I could see the Snowy Owl. Getting everyone else to see it took what felt like five minutes.
We were driving up a country road when I pointed it out to my group. It had been a cold start. The sky was clear after fresh snow the day before, but the wind was blowing the dry powder into drifts.
The owl was sitting behind one of those small drifts. Even with directions, nobody else could pick it out at first. Snowy Owls can blend into a snow-covered field remarkably well.
Those yellow eyes make it easy to find in this photograph. Spotting it from the road was another matter.
A Low Angle and Blowing Snow
Once everyone could see the owl, we worked on our photographs.
We got low, using the small drift to create a soft, out-of-focus white foreground. The dry snow blowing across it diffused the view further, making the owl’s lower body disappear into the white.
The snow that had helped conceal the owl became an important part of the photograph.
It is worth looking at what is between you and your subject, as well as what is behind it. A change in camera height can make a considerable difference. Here, getting low allowed us to use the drift to simplify the foreground and draw attention to the owl’s face.
Cold wind and blowing snow aren’t always comfortable to work in, but they can give us opportunities we wouldn’t have on a calm day.
Learning in the Field
Finding an owl is the first step. Deciding how to photograph it comes next.
During my winter owl photography workshops in Québec and Ontario, I help participants work through those decisions as opportunities arise. Sometimes the question is about exposing for white feathers against snow. Sometimes it is autofocus or choosing a shutter speed that will leave you ready if the bird takes flight. And sometimes, as here, getting lower makes the difference.
With more than forty years of wildlife photography experience, I have plenty to share. Ask questions, tell me what you are struggling with, and let me help you work through it while we are in the field.
We work on portraits as well as flight photography. While we are watching for action, there may already be a photograph worth making.
Ethical Winter Owl Photography
We photograph wild owls without baiting, feeding, calling or luring them. We respect their space, observe their behaviour and work with the opportunities they give us.
Every encounter is different. I cannot guarantee a particular species or photograph, but I do guarantee that I will work hard to find our subjects and help you make the most of your time with them.
What Participants Say
“…he also spared no effort to maximise our photo opportunities - both in terms of weather conditions, lighting, angles, backdrop etc…” Read Jonathan’s full testimonial.
— Jonathan Mercer, UK — Winter Owl Workshop participant
Snowy Owl Photography Workshop Openings — February 2027
I have openings for February 8–12 and February 15–19, 2027, in my winter owl photography workshops in Québec and Ontario.
Photographers of all experience levels and all camera brands are welcome. If you would like help with exposure, autofocus, flight photography or making better use of the conditions in front of you, join me for a week in the field.
Bring your questions and your warm clothes!
View the Winter Owl Photography Workshop itinerary, pricing and registration details.