Introduction to Macro Photography at Pitsford SSSI (Day Trip)

Tour Code: GBR133

An introduction to macro photography at Pitsford SSSI, photographing subjects such as beetles, bugs, butterflies and wildflowers.

We hope to run this tour in the future, but have not yet finalised dates and prices. To be added to a waiting list and be informed when details are confirmed, please click on the register interest button, or phone 01962 733051.
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Highlights

Summary

Summary

Join volunteer reserve warden and renowned local photographer, Dave Jackson, for a macro photography workshop on the private reserve section of Pitsford Reservoir. This pristine central England SSSI reserve is managed by the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire to provide a home for the diverse wildlife on offer. Whether you’re new or an old hand with macro photography, Dave will be sharing his hints and tips during short walks onto the reserve looking for a range of subjects including beetles, bugs and butterflies along with interesting flora and fungi to photograph.

With the assistance of the on-site warden we will run an overnight moth-trap (weather permitting) and we’ll be able to photograph the specimens before starting our leisurely 15-20-minute walk to the butterfly meadow, stopping on the way as subjects present themselves.

The Wildlife Trust has stipulated that all guests should pay £10 for parking, reserve permit and use of the facilities with the exception of Beds, Cambs & Northants Wildlife Trust members.

  • Visit the private, pristine SSSI Pitsford reserve
  • Tuition on how to improve macro photography
  • Butterflies include Marbled White, Small Copper, Brown Argus, Purple Hairstreak and often large numbers of skipper
  • Moth-trap
The day will start with a short presentation before we take a leisurely walk to the meadow, stopping on the way as subjects present themselves. With the assistance of the on-site warden, we will run an overnight moth-trap (weather permitting) and we’ll be able to photograph the specimens in a variety of settings.
 
We’ll return to the lodge at lunchtime before setting out for our afternoon session to another part of the reserve. 
 
During the day we will cover:
Camera settings including ISO, shutter-speed, RAW/JPEG, focus points etc.
Depth of field using different f/stops
Image editing
 
A basic knowledge of your camera’s settings will ensure you get the best out of the day.
Equipment to bring:
Camera, ideally a DSLR or mirrorless with macro and/or long lens. A 100-400mm would be ideal for butterflies although good results can be obtained with a bridge or compact digital camera. Tripod if you use one, memory cards, spare batteries and flash. A kneeling pad would be useful for getting low-angle shots.
 
Long sleeves and long trousers are recommended along with repellents as biting insects can be prevalent in the summer months.
 
Please note that there is an additional £10pp fee to cover the reserve permit, use of facilities, toilets and parking, which will be payable locally other than for members of The Wildlife Trust for Beds, Cambs & Northants.
DETAILED INFORMATION
Day Trip Location

Day Trip Location

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Why Naturetrek?

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