This unique photographic workshop should provide countless opportunities to photograph red kites in-flight with expert tuition from wildlife photographer Sean Weekly.
Having assisted at the farm for several years and built a career around photographing these majestic birds, Sean is ideally placed to advise on how best to get the most from your camera and capture a stunning portfolio of images.
Sean will initially talk you through the intricacies of in-flight photography, helping you find the right settings for your camera and briefing you on what to expect from the kites once you're in the hide.
Feeding typically takes place at mid-afternoon each day, and we will arrange to have use of the canopy tower photography hide, with Sean on hand to provide guidance and tips throughout the feeding session. With luck, by the end of the workshop, not only should you have some fabulous images of this iconic British raptor, but also the skills and know-how to apply these techniques on future trips.
Sean will be on site to meet you at the Red Kite Centre at Gigrin Farm from 13:00.
Once settled, you begin the workshop, with Sean initially introducing you to the site and then talking you through the various camera settings and techniques that should be used for the upcoming red kite feeding session, with tips on composition and how to get the most from the opportunities available. When the centre first opened in 1992 there were just six red kites visiting; however, these days anywhere between 200 and 300 red kites are possible, displaying a range of behaviours and countless possibilities for in-flight photography.
At 14:30 you make your way to the tower hide before the feeding starts at 15:00 and the red kites descend en masse!
With Sean on hand to assist and provide tips, you can concentrate on in-flight photography, hoping to take advantage of the late afternoon light and capture images of these remarkable birds against a backdrop of moody skies and scenic countryside.
You have exclusive use of the big tower hide at Gigrin Farm during your workshop, which sits six and a half metres above ground level - providing fabulous views of the incoming kites. The hide is partially covered, allowing some protection from the elements, but warm outdoor wear of muted or dull colours are recommended.
After spending at least two hours photographing the red kites and hopefully capturing some excellent images of the birds in action, your red kite photography workshop concludes.
If you are looking to spend the night in the local area, please contact us for accommodation options nearby.
Key info
Our trip ideas are offered to inspire you and can be tailored to suit your requirements.
Duration and price excluding international flights: 1 dayfrom £240 pp
Multi award-winner and full time photographer, Sean's work is regularly featured across a range of national and international publications.
After a career as a Royal Marine, Sean moved to the diverse habitats of Singapore where long-tailed macaques, snakes, lizards and tropical birds were just a stones throw away from his home.
Travelling through South East Asia and Australia with his camera was what ignited his love of the natural world and now he ventures across the globe to expand his wildlife photography. Sean has led numerous workshops in the UK and further afield in Europe at locations including Skomer, Greece, Finland, Spain and Scotland.
Situated to the west of Rhayader, the Elan Valley is one of the most remote locations in the British Isles. Sometimes referred to as the 'Welsh Lake District', the valley is renowned for its lakes, rugged mountains, stunning night skies and pristine habitat which is home to a variety of wildlife.
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Where: Mid Wales
Ideal for viewing: whinchat, curlew, red kite, red fox, wheatear
