Are you into wildlife photography but unsure where to start? This course will help you take your first steps into this extraordinary field.
You will learn to identify local species, understand their behavior, move confidently across different ecosystems, and much more.
This year‑long course is designed for those who want to document nature independently, without rigid frameworks, and with full creative freedom.
The course alternates classroom-based theory with field sessions and in‑depth training in post‑processing techniques.
Each lesson can also be attended online during evening hours.
Each theoretical lesson lasts approximately two hours.
Lesson 1: course introduction, what wildlife photography is, ethics in wildlife photography, first steps, equipment costs, and how to invest wisely and sustainably.
Lesson 2: photography fundamentals, camera settings, effective focusing systems, introduction to animal behavior, visual research, portrait and environmental portrait photography, and briefing for the first field trip.
Lesson 3: first field trip with a basic approach (location chosen by the instructor).
Lesson 4: review of JPG images and group feedback.
Lesson 5: post‑processing fundamentals.
Lesson 6: hide and stalking techniques, ethological overview of deer species (roe deer, fallow deer, red deer), preparation for the field session.
Lesson 7: field trip focused on photographing fallow deer during the rut.
Lesson 8: JPG image review and RAW file post‑processing.
Lesson 9: alpine wildlife photography, mountain environments, ethological overview of alpine chamois, alpine ibex, bearded vulture, and golden eagle.
Lesson 10: field trip to Gran Paradiso National Park to photograph alpine wildlife.
Lesson 11: JPG image review and RAW image post‑processing.
Lesson 12: full session dedicated to post‑processing, questions, and in‑depth discussion of any technical doubts.
Lesson 13: birdwatching techniques, bird photography, locations and seasons to observe different species. Ethological notes on the European bee‑eater and preparation for the field trip.
Lesson 14: half‑day field trip focused on the European bee‑eater in Ticino Valley Natural Park.
Lesson 15: JPG image review and RAW file post‑processing.
Lesson 16: closing session, feedback, and shared reflections on your learning journey.
Included: all theoretical and field lessons.
Not included: transportation and accommodation, if required.
Gran Paradiso National Park
Ticino Valley Natural Park.