This Outer Banks Photo Workshop offers a variety of photographic opportunities —lighthouses, miles of pristine beaches, sand dunes, small boat harbors, historic sites, fishing piers, wildlife reserves, and parks. Over the ocean, along the shoreline, and in the marshes, waterways, and forests, we will look for photographic subjects including pelicans, herons, shorebirds, warblers, pelagic seabirds, dolphins, deer, fox, and other wildlife. Locations to be visited include Bodie and Currituck Beach Lighthouses, Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, Duck boardwalk overlooking Currituck Sound, Wanchese Harbor, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, and Hatteras National Seashore. On the Outer Banks, sunrises are often spectacular. The image below is of Avalon Pier as the sun is rising. Jennette’s Pier (1000 foot-long pier in Nags Head) also offers wonderful opportunities for photography where we hope to capture images of flying pelicans, pelagic birds, propose, surfers, and fisherman.
Avalon Pier with Brown Pelicans flying overhead.
Avalon Pier pilings early morning.
On 4 Dec there will be an orientation meeting at 7 pm, EST at the John Yancey Inn Oceanfront, Kill Devil Hills, NC where participants are invited to share their background in photography and goals for the workshop. I will discuss logistics, safety, the tentative schedule, potential subjects and locations, and photo tips. Each day will begin at dawn for sunrise photography and will end the day at sundown except on Sunday, 7 December when the program will end at noon. Three night’s accommodations at the John Yancey Inn are included in the workshop price.
Note: As usual with my workshops, I will arrive several days prior to the group to access current local conditions and to scout the best locations for photography. The exact locations and times may vary according to weather, safety considerations, current road conditions, and desires of the group.
I do not photograph during the workshop so my attention can be focused on each participant.
Surfer at Jeanette’s Pier.
Jeanette’s Pier at sundown.
Waves crashing against abandoned pilings.
The Changing Face of Barrier Islands
The Outer Banks consists of a narrow string of barrier islands running parallel to the North Carolina coast for 150 miles from the Virginia border to Shackleford Banks in the south. A network of bridges and ferries join the islands together making it easy to travel from one to the next. The Outer Banks are separated from the mainland by bays and inlets including Currituck and Pamlico Sounds. Like all barrier islands, those of the Outer Banks are in a constant state of flux being reshaped by the wind, waves, tides, & storms. Today’s shallow coves fill with sand and become the marshes of tomorrow. The most dramatic changes in appearance are caused by fierce coastal storms like the winter “nor’easters” and the fall hurricanes. When these storms coincide with seasonal high tides, the results can be disastrous, creating new inlets, washing out sections of the main highway running the length of the Outer Banks (Route 12) and tumbling beach-front homes into the sea. Our exact itinerary can be influenced by weather and road access.
Wave with spray on windy day.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
For thousands of years, North Carolina’s Outer Banks have survived onslaughts of wind and sea. This thin, broken strand of islands curves out into the Atlantic Ocean and back again sheltering North Carolina’s mainland and offshore sounds. Cape Hatteras National Seashore protects long stretches of beach, sand dunes, marshes, and woodlands that are part of three barrier islands– Bodie Island, Hatteras Island, and Ocracoke Island. It extends more than 70 miles south of Nags Head.
It and other undeveloped beaches, offer wonderful opportunities for photography–sunrise, waves, shells, patterns in the sand, dunes, driftwood, beach vegetation, and local wildlife. Because of strong currents and turbulence off shore, food is abundant, supporting not only large populations of seabirds, but dolphins, whales and other marine mammals. Those will longer lenses may be able to capture images of the sanderlings or other small shorebirds as they chase receding waves to feed on crabs and other tiny organisms in the exposed wet sand. Or you may have opportunities to photograph Brown Pelicans flying in formation, gliding just inches above the water’s surface, or plunging head first into the ocean.
Oregon Inlet
Oregon Inlet connects the Atlantic Ocean with Pamlico Sound. For years, the Bonner Bridge, the longest bridge on the Rt. 12 which runs the length of Outer Banks, provided vehicle access to the southern part of the Outer Banks. Due to shifting sand, strong currents, and instability, the Bonner Bridge in recent years had to be replaced. The 2.8-mile Marc Basnight Bridge now connects the northern and southern parts of the Outer Banks.
The southern portion of the old Bonner bridge was turned into a 1046-foot long fishing pier. The Pier opened on Oct. 1, 2021 with cooperation between the National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Oregon Inlet is rich with marine life due to mixing of salt water with fresh and attracts fish, birds and fisherman. From the pier, we will try to get images of pelicans, cormorants, ospreys, and pelagic sea bird attracted to the abundant food supply.
Tundra Swan flapping backlit.
Near the entrance to the pier is a historic US Coast Guard station, (formerly a Lifesaving station) that has great photo potential. Near to the ocean, it sits in the midst of beautiful sand dunes.
Historic life saving station.
Bodie Lighthouse.
Bodie Lighthouse
The Bodie Island Lighthouse was erected to mark the entrance to Oregon Inlet and is still operating today. It is located at the north end of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, just south of Nags Head and 4 miles before the inlet. Todays lighthouse was built 1872 after the original one on the opposite bank of the inlet was destroyed in the Civil War. It was renovated in recent years, with the work concluded in 2013. It stands 150 feet tall and has a keepers quarters is adjacent to it. It is tucked away between tall pine trees and freshwater marshland.Deer are not an uncommon sight on the main entrance road to the parking area. There are several nature trails nearby including a .4 mile long boardwalk leading to aviewing platform overlooking a pond and marshland frequented by wading birds and others species.
Whte-tailed Deer at edge of woods
Ibis flying at sunset
Duck Boardwalk and Currituck Sound
The community of Duck on the northern end of the Outer Banks constructed an elevated boardwalk that is nearly a mile in length and is adjacent to Currituck Sound. At times, herons, waterfowl, turtles, and other species can be photographed from the various points along the walkway. It is the perfect place to capture incredible sunsets with swansor cypress trees in the foreground.
Boat house & heron at Historic Corolla Park.
Currituck Lighthouse during Christmas season.
Currituck Beach Lighthouse & Whalehead
The Currituck Beach Lighthouse still functions as a guide for passing mariners. It located in the heart of Corolla near the northern end of Rt. 12, the primary road that runs the length of the Outer Banks. This 162 foot tall lighthouse stands out for its distinctive red exterior. The design was intentional to set the Currituck Lighthouse apart from its Outer Banks neighbors. The lighthouse has been left unpainted so visitors could marvel at the sheer number of bricks involved in its construction. The lighthouse is adjacent to the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, the historic Whalehead Club, and Corolla Historic Park. The Whalehead, with its beautiful architecture, is a 1920’s mansion. It has served a number of purposes over the years including a secluded oceanfront retreat for this country’s wealthy hunters and conservationists.
Duck boardwalk Cypress sunset
Commercial fishing boat at Wanchese.
Manteo & Wanchese
On Roanoke Island, in the late 1800s, Manteo served as an important port and is one of the oldest towns in North Carolina with large ships docking at is waterfront. A short distance away is Wanchese,another fishing port. Once centers for boat building, both ports have diminished in importance today.
Roanoke Marsh Lighthouse in Manteo.
The Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse is on the east end of the Manteo waterfront. Reaches 40 yards out into Roanoke Sound with a boardwalk for access. Unlike Bodie and other lighthouses on the Outer Banks, the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse is a replica of a lighthouse that was constructed in 1877 at the southern entrance of the Croatan Sound in the village of Wanchese to help sailors and fishermen to find their way to port. It is a river lighthouse. So like its counterparts, it is much shorter and squatter than the other lighthouses on the Outer Banks. With its red roof, black shutters, and cottage-like appearance, it is a favorite subject for photographers. The town of Manteo, one of the oldest towns in North Carolina, is quaint and worth visiting with a number of unique shops, pubs, coffeehouses, restaurants, and a boardwalk along the waterfront. It is a nice place to pick up a coffee or sandwich after an active morning shooting session.
Nearby is the small community of Wanchese with a small harbor with trawlers and other commercial fishing boats plus a marina with a large number of sport fishing boats. Usually there are a few work boats tied up at the wharf along with nets, crab traps, colorful floats, and other fishing gear.
Tundra Swan aggressive pose.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is on the southern side of the Oregon Inlet and covers more than 5,900 acres. The water level is managed by a system of dikes and ponds to favor the production of food high in value to wildlife. The refuge provides a safe haven for winteringmigratory waterfowl with 25 species of ducks and more than 265 species of birds including osprey, Wilson’s plover, black skimmers, herons, avocets, white pelicans, and terns.We will explore the overlooks and trails in search of photo subjects. In early winter thousands of waterfowl including many tundra swans arrive at the refuge.
Tundra Swans fighting.
What to Bring
DSLR or Mirrorless camera, instruction manual, spare memory cards ,and batteries. Lenses from wide angle to 300 mm or more. Polarizing and a neutral density filter (optional). Sturdy tripod. For the image review session and editing images, bring a laptop computer or tablet. Edited images should be saved to a flash drive for transferring to my computer for viewing by the workshop group.
CLOTHING
It can be cold at this time of the year, so bring some warm clothing including gloves and hats. But in early December temperatures can also be mild. Dress in layers. The workshop will begin each day at dawn to take advantage of the warm, early morning light. Activities will proceed in the rain, so bring rain gear and waterproof covers for your camera and lenses. At this time of year, although not likely, ticks, flies or mosquitoes could still be present so bring insect repellant. For protection from UV radiation, I suggest wearing a hat and using sun screen. To prevent dehydration, bring water to each outing. Since we leave before the hotel offers breakfast, bring snacks.
Ducks flying over Pea Island at sunset.
Rt 12 road on Pea Island runing parallel to the dunes.
HANDOUTS
Also prior to our first meeting, please bring me on a thumb drive 2 sample images of your nature photography images for discussion. In a future handout, I will provide guidance as to file naming and formatting. Using the recommended naming protocol helps when sorting and reviewing the images. Also I will send other info on what to bring. You will be sent a liability release form and pre-workshop questionnaire that will help me to better address your needs.
SPECIAL NOTES
I will provide individual attention to each participant in the field matching each person’s skill level. The itinerary is flexible and will be adjusted according to the location, availability of subjects, the weather, safety, group interest, and other factors. Paths may be uneven, wet in spots, or sandy. The trails I selected for the workshop are easy to moderate in difficulty. Anyone may abstain from any activity and select an alternate one that is less strenuous. Boots with firm ankle support for hiking are recommended and boots or shoes suitable for walking along the beach and near the water’s edge.. The pace of the workshop is adjusted to the desires of the group and to allow participants to explore each location thoroughly and to ask questions. Car pooling is encouraged.
Brown Pelicans flying at sunrise.
PRICE $1058 based on single occupancy; $ 955 based on double occupancy.
ACCOMMODATIONS – Price includes 3 nights accommodations (John Yancey Inn, Ocean Front, Kill Devil Hills, Outer Banks), but does not include food, transportation, tolls, any park fees or personal items.
Note: Part of your payment goes to fund the National Wildlife Refuge System.
Maximum number of participants – 6
Full payment due 30 days prior to the start of the workshop. Deposit: 50% prior to that date to hold your spot in the program. See cancellation policy posted below. If you have questions, contact me at (410) 679-2873 or (410) 960-5871 or e-mail me at ospreyphot@aol.com
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, $35 admin fee.
60 to 46 days prior to departure, 50% of workshop 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 & 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
This workshop focuses on one of my favorite fall photo destinations, the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia where I previously have conducted a number of photo workshops in the past. The workshop includes Canaan Valley, Blackwater Falls State Park, and other scenic areas nearby. Because of the high elevation in this region, fall arrives in early October when leaves on the mountainside turn from green to a mix of warm colors. Beaver, muskrats, bear, and other animals are active and sometimes visible as they gather food and prepare for the winter. It is the perfect time to visit West Virginia.
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE (Subject to change based on conditions at the time, safety, & weather)
Surise – 6:51 , Sunset 5:09 pm
6 Oct (Monday)
Orientation (7:00-8:15 PM) @ Blackwater Falls Lodge, Davis Room.
7 Oct (Tuesday)
Pre-dawn – 10:00 AM: (Canaan Valley – Sunrise, Blackwater River, Deer, Trails)
10:00 AM – 12:30 PM (Return to lodge, Lunch, Rest, Initial edit of images)
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM (Q&A)
1:00 PM – Sunset: (Seneca Rocks, Dolly Sods)
8 Oct (Wednesday)
Pre-dawn – 11:00 AM (Pendleton Lake, Blackwater River Overlook, Lindy Point)
11:00 AM-1:00 PM (Lunch, Initial edit of images)
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM (Image review)
2:30 PM – Sunset (Blackwater Falls, Davis/Thomas, Canaan Valley NWR, Sunset)
9 Oct (Thursday)
Pre-dawn – 11:00 AM (Roadside view of falls, Blackwater River, Elakala Trail/Falls)
11:00 AM (Check out of hotel, End of Workshop)
Sunset over Canaan Valley
Blackwater Canyon with river and fall color.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Lodging
The workshop package includes 3 nights at Blackwater Falls Lodge in the heart of Blackwater Falls State Park. The view of the Blackwater Canyon from the back patio is eye-catching with weathered rock faces and colorful hillsides. It is ideally located with easy access to trails, waterfalls, and overlooks of the Blackwater Canyon. (3 nights accommodations in included).
Fall color
Photo Opportunities
Blackwater Falls State Park is located in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. The centerpiece of the park is Blackwater Falls. After meandering through Canaan Valley the Blackwater River tumbles over boulders and plunges 62 feet into Blackwater Canyon. Walkways, stairs, and platforms provide a variety of viewpoints from which you can photograph the falls.
Close to the hotel is the trail to Elakala Falls where a series waterfalls from Shays Run descend into the Blackwater Canyon. A bridge provides a view of the falls from the top. The descent to the base of the upper falls presents photographers with a unique view but can be a bit difficult to reach safely. Often I concentrate my efforts on photographing the stream above the falls capturing images of floating leaves, bubbles and foam, and swirling patterns from the water entering circular pools.
Dead leaf floating in stream
A short drive from the lodge is Pendleton Point Overlook with views up and down Blackwater Canyon. A trail from the parking lot leads to Pendleton Lake where onstill days autumn colors from the surrounding trees reflect in the lake’s surface. Often on cool mornings, fog rises from the lake’s surface creating magical scene as it slowly rises to reveal the surroundings.
Decaying Leaf.
My favorite overlook of Blackwater Canyon is Lindy Point. A narrow road adjacent to the park’s cross-country ski center leads to a small parking lot and the trail head to the point. The relativity easy .4 mile trail leads to a wooden platform and rock ledges that provide panoramic views of the 3000-foot canyon walls.
Linde Point
White-Tailed Deer buck with antlers
Canaan Valley State Park
Approximately 7 miles from Blackwater Falls State Park is Canaan Valley State Park. This 6000-acre property has over 18 miles trails through woods, meadows, marshes and along the slow-moving Blackwater River. It is home to wildlife including deer, bear, raccoons, beaver, skunks, herons, muskrats, waterfowl and on rare occasions, bobcat. At 3200 feet above sea level, Canaan Valley is cooler than the surrounding countryside so fall color comes earlier than in the much of the state. In early October, overnight temperatures can dip below freezing resulting in a delicate coating of frost on grasses, fall flowers, and other vegetation.
It is rutting season for White-tailed Deer causing them to be more visible than earlier in the year. Bucks are their most handsome with sharpened antlers and heavy winter coats. Migrating Canada Geese and other waterfowl are quite vocal and can be spotted as they fly overhead on their way to feed in the wetlands.
If we are lucky, the chair lift concession that is open during skiing season is operating and can take us to Bald Knob Trail for panoramic views of Canaan Valley.
Canaan Valley stand of maples, WV
Dolly Sods Wilderness
If time permits, we will briefly stop for photos of Seneca Rocks on our way to Dolly Sods located in the Allegheny Mountains of eastern West Virginia. It is part of the Monongahela National Forest with elevations ranging from 2,500 to over 4,700 feet. The rugged terrain was shaped by logging, fires and the harsh climate. It is home to more than a dozen rare plant and animal species. At the highest elevations, the scene more resembles the arctic rather than West Virginia. Several gravel roads lead to the top of Dolly’s plateau and connect with a narrow road that follows the ridge-line providing sweeping vistas of distant mountains. As the road climbs higher, the landscape becomes populated by one-sided stunted trees, lichen-covered boulders, sphagnum bogs, heath barrens, and low-growing shrubs. In early October, the leaves of blueberry and cranberry bushes turn red and glow when backlit by the setting sun.
At the eastern end of the road is an area referred to as Bear Rocks. A wall of huge, irregularly shaped boulders rest on the mountain ridge. From high vantage points on clear days one can see as far as Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.
Fall color reflected in creek.
Bear Rocks
General Info:
This workshop is designed for those with a basic knowledge of the operation of their 35 mm SLR or mirrorless camera with an interest in improving their photographic skills and optimizing the use of their camera. After Monday evening’s orientation, workshop activities will begin at dawn each day to take advantage of the warm early morning light & heightened animal activity. Afternoons will be spent in the field photographing until sunset. Mid-days will be reserved for rest, lunch and photo editing. On Wednesday, time will be set aside for reviewing class images. Thursday’s activities will again begin at dawn with the workshop officially ending at 11:00 AM.
PRICE: $1218 (based on double occupancy); $ 1445 (based on single occupancy)
Preferred payment is by personal check or via Zelle. Visa and Mastercard payments will be accepted but with a 2 % admin fee. For security, credit card numbers should be supplied via phone contact and not via e-mail.
DEPOSIT: To reserve your spot in the workshop, 50% of total is due at registration. FINAL PAYMENT due 06 Sept 2023. Price includes accommodations for 3 nights at the lodge at Blackwater Falls State Park. It also includes park fees, the orientation meeting, an instructional PowerPoint presentation, one-on-one assistance in the field, and a critique of images. I assumes a basic understanding of camera operation and terms such as shutter speed and F-stop. Info on what to bring to the workshop will be provided at a later date along with health & liability forms.
The class size limited to 6 people for one-on-one instruction. My focus is on participants, so I do not photograph during the workshop.
The itinerary is subject to change and reflects observations from my pre-workshop scouting trip. It is flexible and will be altered dependent on the weather conditions, safety issues, availability and location of subjects, and participant interests. Hiking is limited but some areas may be rocky or wet so consider wearing boots with firm ankle support. You can refrain from activity that you feel is too difficult or dangerous and pursue an alternate activity. Since temperatures can vary from freezing to the low 70s, plan to dress in layers. Bring rain gear for yourself and photo equipment. Bring breakfast snacks since departures will be at dawn. A short distance from our hotel, in the town of Davis, there is a grocery store where you can pick up supplies. Also prior to our early morning departures, you can pick up food at the gas station/convenience store just outside the park entrance.
If you have any questions or concerns contact Irene Hinke-Sacilotto at isacilotto@aol.com or Office (410) 679-2873 or Mobile (410) 960-5871
Creek with fall color.
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 beginning of the workshop – full refund.
120 to 61 days prior to t, a $35 administrative fee will be charged.
60 to 46 days prior to the beginning of the workshop, 50% of workshop price will be charged.
45 days or less prior to departure – NO REFUND
Medical circumstances or emergencies do not constitute grounds for exception to the cancellation policy nor do weather conditions. 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.
During this Badlands of South Dakota Photo Workshop we will explore Badlands National Park and locations in the vicinity of the park. The workshop begins with an orientation session at the Best Western in Wall on Friday, September 12, 2025 at 7:00 PM and ends on Monday, September 15, 2025 at Sunset. On most days, we will be in the field at before dawn to photograph sunrise and take advantage of the early morning light. Likewise, we will end each day’s activities at sunset when the sun is low in the sky, colors are warm, and the light accentuates the relief and texture of the land. During the beginning and end of the day, the light is soft light and complementary, without the harsh light of mid-day. At these times, animals are more active and easily located. Mid-days will be reserved for rest, reflection, image editing/review, or travel between locations. Photo opportunities include both the unique scenery of the Badlands and local wildlife.
Maximum number of participants, 6. The low student to instructor ratio maximizes flexibility and provides each person with individual attention. Photographers of all levels are welcome.
Yellow mounds.
Sage Creek eroded cliff
Geology & Wildlife
Once the site of an ancient sea, the South Dakota Badlands have been transformed over thousands of years into the land you see today. Layers of sediment and ash were eroded away leaving behind multi-colored rocks and boulders balanced on pedestals of stone. Eroded canyons and isolated buttes stand as testament to the power of the wind and rain. At first glance, the land seems sterile, yet close examination reveals a variety of creatures. Agile bighorn scale steep canyon walls and the males fight for dominance of herds. Pronghorn and buffalo graze on prairie grasses while hawks circle overhead. In prairie dog towns, occupants groom, nibble on grasses, and jump, yipping alarm calls suggesting there is an intruder in the colony — perhaps a badger or coyote in search of a meal. Providing easy access to unusual geologic formations, trails, and favorite wildlife haunts, a loop road meanders through the northern portion of the park. South of Sage Creek is Sheep Mountain Table. At its base are unique formations where rocks are balanced on limestone pedestals. A dirt road leads to a high, flat plateau which is isolated from the surrounding terrain by deeply cut canyons. Once on top, the views are spectacular and dirt roads lead to a variety of vantage points.
Badger near prairie dog colony.
Orientation Program & Planning
During the orientation session, participants will have the opportunity to introduce themselves and express their goals for attending the workshop. Using a PowerPoint program, I will cover trip logistics, the basic itinerary, ethics, safety, how to approach and photograph wildlife, and considerations for capturing dramatic landscapes images.
I will be on-site a week prior to the program to check out current conditions and best locations for photography. The itinerary will be flexible in response to weather, lighting, availability of animals, client safety, and the desires of the group. Each day we will begin with pre-dawn photography including sunrise, scenery in early morning light, and wildlife in the area. How long we remain in a particular location will depend on what photo opportunities that exist at that time. Middays will be aside for lunch, personal errands, image editing/review, or transportation to new photo locations. In the afternoon, we will resume photographing until twilight. I have set aside time for a group review of images taken earlier in the week.
This is my 4rd fall program offered in the South Dakota Badlands. Plus I co-led 2 workshops in the spring as well.
Coyote hunting near prairie dog town.
Potential photo locations:
Pinnacles Overlook
Robert’s Prairie Dog Town
Sage Creek Area
Badlands Loop Road
Cedar Pass Area
Door, Notch, Window and Fossil Exhibit Trails
Buffalo Gap National Grasslands
Sage Creek Rim Road
The historic town of Scenic
Sheep Mountain Table (Stronghold Unit, if roads permit)
Storm over Badlands
Accessibility/Difficulty
There will be a small amount of hiking on boardwalks and over rocky areas but mostly on level, well-worn paths. While photographing, we will adhere to park rules and responsible wildlife guidelines set forth by the National Park Service.
Bighorn Sheep at sunset
DETAILS
PRICE:$ 2450. Includes 4 days accommodation based on double occupancy. Single occupancy – $ 2795.
Workshop limited to 6 participants.
(Note: A Commercial Activity Permit is required in order to conduct workshops in the Badlands National Park of South Dakota. The fee is a flat rate independent of the number of participants and number of workshops. The price of this workshop includes a fee to cover the cost of the permit).
(Minimum of 4 participants necessary at the quoted price. In the event there are only 3 participants, a small group supplement of $250 will be added to the price above for each person.)
Deposit: $300 to hold a spot in this workshop. Balance is due by 12 August, 2025.
Fill out the form and send it to me along with your payment. Checks should be made out to Photography by Hinke-Sacilotto. Mail to: Irene Sacilotto, 542 C Riviera Dr, Joppa, MD 21085. (For payment, checks or transfer of funds via Zelle are preferred. Visa or MasterCard payments are accepted with a 2 % fee for processing. For security, call with your credit card info).
Curious male Pronghorn Antelope.
Prairie Dog line up
What is included:
Orientation PowerPoint presentation.
4 nights accommodations at the Best Western Plains in Wall, SD, 712 Glenn St, Wall, SD 57790.
Field sessions with one-on-one instruction.
Image review during workshop.
Instructor with nearly 40 years experience leading workshops & tours.
Well-planned and researched itineraries.
Photo locations selected based on my scouting time immediately prior to the start of the program.
Small group size (limited to 6)
The orientation meeting will be held at the Best Western Plains.
Cancellation policy:
Notices of cancellations must be in writing:
Cancel up to 121 days prior to the beginning of the workshop – full refund.
120 to 61 days prior to t, a $35 administrative fee will be charged.
60 to 46 days prior to the beginning of the workshop, 50% of workshop price will be charged.
45 days or less prior to departure – NO REFUND
Not included:
Airfare, transportation on site, and meals.
Badlands NP entry fees. Bring your America the Beautiful pass or senior pass if you have one to cover your entry fee. Otherwise vehicles will be charged an entrance fee. If you ride-share, one pass will cover four passengers in one vehicle.
Trip insurance. You are encouraged to purchase trip insurance in case of an unforeseen emergency which requires you to cancel.
Transportation To, From, and Within the Park
You are responsible for transportation to and from Wall, SD and throughout the park every day. Ride sharing is encouraged. You can reserve and pick up a rental car at the airport in Rapid City, SD if you are flying in for the workshop. Rapid City (RAP) is the nearest airport to Wall which is approximately a one hour drive east on Interstate 90.
Pronghorn Antelope turning
WHAT TO BRING
Bring a laptop or tablet with photo editing software and flash/thumb drive for image transfer for review.
Be prepared to dress in layers since the temperatures can vary widely at this time of the year. Include sunscreen.
Lenses – wide angle for scenes to telephotos. A 300 mm should be adequate for larger animals. For small birds, a 500 or 600 mm is suggested. (Zoom lenses covering these ranges are fine.)
Sturdy tripod
Rain gear for you and your equipment
For toiletries and other items you may have left at home, there is a Walmart and Target in Rapid City. Also for field items, there is a Cabela’s/Bass Pro store in Rapid City on 3231 East Mall Drive. It carries a wide range of clothing and other accessories that might be useful during the workshop.
Since we will be departing early, I suggest purchasing water, items for breakfast and snacks. We will either return to Wall for lunch or stop at the restaurant at Cedar Pass. Wall, SD has a grocery store, gas stations, lodging, restaurants, and the famous Wall Drug and EWilotohotomporium.
This Outer Banks Photo Workshop offers a variety of photographic opportunities —lighthouses, miles of pristine beaches, sand dunes, small boat harbors, historic sites, fishing piers, wildlife reserves, and parks. Over the ocean, along the shoreline, and in the marshes, waterways, and forests, we will look for photographic subjects including pelicans, herons, shorebirds, warblers, pelagic seabirds, dolphins, deer, fox,and other wildlife. Locations to be visited include Bodie and Currituck Beach Lighthouses, Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, Duck boardwalk overlooking Currituck Sound, Wanchese Harbor, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve, and Hatteras National Seashore. On the Outer Banks, sunrises are often spectacular. The image below is of Avalon Pier as the sun is rising. Jennette’s Pier (1000 foot-long pier in Nags Head) also offers wonderful opportunities for photography where we hope to capture images of flying pelicans, pelagic birds, propose, surfers, and fisherman.
Avalon Peer at sunrise.
Willets feeding in surf with golden light on water.
On 5 Dec there will be an orientation meeting at 7 pm, EST where participants are invited to share their background in photography and goals for the workshop. I will discuss logistics, safety, the tentative schedule, potential subjects and locations, and photo tips. Each day will begin at dawn for sunrise photography and will end the day at sunset except on Sunday, 8 December when the program will end at noon. Three night’s accommodations at the John Yancey Inn are included in the workshop price.
Note: As usual with my workshops, I will arrive several days prior to the group to access current local conditions and to scout the best locations for photography. The exact locations and times may vary according to weather, safety considerations, current road conditions, and desires of the group.
I do not photograph during the workshop so my attention can be focused on each participant.
AvalonPier at Sunrise
Skimmer Board used at Jennette’s pier by young boy.
The Changing Face of Barrier Islands
The Outer Banks consists of a narrow string of barrier islands running parallel to the North Carolina coast for 150 miles from the Virginia border to Shackleford Banks in the south. A network of bridges and ferries join the islands together making it easy to travel from one to the next. The Outer Banks are separated from the mainland by bays and inlets, with Pamlico Sound being the largest (30 miles across at its widest). Like all barrier islands, those of the Outer Banks are in a constant state of flux being reshaped by the wind, waves, tides, & storms. Today’s shallow coves fill with sand and become the marshes of tomorrow. The most dramatic changes in appearance are caused by fierce coastal storms like the winter “nor’easters” and the fall hurricanes. When these storms coincide with seasonal high tides, the results can be disastrous, creating new inlets, washing out sections of the main highway running the length of the Outer Banks (Route 12) and tumbling beach-front homes into the sea. Our exact itinerary can be influenced by weather and changes in road access.
Wave with spray on windy day.
Abandon pier at sunrise.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
For thousands of years, North Carolina’s Outer Banks have survived onslaughts of wind and sea. This thin, broken strand of islands curves out into the Atlantic Ocean and back again sheltering North Carolina’s mainland and offshore sounds. Cape Hatteras National Seashore protects long stretches of beach, sand dunes, marshes, and woodlands that are part of three barrier islands– Bodie Island, Hatteras Island, and Ocracoke Island. It extends more than 70 miles south of Nags Head.
It and other undeveloped beaches, offer wonderful opportunities for photography–sunrise, waves, shells, patterns in the sand, dunes, driftwood, beach vegetation, and local wildlife. Because of strong currents and turbulence off shore, food is abundant, supporting not only large populations of seabirds, but dolphins, whales and other marine mammals. Those will longer lenses may be able to capture images of the sanderlings or other small shorebirds as they chase receding waves to feed on crabs and other tiny organisms in the exposed wet sand. Or you may have opportunities to photograph Brown Pelicans flying in formation and gliding just inches above the water’s surface or plunging head first into the ocean.
Tundra Swan splash landing
Blue-winged Teal taking off.
Group of swans interacting.
Oregon Inlet
Oregon Inlet connects the Atlantic Ocean with Pamlico Sound. For years, the Bonner Bridge, the longest bridge on the Rt. 12 which runs the length of Outer Banks, provided vehicle access to the southern part of the Outer Banks. Due to shifting sand, strong currents, and instability, the Bonner Bridge had to be replaced. The 2.8-mile Marc Basnight Bridge now connects the northern and southern parts of the Outer Banks.
The southern portion of the old Bonner bridge was turned into a 1046-foot long fishing pier. The Pier opened on Oct. 1, 2021 with cooperation between the National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Oregon Inlet is rich with marine life due to mixing of salt water with fresh and attracts fish, birds and fisherman. From the pier, we will try to get images of pelicans, cormorants, ospreys, and pelagic sea bird attracted to the abundant food supply.
Canada goose reaching out.
Tundra Swan flapping backlit.
Near the entrance to the pier is a historic US Coast Guard station, (formerly a Lifesaving station) that has great photo potential. Near to the ocean, it sits in the midst of beautiful sand dunes.
Oregon Inlet Life Saving Station
Bodie Lighthouse & Keepers Quarters
Bodie Lighthouse
The Bodie Island Lighthouse was erected to mark the entrance to Oregon Inlet and is still operating today. It is located at the north end of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, just south of Nags Head and 4 miles before the inlet. Todays lighthouse was built 1872 after the original one on the opposite bank of the inlet was destroyed in the Civil War. It was renovated in recent years, with the work concluded in 2013. It stands 150 feet tall and has a keepers quarters is adjacent to it. It is tucked away between tall pine trees and freshwater marshland.Deer are not an uncommon sight on the main entrance road to the parking area. There are several nature trails nearby including a .4 mile long boardwalk leading to aviewing platform overlooking a pond and marshland frequented by wading birds and others species.
Osprey carrying fish.
Duck Boardwalk and Currituck Sound
The community of Duck on the northern end of the Outer Banks constructed an elevated boardwalk that is nearly a mile in length and is adjacent to Currituck Sound. Herons, waterfowl, turtles, and other species can be photographed from the various points along the walkway. It is the perfect place to capture incredible sunsets with swansor cypress trees in the foreground.
Cypress tree at sunset.
Currituck Beach Lighthouse & Whalehead
The Currituck Beach Lighthouse still functions as a guide for passing mariners. It located in the heart of Corolla near the northern end of Rt. 12, the primary road that runs the length of the Outer Banks. This 162 foot tall lighthouse stands out for its distinctive red exterior. The design was intentional to set the Currituck Lighthouse apart from its Outer Banks neighbors. The lighthouse has been left unpainted so visitors could marvel at the sheer number of bricks involved in its construction. The lighthouse is adjacent to the the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, the historic Whalehead Club, and Corolla Park. The Whalehead, with its beautiful architecture, is a 1920’s mansion. Although serving other purposes over the years, it was once a secluded oceanfront retreat for this country’s wealthy hunters and conservationists.
Bald Cypress Tree Currituck Sound Sunset.
Manteo & Wanchese
On Roanoke Island, in the late 1800s, Manteo served as an important port and is one of the oldest towns in North Carolina with large ships docking at is waterfront. A short distance away is Wanchese,another fishing port. Once centers for boat building, both ports have diminished in importance today. But they still have small boat harbors where a small number of trawlers, crabbing, and other commercial and sports fishing boats dock.
Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
The Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse is on the east end of the Manteo waterfront. Reaches 40 yards out into Roanoke Sound with a boardwalk for access. Unlike Bodie and other lighthouses on the Outer Banks, the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse is a replica of a lighthouse that was constructed in 1877 at the southern entrance of the Croatan Sound in the village of Wanchese to help sailors and fishermen to find their way to port. It is a river lighthouse. So like its counterparts, it is much shorter and squatter than the other lighthouses on the Outer Banks. With its red roof, black shutters, and cottage-like appearance, it is a favorite subject for photographers. The town of Manteo, one of the oldest towns in North Carolina, is quaint and worth visiting with a number of unique shops, pubs, coffeehouses, restaurants, and a boardwalk along the water. It is a nice place to pick up a coffee or sandwich after an active morning shooting session. Nearby is the small community of Wanchese with a small harbor and marina with large sport fishing boats. Usually there are a few work boats tied up at the wharf along with fishing nets, crab traps and other gear. In the past, it has been a good location to photograph ospreys and pelicans.
Avocet preening.
Brown Pelican landing.
PEA ISLAND NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is on the southern side of the Oregon Inlet and covers more than 5,900 acres. The water level is managed by a system of dikes and ponds to favor the production of food high in value to wildlife. The refuge provides a safe haven for winteringmigratory waterfowl with 25 species of ducks and more than 265 species of birds including osprey, Wilson’s plover, black skimmers, wading birds, and least terns.We will explore the overlooks and trails in search of photo subjects. In early winter thousands of waterfowl including tundra swans arrive at the refuge.
Tundra Swan landing.
What to Bring
DSLR or Mirrorless camera, instruction manual, spare memory cards ,and batteries. Lenses from wide angle to 300 mm or more. Polarizing and a neutral density filter. Sturdy tripod. For the image review session and editing images, bring a laptop computer or tablet. Edited images should be saved to a flash drive for transferring to my computer for viewing by the group.
CLOTHING
It can be cold at this time of the year, so bring some warm clothing. But in early December temperatures can also be mild. Dress in layers. The workshop will begin each day at dawn to take advantage of the warm, early morning light. Activities will proceed in the rain, so bring rain gear and waterproof covers for your camera and lenses. At this time of year, ticks, flies or mosquitoes could still be present so bring insect repellant. For protection from UV radiation, I suggest wearing a hat and using sun screen. To prevent dehydration, bring water to each outing.
HANDOUTS
Also prior to our first meeting, please bring me on a thumb drive 2 sample images of your nature photography images for discussion. In a future handout, I will provide guidance as to file naming and formatting. Using the recommended naming protocol helps when sorting and reviewing the images besides info on what to bring. You will also be sent a liability release form and pre-workshop questionnaire that will help me to better address your needs. These should be completed before the class.
Yellowlegs after catching fish.
SPECIAL NOTES
I will provide individual attention to each participant in the field matching each their skill level. The itinerary is flexible and will be adjusted according to the location and availability of subjects, the weather, safety, group interest, and other factors. Paths may be uneven, wet in spots, or sandy. The trails I selected for the workshop are easy to moderate in difficulty. Anyone may abstain from any activity and select an alternate that is less strenuous. Boots with firm ankle support for hiking are recommended. The pace of the workshop is adjusted to the desires of the group and to allow participants to explore each location thoroughly and to ask questions. Car pooling is encouraged where possible & safe. Much in terms of health precautions will depend on the situations relative to COVID or other health risks at the time.
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PRICE $ 998 based on single occupancy; $ 896 based on double occupancy.
ACCOMMODATIONS – Price includes 3 nights accommodations (John Yancey Inn, Ocean Front, Kill Devil Hills, Outer Banks), but does not include food, transportation, tolls, any park fees or personal items.
Maximum number of participants – 6
Full payment due 30 days prior to the start of the workshop. Deposit: 50% prior to that date. See cancellation policy posted with registration form on web site. If you have questions, contact me at (410) 679-2873 or (410) 960-5871 or e-mail me at ospreyphot@aol.com
(To register, complete the form at top of the “Events” web page).
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 & 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
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 Assateague’s/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 twisted preening.
Great Egrets landing in tree.
Friday
7:00 PM-8:15 PM (orientation)
Saturday
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 & 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 Best Western Plus Motel, Chincoteague Island, VA.)
Osprey taking off
Ocean Sunrise nice color and layers
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.
Fog at sunrise Black Duck Marsh
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.
Piping Plover preening
Bald Eagle lifting off from sand dune.
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
Immature Glossy Ibis feeding.
Cost/Person: $ 715
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.
Colt feeding outside fence.
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 & 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.
