the lighting is poor or the background is cluttered with dirt, rocks, and vegetation.

But here's the thing: just because a shot is available doesn't mean it's worth taking.

Personally, I'd rather take far fewer photos if it means waiting for the right opportunity—the one where the composition, lighting, and background all come together. Instead of shooting puffins in deep shadow against a distracting near background, I look for a different angle. I position myself along the cliff, where I can shoot with a more distant background. Often, this means a dreamy wash of out-of-focus buttercups and soft greens—something that adds beauty and atmosphere to the image rather than pulling focus away from the subject.

This approach requires patience and restraint—two traits not always easy to practice in the excitement of seeing puffins up close. But when that magical moment happens and everything aligns, the results speak for themselves.

Great wildlife photography isn't just about the subject—it's about telling a story through light, background, and timing. And sometimes, the best story is the one you wait for.

Atlantic Puffin Foggy Buttercups (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds.. Sony a1 Mark II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 10,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Savannah Sparrows in Flight – A Bonus from the Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop

While the main attraction of my Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore Workshops on Île aux Perroquets in Quebec earlier this month was, of course, the puffins, there's always something more to enjoy—and this year, the Savannah Sparrows delivered again.

These small, energetic songbirds are always present in the grassy areas of the island, but this time their numbers were spectacularly high, making them hard to ignore. That abundance gave us a fantastic opportunity to try photographing them in flight—their erratic, fast-moving behaviour making it a real test of patience and timing.

I created this image with my Sony 600mm lens and a 2× teleconverter on the Sony a9 Mark III. We had positioned ourselves with the light behind us, but what made the shot truly shine was a dash of serendipity—this sparrow just happened to fly in precisely the right direction. Sometimes everything aligns—smile!

Fun, little-known highlight: Savannah Sparrows in this area may even have their own distinctive regional song dialects, with subtle variations in trills and call patterns that differ between populations—even those as close as Île aux Perroquets.

The 2026 Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore (and So Much More!) Workshops are already filling quickly. Don't miss your chance to live the dream adventure on a tiny lighthouse island, surrounded by puffins, razorbills, murres—and so many more birds, including our ever-charming Savannah Sparrows

Yet another testimonial:

"Christopher Dodds’ Atlantic Puffin photography workshop is a truly exceptional experience for any wildlife or nature photographer. The setting is amazing, providing endless opportunities to capture Puffins both in flight and up close in varying scenery and lighting, resulting in an incredible portfolio of images. Chris’s deep knowledge of Puffin behavior and photography, combined with his patient, individualized instruction, helps photographers of all skill levels achieve their best work. The workshop is thoughtfully organized, and Chris always ensures participants are in the perfect spot at the right time for optimal lighting and action. Accommodations are very comfortable, the meals are amazing, and the venue lends itself to fun camaraderie among participants. I left the workshop with not only a drive full of images that exceeded my expectations, but also new skills and unforgettable memories. Highly recommended to anyone looking to improve their wildlife photography and experience these wonderful birds up close." - Joe Pizzuto New York| NY Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Aug. 2025

Savannah Sparrow in flight (Passerculus sandwichensis, Bruant des prés, Chingolo sabanero, SASP)  from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 Mark III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 4,000, f/8 @ 1/6,400s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Razorbills, Puffins, and the Magic of L’Île aux Perroquets — 2025 Workshop Wrap-Up

Razorbills, Puffins, and the Magic of L’Île aux Perroquets — 2025 Workshop Wrap-Up

There's a special kind of magic that happens on L’Île aux Perroquets — a tiny, windswept island off the coast of Quebec, where seabirds soar above the Gulf of St. Lawrence and every corner hums with wild beauty.

As we wrapped up our 2025 Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshops, one moment stood out in particular: a Razorbill slicing through the air, a glimmering fish clamped tightly in its beak. With powerful, purposeful wingbeats, it returned to its burrow hidden among the rocks — where a hungry chick waited for dinner. It's these small, fleeting encounters that stay with us long after we've left the island.

Razorbills, though often overshadowed by their more famous cousins, the Atlantic Puffins, are just as captivating. They're expert divers, capable of reaching depths of over 100 meters in search of prey. Monogamous and fiercely devoted, these birds return each year to the same breeding grounds — and often the same mate — to raise their single chick.

L’Île aux Perroquets is one of the rare places in Quebec where you can witness this intimate part of their life cycle up close. Alongside the Razorbills, we shared the island with thousands of Puffins, Common Murres, and the occasional curious Gray Seal or passing Minke Whale (We saw 25 different individuals — including a couple of calves — in a single afternoon). The biodiversity here is astounding, and every day offered new sights, sounds, and stories.

Our home for the workshops — the beautifully restored lighthouse keeper's house — offered cozy accommodations, warm meals, and a front-row seat to one of North America's most unique seabird colonies. As always, it was a dream setting for photography, learning, and meaningful connection with nature.

Looking back at the smiling faces in our final group photo, it's clear: this place leaves a mark. Whether it was the thrill of capturing the perfect in-flight shot, watching Puffins clumsily land in the grass, or soaking in the island's serenity under the midnight sun, everyone left with full memory cards and fuller hearts.

Until next time, L’Île aux Perroquets — merci for another unforgettable experience. Adieu!

Learn more and sign-up here

Razorbill Flying with fish (Alca torda, Petit Pingouin, Alca común, RAZO) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a1 Mark II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 1,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Group 1: Bob, Susan, John, Monica, Cindy, Gail and Joe. Missing is Dr. Vic, who had to leave early to make his clinic.

Group 2: Lisa, Denise, Don, Susan, Ellen, Jack, Bill, Hugh and Denise

Group 3: Alan, Anne, Kathy, Scott, Tim, Kathy, Dick and Mark.

Group 4: Paula, Fran, Todd, Michele, Pat & Anita

Group 5: Randi, France, Maya, and that is Captain Arnold getting us safely back to shore.

The Shot I Didn’t Plan For: A Black-bellied Plover on L’Île aux Perroquets

While we were working on photographing the fast and unpredictable Bank and Tree Swallows during one of my Atlantic Puffins Deluxe Workshops, I was hoping to finally get that elusive shot I've had in my head for years—an image of a Bank Swallow suspended in flight against a backdrop of vivid yellow wildflowers. As anyone who's tried will tell you, these swallows are small, fast, and downright frustrating to photograph in flight. I came close (again), but it wasn't quite the shot.

Then, in a welcome twist, a Black-bellied Plover came gliding across the island in a low, direct flight. Its steady, purposeful path made it a much more cooperative subject. I quickly swung my setup around—shooting with the Sony a9 Mark III and Sony 600mm f/4, paired with the 2x teleconverter to give me 1,200mm of reach—and managed to grab a clean sequence of frames as it crossed in front of me. Everything aligned just right, and I came away with an image I'm genuinely proud of.

I've only seen a handful of Black-bellied Plovers over the decades while hosting these workshops on L’Île aux Perroquets, which makes this encounter even more special. These plovers breed in the Arctic tundra and migrate thousands of kilometres to spend the winter along coastlines throughout the Americas and beyond. L’Île aux Perroquets isn't part of their breeding range, but it sits right along a migratory corridor—so now and then, one stops in to rest or refuel. It's a rare treat.

This moment was a great reminder that in wildlife photography, you don't always get the image you came for—but if you stay patient, observant, and ready, you might get something even better.

Black-bellied Plover over sea of yellow wildflowers (Pluvialis squatarola, Pluvier argenté, Chorlito gris, BBPL)  from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 Mark III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 2,000, f/8 @ 1/6,400s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

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“I have never participated in a photography workshop before, and this turned out to be truly awesome! I am still digesting the experience and processing images....I want to thank you for a wonderful experience, all around on Ile Aux Perroquetes. It was so nice to meet you and hear your stories of how you came to be the experienced photographer you are and be privy to your experience of how to better photograph the Puffins + on the island. Thank you for the camera setting recommendations and pointers throughout our stay. I am still practicing tracking the swallows! I came home with some wonderful images and memories of the tranquility of the island while photographing. Being amidst the Puffins for three days was icing on the cake.  I am enamored with them. Thank you!” - Michele Kirk New Jersey | USA Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore Aug. 2025

Photographing a Merlin on Île aux Perroquets During a Puffin Photography Workshop

A Flash of Feathers: The Unexpected Merlin on Île aux Perroquets

While leading my Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore photography workshops on Île aux Perroquets, I was expecting the usual cast of characters: charming puffins, also known as the clowns of the sea, Common Murres and Razorbills calling from the cliffs, and the rhythmic pulse of the Gulf of the Saint Lawrence setting the scene. The weather was overcast—perfectly diffused light for bringing out feather detail and subtle colour—but the atmosphere had that still, charged feeling, like nature was holding its breath.

We were focused on the puffins, as always, when it happened.

Out of nowhere, a streak of motion tore across the sky—a Merlin. Compact and powerful, this small falcon shot through our field of view like a feathered missile, clocking what must have been near its top speed of 98 km/h. I barely had time to register the shape before instinct kicked in—I raised my Sony A9 III, already fitted with the incredibly versatile 400–800mm zoom, and quickly zoomed in to around 750mm to fill the frame.

It was the briefest of encounters—less than a minute—but pure electricity. The Merlin darted in low and fast, and although it posed no real threat to puffins (its preferred prey are smaller songbirds), the effect was immediate and dramatic. Puffins erupted off the cliffs in all directions, driven by instinct and the unmistakable silhouette of a falcon. Puffins and Razorbills filled the air; a sudden storm of wings and circling seabirds.

I tracked the Merlin through the chaos, relying on the blazing-fast autofocus and high frame rate of the A9 III to catch fleeting moments before it veered off and disappeared toward another island. Just like that, it was over.

This is precisely why I always teach to shoot manual exposure with a fast enough shutter speed to freeze motion. Nature doesn't send alerts for its most extraordinary performances. The unexpected is often where the magic happens, and being technically ready is what turns surprise encounters into winning images.

Every time I'm in the field, I'm reminded that preparation is half the battle. The other half is being present—and lucky enough—to witness something wild. On Île aux Perroquets that day, the Merlin gave us less than 60 seconds. But it was 60 seconds I'll never forget—and thanks to experience and preparation, I have the images to prove it.

Merlin (Falco columbarius, Faucon émerillon, Esmerejón, MERL) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony A9 Mark III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @750mm ISO 6,400, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Savannah Sparrow Juvenile Portrait on Red

During a recent Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop, I was wandering around checking our options for last light when a juvenile Savannah Sparrow landed incredibly close—at the minimum focusing distance of my Sony 600mm lens, which also had a 2X teleconverter attached. The out-of-focus boathouse created a striking, out-of-focus red background, giving this unique portrait a warm glow as the sparrow bathed in the golden light.

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Chris - Thank you for an amazing trip. Your knowledge, experience and willingness to share it all made this an adventure we will treasure forever. With gratitude, Don & Sharon Gabrielson, Minnesota | USA Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore Aug. 2025

Savannah Sparrow Juvenile Portrait on Red (Passerculus sandwichensis, Bruant des prés, Chingolo sabanero, SASP)  from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 Mark III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 2,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Semipalmated Plover on Seaweed in Light Fog

Although the overall number of shorebirds seen year to year during my five back-to-back Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshops continues to decline, we had some fantastic encounters for those willing to pry themselves away from the puffin action. This Semipalmated plover was in a small mixed flock with a couple of white-rumped sandpipers. We lowered our cameras and enjoyed the colourful seaweed at low tide.

The Semipalmated plover (Charadrius semipalmatus) is a fascinating shorebird known for its unique appearance and behaviour. Its name comes from the partial webbing, or "semi-palmations," between its toes, which helps it navigate soft mud and sand. These birds are long-distance migrants, travelling thousands of miles from their Arctic breeding grounds to their wintering habitats along the coasts of North and South America. Unlike some shorebirds that probe the mud for food, semipalmated plovers are visual foragers. They employ a "run-stop-peck" hunting strategy, darting forward to snatch insects, crustaceans, and marine worms they spot on the surface.

Semipalmated Plover on seaweed in light fog (Charadrius semipalmatus, Pluvier semipalmé, Chorlitejo semipalmeado, SEPL) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a1 Mark II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 2,000, f/8 @ 1/6,400s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

An Unforgettable Encounter: Razorbills in the Fog

It's one thing to spot a Razorbill, but it's an entirely different experience to find yourself in a truly magical moment with a variety of seabirds. During a recent Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore Workshop, my group and I were in for a significant surprise. Despite my decades of experience, none of us were prepared for the incredibly rare conditions we encountered.

The scene was like something out of a dream: we were sitting on a beach, wrapped in a thick fog that created a sense of peaceful solitude. The water was perfectly still, like a sheet of glass, and a lone Razorbill floated just offshore. Before we knew it, the single bird was joined by a growing number of Puffins, more Razorbills, and even a few mother Common Eiders with their chicks. For over an hour, it was just us and a sea of beautiful birds. The excitement was absolutely palpable!

Capturing the Moment

To get the perfect shot in moments like these, it's all about perspective. I knew I had to get my camera as low as possible to capture the birds at water level. I rotated the lens foot to the top of the lens, using it as a handle to suspend the camera just above the water's surface. My lens hood got a little wet, but it was worth it. I rotated the flip-out LCD screen to view and frame the image—a tricky maneuver that I make sound easier than it may be.

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“Looking forward to that magical puffin island? Well, Chris has found it! Eat, sleep and photograph puffins! Just a short walk from your accommodations are puffins! And more puffins! Staying on island with the puffins maximizes your time with them. The food is amazing! And Chris knows the island, and best places to be for the best shot. What a wonderful experience!”

- Anita Wooldridge Colorado | USA Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore Workshop August 2025


Razorbill Wing Stretch (Alca torda, Petit Pingouin, Alca común, RAZO) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a1 Mark II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 2,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Atlantic Puffin in Flight with Fish at Last Light & The Artistic Power of a Black Background

During my recent Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop, a puffin broke out of the shadows at last light. It was a beautiful, adrenaline-inducing sight for everyone. The setting sun cast a radiant, golden spotlight on the bird as it flew, illuminating its distinctive white chest and vibrant beak. In that rich, warm light, its bill full of freshly caught fish gleamed—a powerful testament to a successful hunt.

More than just a meal, that bountiful catch is nourishment for a puffling waiting safely in the burrow. The little one needs to gain weight and fat stores before following its instincts to learn to swim, fish, and fly on its own after its parents leave.

The Artistic Merit of a Black Background

The high-contrast black background is the secret to what makes this image so compelling. It's a key technique in bird photography that elevates the subject by making it stand out from the distractions of the environment. By simplifying the image, this method focuses the viewer's attention solely on the bird's shape, texture, and details. The result is a more dramatic and elegant scene that highlights the bird as the star of the show.

More Kudos

Thank you so much for the images and for sharing your time and knowledge with us! To single out a single favourite thing would be impossible, as the entire Workshop was truly wonderful. Everything from the setting, and being amongst so many puffins in their natural habitat, to the freedom to wander and explore with each other or on our own, to the excitement of forever searching the skies for a puffin with a mouth full of fish...  it was truly an incredible and unforgettable experience. I will never forget the wondrous feeling of standing on the beach, as countless puffins flew overhead (in arms reach!) into their burrows on the cliffs, knowing that this is all part of their annual journey and that most of the time they will be out at the sea, on their own... How lucky are we?!! Technically, my biggest takeaway is the focus (no pun intended) on getting everything right "in-camera" the first time, and getting to feel more comfortable trusting my histogram without stressing about ISO numbers. Clearly, from the feedback on my images, it was a very valuable lesson. 

I will forever have cherished memories of these whimsical and adorable seabirds, as well as new friendships with others I never would have had the opportunity to have met. 

I highly recommend this Workshop for anyone interested in a magical experience and opportunity to photograph puffins with an incredible, professional photographer and guide. Thank you again! It would be wonderful to be able to take part in another workshop, as all of them sound beyond extraordinary and you, as a guide and mentor along the way, make all the difference! - Randi Najac Arizona | USA Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore Workshop August 2025

Atlantic Puffin Golden Light Flight with Fish (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @644mm ISO 3,200, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Birds in Flight: Bank Swallow

For a photographer, few things are more challenging—or humbling—than trying to capture birds in flight. And if you really want a lesson in humility, I suggest you try your hand at photographing swallows in flight.

Tree and Bank Swallows were constantly showing off their aerobatics and flight skills during my Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshops earlier this month. They are some of the most challenging birds to get a good photograph of. Their flight is erratic, with constant and sudden changes in direction and speed as they bank to change angle in an instant, as they dart through the sky hunting insects. It's a true test of a photographer's patience and skill.

Admittedly, this isn't a challenge for the faint of heart. I was lucky enough to be tracking a Bank Swallow when it suddenly stopped and hovered for a moment before diving out of sight. That brief, perfect pause was all it took—though having the latest auto-focus technology and 120 frames per second of the Sony a9 Mark III certainly didn't hurt!

So, what's the secret to photographing a bird in flight successfully? There's no magical trick or shortcut. The biggest secret is simple: practice.

Learning to aim a 1,200mm lens, align it with a fast-moving subject, and get your eye and the viewfinder all working together takes, you guessed it, practice, practice, practice!

So next time you're out and about, take a moment to appreciate the incredible aerial acrobatics of these tiny birds. And if you're feeling brave, maybe grab your camera and see if you can get the shot! It's a humbling pursuit, but when you finally get that perfect shot, it's worth every bit of the effort.

More Kudos:

“To say the puffin experience was enjoyable would be an understatement!  It was amazing!  Being on a small island, living in a lighthouse keeper’s house, with a puffin colony close in our midst gave us a great opportunity to get up close and personal with the plentiful puffins combined with many other sea and song birds!    Seeing the puffins bringing capelin to feed their “pufflings” was a highlight!   Being on site offered us different lighting conditions, including the warm morning and evening hues, with Chris offering us great guidance on camera settings for optimum results!   I knew puffins flew fast, often flying over our heads where you could feel the wind of their wings!  How cool is that!?   Photographing them to freeze the action with crisp, in focus images was truly fun, especially when puffins arrived with “fish on”!   Chris’ extensive photographic expertise was greatly appreciated, and it paid off as we all came back with wonderful images!    I highly recommend this excursion!”

 - France Boutilier Nova Scotia | Canada Aug. 2025 Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore Workshop

Bank Swallow in Flight (Riparia riparia, Hirondelle de rivage, Avión zapador, BAHS) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 Mark III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 4,000, f/8 @ 1/6,400s Manual exposure.

Beyond the Puffin: A Merlin's Visit to Île aux Perroquets during my Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshops

During my recent Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshops on Île aux Perroquets, we got a bonus challenge that was as rewarding as it was difficult: a visit from a Merlin. These small falcons are incredible hunters, capable of stunning aerial maneuvers while preying on small birds and insects. Capturing one in action required a completely different approach than photographing the more predictable Puffins.

To get the shot, I relied on my go-to setup for wildlife: the new Sony a9 Mark III paired with the Sony 400-800mm zoom lens. The Merlin was a blur of motion, making a single-shot approach nearly impossible. This is where the camera's incredible technology shone.

I used two key features to get this shot:

  • Fast Burst Rate: At 120fps, the a9 Mark III allowed me to capture the entire arc of the Merlin's flight, from a series of near-misses to a clean, sharp pass. I knew that even a split second could mean the difference between a great shot and a missed opportunity.

  • Autofocus Tracking: With the Merlin's erratic flight, a reliable autofocus system was non-negotiable. The camera's tracking held on to the falcon, ensuring each frame in the burst was in sharp focus.

This photo is a single frame from that high-speed sequence. It's proof that sometimes, the best way to capture a fleeting moment isn't by trying to anticipate it, but by trusting your gear to freeze time for you. While our primary focus was the Puffins, this surprise encounter was a great lesson in being ready for anything.

Merlin Emerging from the Fog (Falco columbarius, Faucon émerillon, Esmerejón, MERL) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @800mm ISO 6,400, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure.

Happy World Photography Day! B&W Atlantic Puffin

Today, we're getting back to the basics of photography: light and shadow. Forget the gear, the software, and the filters—at its core, a great photo is a dance between these two fundamental elements. As I always say, it’s all about “light and the absence of light.”

Light reveals and shadow defines. Every stunning portrait, breathtaking landscape, and candid street shot begins with this balance. Light illuminates an object's colours and textures, while shadow gives it form, depth, and three-dimensionality. Without shadows, our visual world would be flat and lacking detail. Together, they create mood and emotion.

Modern digital cameras are incredible, with their ability to record detail in even low-contrast, flat light. This advanced technology allows us to capture stunning images in once impossible conditions, making it easier than ever to create compelling visual art. It's a testament to how far we've come since I first dreamed of being a National Geographic photographer before my 16th birthday. For more than four decades, photography has been a part of my everyday life.

Recently, the power of these fundamentals was on full display in a shot I captured of an Atlantic puffin. The bird sat perfectly still on the glass-like water of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, its form in beautiful contrast to the stark, foggy backdrop. Stripped of colour and shrouded in a dreamy haze, the image proves that the most captivating stories are sometimes told with nothing but a subject, the mood created by light and shadow, and the absence of colour.

Photography is more than just a button click. It's an art, a craft, a tool for storytelling, a passionate hobby, and a rewarding career. On this day, let’s appreciate the power of an image to freeze a moment in time, tell a story without words, and connect us all.

Kudos from Facebook:

“I had the best time on this trip (Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore Workshop Aug. 2025) He is an excellent, knowledgeable photographer. Chris knows where to go for the best angles and light.

I had some food issues and the 2 women there were so fantastic and friendly it made the experience so much better than some other places I have been to.

I have picked up some really great tips that helped with birds in flight. I have never seen so many puffins in 1 place it was incredible. The best were when they flew in with fish in their mouth OMG. I’m still going through thousands of pictures that I can’t believe I got. This trip is a must if you love puffins. Just go you won’t be sorry”

Thank you Chris - Francine Dollinger Thornton | CO | USA

Atlantic Puffin Black & White (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a1 Mark II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 8,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.