Urban Bird Photography

with Don Orkoskey

Join wildlife photographer Don Orkoskey to learn how to create amazing photos of bird in any setting from the heart of the city to the amazing public parks and forests around Atlanta to the vast wild areas beyond.

We’ll venture to the gorgeous Clyde Shepard Nature Preserve in Decatur, home of dozens of species of birds. There, Don will show you how to listen and look for birds, how to use tools such as Merlin to identify them, and how to approach and photograph them.

Don will demonstrate how to get great bird photos up close or from far away and the gear you need for both. He’ll discuss how to overcome equipment limits and share techniques for capturing birds in flight vs those perched.

You’ll learn what you should and shouldn’t do as a bird and wildlife photographer.

Additionally, the practical time we spend on the Beltline will give you the opportunity to create amazing photos of the many birds who call Atlanta home.

This workshop is open to all photographers, birders, and anyone interested in learning how to photograph birds. It is recommended but not required that you bring a camera with a telephoto lens. Doing so will help you capture better photos. However, if you want to learn how to photograph birds before investing in gear you’re equally welcome!

Meet Your Instructor

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Meet Your Instructor ///

Click here to check out Don's work

Don Orkoskey

Don Orkoskey specializes in headshots and corporate photography. He's also a passionate wildlife photographer and leads a free monthly nature photography meetup. From long before he can remember Don had a camera in hand, from his mom's Polaroid 600 to his Pentax K1000 he bought for a high school photography class. He opened WDO Photography in 2007 after working for and learning from a number of Pittsburgh's most talented photographers. He began teaching photography around the same time, hosting classes at Phipps Conservatory, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, and at many more great venues in and beyond Pittsburgh. Today, Don is exploring wild spaces in and around Atlanta looking for wildlife to photograph and he leads a free monthly nature photography meetup. 

More info

Location and meetup details will be provided upon registration.

 

  • What do I need for this workshop?

  • A DSLR or mirrorless camera with at least a 200mm lens, (at least a 300mm lens if it's a full frame sensor), or a "digital bridge camera (Nikon P1000 series for example)

  • A tripod or monopod is helpful but not needed

  • No strong perfumes, shampoos, deodorants, or other strong smelling stuff.

  • Camo isn't necessary but drab colored clothes are recommended, as is dressing for the weather 

  • Warm boots that are water resistant should there be rain (or worse)

  • If it's raining, rain covers for yourself (poncho, jacket with a hood, etc) and for your gear are highly recommended - inexpensive plastic camera covers are available online.  

Any questions? Contact us here!