The Beaver Pond Experience
Beaver ponds are biodiverse sanctuaries that are home to a wide variety of species, especially birds. Whether you are experienced or an aspiring wildlife photographer, or perhaps an avid bird watcher armed with only a pair of binoculars, join me for a unique experience at the most fantastic wildlife venue I have ever encountered in Wisconsin. Come for a day, a weekend, or for the week. I can serve simply as your host and guide, or as your photography instructor, sharing with you all the techniques I use to create these dynamic images.
There are several beaver ponds on these public lands, but one in particular is an incredible haven, where most of these accompanying photographs were taken. There are countless dead snags that provide safe nesting to swallows, kingbirds, grackles, robins, flycatchers and others. The grassy islands have been nested by geese, cranes, and most recently, a pair of trumpeter swans. Last year was the first year that the swans were old enough to mate, and they had three cygnets, but unfortunately none of them survived the summer. We are hoping this will not discourage the parents from returning this spring to try again. Many mammals live here, including otters, bobcats, bears, and of course, beavers. We have also seen a cougar in the area. Deer regularly wade into the pond to eat water plants, and they use the dams as bridges.
To insure you have the best possible experience, I only host one client at a time, although you may bring a friend or loved one along to share in the excursion. The best way to explore the pond, and get close to the action, is in a camouflaged kayak or with your camera floating safely on a custom built camera barge, both of which are provided. You need to bring a wet suit to use the barge. You also have the option of sitting on shore, in one of four photo blinds, designed by the great wildlife photographer, Leonard Lee Rue III. Please note: photographers must have a 500mm telephoto lens or longer (or 400mm with 1.4 extender), to maintain a safe distance from the nesting birds. (I use an 800mm lens.)
You have three options for lodging: nearby motels, bring your own tent, or we can put you up in the comfort of a 30 foot camper, perched right next to the pond. A variety of meal plans are also available. Contact me directly by phone or email to receive a quote tailored to your needs and desires.
Late April and May provide opportunities to photograph birds fighting for mating rights and building nests. In June, eggs are hatching and parents are busy feeding the nestlings. Late June into early July is exciting, with young fledglings testing their wings, as well as testing their parents ability to keep up with their veracious appetites.
Beaver ponds are biodiverse sanctuaries that are home to a wide variety of species, especially birds. Whether you are experienced or an aspiring wildlife photographer, or perhaps an avid bird watcher armed with only a pair of binoculars, join me for a unique experience at the most fantastic wildlife venue I have ever encountered in Wisconsin. Come for a day, a weekend, or for the week. I can serve simply as your host and guide, or as your photography instructor, sharing with you all the techniques I use to create these dynamic images.
There are several beaver ponds on these public lands, but one in particular is an incredible haven, where most of these accompanying photographs were taken. There are countless dead snags that provide safe nesting to swallows, kingbirds, grackles, robins, flycatchers and others. The grassy islands have been nested by geese, cranes, and most recently, a pair of trumpeter swans. Last year was the first year that the swans were old enough to mate, and they had three cygnets, but unfortunately none of them survived the summer. We are hoping this will not discourage the parents from returning this spring to try again. Many mammals live here, including otters, bobcats, bears, and of course, beavers. We have also seen a cougar in the area. Deer regularly wade into the pond to eat water plants, and they use the dams as bridges.
To insure you have the best possible experience, I only host one client at a time, although you may bring a friend or loved one along to share in the excursion. The best way to explore the pond, and get close to the action, is in a camouflaged kayak or with your camera floating safely on a custom built camera barge, both of which are provided. You need to bring a wet suit to use the barge. You also have the option of sitting on shore, in one of four photo blinds, designed by the great wildlife photographer, Leonard Lee Rue III. Please note: photographers must have a 500mm telephoto lens or longer (or 400mm with 1.4 extender), to maintain a safe distance from the nesting birds. (I use an 800mm lens.)
You have three options for lodging: nearby motels, bring your own tent, or we can put you up in the comfort of a 30 foot camper, perched right next to the pond. A variety of meal plans are also available. Contact me directly by phone or email to receive a quote tailored to your needs and desires.
Late April and May provide opportunities to photograph birds fighting for mating rights and building nests. In June, eggs are hatching and parents are busy feeding the nestlings. Late June into early July is exciting, with young fledglings testing their wings, as well as testing their parents ability to keep up with their veracious appetites.
Pike River Studio Workshops lead beginner and advanced amateur photographers on trips of photographic discovery and learning, to wild places in northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Take an afternoon class or a days-long workshop, and join in the fun and camaraderie that group learning brings. The learning truly is a shared experience, and as I would never profess to have all the answers, I am always learning from students who are pursuing the art from a different tangent than myself. Likewise, students learn from each other as they work together.
One-on-one excursions and tutoring is available. Contact me directly anytime for details.
Take an afternoon class or a days-long workshop, and join in the fun and camaraderie that group learning brings. The learning truly is a shared experience, and as I would never profess to have all the answers, I am always learning from students who are pursuing the art from a different tangent than myself. Likewise, students learn from each other as they work together.
One-on-one excursions and tutoring is available. Contact me directly anytime for details.
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VARIED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Whether you have a point-and-shoot, or a camera bag full of DSLR equipment, you must learn the basics of f-stops, shutter speeds, ISO, and white balance in order to become a competent photographer. I excel at teaching beginners these basics. For the photographer with years of self-learning under their belt, I am here to tie it all together for you, to dispel the myths, and to answer those nagging questions that have been puzzling you. Once you take command of your camera's operation you can concentrate on developing your personal style, and start making truly stunning photographs. Whether your interest is wildlife, sports, macro, landscape, or wedding and portrait photography, we offer a class that will help you excel. |