Photography Walk

Walk Leaders: Larry Mathewson, Michelle Stranges, Jeremy Bensette

Larry Mathewson is a local Ridgeway photographer and videographer with a keen interest in many facets of the photography world including but not limited to, landscapes, waterfalls, wildlife, birds in flight and underwater videography. He is a member of the Niagara Falls Camera Club, and a member of the Buffalo Science Museum Camera Club as the current VP of programs. He participates in digital and printed photography competitions in each club at Diamond and Platinum levels respectively. He is also a member of the Fort Erie Arts Council and the Fort Erie Underwater Recovery Unit. He has donated his time to many volunteer organisations like the Canadian Mental Health Association, the Roswell Cancer Center and the Buffalo Science Museum. Larry can be seen along with his wife, Nora, visiting conservation areas and walking local trails in search of that next great image.

Michelle Stranges is a local amateur photographer and nature enthusiast. Having spent 30 years in the Wine Industry and recently retired, she now enjoys photographing and spending more time enjoying the beauty and tranquility of nature.

Jeremy Bensette is a resident of the Point Pelee Area and lives to bird. He leads tours in his home region through his business called Pelee Birding, and travels often for both work and leisure birding. Jeremy loves to help others find birds and wildlife, and loves visiting Niagara Falls!

The workshop will cover basic camera settings as it pertains to birding and capturing images of them in various scenarios as the group walks through the small Dufferin Islands pathways.

The event welcomes both beginners or advanced, with the purpose being to answer questions on the use of whatever equipment you might have available.

Some important details:

· The group will be meeting at the parking area (cost for parking) just before leaving the Dufferin Islands area (near 2 large rocks and bridge).

· Suggested gear includes cold weather apparel to allow walking through pathways covered with snow and possible temperatures of -10C.

· Attendees can bring any camera type they currently use. Please understand the basic use of your camera and lens as we may suggest changes to settings like shutter speed, ISO, and aperture (F stop).

· Ideally cameras should have a lens of at least 200mm reach, but even better if it is up to 400mm reach. Be able to switch from single shot to high-speed mode.

· A tripod is not necessary for the workshop.

· Due to the cold weather please bring extra batteries.

If you have any questions, please email Larry ([email protected]). All the best and enjoy the workshop!

Meet at the last parking lot at Dufferin Islands. Paid Parking, included in the Niagara Parks Parking Pass.

Host or Publisher Birds On The Niagara