Workshop: Advanced Wildlife Photography
Learn how to photograph wildlife in the field with the best techniques.
THIS WORKSHOP CAN INCLUDE:
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2 classroom sessions
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4 in-person field sessions
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1 online post-activity session for post-production and critical analysis
1 to 3 days
THEORY + PRACTICE
THE WORLD OF WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY REQUIRES MORE THAN A TRAINED EYE — IT REQUIRES TECHNICAL MASTERY, READING OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND AN ABILITY TO ANTICIPATE ANIMAL BEHAVIOR. THIS ADVANCED WORKSHOP WAS DEVELOPED FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS WHO WANT TO ELEVATE THEIR PRACTICE TO A PROFESSIONAL LEVEL.
Led by Diogo Oliveira, a biologist and photographer with extensive field experience, this workshop focuses on the application of advanced wildlife photography techniques, including the strategic use of photographic shelters, active camouflage, light management in extreme conditions and animal behavior applied to photography. The program includes intensive hands-on sessions, photography project planning, and personalized guidance for portfolio development.
Participants will have the opportunity to work in challenging contexts, focusing on obtaining unique and technically demanding images, where every detail — from the positioning of the shelter to the timing of the shot — is crucial. There will also be space for critical analysis of the captured images and discussion of strategies for publication, competitions and exhibitions.
This workshop is aimed at photographers with previous experience who wish to deepen their technical and conceptual knowledge, and who aim to produce rigorous and impactful original work in the world of wildlife photography.
Diogo Oliveira
Instructor
+351 918 134 170
(Call to national mobile network)
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In this advanced wildlife photography workshop, we'll delve into the most demanding techniques for capturing stunning images of animals in their natural habitat. Aimed at participants with prior experience, this program combines a refined technical approach with a detailed understanding of animal behavior, light and visual storytelling.
Throughout the training, we will cover strategies such as the advanced use of photographic shelters and camouflage techniques, photographic planning depending on the species and habitat, adaptation to light and weather conditions, and mastery of manual camera settings for maximum precision. The practical component is intensive, takes place in controlled and wild environments, and is aimed at obtaining images with documentary, artistic and scientific value.
This workshop is designed for photographers who seek to go beyond the common image, develop consistent photographic projects and communicate wildlife with depth, ethics and technical excellence.
Workshop Lessons
Lesson 1
Introduction
Ethics
Lesson 2
Extra accessories
Hide Photography
Lesson 3
Wildlife of Portugal
Planning
Places to photograph
Lesson 4
Advanced photography techniques
Flash Photography
Lesson 5
Extreme Composition
Hostile environment settings
Lesson 7
Field session
Learning test
Lesson 8
Post-Production
Critical Analysis
Learn on the field
In this advanced level workshop, learning takes place in the middle of nature, where decisions are real, animal behavior is unpredictable and the light is always challenging. Diogo Oliveira shares advanced techniques in the field for approaching, reading signals, adapting to natural light, and composition strategies to maximize visual impact without compromising photographic ethics. Each outing is an opportunity to apply technical knowledge to concrete situations, solve problems quickly and evolve as a photographer and naturalist. It is in the field that skills are honed, and each encounter with fauna is a unique lesson.
Photographs by Diogo Oliveira.
WORKSHOP SUMMARY
Module 1 — Introduction, Animals and Conservation, Ethics
Course modules and wildlife photography as a tool for knowledge and conservation. Fundamental ethical principles, the impact of human presence, reading animal behavior, and the photographer's responsibility in the field are addressed.
Module 2 — Studying, Locations and Extra Equipment
Importance of prior study of species and habitats. How to choose locations, interpret maps and signs on the ground, and prepare for each field trip. Introduction to extra equipment that can make a difference in certain photographic situations.
Module 3 — Photographic Hides, Nets and Camouflage
Use of natural and artificial hides, nets, and camouflage systems. Advantages, limitations, and precautions to minimize the impact on animals and maximize photographic opportunities.
Module 4 — Planning and Best Times of Year
Medium and long-term planning, understanding the seasons, biological cycles, and natural phenomena. How to adapt photography to different times of the year and take advantage of the specific conditions of each period.
Module 5 — How to Search in the Field
Practical prospecting strategies in the field. Reading trails, signs of presence, behavior, and habitat use. A methodical and patient approach to increase the probability of encounters and good images.
Module 6 — Vertebrates
Specific approach to photographing birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Behavioral differences, recommended techniques, and ethical considerations for each group.
Module 7 — Invertebrates
Invertebrate photography focusing on macro photography and detail. Techniques for close-up, composition, light, and behavioral analysis, highlighting often-neglected species.
Module 8 — Aquatic Animals
Techniques and strategies for photographing fauna associated with aquatic environments. Environmental awareness, safety, positioning, and specific approaches for rivers, lagoons, and swamps.
Module 9 — Key Settings
Essential camera settings applied to wildlife photography. Exposure management, focus, and shooting modes, always contextualized in real-world field situations.
Module 10 — Extras and Acknowledgments
Additional content, final reflections, and complementary tips. Course closing with acknowledgments and encouragement for the conscious, continuous, and responsible practice of wildlife photography.
ONWILD leader accompaniment throughout the trip
Activities and visits described in the program
INCLUDED:
Travel to the starting point;
Accommodation throughout the program;
Food during the entire program (to be defined);
Personal insurance;
Unspecified activities;
Personal extras.
EXCLUDED:
WORKSHOP SUMMARY
Workshop Tier
Basic
Physical Demand Level
Average
Duration
1 to 2 days
Travels
Not included
Workshop Tier
Basic
Physical Demand Level
Average
Participants
Min: 12 | Max: 20
Languages
Portuguese
Why choose ONWILD
Onwild workshops were designed for those who want to learn in the field, in direct contact with nature, always with an ethical, scientific and inspiring approach.
Each training combines accessible technical knowledge with real-world field experiences led by professionals specializing in wildlife biology and photography. We believe that learning to observe, photograph and understand animals in their natural habitat is one of the most impactful ways to connect with the wild. Workshops are tailored to different experience levels and focused on small groups to ensure personalized attention and a more intimate and engaging experience.
Necessary equipment
Participant must bring their own equipment, including:
Camera
DSLR or Mirrorless
Allow shooting in RAW
Lens
Telephoto
Macro
Don't Forget
Charged batteries
Clean Memory Cards
Extras of both
Clothing
Shoes suitable for hiking
Warm clothing according to expected conditions
Extras
Water
Snacks
Basic Wildlife
Photography Workshop
with Diogo Oliveira
For quotes, please send an email with all the information to info@onwild.net
1 to 2 days
Frequently Asked Questions
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GET TO KNOW ME BETTER
About Diogo Oliveira
My name is Diogo Oliveira, I am a wildlife photographer, biologist, writer, speaker and environmental educator based in Portugal. Graduated in Biology from the Instituto Superior de Agronomia and Master in Conservation Biology from the University of Évora. I spend a lot of my time photographing the most fantastic animals. I have visited several countries and have collaborated with large companies, brands, NGOs and travel agencies. I like playing tennis, building Lego, watching movies and series, and I'm a big fan of Star Wars.