Private photography sessions
Our Photography Sessions allow you and your camera to get up close with some of our magnificent birds in order to photograph them in a countryside setting.
2 Hour Static
Starting at 9:30am, you will photograph a selection of birds of prey sat out on natural perches with a rural backdrop. This session could feature kestrels, owls, hawks and/or buzzards. Static photography sessions cost £250 for a weekday or £300 for a Saturday or Sunday.
2.5 Hours Static & Flying
Starting at 9:30am, you will photograph a selection of birds of prey either sat out on natural perches and/or flying in our 7.5 acre field. This session could feature kestrels, owls, falcons, hawks and/or buzzards and will include at least 1 eagle. Static & Flying sessions cost £500 for a weekday or £600 for a Saturday or Sunday, and includes complimentary tea and coffee.
private photography day
Starting at 10:00am, you will spend the morning photographing a variety of birds on static perches. A buffet lunch is provided at 12:30pm, with a flying display at 1:00pm. From 2:00pm to 3:30pm you will spend the afternoon photographing birds flying in our 7-acre flying field, after which you are welcome to spend some time looking around the visitor centre. A private photography day costs £800, and includes complimentary tea, coffee and lunch. Private days are available on weekdays only.
These private sessions are suitable for individuals or groups of up to 10 photographers. To check availability and book a date, please call us on 01562 700014.
Photography workshops with Andy Rouse
We are delighted to be working with renowned wildlife photographer Andy Rouse. Andy is a professional wildlife photographer who has won over 24 major international awards, and his work has graced galleries, magazine covers, clothing, calendars, greetings cards, and even an LP cover. Andy has extensive experience photographing wildlife all over the world, and during his workshops you will benefit from his personal tuition to help you capture the perfect shot.
Workshops take place in a private field adjacent to our Visitor Centre, where you will be able to photograph a selection of birds of prey, both static and in flight, under Andy’s expert guidance. You will benefit from the sweeping natural backdrop of our large meadow field, and the birds will use a variety of creative, natural perches for added interest in your photos.
Frequently Asked Questions about our Photography Experience
These FAQ’s relate to the private sessions booked through The Falconry Centre. For more information about Andy Rouse’s Photography Workshops, please visit his website by clicking here.
How often do you run the Experiences and how far ahead do I need to book a date?
Photography Days are run on the set dates specified above. Private Photography Experiences can be run on most days, subject to availability. We recommend booking at least 4 weeks ahead, but weekends during the summer are our busiest time and can book up further ahead. To make an enquiry, please telephone us on 01562 700014 or use the Contact Us section of this website. To book a session with Andy Rouse, please visit his website as mentioned above.
Can I buy a gift voucher instead of booking a date?
Unfortunately it is not possible to purchase open-ended gift vouchers for this experience. A date must be booked at the time of purchase.
Is this experience suitable for wheelchair users or people with limited mobility?
We regret that this experience is not suitable for wheelchair users. The experience takes place in the 7.5 acre field adjacent to The Falconry Centre, which is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. You will need to be able to walk a reasonable distance to access the field. We may use different areas of the field for different birds to vary the perches and backdrops being used. This can involve some walking and bending/crouching down. We can provide chairs for people who have limited ability to stand/walk. We recommend contacting us first to discuss any needs you may have, and we will be happy to assist you.
How many photographers are in a group?
Our Photography Days are limited to a maximum of 8 people. There must be a minimum of three people booked on to run the session; if there are not enough bookings you will be offered either an alternative date or a refund.
The private sessions are exclusive to you and your group. We limit the number of Participants to a maximum of 10, there is no minimum. This is to allow everyone enough time and space to photograph the birds.
Can I bring someone with me?
Only those people who have paid to do the session will be permitted entry to the photography area. Anyone not participating may decide instead to go to our Visitor Centre during the sessions; normal admission charges will apply.
What kind of camera should I bring?
These sessions are designed to be accessible to photographers of all skills and budgets. You will get the most from the session if you have a DSLR with a variety of lenses. However, as the birds will usually remain on static perches, a bridge camera or other digital camera with optical zoom will be sufficient. Small pocket/compact cameras and smart phones will not be suitable.
Can I use flash photography?
The occasional use of flash is generally not a problem for our birds. The session will take place outside in natural daylight. Excessive use of flash is not encouraged. As such, you may be asked to consider adjusting your camera settings to compensate for low light instead. Any birds showing signs of distress will be removed from the session immediately.
What clothing should I wear?
We recommend dressing appropriately for the weather. The field may have long grass and uneven terrain, and it can be muddy after damp weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What happens if the weather is bad on the date of my experience?
We will run the photography sessions in most weather conditions. Our birds generally enjoy sitting out and having a shower in the rain! Umbrellas are welcome and a shelter may be provided in particularly heavy rain. In severe adverse weather we may rearrange the session to an alternative date; please contact us to discuss your options.