I now offer these workshops in the morning and or afternoon. Pick whichever is most convenient for you. The ospreys in this area are typically active throughout the entire day so there is no “best” time for photographing them. I have witnessed epic feedings during both mornings and afternoons. To increase your odds of getting the perfect shot, book both when available. 

Book Osprey Diving Workshop

In a coastal setting where the mighty Atlantic Ocean meets the land, Osprey dive talon first into the salt water below and wrestle with huge fish. Witnessing this amazing act of predation is nothing short of incredible. Capturing these birds as they fall from the sky, make impact with the water and carry a massive fish into the air is equally amazing. This is the one location where I have been able to capture the most amazing images of Osprey diving for and successfully capturing fish.

The timing of this Osprey photography workshop coincides with a seasonal migration pattern. Millions of fish are making their way south along the coast of Florida and Osprey are eagerly following them. This is the time of year when Florida’s local Osprey meet migrant Osprey from up north and the two compete for food. I have personally seen and photographed 40 birds at one time at this location. The action can be very intense, extremely fast and highly gratifying.

It is extremely important to note that these are wild birds and because of that, I can’t guarantee they will put on a show for us but this is by far the best time of year to see these incredible birds consistently diving for and capturing fish.

Because of the location, these birds will be diving into salt water. This means the variety of fish they will be pulling from the water is huge. You never really know what these birds will capture. I have personally seen them catch one fish, two fish, redfish and bluefish. I have seen them with fish so massive you scratch your head in wonder. Because of the larger number of birds at this time of year, there may also be fighting as well. We’re outside in Florida so there’s always a possibility for biting insects. Bug spray is recommended.

This workshop will be focused on helping you capture amazing images of diving Osprey but there are plenty of other birds at this location as well. I have seen and photographed: Great Blue Herons, Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets, Reddish Egrets, Little Blue Herons, Brown Pelicans, White Pelicans, Wood Storks, Terns, Eagles and Magnificent Frigate Birds. This time of year can bring all sorts of rare birds to the area. You never really know what might show up and it changes from day to day.

This workshop is limited to 6 people per day.

PRICING FOR OSPREY DIVING AND FEEDING PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS

 Pricing: $450 per person.

A deposit will be required at the time of booking. Remaining balance is due 60 days before scheduled workshop. 

Book Osprey Diving Workshop

What’s Included

• Photography instruction.
• First hand knowledge on local wildlife species.
• Your very own personal spotters ( me and my son )
• My personal experience that puts you in the best places at the best time

What’s Not Included

• Airfare
• Transportation to all locations during osprey workshop photo tour in the Vero Beach area.
• Lodging
• Transportation to and from airport
• Meals
• Photography equipment
• Bug spray

Getting Here

These workshops originate in southeast Florida. Getting here is simple. If you are flying, fly direct into Orlando. From there, I suggest renting a car and heading into Vero Beach. All GPS systems will direct you to a toll road. Make sure your rental car has a toll pass or you have a small amount of cash and change on hand to pay the tolls. $10.00 should be plenty.

Where Should You Stay?

I highly suggest staying at one of the many hotels in Vero Beach. The booking system will send you a detailed email with specific instructions on where and when we will be meeting. I’m going to be making this as simple as possible for you. The goal is to have a good time, see some mind blowingly amazing osprey and take lots of excellent pictures. Here is a list of hotels in the area:

Holiday Inn Express Vero Beach-West (I-95)
9400 19th Ln, Vero Beach, FL 32966
(772) 567-2500

Hampton Inn Vero Beach
9350 19th Ln, Vero Beach, FL 32966
(772) 770-4299

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Vero Beach-I-95, FL
9330 19th Ln, Vero Beach, FL 32966
(772) 257-0252

Comfort Suites
9050 Americana Rd, Vero Beach, FL 32966
(772) 257-3400

What Should You Bring?

First and foremost, bring your sense of adventure. Bring your best long lens. As a bare minimum kit I suggest: One camera body and a telephoto lens. 500mm or 600mm would be best. Tripods are also recommended. We will be on our feet for quite some time. Bring a small foldable stool or chair for moments of inactivity.

Make sure you bring plenty of spare batteries and a lot of empty memory cards.

I also suggest a “rain jacket” for your gear. While rain is unlikely, this is Florida and it does rain. It is best to be prepared.

I will also be shooting Nikon and Sony equipment and have no problems showing you the best features of this equipment. This is a good way to get a hands on experience before jumping in and buying.

How Long Does the Workshop Last?

We will be meeting before sunrise which should be around 7:30 AM or so. We want to be at the shoot location as close to sunrise as possible. This should give us 3-4 hours of excellent shooting opportunities.

Clothing Choices

It doesn’t really get too cold in Florida during this time frame but we do get the occasional cold snap. We will be on the coast early in the morning so there could be a strong sea breeze which can be chilly.

• I suggest long pants that are lightweight, this helps if the bugs are out too
• Closed toe shoes that are comfortable along with comfy socks
• A short sleeve shirt or long sleeve shirt that can be easily removed if things warm up a bit
• A hat
• Sunscreen, bug spray 

Payment and Cancellation Policy

A $100 deposit is required at the time of booking in order to secure your workshop. The remaining balance of your workshop must be paid in full within 45 days of the workshop starting date.

Our cancellation policy is as follows. In order to receive a full refund MINUS CREDIT CARD PROCESSING FEES, you will need to cancel your workshop at least 45 days prior to your booked date. If you need to cancel within that 45 day window, you will receive a refund minus the cost of your deposit.