PHOTO WORKSHOP - Bosque & White Sands

with Tom Vezo
November 10 - 14, 2008
Cost: $1,725

Join wildlife and nature photographer Tom Vezo for an unparalleled opportunity to photograph the best New Mexico has to offer. An expert bird photographer often called on by Arizona Highways and other publications for his expertise, he has this to say about Bosque del Apache:

The early morning air is still as the sun rises over Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico. Except for the muted cackles from the Snow Geese and Cranes resting in the glowing orange ponds, all is quiet. Suddenly, one bird makes a gesture and thousands of snow geese lift off simultaneously, filling the orange skies with silhouetted wings against a backdrop of majestic mountains. The geese surround you as far as the eye can see and the noise level is deafening; chills course through your body as you witness one of the wonderful spectacles of nature. This is the beauty of Bosque.

Bosque del Apache is one of the busiest migration corridors for waterfowl in the southwest. Its fifty seven thousand acres of desert vegetation supported by the Rio Grande River, make it a haven for birdwatchers and naturalists. Fall is the best time to visit Bosque del Apache for sandhill cranes, snow geese, ducks and raptors. Many birders come to see the two or three elusive Whooping Cranes and if they are persistent, they can add these beauties to their life list.

The beautiful sunrises and sunsets, the spectacular mountain views and the flights of thousands of cranes and snow geese make Bosque del Apache a must see for everyone. It will stimulate your spirit and tune you in to the wonderful rhythm of nature.

For two and a half days, Tom will teach you how to photograph birds in motion, and will also explain how to include habitat in your compositions to create more appealing images. For the remainder of the workshop he will guide you to incredible locations within White Sands National Monument. There you will encounter serene expanses of curvaceous desert punctuated with yuccas and other desert plants. The silent dunes offer quite a contrast to the sights and sounds of Bosque, and many powerful landscape images can be crafted from the fine details found there. A full moon over the dunes will be a spectacular bonus during your stay.

Top photos by Hal Tretbar

Bottom photo by Ron York

Includes:

• RT transportation from Albuquerque, NM
• Lodging
• Photographic instruction
• Lunches and snacks
• Park fees & permits