Wapusk National Park Polar Bear Queen

Ten days in Wapusk National Park meant ten days of relentless, bone-chilling rain. My solo trip quickly became a testament to perseverance, each step a squelch deeper into the infamous Manitoba mud. The relentless drizzle and deepening mud made every step with the heavy camera pack a challenge, but the goal remained: to capture the spirit of the Polar Bear in the summer.

Then, through the swirling mists and as the rain began to stop, it appeared. Not the pristine, snow-white postcard vision everyone expects, but a magnificent, mud-splashed polar bear emerged. Its fur, muddied with the very earth it walked upon, seemed to glow with a raw, powerful presence against the drab, rain-soaked landscape. It was enormous, a true queen of its domain, and utterly unfazed by its less-than-immaculate appearance.

Between me and the bear were some bearberry bushes mixed into the willows, so I quickly adjusted my settings, widening my aperture to throw them beautifully out of focus, isolating the subject and accentuating the bear's sharp, powerful presence.

Dragging myself back to camp each night after long days in challenging conditions, every muscle ached. However, the adventure is always an integral part of creating images and the stories that accompany them.

Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus, Ours Blanc) Wapusk National Park along the shores of the Hudson Bay in northern Manitoba. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless Camera & Sony FE 400 f/2.8 GM OSS with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @800mm. ISO 1,000, f/8 @ 1/1,000s Manual Exposure mode. Full frame image.

Saint Paul Island, Alaska Horned Puffin Head On Portrait

There are moments in a photographer's life when everything aligns. The light, the subject, the location – it all conspires to create something truly unforgettable. For me, one such moment unfolded on the rugged cliffs during my Saint Paul Island Workshop in Alaska, on a speck of land in the vast, wild expanse of the Bering Sea. It's a place so remote and untouched that it feels like stepping onto another planet. And amidst its dramatic volcanic landscapes, I found myself face-to-face with this entertaining and charismatic Horned Puffin.

I have travelled to Saint Paul Island over the last few decades with a singular purpose: to capture the essence of its incredible seabird colonies. But nothing quite prepares you for the sheer abundance and proximity of these creatures. Sitting precariously on a cliff edge, the wind whipping around me, I was eye-level with a pristine and curious Horned Puffin; they don't see many people in this remote part of the world.

My objective was clear: to create intimate portraits that went beyond a simple record shot. I wanted to convey the magic of being so close, to feel their presence, to see the intricate details of their plumage and the spark in their intelligent eyes. For this, I relied on my trusty Sony a9 Mark II, paired with the Sony 400mm f/4 GM lens and my 2x teleconverter. This combination provided an effective focal length of 800mm, enabling me to fill the frame, even from a respectful distance. This puffin, seemingly unfazed by my presence, settled on a rock just within my minimum focusing distance. It was the perfect opportunity. As I framed the shot, this charming individual looked directly at me, offering an ideal angle for a head-on portrait. To ensure maximum sharpness on the puffin while still rendering the background into a beautiful, ethereal blur, I made a deliberate aperture choice. I stopped down to f/16. However, in this instance, with the 2x teleconverter on and at such close quarters, I wanted to maximize the depth of field on the puffin – from the tip of its bill to the back of its head. The goal was absolute sharpness on my subject. The background was composed of dark volcanic rocks, as the lingering sea foam retreated with the waves, lightening the background tonality with each wave. By stopping down to f/16, combined with the extreme magnification, these dark, textured forms melted away into a rich, out-of-focus tapestry.

Join Me on Your Own Saint Paul Island Adventure!

Imagine being eye-level with a horned puffin, the wind in your hair, and the wild beauty of the Bering Sea surrounding you. You can experience this magic firsthand! I'm leading a photography workshop on Saint Paul Island in July 2026, where you'll have the incredible opportunity to capture intimate portraits of these charismatic seabirds. While I finalize the charter flight and other complex logistics, you can add your name to the interest list today. You'll be the first to know the moment all the details are in place, ensuring you don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure.

Horned Puffin Head On Portrait (Fratercula corniculata, Macareux cornu, Frailecillo corniculado, HOPU) Saint Paul Island, AK ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha a9 Mark II Mirrorless Camera & Sony FE 400 f/2.8 GM OSS with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @800mm. ISO 1,600, f/16 @ 1/800s Manual Exposure mode. Full frame image. Join me for my workshop in Saint Paul Island, AK, next July. CLICK HERE to learn more.

Tufted Puffin Portrait OUT OF THE SHADOWS

There are few experiences as captivating as observing wildlife in their natural habitat, and for me, one of the most profound is on the remote cliffs of Saint Paul Island, Alaska. As a workshop leader, guiding participants to the very edges of dramatic cliff faces, we're often privileged to witness a breathtaking spectacle: seabirds, silhouetted in the dramatic shadows cast by their towering homes, bustling with life.

Saint Paul Island is a jewel among the Pribilof Islands, a small archipelago nestled in the vast expanse of the Bering Sea, a watery frontier between Alaska and Russia. This isolation is precisely what makes it such a vital haven for millions of migratory birds, transforming its rugged cliffs into bustling, cacophonous cities of feathers and squawks during breeding season.

Among the many species that call Saint Paul Island home, the Tufted Puffin stands out as a true icon. With their distinctive bright orange bills, white facial plumes, and human-hair-like "tufts" of golden feathers streaming back from their eyes, they are beautiful and fun to photograph. Saint Paul Island boasts significant breeding colonies of these charismatic birds, offering unparalleled opportunities for observation and photography.

Of course, getting to such a remote and wild place presents its own set of challenges. Air travel to Saint Paul Island has been an adventure in recent years. But for those dedicated to experiencing this extraordinary ecosystem firsthand, the rewards are immeasurable.

And speaking of rewards, I'm thrilled to announce that I'm working on something truly special for 2026 to make these incredible cliffside encounters even more accessible. Stay tuned for details – Saint Paul Island is calling, and I can't wait to share its wonders with you.

Tufted Puffin Vertical Portrait(Fratercula cirrhata, Macareux huppe, Frailecillo coletudo, TUPU) Saint Paul Island, AK ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless Camera & Sony FE 400 f/2.8 GM OSS with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @800mm. ISO 1,600, f/16 @ 1/800s Manual Exposure mode. Join me for my Saint Paul Island, AK workshop next July to learn more CLICK HERE.

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Don't Miss Out! Last Chance for Atlantic Puffin Photography in Quebec!

Two spots have unexpectedly become available due to cancellation for my highly sought-after and consistently sold-out Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Galore workshop, taking place from August 10 to 13, 2025, in beautiful Quebec! Due to last-minute cancellations, this is your rare opportunity to join an unforgettable photography experience.

This workshop is perfectly timed to maximize your chances of capturing those iconic shots of Atlantic Puffins with their beaks absolutely brimming with fish. Imagine filling your portfolio with incredible, dynamic images!

As always, this deluxe experience includes charming lighthouse accommodations and gourmet meals, ensuring your comfort and enjoyment throughout the trip. Click the image below to learn more.

Unblinking Majesty: Overcast Bald Eagle Portrait

After what felt like an endless journey to my Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop—from Montreal to Vancouver, then on to Anchorage, and finally touching down in Kodiak, Alaska—I was more than ready to settle into my hotel room. The travel day had been long, but the crisp Alaskan air beckoned. A brisk 45-minute walk to the grocery store seemed like a good way to stretch my legs and grab some essentials.

Bags in hand, I made the 45-minute trek back, eager to unwind. As I closed the curtains, a fresh cup of hot ginger tea in hand, I spotted a magnificent bald eagle perched regally on a garbage dumpster behind the hotel. What struck me immediately was its pristine condition; most city eagles look dirty and ratty.

My fatigue instantly vanished, replaced by a surge of excitement. I quickly grabbed my camera, knowing this was a moment I couldn't miss with the soft, overcast evening light. I spent a few minutes patiently waiting, hoping for that perfect shot with the Eagle staring directly at me. I made sure to stop down to f/22 to ensure both its piercing eyes and powerful beak were tack sharp. It was an incredible welcome to Kodiak, a truly unforgettable start to my Alaskan adventure.

American Bald Eagle UNBLINKING MAJESTY (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.

Atlantic Puffin Portrait & Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop Update

Puffin Perfection: A Dream Shoot in Quebec, Canada!

My Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop in Quebec, Canada, always delivers unforgettable magic; This time, an Atlantic Puffin striking a pose against a beautifully blurred backdrop of seaweed. This region is widely considered the best place in the world to photograph Atlantic Puffins, and it's easy to see why!

The conditions were nothing short of ideal. We were blessed with bright, overcast light, a photographer's dream for crafting dramatic portraits. And thanks to the low tide, an extensive bed of seaweed was revealed, providing that fantastic, soft, out-of-focus background.

The night before had been quite stormy, and the puffins were out in full force! They emerged from their burrows, dotting the rocks in a bustling scene before heading off to fish for their hungry pufflings. It was an unforgettable experience, and I'm already looking forward to my next visit!

Don't Miss Your Chance; August 10-13, 2025 OPENINGS!

There have been a couple of cancellations for my otherwise sold-out Deluxe Atlantic Puffin workshop. This incredible experience includes dreamy lighthouse accommodations and gourmet food. Did I mention the puffins are only a short 200-meter walk from your bedroom and dining room? The New York Times even declared this a top travel destination!

If you've ever dreamed of photographing these incredible birds in an idyllic setting, now's your chance!

Atlantic Puffin Portrait (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 Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @800mm ISO 800, f/6.3 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

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.

Bonaventure Island Common Murre Bridled Form Portrait on Black

On the first morning of my Gannets Galore Workshop last June, we set out on the glass-smooth waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the pre-dawn light brightening on the eastern horizon. We were on our way to the legendary bird-filled cliffs of Bonaventure Island, a true marvel of nature and a cacophony of life.

As we approached, a rising crescendo of bird calls and the beating of thousands of wings got louder and louder. Bonaventure Island is home to hundreds of thousands of birds during nesting season.

Our cameras soon found a Common Murre in its striking bridled form among the swirling masses of Northern Gannets, Black-legged Kittiwakes, Razorbills, Black Guillemots, Gulls, and Harlequins. This distinctive white ring around its eye and a line trailing backward is a genetic variation, making it a particularly sought-after sighting for bird photographers.

We carefully maneuvered our Zodiac to ensure the perfect light angle. Every detail mattered, not just for the murre but for the backdrop. We paid close attention to where the sun hit the cliffs, ensuring no stray highlight from bird droppings would mar the pristine scene. It's a small detail that can make or break an image.

Did you know? The bridled form of the Common Murre is more prevalent in the northern parts of its range, with some populations having a higher percentage of bridled individuals compared to others. The exact reason for this geographical distribution of the genetic trait is still a subject of scientific study!

Beyond the Basics: Mastering Puffin Portraits in the Golden Hour

A recent image from my "Deluxe Puffins Galore and So Much More" workshop: a genuinely unforgettable photographic experience. Picture this: the last rays of the setting sun bathing everything in a glorious golden light, the air filled with the gentle calls of seabirds, and a charismatic Atlantic puffin posing just for us amidst a tapestry of golden lichen-covered rocks. It was pure magic!

There is a general rule of thumb for photographers: point your shadow at your subject (stand with your back to the sun) for even front lighting on your subject. While this is a solid foundation and a good approach in harsh light, real artistry often lies in understanding when and how to deviate from it. Embracing the low angle of the golden hour sun was key to capturing a truly striking portrait.

By allowing the light source to move slightly off that direct "shadow-pointing" angle, subtle shadows began to dance across the puffin's charming face and plumage. These weren't harsh, distracting shadows but rather gentle gradations that sculpted its features, adding a beautiful sense of depth and dimension to the image. The contrast between the warmly lit areas and the soft shadows brought the puffin to life in a way that flat, front lighting does not achieve; light illuminating each feather and a subtle offset shadow defining its form.

To further enhance the intimacy of the portrait, I encouraged everyone to photograph at, or even slightly below, the puffin's eye level. This perspective connects with the subject, making the viewer feel like they are sharing a moment with this incredible little bird. It eliminates the feeling of looking down upon the animal and creates a more intimate portrait.

And then there was the background – a photographer's dream! The rocks on Lighthouse Island are adorned with vibrant, golden lichen, creating a naturally beautiful and textured backdrop. To truly make our puffin pop, we employed a shallow depth of field by shooting wide open on our lenses. This technique beautifully blurs the lichen-covered rocks into a wash of warm, out-of-focus golden orange, allowing the puffin's sharp details and vibrant colours to take center stage. The contrast between the crisp subject and the dreamy background truly made the puffin pop.

Witnessing the joy on the workshop participants' faces as they reviewed their images – the golden light catching the puffin's eye, the rich bokeh of the lichen, and the intimate connection created by the low angle – was incredibly rewarding. It was a perfect reminder that while fundamental rules are helpful, understanding how to play with light and perspective can elevate a good photograph to an extraordinary one. The puffins of Lighthouse Island, bathed in golden hour glory, certainly delivered a masterclass in the art of portraiture.

Atlantic Puffin Portrait in golden light (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) 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 500, f/8 @ 1/1,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Mist and Magic: An Intimate Encounter with Atlantic Puffins

The salt-laced air hung heavy with moisture, a thick veil of mist clinging to the tiny island in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. This was day two of my "Deluxe Atlantic Puffins and so much more" workshop, and already it had delivered on its promise. We'd spent the afternoon immersed in the charming, swirling chaos of puffins ferrying beakfuls of glistening fish back to their hidden pufflings – a photographer's dream.

After a productive session, the aroma of a gourmet meal lured us away from the rocky shores. Pan-seared salmon and all the delectable fixings provided the perfect fuel to recount the day's photographic triumphs. As we savoured the last bites, a dense cloud rolled in, shrouding the island in an ethereal grey.

Undeterred, and perhaps fueled by the lingering taste of salmon, we made the short 200-meter trek back down to the beach. The visibility had dropped significantly; the world was reduced to a soft, muted palette. But then, something magical happened.

Suddenly, the puffins out foraging at sea began to fly in. They materialized out of the fog, their vibrant orange feet and beaks stark against the monochrome backdrop, and landed on the rocks around us. They allowed us an incredibly close approach, offering a rare opportunity for intimate portraits.

Seizing the moment, I reached for my Sony 2X teleconverter. With a quick twist, it nestled between my trusty A9 and the powerful reach of my 600mm f/4 super-telephoto lens. The added magnification allowed me to fill the frame with the character of these remarkable birds. I edged closer, carefully navigating the slippery rocks, until I reached the lens's minimum focusing distance.

The silence, broken only by the gentle lapping of waves, was profound. It was a privilege to witness this scene and to capture this intimate glimpse into their lives.

This image serves as a reminder of the unexpected beauty that can emerge from challenging conditions. Initially, a potential disappointment, the heavy mist transformed into the perfect stage for a truly unforgettable encounter. It was a day that underscored the magic of wildlife photography and the incredible rewards of patience and a little gourmet salmon. What a day, indeed.

Atlantic Puffin Portrait in the mist (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine,Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm ISO 10,000, f/8 @ 1/125s Manual exposure. Full Frame image.

Puffin Portrait in the Fog

Ever dream of capturing a complete portfolio of Puffin images while enjoying the enchanting allure of a remote lighthouse island nestled in the breathtaking Gulf of Saint Lawrence? Imagine waking to the symphony of the Atlantic, with gourmet meals awaiting and the charm of newly renovated lighthouse accommodations embracing you. Just a short 200-meter stroll brings you to a wildlife photographer's paradise, where Atlantic puffins, razorbills, common murres, black guillemots, and a myriad of other captivating seabirds await your lens from dawn till dusk.

Join the esteemed Christopher Dodds for an immersive photography masterclass, where you'll unlock the secrets to crafting stunning portraits and mastering the art of birds in flight photography. This isn't just a workshop; it's an unparalleled opportunity to hone your skills in what could very well be the world's most idyllic location for Atlantic puffin photography. Don't just dream it, live it, and capture the magic!

Atlantic Puffin Portrait in the fog (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine,Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm ISO 3,200, f/8 @ 1/400s Manual exposure. Full Frame image.

Perfect Portraits of Black Vultures on a Stormy Day

Nature photography rarely goes exactly as planned, and the first day of the second workshop (April 8) proved that point! The forecast was a dramatic mix of thunderstorms, lightning, and blustery winds – not the ideal conditions for a peaceful pontoon boat cruise on the lake. Safety first, of course, so we headed off for Spoonbills and kept a close eye on the weather radar, hoping for a break in the weather.

Our patience paid off. Amidst the swirling weather patterns, the radar hinted at a window of opportunity; a hidden surprise awaited us after the first wave of rain! A significant gathering of Black Vultures had congregated around a large puddle. These birds might not be everyone's idea of a glamorous subject, but their dark plumage holds a unique beauty and intricate detail.

This unexpected gathering presented a fantastic opportunity. The low, diffused light following the rain was perfect for photographing their deep black feathers. Forget harsh shadows that can obscure detail; this soft, even illumination allowed us to truly capture the subtle textures and nuances within their dark plumage.

While the vultures were constantly moving, their temporary focus on the puddle allowed for a close approach until a few other photographers decided to approach from different angles, a la stalking wolf pack and scared them off. This proximity and the exceptional lighting conditions yielded a few precious moments to capture striking portraits. It was a masterclass in seizing the opportunity and understanding how specific weather conditions can dramatically enhance the final image, revealing the often-overlooked beauty in even the darkest subjects. Sometimes, the most rewarding shots come when you least expect them!

Black Vulture Portrait (Dendrocygna autumnalis, Dendrocygne à ventre noir, Suirirí piquirrojo, BLVU). From my recent Ospreys Galore Workshop Lake Blue Cypress on April 8, 2025, at Fellsmere, Florida, USA. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @790mm. ISO 20,000, f/8 @ 1/2,500s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Mule Deer Portrait

Here is a portrait of a mule deer made while driving the north loop during last year’s Best of Bosque Workshop. He ran as soon as a carload of photographers showed up, jumped out of their car and slammed the car doors, proving the best strategy is to stay in your vehicle and use it as a blind.

Although I sold one of the cancelled spots for the Dec. 5-9 Best of Bosque workshop, one spot remains after a couple was forced to cancel due to a medical emergency. My terms are 100% non-refundable, but I return all money paid if I can sell the spot, and I would love to return all of their money. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP.

Mule Deer Portrait (Odocoileus hemionus) from my Better than Bosque workshop. Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, San Antonio, New Mexico, USA. 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/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

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I enjoyed my presentations at the largest camera show in Canada. Here are some images of me presenting in the Sony booth at the Profusion Expo in Toronto last week. I made a presentation in the Sony booth and on the main stage both days, and the shows were packed with eager photographers. Special thanks to Sony Canada and Vistek! This was my 10th year presenting at ProFusion and the 8th year for Sony!

Canadian Photographer Christopher Dodds presenting at ProFusion Expo Nov. 7, 2024. Images courtesy Julio Vazquez (thanks, Julio).

Red-Tailed Hawk Portrait

This portrait of a Red-Tailed Hawk was made during my Best of Bosque Workshop from our vehicle shortly after sunrise. The Red-Tailed Hawk landed in the middle of recently trimmed branches that were piled on the side of the road. We carefully manoeuvred close enough to get a portrait in the golden light with a pleasing background. The image was made after everyone in my group got the image I was after :)

Due to a medical emergency cancellation, one spot is still available for my Dec. 5-9 Best of Bosque workshop.

Red-tailed Hawk Portrait (Buteo jamaicensis, Buse à queue rousse, RTHA) from my Better than Bosque workshop. Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, San Antonio, New Mexico, USA. 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 1,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure.

Coastal Brown Grizzly Bear with Salmon for breakfast

A Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Bear sow (female) with freshly caught salmon for breakfast from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Alaska Adventure in Katmai National Park.

ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT!

September 17 to 24, 2024 (8 Days / 7 Nights) BEARS FISHING: This is the very best time to photograph the many fishing bears of Katmai National Park. The gorgeous light from the lower sun illuminates the glowing, rich fur of the Brown Bears as they pounce and gorge on Salmon to prepare for winter hibernation.

Embark on a truly exclusive adventure with our specialized Brown Bear photography tour. This unique experience includes photography on all eight days, a return float-plane flight to and from our private yacht, meals, instruction, guiding, and accommodations.

• Tour groups are strictly limited to only seven photographers + leader, expert bear guide, Coast Guard-certified vessel, Captain, and crew (Buyer beware: Other workshopspert bear guides; instead, the photographer tries to play host, instructor, don’t employ expert bear guide/safety officer…).

• The small group size means more assistance, one-on-one guidance, and coaching for every participant.

• Long lenses are not mandatory for this tour. 100-400mm, 100-500 mm, and 200-600mm zoom lenses are adequate to make an impressive portfolio.

• Photographers of all levels are welcome and catered to on this tour. The pace is designed to suit everyone’s needs and skill level, ensuring a rewarding experience for all.

Northern Gannet Portrait showing off nasofrontal hinge

A Northern Gannet poses during my Gannets Galore Workshop for a portrait with its mouth wide open, showing off its nasofrontal hinge.

That’s not an accidental break in its beak! At the base of the upper mandible, a thin sheet of nasal bone is attached to the skull at the nasofrontal hinge, which gives mobility to the upper mandible, allowing it to move upward and downward.

Northern Gannet Portrait showing nasofrontal hinge (Morus bassanus, Fou de Bassan, NOGA). Image made during my GANNETS GALORE WORKSHOP at Bonaventure Island, Quebec, Canada ©Christopher Dodds All Rights Reserved. Sony Alpha a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens @598mm. ISO 400, f/14 @ 1/400s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Atlantic Puffin Headshot

Here's another Atlantic Puffin portrait from my recent PUFFINS GALORE (and so much more) DELUXE WORKSHOP. We woke to fog several mornings, and Puffins were perched everywhere. We used the park information signs as blinds and were able to spend hours making portraits at just about point-blank range. After making the standard tight headshots, I always explore more interesting poses while working at the minimum focusing distance of our lenses with an extremely limited depth of field.

Atlantic Puffin Headshot in the fog (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, ATPU) Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm ISO 1,600, f/8 @ 1/400s Manual exposure. Full Frame image.

KUDOS:

Chris: Just a quick note to express my appreciation for the fine workshop (PUFFINS GALORE DELUXE WORKSHOP) hosting provided by you and Julie, along with Louise and Marie-Josée and the charming Auberge facilities.  We were fortunate to have such good weather and abundant puffin activity, and your guidance and tips were very helpful, even for a long-time Sony mirrorless shooter.  I found the other clients quite interesting and enjoyed sharing the experience with all of them.  Despite some travel challenges to and from the Mingan Archipelago, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and look forward to the prospect of joining you in another workshop in the future.
 
Again, thank you for your excellent leadership and engaging fellowship on Iles aux Parroquets – now to plough through the 30,000+ images I brought back to find the “exceptional” few!
 
Best regards,

Gordon Norman California USA

Yellow-throated Warbler

On the morning of May 10, 2019, during my Songbirds of Pelee Workshop at Point Pelee National Park, a Yellow-throated warbler was the star visitor. We had an amazing morning watching it creep over the branches of the trunk of a few trees, much like a Black-and-white Warbler, before it jumped onto this perch in front of the out-of-focus marsh background.

Why Point Pelee? Location! Location! Location!

Point Pelee is part of a peninsula at the crossroads of two major migration routes, extending into the western basin of Lake Erie. It is one of the first points of land spring migrants reach in the pre-dawn hours when crossing Lake Erie at night. Point Pelee’s diverse habitats provide shelter for more than 390 recorded species of birds.

On rare occasions, you may witness a fallout of migrants in the park.  Fallouts or groundings of songbirds occur when a warm weather front advancing from the south or southeast meets a cold weather front moving in from the north or northwest.  Birds will descend when the two fronts meet at ground level or when the birds flying on a warm front override a cold front.

Yellow-throated Warbler (Setophaga dominica, Paruline à gorge jaune, YTWA) Photographer May 10, 2019, during my SONGBIRDS OF PELEE WORKSHOP at Point Pelee National Park of Canada in Leamington, Ontario, Canada ©Christopher Dodds All Rights Reserved. Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @800mm. ISO 5,000, f/5.6 @ 1/2,000s Manual exposure.

Bald Eagle Look Back Portrait

This is a fun portrait of a Bald Eagle from the second day (March 6, 2024) of my first Bald Eagles Galore and so much more Workshop in Alaska. Once the fishing action stops, the Eagles sit pretty and allow close approaches—smile.

Bald Eagles Look Back Portrait (Haliaeetus leucocephalus, Pygargue à tête blanche, BAEA) March 6, 2024 near Homer, Alaska. Image copyright ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony 2X Tele-extender @1,200mm ISO 800, f/16 @ 1/200s. Manual Exposure mode. Join me for my Eagles Galore workshop next March. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Bald Eagle Calling Portrait

After a flurry of feeding, the Eagles settled down on perches, and many allowed us to get really close, as they usually do during my Eagles Galore Workshops in Alaska.

The key to getting a close-up portrait of an Eagle calling is patience; wait, and they will call!

ki-ki-ki-ki-ki-ki-ker! An Eagle calling is like no other sound in nature; it always induces goosebumps and is instantly recognizable.

Bald Eagles Calling Portrait (Haliaeetus leucocephalus, Pygargue à tête blanche, BAEA) March 13, 2024 near Homer, Alaska. Image copyright ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony 1.4X Tele-extender @840mm ISO 2,000, f/9 @ 1/800s. Manual Exposure mode. Full frame image. Join me for my Eagles Galore workshop next March. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Bald Eagle Portrait a la Sony a9III

What a nightmare! The new Sony a9III, at 120 frames per second, offers incredible choice, but the subtle differences between images are an absolute nightmare to edit after each of the four-hour action-filled sessions that we have had with the Eagles so far. The autofocus is even more impressive than the Sony a1, so there is no easy way to rule out anything that is not tack-sharp. A great problem to have - smile!

Since it is a lot easier to choose a portrait, here is one of the last images I made yesterday using the new Sony a9III dialled down to only 30 FPS (I like some choice to get the best head and eye position - smile. I used my Sony 600mm f/4 lens paired with the Sony 2X tele-extender and stopped down to f/20 while the camera easily focused on the eye.

Bald Eagle Portrait (Haliaeetus leucocephalus, Pygargue à tête blanche, BAEA) near Homer, Alaska. Image copyright ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony 2X Tele-extender @1,200mm ISO 1,000, f/20 @ 1/160s. Manual Exposure mode. Full frame image. Join me for my Eagles Galore workshop next March. To learn more, CLICK HERE.