SATTAL ADVANCED BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY

Before the Workshop
We will ask you for:
– some basic information about your equipment
– your photos/portfolio
– your expectations from the workshop
– Whatsapp group of the participants will be formed 1 month prior to the workshop dates so that your learning starts much in advance and you are well prepared for the tour.
Communicating your expectations beforehand will ensure that Sudhir addresses them during individual interactions with you.

During the Workshop
– Sudhir will demonstrate the best way to approach and shoot the subjects and give deeper insights on their behavioural aspects.
– He will introduce the advanced custom function settings of your camera. A firm understanding of these settings will be your first step toward shooting like a pro.
– In the hide, he will continually guide you based on the field conditions and subjects.
– Knowledge sharing and image review will continue through the evenings as Sudhir interacts with you with focused inputs to reinforce the day’s learning.
– We will work on post processing of images each day to help you visualise the art of composition and arrive at the final image.
– You will have assignments to complete, giving you ample scope to assimilate and apply all that you have learnt.

After the Workshop
Your pursuit of photography knowledge doesn’t end with the workshop. The SSP Community is your gateway to continued learning and interaction, apart from being the ideal platform to showcase your best images. In addition to image review and critique by Sudhir and his team, you also gain the perfect peer group interaction to grow as a photographer. Theme-based assignments, healthy discussions, candid feedback, equipment reviews and resale are the other great perks of being part of this community.
*The below topics will be covered and the participants will learn how to apply these concepts in wildlife photography.

Fundamental and Advanced Concepts of Photography:
– Manual and advanced autofocus (focusing points, autofocus lock, single or continuous focus, Focusing Sensors, AF cases, Advanced AF settings of camera)
– Manual exposure (ISO, shutter speed, Aperture)- We will use theory of reciprocity to arrive at the combination.
– Metering modes (evaluative, matrix, spot metering) – Practically understand when to use what metering.
– Motion (freezing, blurring and panning) – Creative area of photography
– Understanding exposure – the 18% concept
– Composition (framing) – Create story telling images.
– Elements of design (seeing v/s looking)
– Pre-visualization
– Completing the story

Post-Processing:
During the course of the workshop, you will be taken through the advanced concepts of image processing and the following topics will be covered:
– Working with RAW files
– Levels, curves, contrast, saturation adjustments (All through layers and masking)
– Image sharpening, cloning, dodge and burn
– Noise reduction.
– Saving for web/ printing

During the Field Outing:
During the field outing, your mentor Sudhir Shivaram will help you make memorable images. Inputs provided on the field will enable you make the most of the opportunity.
The teaching and learning will not stop after the workshop. In fact this is just the starting point. You will be part of the SSP community of the SSP website where your learning and interactions with fellow photographers continues.

Day 1

Day 2-3

Day 4

Accommodation: Birders Den Eco-Resort

Birders Den is an eco-resort, nestled in the lap of nature close to the Naldamayanti tal. A short 10 minutes drive from Sattal, it is your perfect base for a bird watching/photography in the Western Himalayas. With sumptuous home cooked food and cozy rooms with a pretty view of the region, the Birders Den is the perfect relaxing spot for birders and also serves as a hot spot for some stunning birds of the region.
Birders Den Eco Resort provides you pleasant Hospitality and friendly loving environment, It’s placed in middle of forest Sattal, Nainital District and away from city noise and Highway traffic, It’s gives you cozy and calm environment, It’s just 18 km from Nainital City and 2 km from Sattal lake which is famous tourism destination, the resort provides to everyone homely atmosphere and also serve you Hygienic local kumauni meals, All around surrounded by Nature and verities of Birds , A good Natural environment and Birds Chirping makes you more comfortable and joyful, It’s All People of Birders Den Eco Resort Who treats you like family and also makes your Experience truly exceptional.
Birders Den Eco resort have restaurant where all guest have their meals together and also share their Day to Day life experience, We serve Simple and Spice less meal which makes you healthy and fit, we have high speed internet access in reception and restaurant where from you can easily run your business through electronic gadgets.

Workshop Cost:
INR 38,550/- per person, double occupancy
INR 48,550/- per person, single occupancy

Inclusions:
– 3 nights / 4 days Accommodation in at Birders Den with all meals.
– Multiple photography sessions in the hide located within the resort, Ashram and the other famous Prabhu Hide.
– Photography guidance and sessions by Sudhir.

Exclusions:
– Laundry and any other personal expenses not mentioned under inclusions.
*All costs are ex-Sattal. Transportation will be arranged at an added (actual) cost.
**Any other expenses outside of the above will have to be borne by the participants.

Terms and Cancellation Policy:
75% fee to be refunded if cancellation is done 45 days prior to the event.
No refund if cancellation is done between 0-45 days of the event.
Please note: The date of written (email) communication of intent to cancel is the date considered for calculation of the cancellation fees.