Black Guillemot with fresh fish breakfast

The cool, salty air whipped around us on the beach of the enchanting lighthouse island, and a symphony of seabird calls echoed as we listened to the distant blow of a Minke whale during the Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop. Our group of delighted photographers, already buzzing from close encounters with those charismatic clowns of the sea, the Atlantic puffins, were about to witness another of nature's little dramas unfold. As the tide gently rose, the Black Guillemots, initially perched on seaweed-covered rocks, began to seek higher ground. One particular guillemot, a stunning specimen with its sleek black plumage, striking white wing patches, and vibrant red feet, decided to grace us with its presence for a full half-hour.

This Black Guillemot had a successful hunt; It proudly displayed an Arctic Shanny, the small fish appearing somewhat defeated in the bird's grasp. The guillemot, with its alert, dark eyes, seemed to exude a sense of triumph, a stark contrast to the seemingly hopeless and certainly final expression on the face of the Arctic Shanny. Interestingly, the image shows the guillemot holding the fish in a specific direction, a behaviour noted in Black Guillemots; this preference is more common among adult birds, with some individuals consistently carrying prey with the fish head on the same side of their bill. Studies have shown that many Black Guillemots exhibit this "handedness."

Investing time with our subject and studying its behaviour created a genuinely captivating photographic opportunity. It was a moment where nature, in all its beauty and drama – and the sometimes stark reality of the food chain – unfolded right before our eyes (and lenses!).

Black Guillemot Displaying (Cepphus grylle, Guillemot à miroir, Arao aliblanco, BLGU) from my DELUXE ATLANTIC PUFFIN TOUR (and so much more) Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds All Rights Reserved. Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless, Sony 600mm f/4 GM OSS Lens, Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @ 1,200mm. f/8 ISO 4,000 @ 1/4,000s. Full Frame image.

Savannah Sparrow

Continuing on the diverse avian life theme that can surprise and delight during my "Deluxe puffins galore and so much more" workshop, I wanted to share this image of a beautiful Savannah Sparrow. Imagine capturing moments like these – the soft, overcast light on Lighthouse Island and wide open aperture were absolutely key to achieving the dreamy, painterly background you see here. It gently diffused across the scene, enriching the subtle hues and allowing the vibrant colours to blend seamlessly into a wash of breathtaking tones. By paying particular attention to this backdrop, I aimed to create a composition where the sparrow truly sings against its environment.

This stunning Savannah Sparrow is just a taste of the "so much more" that awaits you beyond the star puffins on Lighthouse Island. Our workshop offers unparalleled opportunities to photograph a variety of captivating species in their natural habitat, all while basking in the stunning coastal scenery of the Gulf of the Saint Lawrence. Join me for an unforgettable experience where "puffins galore" is just the beginning of the photographic adventures that unfold!

Fun Fact: Savannah Sparrows have regional "dialects" in their songs, with variations in trills and buzzes that differ between populations.

Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis, Bruant des prés, Chingolo sabanero, SASP) from my DELUXE ATLANTIC PUFFIN TOUR (and so much more) Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds All Rights Reserved. Sony Alpha a1 Mirrorless, Sony 600mm f/4 GM OSS Lens, Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @ 1,200mm. f/8 ISO 5,000 @ 1/5,000s. Full Frame image.

Beyond the Puffins: Discovering the Elegant Black Guillemot

The Deluxe Puffins Galore workshop truly lives up to its name, offering incredible opportunities to photograph the charismatic clowns of the sea that everyone adores; I dare say the best in the world. But amidst the flurry of orange feet and comical dives, another seabird nests among the rocks: the elegant Black Guillemot.

While the puffins understandably command attention with their vibrant plumage and playful antics, the Black Guillemot offers a different kind of beauty – a sleek, understated sophistication. In their breeding plumage, they are a striking study in contrasts: velvety black feathers offset by brilliant white wing patches and startlingly red-orange legs and feet.

One stormy afternoon, the Black Guillemots came into their own as the tide receded, revealing swathes of glistening seaweed draped over the flat rocks. The overcast sky diffused the light beautifully, creating a soft, even illumination that brought out the subtle textures in their feathers and the rich hues of their legs.

It was a lesson in patience and observation. While the puffins often provided instant action, photographing the Black Guillemots required a more contemplative approach. It was about waiting for the right moment, the perfect pose, the subtle shift in light that would reveal their quiet beauty. As we lay there in the seaweed, more Black Guillemots flew in, and as time passed, they ignored us and kept getting closer.

The experience underscored the richness of the seabird ecosystem. The Deluxe Puffins Galore workshop wasn't just about one star species; it is a deep dive into the interconnected lives of numerous fascinating birds. The Black Guillemots, with their understated elegance and captivating presence, were a powerful reminder of the diverse wonders that coastal habitats hold. They proved that the most rewarding photographic moments sometimes come when you slow down, lie low, and appreciate the subtle beauty surrounding you. And yes, even a bit of seaweed-induced dampness is a small price for such an intimate encounter with these magnificent birds.

Black Guillemot Displaying (Cepphus grylle, Guillemot à miroir, Arao aliblanco, BLGU) from my DELUXE ATLANTIC PUFFIN TOUR (and so much more) Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds All Rights Reserved. Sony Alpha a1 Mirrorless, Sony 600mm f/4 GM OSS Lens, Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @ 1,200mm. f/8 ISO 6,400 @ 1/5,000s. Full Frame image.

Dorsal View of Razorbill in Flight with Fish

There are moments in nature that etch themselves into your memory. One such moment unfolded during my Deluxe Puffins Galore and so much more workshop last summer, with my small group of photographers perched on a beach at the base of the seabird nesting colony. The tide was changing, and with it came a spectacle of thousands of Razorbills and Atlantic Puffins circling as they returned from a successful fishing expedition; they created a dynamic scene against the backdrop of an incoming heavy fog. While presenting a photographic challenge, the fog added an element of magic to the encounter. Birds would materialize out of the mist with mouthfuls of fish, their dark silhouettes contrasting against the ethereal backdrop.

We were particularly captivated by the Razorbills with their beaks laden with fish. I captured this dorsal view as it banked in flight using my Sony 100-400mm zoom lens at 400mm and my Sony a1. The details recorded in its dark feathers are remarkable.

The scene on the beach was equally captivating. My fellow photographers, focused and determined, worked to capture the fleeting moments. The interplay of the fog, the waves crashing on the shore, and the cries of the seabirds created an atmosphere of awe-inspiring wilderness.

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 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 G Master OSS Lens @400mm. ISO 800, f/5.6 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

“Witnessing puffins is a truly magical experience that stays with you forever. My time at your workshop on Île aux Perroquets was unforgettable! Nestled on a tiny island off the stunning, rugged coast of northeastern Canada, the entire experience felt like stepping into another world. The lighthouse keeper’s house—beautifully restored and full of character—was warm, inviting, and cozy, the perfect retreat after long days in the field. The food was simply incredible—each meal lovingly prepared by the kindest women, and honestly, some of the best I’ve had in years.

The puffin photography workshop itself was deeply immersive. Being completely unplugged from the rat race allowed me to slow down, reconnect with nature, and truly live in the moment. Each outing was filled with anticipation and awe. You were incredibly hands-on, always making sure we were in the right place at the right time to get the shot. I’ll never forget the thrill of hearing you shout “FISH! FISH! FISH!” as a puffin swooped in, beak brimming with its catch—it was pure, childlike joy every single time.

This wasn’t just a photography trip—it was a soulful adventure, one that left me inspired, grounded, and endlessly grateful. A trip of a lifetime that I will never forget.”

- Lisa-Ashley Smith | Wisconsin | USA

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.

Razorbill Flting with Fish in Light Fog

During my Deluxe Puffins Galore and so much more workshop, the air on the lighthouse Island in Quebec was electric as the light fog began to lift. Imagine a constant flurry of wings as countless Atlantic Puffins returned from their fishing expeditions, vibrant orange beaks crammed full of silvery treasures for their young. It was a spectacle that truly lived up to its "Galore" billing!

But amidst this charming chaos, another fascinating seabird diligently did its parental duties: the sleek and elegant Razorbills, clutching Capeline in their dark bills. Like Puffins, they are true masters of their marine environment; you can't help but admire their dual expertise. Those seemingly short wings, so efficient for powerful flight across the waves, transform into incredibly effective flippers underwater. They become agile pursuit predators, expertly chasing down fish, shrimp, and delectable morsels.

Like the puffins, the Razorbills often encounter obstacles on the final approach to their burrows. A sudden shift in the air current and the unexpected intrusion of another bird are enough to cause them to abort their carefully planned descent, circle again and make another determined attempt to enter their rocky crevice; this particular Razorbill made nine circuits before finally landing.

The light fog diffused the light to subdue the highlights in the background and reveal all of the details in the black feathers without harsh contrast; perfect conditions for photography!

Razorbill in flight with Fish in light fog (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/6.3 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Atlantic Puffin with Fresh Catch for Breakfast

Join me, Canadian Wildlife Photographer Christopher Dodds, on an exclusive Puffin photography escape. Limited to an intimate group, this is your invitation to a once-in-a-lifetime immersion. Picture this: newly renovated lighthouse accommodations a stone's throw away – less than 200 meters (220 yards)! – from the nesting birds. Indulge in gourmet meals surrounded by the symphony of seabirds, dedicating our days from dawn till dusk to capturing their captivating lives. Our focus extends beyond the stars of the show, the Atlantic Puffins. Prepare to photograph a rich tapestry of wildlife, including Razorbills, Common Murres, Savannah Sparrows, Semipalmated Plovers and Sandpipers, White-rumped Sandpipers, Black Guillemots, Common Eiders, various gulls, Grey Seals, and even the possibility of Minke Whales.

These meticulously timed expeditions coincide with the peak season, ensuring we witness the heartwarming spectacle of puffins returning with precious catches to feed their young. Having grown to the size of an adult, they need a lot of nutrition to bulk up an extra 20% before they leave the warmth and safety of their burrow.

It's not just a workshop; it's an intimate and luxurious encounter at Puffin Paradise. Secure your place for an unforgettable photographic journey.

Atlantic Puffin Fresh Catch (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 6,400, f/8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Adding drama: Puffin in flight with fish against a dramatic, dark background.

Sometimes the easy shot is hard to resist. Picture this: a steady drizzle, a uniformly white sky, and a charming puffin flying in stark relief. Easy to see and focus on – a photographer's dream for a quick capture, right?

But on days like these, there's a different kind of magic to be found, a deeper story waiting to be told. On this tiny island, a jewel of rugged beauty crowned with a solitary lighthouse, the overcast skies and soft rain become an opportunity, not an obstacle.

I know a few spots here, tucked away where the dark, dramatic cliffs plunge into the churning sea. On a "white sky" day, these shadowed rock faces become the perfect canvas. Imagine a flash of the bright bill and vibrant orange feet against the deep, textured darkness as a puffin zips by. The contrast is breathtaking, the image imbued with a sense of place and wildness that a simple puffin-against-white shot can't quite capture.

And oh, the puffins! This island teems with them. The air is alive with their whirring wings and comical landings. It's almost impossible to leave without mastering the art of capturing birds in flight. Your memory cards and hard drives will overflow with an incredible and diverse portfolio of these avian acrobats.

But this adventure is about more than just photography. It's about immersing yourself in the raw beauty of this remote island. Imagine cozy evenings in lighthouse accommodations, the rhythmic sweep of the lamp comforting. And the food? Prepare for a culinary experience that belies our isolated location – think gourmet meals that warm you from the inside out after a day spent braving the elements.

We've timed this trip perfectly. It's that magical window when the pufflings—the adorable baby puffins—have reached their most demanding stage. Parent birds constantly return to their burrows with beaks full of silvery fish, creating an unparalleled spectacle of avian activity. The dedication of these parents and the sheer number of puffins in the air are a truly unforgettable sight.

I invite you to join me in chasing something profound. Let's embrace the dramatic beauty of an overcast day, harness the power of contrast, and witness the incredible energy of a puffin colony at its peak. Experience the magic of this tiny island, where every click of the shutter tells a story.

Atlantic Puffin  (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine,Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) 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 8,000, f/5.6 @ 1/5,000s 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 Paradise: Exclusive Bird Photography Workshop with Dreamy Lighthouse Island Accommodations

Ready to elevate your wildlife photography to breathtaking new heights? Picture this: the first golden rays of dawn painting the dramatic cliffs of a secluded Gulf of Saint Lawrence island, and you're already there, camera in hand, just a gentle stroll from your cozy lighthouse haven. Picture Atlantic puffins, their beaks brimming with silvery fish, returning to nourish their precious pufflings, all bathed in that magical early light: no frantic commutes, just pure, unadulterated photographic bliss with the charming Puffins right at your doorstep.

It's not just another photography workshop; it's an exclusive immersion into a world teeming with life. Under the expert guidance of Christopher Dodds, you'll not only refine your technical prowess in capturing stunning portraits and mastering the dynamic art of birds in flight but also find yourself in what many consider the ultimate sanctuary for Atlantic Puffin photography.

Imagine filling your portfolio with intimate shots of these charismatic seabirds, razorbills, guillemots, and more, all bathed in the remarkable early light this location uniquely offers. After a rewarding day of shooting, return to the comfort of newly renovated lighthouse accommodations and indulge in delectable gourmet meals, the sounds of the ocean lulling you into a peaceful slumber.

This is your chance to step directly into a photographer's dream. Don't let this unparalleled opportunity to capture a complete portfolio of Puffin images in this idyllic setting slip away. Secure your spot now and transform your photographic aspirations into stunning realities!

Atlantic Puffin flying with fish at first light (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, 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 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 12,800, f/8 @ 1/4,000s Manual exposure.

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.

Just announced! Deluxe Puffins Galore and so much more Lighthouse Island Dream Photography Workshop

Escape to a photographer's paradise! Join the legendary Christopher Dodds for an exclusive, immersive photography workshop on a breathtaking lighthouse island nestled in the heart of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Imagine waking to the symphony of the Atlantic, surrounded by a vibrant colony of Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, Common Murres, Black Guillemots, and a wealth of other captivating seabirds – all just a stone's throw (a mere 200 meters!) from your newly renovated, charming lighthouse accommodations.

Indulge in gourmet meals as you fuel your creativity, and then step out into the golden light to capture unparalleled images. From the first blush of dawn to the fiery hues of sunset, this is arguably the best location in the world for Atlantic Puffin photography. Under Christopher's expert guidance, you'll master the art of stunning portraits and the exhilarating challenge of birds in flight, elevating your skills in this truly unforgettable masterclass. This isn't just a workshop; it's an experience that will ignite your passion and fill your portfolio with extraordinary wildlife moments. Limited spaces available – secure your dream photographic adventure today!

Snowy Owl on Snow

It was a cold and dark start to the day when we came upon this Snowy Owl sitting on the snowbank on the side of the road after a significant snowfall during my Winter Owl Workshop. It let everyone get a few images before heading to its perch on a nearby telephone pole. I can’t help but think back to my film (slide) days when the goto slide film was only 25 ISO: I chose to use ISO 12,800 here to ensure enough shutter speed in case it took off to hunt.

Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus, Harfang des neiges, SNOW) Ontario, Canada, during my recent Winter Owl Workshops. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a1 II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 1.4X Teleconverter @840mm ISO 12,800, f/5.6 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure.

Snowy Owl Workshop Testimonial

“If you are interested in owl or other bird photography, I can't recommend the Chris Dodds' workshops highly enough. Not only is he a great photographer and teacher, Chris is one of the most knowledgeable individuals about birds and their behavior, I've ever met. Make an effort to attend one of his many workshops soon. You'll be glad you did”

- D.C. Offutt | West Virginia | USA

American Kestrel on European Starling Prey

We started strong on the morning of February 25th during the last of my eight weeks of Winter Owl Workshops. A beautiful, almost pure white adult male Snowy Owl showed well, and we got a terrific take-off launch sequence. With the high still lingering, we set up where a predictable female Snowy Owl spent her winter. Despite a relatively quiet (and wet) afternoon, we got some great frames of a Male Northern Harrier (AKA Gray Ghost) hunting close to us. We continued our day with another drive and stopped for a flock of Horned Lark, and then Dave Evans pointed out some movement in front of the van; An American Kestrel had just grabbed a European Starling and dropped it on the side of the road. We set up low, sat, and waited for the Kestrel to return to her prize as she watched from the closest telephone pole. It didn’t take long to return and feast on her recent catch! This is almost the last frame I made before we left her in peace. Stay tuned to the blog for more images from this winter!

American Kestrel on European Starling Prey (Falco sparverius, Crécerelle d'Amérique, AMKE on Sturnus vulgaris, Étourneau sansonnet, EUST) Ontario, Canada, during my recent Winter Owl Workshops. 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 16,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure.

Happy New Year Dancing Snowy Owl

Best wishes for a happy and healthy New Year filled with peace, hope, love and light.

This Dancing Snowy Owl was photographed from my car window a few days ago while scouting for my upcoming Winter Snowy Owl Workshops. A few spots remain for the February 17-21 Winter Snowy Owls Workshop. Click the image to learn more.

Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus, Harfang des neiges, SNOW) Ontario, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III 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.

Snowy Owl & Workshop Update

This is the second Snowy Owl in the same area that I found my first of the year (see my Nov. 13 & Nov. 14 posts). I was almost as surprised as the owl as I wandered through the heavy frost in the misty fog as the rain started to fall. It's still too early to decide if this winter will be great for owls, but the early indicators are all good. Fingers crossed that they establish the area as their winter hunting grounds.

Two spots remain available for my recently added Winter Owl Workshop, February 10-14, 2025.

Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus, Harfang des neiges, SNOW) Quebec, Canada. Sony a9 III mirrorless camera body & Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens @600mm F/6.3 ISO 6,400 @ 1/5,000s.

Gret Gray Owl on a Birch Perch

The first whispers of Great Gray Owl arrivals have started to circulate a little later than usual this year. Here is one from my winter owl workshops in 2014 that I love because of its simplicity.

Another Snowy Owl was just seen along the beach near where I host my Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshops.

Great Gray Owl on a birch perch (Strix nebulosa, Chouette Lapone, GGOW, Dark Wood Owl, Lapland Owl, Striped Owl, Lapp Striped Owl) ©Christopher Dodds From my Winter Owl Workshops in February, 2014 500mm X 1.4 @700mm ISO 3,200, F5.6 @ 1/2,500s Manual Exposure mode. Join me for my winter owl workshops in January and February

Snowy Owl Workshop New Dates Just Announced!

Here is another image of what I believe to be the same Snowy Owl that I posted yesterday. It was so nice to find it in time for the nice light—smile. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it hangs around.

I have announced an additional Owl Workshop from February 10 to 14, 2025. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE OR SIGN UP.

Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus, Harfang des neiges, SNOW) Quebec, Canada. Sony a1 mirrorless camera body Sony & Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens @600mm F/6.3 ISO 10,000 @ 1/5,000s.

Snowy Owl Workshop Update - They are back!

I have been predicting a good winter for Snowy Owls, and although it is too early to know for sure, it looks more and more like it will be. I had my first Snowy Owl on the drive back to Montreal from Toronto after my Sony Presentations at ProFusion Expo! It was perched beside the highway at a truck scale, making it an easy choice to stop and grab my 100-400 for a portrait - and it never flew away - smile.

Since the February 3-7 trip sold out in record time, I have added another workshop from Feb. 10-14, 2024. Click the image to learn more or sign up.

Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus, Harfang des neiges, SNOW) Quebec, Canada. Sony a1 mirrorless camera body Sony & Sony FE 100-400mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens @400mm F/5.6 ISO 5,000 @ 1/5,000s.

Snowy Owl ICE TALON

Light freezing rain caused a thin layer of ice over the freshly fallen snow. I love how the talons grip the ice as this young female Snowy Owl takes flight.

Owl toes and talons

Owls have four toes on each foot. Two toes point forward, one toe points backward, and each foot's ‘reversible’ outer toe can point forward or backward, as the owl wishes. Sometimes, three of the owl’s toes point forward, and sometimes only two. With two toes pointing forward and two back, known as a zygodactyl, the owl can perch securely on a branch. When the owl clutches its prey, its toes spread so the owl can get a firm grip. It is known as anisodactyl when it has three toes facing forward and one backward.

A long, sharp claw called a talon is at the end of each toe. The owl uses its talons to snatch, squeeze, and kill prey animals. It also uses talons to defend itself against predators, such as hawks, other owls, badgers, and raccoons.

Many owls have feathered legs and feet for warmth. Snowy Owls, for example, who live in the cold Arctic, have heavily feathered legs and feet. Elf Owls live in warm, southern climates and have lightly feathered legs.

Snowy Owl ICE TALON (Bubo scandiacus, Harfang des neiges, SNOW) from my Snowy Owl Workshop in Ontario, Canada. Sony a9 II Camera body, Sony 600mm f/4 GM OSS Lens, Sony FE 1.4X Teleconverter @ 840mm F/5.6 ISO 1,600 1/3,200s.