The Art of the Puffin Portrait: Shallow Depth of Field and Perfect Exposure

There's a unique satisfaction in capturing a wildlife portrait that goes beyond simply documenting a subject. It's about crafting an image and using technical skills to create an image with visual impact. I achieved this while photographing an Atlantic Puffin, focusing on the interplay of shallow depth of field and precise exposure during my Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Lighthouse Adventure Workshop.

Using my Sony a9 III and the 600mm lens with a 2X teleconverter, I worked at the lens's minimum focusing distance, wide open, creating a beautifully shallow field depth, rendering the foreground and background grass as a soft, out-of-focus frame. With its head sticking out, the Puffin became the sharp, captivating focal point.

The cloudy, bright conditions made finding an angle with the perfect foreground, background, and Puffin pose easy without being concerned about harsh shadows spoiling the image. I aimed to capture rich detail in the highlights – the intricate details of the Puffin's feathers – while minimizing noise in the shadows, so careful attention to the exposure and histogram was key. The result is an image that showcases the Puffin's beauty and demonstrates the power of technical knowledge in wildlife photography.

Atlantic Puffin Portrait (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm ISO 5,000, f/5.6 @ 1/2,500s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop Update

Beyond Your Wildest Dreams: Photograph Atlantic Puffins on an Exclusive Island Escape!

Have you ever dreamt of capturing that iconic shot – an Atlantic Puffin, beak overflowing with fish, returning to its hungry chick? Imagine yourself not just seeing it but mastering every aspect of bird photography. If this sounds like your ultimate photographic adventure, get ready because I'm thrilled to share an unparalleled opportunity: my Deluxe Atlantic Puffins & So Much More Workshop!

Decades in the Making: An Unrivaled Puffin Experience

For decades, I've had the immense privilege of guiding hundreds of participants to the magical L'île aux Perroquets in the Mingan Islands, nestled in the stunning Gulf of St. Lawrence. Over the years, I've poured my heart and soul into refining this workshop, transforming it into an experience beyond photography.

Way back when we'd make daily treks from the mainland to the island. But that all changed with the magnificent renovation of the lighthouse on L'île aux Perroquets. Now, we don't just visit – we live the dream on the island! I have total exclusivity for these cozy lighthouse accommodations at the peak time for Puffins returning with the most fishto feed their growing babies for two weeks every year, ensuring that my group are the only overnight guests on the island.

Your Island Paradise: Photography, Luxury, and Learning

Not just a trip; it's an immersion. The island is a photographer's dream – a mere 1 kilometre (.6 mile) in circumference. And here's the best part: all of your puffin photography takes place a breathtaking 200 meters from our cozy lighthouse accommodations.  Are you scared of heights? It's not an issue here; most photography takes place on the beach at sea level. Imagine waking up to the calls of seabirds, stepping out, and being instantly immersed in the heart of the action!

But it's not just about proximity. My Deluxe Atlantic Puffins & So Much More Workshop is meticulously designedto help you build an incredible portfolio of puffin images while simultaneously learning to master every aspect of bird photography. From understanding light and composition to perfecting your camera settings and mastering birds-in-flight photography, I'll be there every step of the way, sharing insights gleaned from my forty years of experience.

And let's not forget the "so much more" part! This refined offering now includes gourmet food – because an extraordinary photographic adventure deserves equally extraordinary culinary delights.

Ready to Capture the Magic?

If you're serious about elevating your bird photography and capturing truly iconic images of Atlantic Puffins in their natural habitat, this is the workshop you've been waiting for. Spaces are limited and fill up quickly, so don't let this incredible opportunity fly by!

Are you ready to create the puffin portfolio of your dreams?

Atlantic Puffin in flight with fish (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 1.4X Teleconverter @840mm ISO 1,000, f/5.6 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

The Art of the Tight Composition: Capturing the Razorbill in Flight with fish

As nature photographers, we're always chasing that perfect shot. Sometimes, the most powerful images come from what we choose to leave out. Take this tightly composed image of a razorbill in flight. Notice how parts of the wings are intentionally cut off? This isn't an accidental clipping; it's a deliberate choice that amplifies the sense of motion and focuses the viewer's eye on the bird's powerful form and the fish it clutches.

Razorbills, those sleek, black and white seabirds, are truly remarkable creatures. Did you know they can dive up to 120 meters deep in search of food? Their streamlined bodies and powerful wings make them perfectly adapted to life both above and below the waves.

Capture Your Razorbill and Puffin Moments!

Are you ready to elevate your nature photography skills? Join my "Deluxe Puffins Galore and so much more" workshop! This immersive experience offers:

• Lighthouse Accommodations: Stay in unique and inspiring accommodations.

• Gourmet Food: Enjoy delicious meals that will fuel your photographic adventures.

• Puffin Proximity: We'll be only 200 meters (220 yards) from thriving puffin colonies, offering unparalleled photo opportunities.

You will master the art of birds in flight photography, composition, and exposure, as well as capture a stunning portfolio of images that tell a story. Don't miss this chance to photograph puffins and other seabirds in their natural habitat.

Razorbill in flight with Fish Close Encounter (Alca torda, Petit Pingouin, Alca común, RAZO) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Lighthouse Island Workshop Adventure. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha a1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 1.4X Teleconverter @840mm. ISO 2,500, f/5.6 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure.

Atlantic Puffin Portrait in last light

A simple yet elegant portrait of an Atlantic Puffin at last light. I made this full-frame image with the Sony FE 100-400mm f/5.6 G Master OSS Lens and Sony 1.4X teleconverter (@560mm) while sitting comfortably on the beach during my Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore and so much more workshop in Quebec.

Atlantic Puffin Portrait in last light (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Lighthouse Island Workshop Adventure. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image copyright ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 100-400mm f/5.6 G Master OSS Lens with Sony 1.4X teleconverter (@560mm). ISO 2,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual Exposure mode. Join me for my Deluxe Puffins Galore workshop in August. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Common Raven Egg Predation

A Common Raven in flight with a stolen Razorbill egg at first light during my Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Workshop in Quebec, Canada. A pair of Ravens arrived on the beach well before sunrise as I was waiting for my group and enjoying the sound of the waves washing up on shore. After everyone was in place and the first drops of golden sunlight kissed the cliffs in the background, this Raven seemed to show off its breakfast to us.

Ravens are omnivorous and feed on everything from small mammals to nesting birds, eggs and berries. They will also eat carrion, scavenge from other predators and even from human landfills. A group, or a flock, of ravens will raid seabird colonies, consuming the eggs and young of these colonies.

Raven with Razorbill egg in golden light (Corvus corax, Grand corbeau, CORA) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Lighthouse Island Workshop Adventure. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image copyright ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony 2X teleconverter (@1,200mm). ISO 2,500, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual Exposure mode. Join me for my Deluxe Puffins Galore workshop in August. To learn more CLICK HERE.

Razorbill with fish flying over out-of-focus seaweed

A Razorbill with fish flying over out-of-focus seaweed at low tide during my Deluxe Puffins Galore Lighthouse Island Adventure Workshop in Quebec, Canada.

Razorbill with fish flying over out-of-focus seaweed (Alca torda, Petit Pingouin, RAZO) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Lighthouse Island Workshop Adventure. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera and Sony 200-600mm Lens @600mm. ISO 2,000, f/6,3 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full-Frame Image.

Common Murre (bridled form) in flight

I photographed this Common Murre (bridled form) against the shadows under the cliffs during my recent Deluxe Puffins Galore and so much more workshop in Québec, Canada. It was a dark and cloudy morning with a distinct absence of light (to say the least). I knew I wanted to freeze the wingtips, so I chose 1/5,000 of a second shutter speed, leading me to use an ISO of 20,000 while wide open at f/6.3.

Atlantic Puffin in flight with sand lance against blue sky

An Atlantic Puffin was photographed carrying a bill full of sand lance back to its burrow to feed its baby during my recent Puffins Galore and so much more workshop. I grabbed my favourite (and super portable) Sony 200-600mm lens for this blue sky session: simply too much fun with so many Puffins returning to their nests with fish - smile!

Atlantic Puffin over wildflowers & Kudos

I just received the best text:

My friends and I are nearly full-time workshop participants. We love being guided around the world, photographing wildlife with experts and other like-minded people. Finding and travelling with Chris Dodds, however, was a special gift. He TRULY knows the areas in which his workshops are held. He knows the people, the wildlife, and their behaviour. And, of course, he knows photography and how to teach. Now when I’m shooting, I’m channelling Chris and what he’s taught me. - Linda Scher - Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA (Winter Snowy Owls 2023, Songbirds of Pelee 2023 & Deluxe Atlantic Puffins 2023)

Atlantic Puffin in flight with fish in first drops of sweet morning light

This image was created on August 11, during the last of five back-to-back Deluxe Atlantic Puffins and so much more workshops. It was a magical morning, with repeat clients Julie & Rainer (Saint Paul Island), Charlie (Ospreys) and first-time attendee & solo adventurer Janet living the dream as a full-time RVer.

Razorbill in flight with Sand Lance

A Razorbill with Sand Lance caught breaking before it hit me in the head. This image was created with the Sony Alpha 1, 600mm f/4 G-Master Lens and the Sony 1.4X Tele-extender.

I have just announced the 2024 Deluxe Atlantic Puffins and so much more workshops. Learn more:

Razorbill in flight with fish takeout

It’s not only Puffins: A Razorbill bringing home some fish for its baby during my Deluxe Atlantic Puffins and so much more Workshop.

Atlantic Puffin portrait with a beak full of fishes

Chris is not only an excellent teacher but an outstanding host.

My teenage son (an avid youth nature photographer) and I just came back from Chris' Puffin trip. We had a day of pouring rain, a day of cloud cover and a day of sunshine and Chris gave practical advice on how to get great images no matter what the weather. Chris is skilled at meeting each photographer where they are as he gives individual customized attention out in the field. Chris uses a variety of teaching strategies (including great metaphors!) to make complex information concrete and understandable. My son came back with incredible images - puffin portraits in beautiful golden light, puffins and razorbills with fish in flight, beautiful groupings, single puffins in grass, flowers and rocky cliffs. He also came back with a wealth of tips, tools and strategies. And amidst all of the superb photography instruction and individualized attention, there was also lots of camaraderie and great stories. Chris is not only an excellent teacher but an outstanding host. Can't wait for our next Chris Dodds adventure!

- Deborah & Christopher Graham Ontario | Canada

Atlantic Puffin flying head-on with fish

“The Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop exceeded my expectations. Chris is an exceptional photographer, teacher, and all around good guy. He was quick to point out the best photographic opportunities for the group, taking into account the constantly changing weather, light and tides. He was always available to answer questions and give tips, catering to all levels of experience in the group. The accommodations were excellent and the food was first rate. Our chefs/housekeepers/hostesses were amazing. The photographic opportunities were endless with an unbelievable number of puffins as well as razorbills, guillemots, gulls, whales and seals. This was my first photography workshop and I am looking forward to my next adventure with Chris.”

— Mark Adkins Rochester| MN

Savannah Sparrow on Fireweed

A Savannah Sparrow posed on some Fireweed during my Deluxe Puffins Galore and so much more workshop in Quebec. Savannah Sparrows nest on the island and are easy to photograph as they forage and return to their nests with food for their babies.

Atlantic Puffins in flight with fish

We got photobombed while I was tracking the nearest Puffin as it brought fish back to its baby during my Deluxe Puffins Galore and so much more workshops in Quebec. Join me at the best location in the world to photograph Puffins bringing home fish. It was one of those days when it got cloudy and we were having so much fun that we stayed out late in the dark; notice my ISO of 32,000 :)

Atlantic Puffin landing at the puffinry

There are still only a couple of rooms left for the recently added August 10-13, 2023 Deluxe fishing Puffin workshop :)

Atlantic Puffin in flight with fish (Capelin) in sweet light

Join me for a DREAMY DELUXE ATLANTIC PUFFIN WORKSHOP from August 10-13, 2023. It all starts when we arrive on the tiny island and move into the newly renovated lighthouse accommodations; We will be living only feet away from the many Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills and Common Murres that call the island home - all of the photography is within 200 meters (200 yards) of our bedrooms! This is THE BEST PLACE IN THE WORLD to photograph Atlantic Puffins; in sweet light, in flight and bringing home loads of fish to their babies! The included gourmet food is a bonus - smile!

Common Murre Bridled Form

Some Atlantic adult Common Murres in breeding plumage have a "bridle": a white eyering with a white line extending behind it. The Common Murre (Bridled) is a race or sub-species of the Common Murre, which is seen in North America. Although the Common Murre is seen in the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans, this race is only seen in the Atlantic waters. It can be easily recognized by its bold white facial markings. It also has different coloured eggs than the Common Murre. Both races live among each other.

Atlantic puffin in flight with fish and golden light

Another from my recent Deluxe Puffins Galore Lighthouse Adventure in Quebec. An Atlantic puffin with a bill full of capelin in golden light against out-of-focus golden cliffs. This has quickly become one of my favourite images from one of my favourite places! There is no better place in the world to photograph than Puffin Paradise in Quebec, Canada.

If you would like to photograph Atlantic Puffins flying with fish in golden light while eating gourmet food yourself, then consider joining me next August. Wait! Did I mention that we live in a recently renovated lighthouse? Spots are filling quickly. My trips are timed perfectly so the babies are big enough that they need constant feeding but ends just before the adults abandon the babies to fend for themselves.

Join me next year for my Deluxe Puffins Galore Lighthouse Adventure. Learn more HERE.