That incredible wingspan in full flight, those ferocious claws - this is the beauty of birds of prey photography! These very special wildlife photography days take place at a farm centre near Abingdon in Oxfordshire.
Home to over 90 different birds of prey, these experiences give you access to photograph these magnificent creatures all day long. The venue is run as a conservation and education centre and you get to see and be behind the scenes.
You'll appreciate just how well trained these raptors are - they don't even flinch when faced with the long lens of an enthusiastic photographer. In fact, they rather like being the centre of attention and love nothing better than to puff up their chests - and pose!
Indeed, the birds are incredibly photogenic. A macro shot of the steely blue eyes of an Eagle Owl, an evocative frame of a Falcon flying over water with its own reflection, or even capturing that split second moment the wings of a Hawk flap before take off. This is the stuff of wildlife photography dreams.
The skilled staff are on hand to assist with the birds to help you get the very best opportunities to photograph. For example, they're very adept at hiding the Jesses from view (saving you a photoshop job afterwards!).
From simple but very effective portrait shots of birds on their perches, to snapping the raptor in full hunting mode, or atmospheric in-flight images, the falconry team is on hand to make it happen. That leaves you to concentrate fully on your camera set up and getting yourself into position.
As part of your birds of photography experience, you will also be invited to attend the regular flying demonstration on the day. You'll have access to all areas (as long as you're not blocking spectators' views) and will be able to move around inside the arena too.
