Tree Swallow, photo by Alan D. Wilson, CC by 2.0.

Date: Thursday, August 24th
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Rocky Mountain School of Photography

Birds are some of the most appealing creatures to photograph, but they can also be some of the trickiest! Many of them are tiny, they move quickly, and their behavior can seem almost unpredictable. In this class, you’ll learn basic observational and photographic strategies to help you get the most from your time in the field or in your backyard.

Observational topics:

• Where to look for birds
• How to observe more carefully
• How to decode bird behavior
• Tips and tricks for identifying new species

Photographic topics:

• Cameras and lenses that are best for bird photography
• Photographing birds both stationary and in flight
• Tripods: how to use and when they’re needed
• Different exposure methods

About the Instructors:

Neil Chaput de Saintonge, a former junior high science teacher, has taught photography for almost 50 years, to over 20,000 students. In that time, he has taught classes and workshops in the United States, Canada and New Zealand, and in 1973, he studied under Ansel Adams. In 1979, Neil founded the Southeastern Center for the Arts in Atlanta, Georgia, a two-year school that trained students for careers in graphic arts and photography. After vacationing in Montana in 1988, Neil and his wife Jeanne moved to Missoula and started Rocky Mountain School of Photography. Neil is well-known for his enthusiasm, technical knowledge and love of teaching.

Drew grew up in southern Maine and attended college in Boston, where she studied Linguistics and Philosophy. In 2009 she moved to Montana for a season of trailwork and has been here ever since, building her skills as an educator and naturalist. She holds an M.S. in Environmental Education from the University of Montana and has led a variety of adult education programs, including citizen science, trailwork crews, and natural history courses. She enjoys guiding students toward a deeper understanding of the outdoor areas and ecosystems that are right on our doorstep. In her free time, you can find her exploring the natural world through hiking, backpacking, gardening, reading, and birding.

Cost: Free and open to the public, but registration is appreciated.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

Nope! We will have a list of all the attendees.

Register here: