A Wild Success: Friends’ Photography Workshop Hits the Mark

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The "Focus on the Wild" photography workshop provided photographers with the opportunity to learn about cameras and techniques for capturing wildlife.
During the second day of the workshop, attendees were given the opportunity for hands-on practice of what they had learned. Photo by Megan Davis-McConnell.

The “Focus on the Wild” photography workshop, held on May 31 and June 1, was a resounding success, filled with superb instruction, great weather, and fantastic, yet predictably unpredictable, subject matter. Sponsored by the Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center, this exclusive event provided members and non-members with behind-the-scenes access to some of the Nature Center’s most captivating and normally off-limits areas.

The workshop featured exemplary wildlife photographers and instructors K.P. Wilska, Robert Chura, and Charles Morris. On Day 1, the expert instructors held a classroom session demystifying camera basics for participants. They guided attendees through the fundamentals, from aperture and shutter speed to mastering composition. Instruction covered camera settings, focus, exposure, and even tips for taking high-quality photos with a cellphone.

On Day 2, participants took to the field for hands-on shooting opportunities. The wildlife did not disappoint. While photographers are often prepared with large lenses for aloof subjects, the bison herd came in tight for their closeups. At the Marty Leonard Lotus Marsh Boardwalk, attendees were on the “hunt” for a painted bunting.

The bison wandered in for a closeup. Photo by Megan Davis-McConnell.

Immense gratitude is owed to our pro instructors for making the weekend a special one at the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge. Here are some highlights from the field, including beautiful images from some of our workshop participants. Be on the lookout for more wildlife photography workshops sponsored by the Friends.

Photo by Robert G.
Photo by Robert G.
Photo by Robert G.
Photo by Candace K.
Photo by Candace K.
Photo by Candace K.
Photo by Marie-Louise K.
Photo by Marie-Louise K.
Photo by Marie-Louise K.
Photo by Bree J.
Photo by Bree J.
Photo by Bree J.
Photo by Instructor Charles Morris.
Photo by Instructor Charles Morris.
Photo by Instructor Charles Morris.
Photo by Jose S.
Photo by Mac T.
Photo by Mac T.
Photo by Mac T.
By Megan Davis-McConnell, Membership & Programs Chair/Board of Directors, Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge

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