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 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.

More Kudos

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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