Bosque del Apache - Photo Workshop

December 2 to 6, 2023 

Bosque del Apache which translates to Woods of the Apache is a most spectacular congregation of birds.  The Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is a 57,331-acre wildlife oasis of upland desert and floodplain that was established in 1939. The refuge is located in south-central New Mexico about one hour from Albuquerque.  The Rio Grande flows through the area providing water to the refuge. Close to 15,000 Sandhill Cranes and over 30,000 Snow and Ross’s Geese migrate here for the winter.  The refuge is an ideal location to capture large flocks of snow geese, particularly when they are flushed by the presence of a predator.  At dusk numerous flights of geese and cranes return to the refuge to roost, making for great evening “birdscapes.” At dawn, the “Fly Out” is another phenomenal experience.  Along with these magnificent birds, opportunities to photograph wild turkeys, pheasants, roadrunners, owls, golden eagles and bald eagles abound.  Mammals like the coyote and black tailed deer are also present.

The early December tour serves up the opportunity for some remaing autumn colors and the potential for some light snow cover. We will spend the majority of our time at the refuge but will head out to photograph the Very Large Array (Radio Telescope) for some astro photography.

This workshop is an exciting opportunity for photographers of all levels to enhance their skills capturing what these two locations present.  You will learn to take control of your camera and achieve your artistic goals in this natural setting.Who should attend?This is a hands-on birds and landscapes workshop for photographers of all skill levels will have an opportunity in the afternoon to åç and critique images and learn post processing techniques for optimizing images.Individual attention will be given to attendees, irrespective of experience or expectations. Digital and film shooters are most welcome.The primary focus is to learn how to capture the scene to the very best effect.  You will use sweeping wide angle foregrounds and selective cropping, various focusing and panning techniques and the best way for obtaining optimum exposure in bird and landscape photography.In addition, a full list of topics which will be covered during the workshop, together with a suggested packing list will be forwarded to attendees before the workshop.In the field, you will be provided instruction based upon your needs. We will cover:

  • Light - Quality and Quantity; Temperature

  • Direction, side, and backlighting

  • Exposure

  • Metering for the best exposure

How to obtain tack sharp images:

  • Auto Focus Modes

  • Eye Auto Focus & Tracking

  • Manual Focus Mode

You will also learn how to work your subject:

  • Composition

  • Panning and freezing techniques

  • Intentional motion blur

ITINERARY

Our days will be based on a very flexible schedule allowing us to respond to the opportunities based on weather, and light conditions, so you can have the best experience each day. We will head out each morning before sunrise to capture images in the best light.  We photograph throughout the morning, breaking for a late breakfast/lunch and open discussion sessions. Late afternoon we will head out for more photography, concluding after sunset.  Dinner is at a location of your choosing.  We will then meet to do image downloads and have a feedback session. Instruction sessions will be included as well as a prep session for the next day. 

Day 1 (December  2)  Arrive at Albuquerque and drive to Socorro to check in at the hotel. For those who arrive by 2:00 PM, we will then head out to capture some images in the in the refuge and the sunset.  We will grab a quick dinner and meet at the hotel to download our images and welcome reception. 

Day 2 - 4 (December 3-5) We will venture out before sunrise to be at the refuge for photographing the wild life.  Returning to the hotel for lunch and open discussions and instructional sessions.  Late afternoon we will head to the refuge for more wild life photography against the setting sun.   

Day 5 (December 6) Considering airline schedules we will do some early morning photography at the refuge and then check out and head for Albuquerque to catch our return flights.

Registration Registration is limited to a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 10 participants.

The cost is $1550.00 per participant, that includes all hotels on a double occupancy basis, breakfast and site fees.  Travel, car rental, other meals, insurance and incidentals are not included.

Included

  • Double occupancy lodging. Single available for $300 supplement.

  • Breakfast

  • All permits and park fees

  • Photographic guiding and instruction

  • Image reviews and post-processing instruction

  • A great time!

Not Included

  • Travel to and from Albuquerque, NM

  • Travel during the workshop

  • Any meals or accommodations before or after the workshop dates.

  • Items of a personal nature.

  • Alcoholic beverages.

  • Travel Medical and Trip Cancellation Insurance (optional, but recommended).

  • Anything else specifically not listed as included.

Payment Terms

  • Your deposit of $ 500 will hold your space in this workshop.

  • The balance is due not later than August 1, 2023.

  • Please make your payments to: Shiv Verma and mail them to 652 Dedham Street, Wrentham, MA 02093-1149.

  • Need special payment arrangements? No problem, just ask us.

Registration

Please complete the registration and release forms (links are provided below)

Registration Form

Release & Assumption of Risk form

Accommodation & Travel

Plan on flying into Albuquerque, NM, rent a car and drive to Socorro (75 miles 1hr 20 mins).  We will be staying at the Best Western or the Econo Lodge in Socorro, NM on a twin sharing basis.