Introduction to the course
Fieldwork, presentations and practical workshops, will provide an introduction to environmental and wildlife photography. Learn the basics of photography from camera features to editing the final image by exploring the rich biodiversity of Samos and/or Ikaria islands, where the Mediterranean wildlife is sure to inspire every budding nature photographer.


Introduction to the site

The course takes place on the enchanting islands of Samos and/or Ikaria. Boasting stunning locations including ancient forests, dramatic coastlines and unspoilt wildernesses these islands are sure to capture the imagination and creativity of any environmental photographer.
The islands are home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna species ahich can be photographed in their natural habitats. The islands have also been identified as part of the migratory route for many important bird species. A variety of habitats and priority ecosystems, proposed for protection under NATURA 2000, will be visited, providing many challenges and interesting backdrops for photographers.



Aims

This course offers the chance to learn the practical and technical aspects of environmental photography and how to apply them. Become familiar with camera basics, equipment, photographic techniques and editing techniques whilst learning the essential elements of photography through practical experience. Through the observation and recording of diverse habitats, species and behaviours, participants will be left with a greater understanding and appreciation of the natural world. There are many sub-topics within environmental photography each requiring different approaches and thought processes that along with other photography relevant topics will be discussed and practiced by the group. Experimentation and creative freedom is encouraged to allow development of individual style and preference when shooting.



Topics covered
The 7 days of the course will include theory work, time in the field and practical workshops.

Cameras and lenses (lectures & field work)
Introducing different technical aspects of cameras and lenses, terminology and function.

Working with light and colour (lectures & field work)
A fundamental subject for any photographer, this topic will explain different colour formats, lighting, flash, colour tints, filters and black and white photography.

Styles and techniques of photography (lectures & field work)
Technical aspects, rules and approaches to different types of photography.

Introduction to Environmental photography (lectures, discussion & field work)
What does environmental photography entail, its development through history and different requirements and uses for the final photograph.



Environmental photography (lectures & field work)
The wide ranging aspects of environmental photography will be subcategorised into flora, fauna, bird fauna and landscape photography. The various aspects and approaches of each type of environmental photography will be explored and experimented with, in the diverse habitats of Ikaria. The topics of photographing environmental impacts, environmental research and how the end purpose can affect the composition of the photograph will be discussed.

Experimentation (lectures & field work)
How to achieve different effects with your camera, why you might use them, and experimentation with different techniques.

Digital darkroom (lectures & workshops)
Processing the final image and the morality of photographic image manipulation will be approached. Software currently on the market will be introduced, and practical experience in basic processes in Adobe Photoshop will be given.

What next (lectures & discussion)
Printing choices, paper selection and presentation ideas.

At the end of the course each participant will have a CD of their work during the 7 days and a certificate will be awarded.

It is preferable that each participant brings their own camera. In case this is not possible cameras can be provided by Archipelagos. This must be requested before the start of the course.

Course 1: available in 2011  
Course 2: available in 2011 



Contact:
Yannis Koutelidas: yannis@archipelago.gr
info@archipelago.gr