by Osprey Photo Workshops & Tours | Jan 22, 2025
Chincoteague NWR Photo Workshop Fall 2025
With Irene Hinke-Sacilotto
14 – 16 November 2025
Price: $ 735
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is located on the southern Virginia end of the barrier island of Assateague. The refuge attracts large numbers of waterfowl, herons, ibis, ospreys, shorebirds, warblers, and other migrants. It is also the home to wild horses, deer, raccoon, fox squirrels, and other animals. Used to being protected, the wildlife is unusually tolerant of humans and presents visitors with great photo opportunities. The ocean, dunes, shells, harbor, and spectacular sunrises and sunsets offer workshop participants a variety of subjects with which to work. The program includes tips on locating and approaching wildlife, capturing in-flight shots of birds, equipment selection, composition, lighting, and exposure.
Last year participants had the opportunity to photograph brant, godwits, Dunlin and other shorebirds plus wild horses feeding on the shoreline. The pontoon boat offers a very stable platform for photography.
Special feature – Saturday afternoon pontoon boat trip along Assateague’s/Chincoteague’s shoreline with the hope of photographing wild horses, wading birds, porpoise and other wildlife. Last year participants had the opportunity to photograph brant, godwits, dunlin and other shorebirds plus wild horses feeding on the shoreline. The pontoon boat design to navigate in shallow waters and typically offers a relatively stable platform for photography. Note: For safety reasons, the trip is weather dependent.
Because of the small class size (8), this Chincoteague Photo Workshop is the perfect blend of one-on-one assistance in the field, an instructional PowerPoint presentation, and image critiques.
Class participant photographing sunrise.
Photographed from the beach at sunrise
Friday
7:00 PM-8:15 PM (orientation)
Dawn – 9:30 AM (photography @ Chincoteague, Assateague Island, and surroundings)
9:30 AM – 11:30 PM (image editing and lunch break)
11:30 – 1:00 PM (discussion/critique of workshop images)
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Boat trip followed by the exploring the Wildlife Loop & sunset.
Sunday
Sunrise to 10:00 AM (photography @ Chincoteague, Assateague Island, and surroundings)
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (image editing and lunch break)
12:00 – 2:00 PM (discussion/critique of workshop images)
Orientation, meetings, & critiques will be held at the Hilton Spark Motel (Previously the Best Western), Chincoteague Island, VA.)
Sunrise over Black Duck Marsh.
Great Blue Heron feeding on shoreline of marsh
Description:
This Chincoteague Photo Workshop is designed for those with a basic knowledge of the operation of a 35 mm SLR digital or mirrorless camera with an interest in nature photography. Workshop emphasis is on improving photographic skills and optimize the use of your camera. Class includes an orientation PowerPoint program followed by photography sessions on Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Assateague Island, and in the town of Chincoteague. Included is a critique/review of images from the weekend. Topics covered: 1) equipment selection and operation, 2) composition, creativity and perspective, 3) metering and exposure, 4) lighting, 5) basic image manipulation and 6) locating, approaching and photographing wildlife.
White Ibis feeding at sunset.
Based on my findings from scouting the area prior to the workshop, the following will be discussed at the orientation meeting on Friday evening: departure times, destinations, current field conditions, potential subjects, equipment needed, safety, field ethics, and other logistical details including ride sharing. Prior to dawn on Saturday, we will depart for the wildlife refuge to photograph sunrise and take advantage of the soft, warm early morning light. Because wildlife is protected on the refuge, animals are abundant and unusually tolerant of humans to the pleasure of most photographers. Situated on the Atlantic Flyway, Chincoteague is a resting and refueling spot for migrating birds. Potential photo subjects include sand dunes, shells, ocean wave, fishing boats, fisherman, the lighthouse, and wildlife including sika elk and whitetail deer, fox, otters, raccoons, ponies, herons, rails, geese, ducks, shorebirds, hawks, and other resident and migratory species.
Bald Eagle flying overhead..
The orientation and discussion sessions for the Chincoteague Photo Workshop in November 2025 will be held at the Hilton Sparks Motel (previously the Best Western) in Chincoteague on Maddox Blvd just outside of the wildlife refuge. Contact the hotel for availability of rooms at (800) 553-6117 or (757) 336-6557. Mention you are part of the photo workshop led by Irene Hinke-Sacilotto and a discount rate may be available. Also, accommodatons can be found at other nearby hotels in the town of Chincoteague. For a listing of accommodations, go to www.chincoteaguechamber.com
White Ibis silhouettes @ sunset.
Cost/Person: $ 735
Deposit: 50% of the cost of the workshop. Final payment is due 30 days before start of photo workshop.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER. Complete the form and send it with your check. Mail to Irene Sacilotto, 542 C Riviera Dr, Joppa, MD 21085. Payment can also be transferred by Zelle. Credit cards (Visa & Master Cards) are accepted but incur a 2 % admin fee.
NOTE: The pontoon boat trip included in price of workshop. Students are responsible for their own accommodations, food, transportation, and park/refuge fees. Although transportation during the workshop is not be included in the price, ride sharing will be encouraged. The number of participants is limited to 8. Note: My attention is focused on participants so I do not photograph during the workshop.
Orientation, meetings, & critiques will be held at the Hilton Sparks, Chincoteague Island, VA.
Wild Horse splashing water as it walked towards the shoreline.
Cancellation Policy
Notifications of cancellation must be in writing.
The following charges apply per person at the time I receive your written notification of cancellation:
- Cancel up to 121 days prior to the start of the workshop – full refund.
- 120 to 61 days prior to the start of the workshop, a $35 administrative fee is charged.
- 60 to 46 days prior to the start of the workshop, 50% of workshop cost is charged.
- 45 days or less prior to the start of the workshop – NO REFUND
Medical circumstances or emergencies do not constitute grounds for exception to the cancellation policy nor does weather. Therefore, trip cancellation, interruption & medical insurance is HIGHLY recommended. Travelers Insurance Company and others provide such policies at a reasonable rate. In the unlikely event that the trip is canceled due to insufficient enrollment, your money will be refunded in full, with the exception of expenses you personally incurred while preparing for the trip.
Great Blue Heron fishing just after sunrise.
by Osprey Photo Workshops & Tours | Jan 22, 2025
Assateague Island National Seashore
Fall Photo Workshop
Led by Irene Hinke-Sacilotto and sponsored by the Assateague Island Alliance.
31 Oct – 2 Nov 2025
Twisted tree at sunrise
This Assateague Island National Seashore Photo Workshop is designed for those with a basic knowledge of the operation of a 35 mm SLR digital or mirrorless camera with an interest in nature photography who desire to improve their photographic techniques. Program includes field sessions on Assateague Island, instructive slide program, and critiques of participant images. Topics discussed include: 1) equipment selection and operation, 2) composition, creativity and perspective, 3) metering and exposure, 4) lighting, 5) basic image manipulation and 6) locating, approaching and photographing wildlife.
Stallion on the move
During the Friday evening orientation, departure times, current field conditions, potential subjects, equipment needed, safety, field ethics, and other logistical topics will be discussed. Prior to dawn on Saturday, the class participants will depart for the beach to photograph sunrise and take advantage of the soft, warm early morning light. Potential subjects during the workshop include the sunrise, sand dunes, shells, the surf, beach vegetation, fisherman, the wild horses of Assateague Island, and local wildlife (whitetail deer, fox, raccoons, herons, rails, geese, ducks, shorebirds, and other resident and migratory species.) Mid-day Saturday will be set aside for editing images and a review of photos taken during the morning. The remainder of the afternoon will be devoted to more photography of island inhabitants, the beach, and sunset. Sunday, photography will begin at dawn and continue through the morning. Mid-day editing will be followed by a final critique of images with the workshop ending at 1 to 2 pm. The number of participants is limited to 12.
Great Blue Heron challenging another bird.
SCHEDULE (2025):
Friday
Orientation (7:00 PM-8:15 PM)
Saturday
Sunrise –9:30 AM (photography)
9:30 AM – 1:00 PM (edit images, lunch)
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (critique of images)
3:00 PM – Sunset (photography)
Sunday
Sunrise – 9:30 AM (photography)
Mid-Day (lunch & prep images for review)
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (critique)
Snow fence with ripples in the sand at an early hour at Assateague Island National Seashore
Mockingbird singing.
Notes:
The timing of excursions will be adjusted as needed based on the weather, subject availability, results from my pre-workshop scouting to determine the best photo opportunities, and the desires of the class participants. Orientation, lectures and critiques will be held in the Assateague Island’s Visitor Center.
A pre-class assignment will be provided via e-mail along with guidance for submitting images for Friday night’s orientation.
Assumes a basic knowledge of your D-SLR digital or mirrorless camera and familiarization with basic terms such as F-stop, ISO, & exposure plus the ability to perform minor edits on images and download image files to e-mail or a thumb drive for the image review sessions. A laptop computer or tablet is required for image editing and transfer.
For those from out of state desiring overnight accommodations, rooms are available in Salisbury, West Ocean City, & Berlin, MD. It is best not to stay in Ocean City itself due to noise, traffic congestion and longer commute times. (From West Ocean City commute time to the Assateague meeting location is approximately a half hour or less travel).
Price: $ 425
Register early since this workshop fills rapidly.
Brown Pelicans flying at sunrise.
To register contact: The Assateague Island Alliance. They handle registration.
Assateague Nature Photography Fall 2025 Workshop
Email: info@assateagueislandalliance.org
Phone: 443 614-5375
Colt in late PM light.
Turkey on branch early am.
Cancellation Policy:
For cancellations made within 30 days of the start date, no refunds will be given. If AIA cancels the workshop participants will receive a full refund.
Black Duck Marsh at sunset.
Reflections off of the Life of Marsh Trail.
by Osprey Photo Workshops & Tours | Jan 29, 2024
Assateague Island National Seashore
Fall Photo Workshop
Led by Irene Hinke-Sacilotto and sponsored by the Assateague Island Alliance.
Fall Program: 11 -13 Oct 2024
Twisted tree at sunrise
This Assateague Island National Seashore Photo Workshop is designed for those with a basic knowledge of the operation of a 35 mm SLR digital camera an interest in nature photography and who desire to improve their photographic skills and optimize the use of their camera. Program includes field sessions on Assateague Island, instructive slide programs, and critiques of participant images. Topics discussed include 1) equipment selection and operation, 2) composition, creativity and perspective, 3) metering and exposure, 4) lighting, 5) digital media and image storage, 6) basic image manipulation and 7) locating, approaching and photographing wildlife.
Sanderling landing.
During the Friday evening orientation, departure times, current field conditions, potential subjects, equipment needed, safety, field ethics, and other logistical topics will be discussed. Prior to dawn on Saturday, the class participants will depart for the beach to photograph sunrise and take advantage of the soft, warm early morning light. Potential subjects include the sunrise, sand dunes, shells, the surf, beach vegetation, fisherman, the wild horses of Assateague Island, and local wildlife including whitetail deer, fox, raccoons, herons, rails, geese, ducks, shorebirds and other resident and migratory species. Mid-day will be set aside for editing images, followed by a critique of photos taken during the morning. The remainder of the afternoon will be devoted to more photography of island inhabitants, the beach and sunset. Sunday, photography will begin at dawn and continue through the morning. Mid-day editing will be followed by a final critique of images. The number of participants is limited to 12.
Yellow-rumped Warbler calling
SCHEDULE (2024):
Friday
Orientation (7:00 PM-8:30 PM)
Saturday
Sunrise –9:30 AM (photography)
9:30 AM – 1:00 PM (edit images, lunch)
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (critique of images)
3:00 PM – Sunset (photography)
Sunday
Sunrise – 9:30 AM (photography)
Mid-Day (lunch & prep images for review)
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (critique)
Snow fence with ripples in the sand at an early hour. Assateague Isand National Seashore
Cedar Waxwing feeding on berry on Assateague Island
Notes:
Timing of excursions will be adjusted as needed based on the weather, subject availability, and desires of the class participants. Orientation, lectures and critiques will be held in the Assateague Island’s Visitor Center.
A pre-class assignment will be provided via e-mail along with guidance for submitting images for Friday night’s orientation.
Assumes a basic knowledge of your D-SLR digital camera and familiarization with basic terms such as F-stop, ISO, & exposure plus the ability to perform minor edits on images and download your image files to e-mail or a thumb drive for the critique sessions. A laptop computer or tablet is required for image editing and transfer.
For those from out of state requiring overnight accommodations, rooms are available in Salisbury, West Ocean City, & Berlin, MD. (Approximately half hour or less travel time).
If COVID 19 continues to be an issue, special health precautions may apply such as mask wearing, social distancing, etc.
Price: $ 425
Register early since this workshop fills rapidly.
On the beach I found some goldenrod scattered along the dues. Knowing this was a plant the monarchs favored, I searched for flowering plants along the beach.
White-tailed Deer eating leaves.
To register contact: The Assateague Island Alliance.
Click on the following link to register:
https://demo4.advertisedelaware.com/wp-login.php
Email: info@assateagueislandalliance.org
Phone: 443 614-5375
Bald Eagle in pine.
Double-crested Cormorant swimming partially submerged.
Cancellation Policy:
For cancellations made within 30 days of the start date, no refunds will be given. If AIA cancels the workshop participants will receive a full refund.
Shorebirds on beach at sunrise.
Cancellation Policy
For all cancellations made by registered participants more than 30 days prior to the start date of the workshop, AIA will issue a refund of the registration fee minus a $25 administrative fee. For cancellations made within 30 days of the start date, no refunds will be given. If AIA cancels the workshop participants will receive a full refund.
by Osprey Photo Workshops & Tours | Dec 25, 2022
Diving Belted Kingfisher
Chincoteague NWR Photo Workshop Fall 2023
10 Nov (7 PM) – 12 Nov (2 PM)
Price: $689
Yellow Rumped Warbler feeding on berries.
Chincoteague NWR is located on the southern Virginia end of the barrier island of Assateague. The refuge attracts large numbers of waterfowl, herons, ibis, ospreys, shorebirds, warblers, and other migrants. It is also the home to wild horses, deer, raccoon, fox squirrels, and other animals. Used to being protected, the wildlife is unusually tolerant of humans and presents visitors with great photo opportunities. The ocean, dunes, shells, workboats, harbor, and spectacular sunrises and sunsets offer workshop participants a variety of subjects with which to work. The program includes tips on locating and approaching wildlife, capturing in-flight shots of birds, equipment selection, composition, lighting, and exposure. We will explore both the refuge, seashore, and the community.
Special feature – Saturday afternoon pontoon boat trip along Chincoteague’s shoreline with the hope of photographing wild horses, wading birds, porpoise and other wildlife. (weather dependent)
Because of the small class size (8), this Chincoteague Photo Workshop is the perfect blend of one-on-one assistance in the field, instructional PowerPoint presentations, and image critiques.
Sanderling feeding at surf line.
Friday
7:00 PM-8:30 PM (orientation)
Sunrise to 9:30 AM (photography @ Chincoteague, Assateague Island, and surroundings)
9:30 AM – 11:30 PM (image editing and lunch break)
11:30 – 1:00 PM (discussion/critique of workshop images)
1:00 PM til Sunset (Boat Trip & photography along Wildlife Drive)
Sunday
Sunrise to 10:00 AM (photography @ Chincoteague, Assateague Island, and surroundings)
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (image editing and lunch break)
12:00 – 2:00 PM (discussion/critique of workshop images)
Orientation, meetings, & critiques will be held at the Best Western Plus Motel, Chincoteague Island, VA.)
Description:
This Chincoteague Photo Workshop is designed for those with a basic knowledge of the operation of a 35 mm SLR digital or mirrorless camera with an interest in nature. Workshop emphasis is on improving photographic skills and optimize the use of your camera. Class includes an orientation PowerPoint program followed by photography sessions on Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Assateague Island, and in the town of Chincoteague. Included is a critique/review of images from the weekend. Topics covered: 1) equipment selection and operation, 2) composition, creativity and perspective, 3) metering and exposure, 4) lighting, 5) basic image manipulation and 6) locating, approaching and photographing wildlife.
Based on my findings from scouting the area prior to the workshop, the following will be discussed at the orientation meeting on Friday evening: departure time, current field conditions, potential subjects, equipment needed, safety, field ethics, and other logistical details. Prior to dawn on Saturday, we will depart for the wildlife refuge to photograph sunrise and take advantage of the soft, warm early morning light. Because wildlife is protected on the refuge, animals are abundant and unusually tolerant of humans to the pleasure of most photographers. Situated on the Atlantic Flyway, Chincoteague is a resting and refueling spot for migrating birds. Potential photo subjects include sand dunes, shells, ocean wave, fishing boats, fisherman, the lighthouse, local architecture, and wildlife including sika elk and whitetail deer, fox, otters, raccoons, ponies, herons, rails, swans, geese, ducks, shorebirds, hawks, and other resident and migratory species.
Sunrise.White Ibis landing in pool.
The orientation and discussion sessions for the Chincoteague Photo Workshop, November 2022, will be held at the Best Western Motel in Chincoteague on Maddox Blvd just outside of the wildlife refuge. For the weekend, a small block of rooms is reserved at the Best Western for workshop participants at a reduced price. Contact the hotel for availability at (800) 553-6117 or (757) 336-6557. Mention you are part of the photo workshop led by Irene Hinke-Sacilotto. Also, rooms should be available at other nearby hotels in the town of Chincoteague. For a listing of accommodations other than the Best Western, go to
www.chincoteaguechamber.com
Wild Chincoteague Pony
Cost/Person: $ 689
Deposit: 50% of cost. Final payment due 30 days before start of photo workshop.
To register, go to my website: www.ospreyphoto.com. Click on the home page “Register Now”. Complete the form and send it with your check, Mail to Irene Sacilotto, 542 C Riviera Dr, Joppa, MD 21085
NOTE: Pontoon boat trip included in price of workshop. Students are responsible for their own accommodations, food, transportation, and park/refuge fees. Where possible and COVID risk is minimized, we will carpool to locations. The number of participants is limited to 8. Note: My attention is focused on participants so I do not photograph during the workshop.
Orientation, meetings, & critiques will be held at the Best Western Plus Motel, Chincoteague Island, VA.
Raccoon Eyes
Cancellation Policy
Notifications of cancellation must be in writing.
The following charges apply per person at the time I receive your written notification of cancellation:
- Cancel up to 121 days prior to departure date – full refund.
- 120 to 61 days prior to departure, $125 administrative fee charged. ($35 admin fee for weekend workshops.)
- 60 to 46 days prior to departure, 50% of workshop or tour cost.
- 45 days or less prior to departure – NO REFUND
Medical circumstances or emergencies do not constitute grounds for exception to the cancellation policy nor does weather. Therefore, trip cancellation & interruption insurance is HIGHLY recommended. Travelers Insurance Company and others provide such policies at a reasonable rate. In the unlikely event that the trip is canceled due to insufficient enrollment, your money will be refunded in full, with the exception of expenses you personally incurred while preparing for the trip.
Red fox facing mouse.
by Osprey Photo Workshops & Tours | Nov 12, 2021
Assateague Island National Seashore
Fall Photo Workshop
Led by Irene Hinke-Sacilotto and sponsored by the Assateague Island Alliance.
Fall Program: Oct 27 – Oct 29 2023
Twisted tree at sunrise
This Assateague Island National Seashore Photo Workshop is designed for those with a basic knowledge of the operation of a 35 mm SLR digital camera an interest in nature photography and who desire to improve their photographic skills and optimize the use of their camera. Program includes field sessions on Assateague Island, instructive slide programs, and critiques of participant images. Topics discussed include 1) equipment selection and operation, 2) composition, creativity and perspective, 3) metering and exposure, 4) lighting, 5) digital media and image storage, 6) basic image manipulation and 7) locating, approaching and photographing wildlife.
Sanderling landing.
Snow fence with ripples in the sand at an early hour. Assateague Isand National Seashore
During the Friday evening orientation, departure times, current field conditions, potential subjects, equipment needed, safety, field ethics, and other logistical topics will be discussed. Prior to dawn on Saturday, the class participants will depart for the beach to photograph sunrise and take advantage of the soft, warm early morning light. Potential subjects include the sunrise, sand dunes, shells, the surf, beach vegetation, fisherman, the wild horses of Assateague Island, and local wildlife including whitetail deer, fox, raccoons, herons, rails, geese, ducks, shorebirds and other resident and migratory species. Mid-day will be set aside for editing images, followed by a critique of photos taken during the morning. The remainder of the afternoon will be devoted to more photography of island inhabitants, the beach and sunset. Sunday, photography will begin at dawn and continue through the morning. Mid-day editing will be followed by a final critique of images. The number of participants is limited to 12.
Wild horses on Assateague Island interacting.
SCHEDULE (2024):
Friday
Orientation (7:00 PM-8:30 PM)
Saturday
Sunrise –9:30 AM (photography)
9:30 AM – 1:00 PM (edit images, lunch)
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (critique of images)
3:00 PM – Sunset (photography)
Sunday
Sunrise – 9:30 AM (photography)
Mid-Day (lunch & prep images for review)
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (critique)
Cedar Waxwing feeding on berry on Assateague Island
Notes:
Timing of excursions will be adjusted as needed based on the weather, subject availability, and desires of the class participants. Orientation, lectures and critiques will be held in the Assateague Island’s Visitor Center.
A pre-class assignment will be provided via e-mail along with guidance for submitting images for Friday night’s orientation.
Assumes a basic knowledge of your D-SLR digital camera and familiarization with basic terms such as F-stop, ISO, & exposure plus the ability to perform minor edits on images and download your image files to e-mail or a thumb drive for the critique sessions. A laptop computer or tablet is required for image editing and transfer.
For those from out of state requiring overnight accommodations, rooms are available in Salisbury, West Ocean City, & Berlin, MD. (Approximately half hour or less travel time).
If COVID 19 continues to be an issue, special health precautions may apply such as mask wearing, social distancing, etc.
Price: $ 375
Register early since this workshop fills rapidly.
On the beach I found some goldenrod scattered along the dues. Knowing this was a plant the monarchs favored, I searched for flowering plants along the beach.
White-tailed Deer eating leaves.
To register contact: The Assateague Island Alliance.
Click on the following link to register:
https://assateagueislandalliance.org/collections/artist-workshops/products/assateague-nature-photography-fall-2023-workshop
Email: info@assateagueislandalliance.org
Phone: 410 629-6095/443 614-3547
Bald Eagle in pine.
Double-crested Cormorant swimming partially submerged.
Fawn in fall color
Cancellation Policy:
For cancellations made within 30 days of the start date, no refunds will be given. If AIA cancels the workshop participants will receive a full refund.
