Okavango 7 day Workshop

Dates; 23 to 29 October 2011

The trip is suitable for both the beginner and the more serious photographer, with the location in Botswana on the Okavango River. The venue is accessible by passenger vehicle as the road is tarred all the way from Johannesburg. The distance from Johannesburg is approximately 1350 Kms, so an overnight stay will be advisable. We can offer some suggestions in this regard, together with recommended travel details.

The big attraction here is the fantastic Photographic opportunities on the River.
Expect to photograph Fish Eagle catching fish, also Bee Eaters, King Fishers, African Skimmer and a variety of Storks and Egrets.
Boats have been reserved for this purpose. Adequate space is available to ensure photographers are not cramped
Also photograph African fishermen in Mokoros
Wildlife in the nearby Game Park
To keep the costs to an affordable level, we have arranged to camp at the venue. Camping facilities are excellent; big shade trees, numerous very clean ablutions, electrified sites, all in a fantastic setting.

Our itinerary

Day 1, Sunday - Pitch your tent and settle in to your accommodation.
Day 2, Early morning coffee & rusks. Board our boats to get the best of the early morning light. We will explore the opportunities presented by the river. Stop to photograph Fish Eagles catching fish, Bee Eaters in their nests numerous other bird species on the river. We return to our camp for brunch.
   - At camp we will review images;
   - Using a projector to view and assess images taken that morning, together with the necessary feedback.
   - Daily discussion and interaction with other photographers.
   - Afternoon light on the boat will be exploited further for photography opportunities.
Day 3, as for Day 2, with daily discussion;
Day 4, We take relief from the river and use the opportunity to visit the nearby Mahango Game Reserve to photograph game, or visit nearby Tsodillo Hills with its world famous bushman rock art. You will be provided with a picnic lunch
Day 5, As for Day 2.
Day 6, As for day 2.
Day 7, After breakfast, depart at your leisure.

What is provided for and included in the price;

Daily guidance and tuition will be given on issues such as;
- Guaranteed correct exposures every time
- How to control and manage your Depth of Field of focus.
- Obtaining your best quality image. Best camera settings & compositional aspects.
- The great benefit of capturing RAW images, What the benefits are & how to maximize the digital data available in this medium
- Daily review and critique of images taken. Images will be viewed by means of a projector.
- Guidance will also be given on basic processing techniques on Photoshop CS5.
Camping Fees.
The cost of the boats and the guides/drivers for 4 days (Mon, Tues Thurs & Fri)
Fuel usage on the boats
Gratuities.
Tables, kitchen equipment, cutlery, crockery, and a fridge to keep drinks cold.
All teas & coffee & light refreshments, as well as wine with evening meals.
All meals will be provided daily.
Cost of trip; 7,750.00. A R3000.00 deposit payable by latest 31 March 2011 will confirm your registration. The balance will be payable 30 August 2011.

What you will be responsible for;

All your own camping equipment; Tent, stretcher/mattress, chairs, personal lighting. Sites are electrified
Alcoholic beverages. In need there is a cash bar available at the venue.
Your camera equipment with lenses. Many photos will be taken using a 100 to 200mm lens. Longer lenses can however be useful
Your own transport to and from the venue.
Any accommodation en route.
Mid week Wednesday is a free day, meaning you can elect to visit the nearby Game Reserve or the Tsodillo Hills with its famous rock art. Photo opportunities!!