Something I am often asked when leading workshops and expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic regions is “How do you get that ‘pencil drawing look’ in your photographs?” It is actually quite easy; so I have made a short five minute video on how to achieve this look in just a few simple steps:
Month: April 2019
Snowy Owls of Canada 2019 Scouting Trip Report
In January of 2019 I travelled to northern Canada to scout a new trip to photograph Snowy Owls in winter. This was actually my first time to Canada (although I am returning later this year in late December) and I thoroughly enjoyed the winter experience. I managed to time my experience in Canada jut about perfectly as it coincided with a severe cold snap of weather that provided some wonderful opportunities (albeit in very cold conditions).
The landscape in the part of Canada I chose to photograph the owl wouldn’t be described as visually spectacular, but it was absolutely ideal for the task at hand, with flat snow covered farm land serving as the perfect environment to photograph this truly amazing bird.
For those of you who are joining me for this new Snowy Owl workshop in December I am pleased to say that the location is just about perfect with a number of different birds (around half a dozen or so) in the local area.
Snowy Owls are wonderful birds to photograph and of all the species I have photographed around the world they are most definitely my favourite. The combination of their white plumage with mottled markings and glowing, iridescent yellow eyes set against a backdrop of soft snow is just gorgeous and makes for superb imagery.
I have uploaded a small portfolio of photographs from my scouting trip to my main website here: Snowy Owls of Canada
My new Snowy Owl workshop in December this year is long Sold out, but I will be repeating this new workshop again in January of 2021 and bookings are now open. I will only be taking a total of five photographers so if you are interested in photographing this magnificent bird then please drop me an email to register your interest. Places are strictly limited and once spoken for thats it. Just drop me an email to register your interest (no obligation at this point).
Testimonials – Svalbard in Winter by Snow Mobile 2019
“Josh, Just wanted to drop you a line about our expedition since we were all whisked away so quickly to parts unknown on our last day. I consider myself very fortunate to have been a part of this expedition and that’s a word I don’t use lightly. It was at times difficult, even very difficult but no truly great experience of this nature should be easy. You and Emil were at all times consummate professionals concerned with our safety first. I never was fearful, your careful instructions and planning eliminated any uncertainty. To be in that place, that very special and unique place was for a once in a lifetime chance that I will never forget. Knowing very few people in this world have or will ever have such an adventure makes me feel especially fortunate. I’m going to let my pictures “steep” in the camera for a while and ruminate on this experience so as to fully appreciate it all.
Thanks once again to you and Emil for never once making us feel like ‘greenhorns’. I wish all the best to you and your future endeavours knowing they’ll be a great success.”
Kevin
“Joshua,
Thanks a lot. From the beginning to the end the entire expedition was unforgettable. I will always remember it. Kevin, Dave and I now have lots of beautiful memories to share with our grandchildren, many years later those memories will be pass to others like grandfather’s mythologies (I mean that with some new editions and improvisations of those memories).
Best regards,
Fatih”
“Hey Joshua,
Thank you for an amazing adventure. It was spectacular and to share it with you was THE BEST. I am so happy that you consider us friends because that is how we think of you. I will always remember this and what a wonderful time with you, Emil, Fatih, Kevin and myself. I know that I will see you again and I hope the same with Fatih and Emil. And now onto the second part of the adventure. When I bought your beautiful polar bear photo on the ice never did I think what it would lead to. I just wanted to go on a trip with the person who made such beauty and it just lead into this. I look forward to being with you many more times. Thanks again Joshua! Best.
Dave”
Photo of the Month April 2019 – The Magic of the Snowy Owl
The photograph of the month for April 2019 comes from my January scouting trip to northern Canada to photograph the majestic Snowy Owl in winter. This was my first trip to Canada (long overdue) and my first time photographing this magnificent bird. During my time in this part of Canada I spent the better part of two weeks searching for and photographing Snowy Owls. This particular photograph of a large female beautifully perched on a snow drift in a soft fog was taken during a severe cold snap with temperatures down around -30ºCelsius. I actually spotted the Owl from the side of the road and was able to approach relatively closely to where it was perched and then position myself to frame the shot with the included grass for balance. These sort of cold temperatures can be difficult to work in but the results can be absolutely stunning for those willing to make the effort.
I will be returning to this area of Canada at the end of this year to lead a small group of photographers on a workshop to photograph these fabulous birds. The 2019 workshop is long sold out – but I will very soon be announcing dates for January 2021. If you want to get the drop on the official announcement just drop me an email to register your interest (no obligation at this point).
Travel Photographer of the Year 2019 Exhibition in London
Travel Photographer of the Year has recently opened a new free open-air photography attraction in London. The exhibition includes the latest winning images from Travel Photographer of the Year 2019. The photographs are now on display at London Bridge City SE1 2DB – adjacent to City Hall and the Scoop and opposite the Tower of London. Included in the exhibition is my highly commended self portrait photograph from Svalbard in Winter.
The exhibition of world-class contemporary travel photography will be viewable 24 hours a day and run until April 30. So, if you’re in London during this period, don’t miss it. No need to book tickets – just turn up and enjoy!
www.WILDNATUREPHOTOTRAVEL.com 