Bosque del Apache: Snow Geese and Cranes

November 29-December 5, 2008

Additional Information

 

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What Past Participants Have Said      return to top

"I found your trip to be extremely well–organized. You always got us to the right place at the right time. Your pre–trip correspondence regarding travel, photo gear, clothing, weather, etc., was exceptional—way above what I have seen with other tours."

—Bob Johnson, Washington

"The trip was outstanding! Thank you for a great experience."

—Steve Carlisle, Montana

Lodging      return to top
Trip fee includes six nights of lodging. Lodging is double occupancy in a modern and comfortable motel in Socorro, NM. Rooms include refrigerators, microwaves, coffe maker, hair dryer, television and phone. An exercise room and outdoor hot tub are available for your enjoyment.

Upgrade fees     return to top
Your workshop fee includes a shared room. Upgrade to a single room for a fee of $365. Please inquire for fees and availability for a non-photographer spouse or guest.

Portfolio reviews     return to top
We invite you to bring up to 20 images for group or private review and critique.

Itinerary for the 2008 Workshop      return to top

  • Day 1
    Arrive at Albuquerque airport, travel to hotel in Socorro, evening orientation.
  • Days 2–6
    Five full days of photography and instruction at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Our goal is to maximize your time in the field when the light is best and when the birds are present.
  • Day 7
    Depart from the airport in Albuquerque, or optional transfer to Alamogordo, NM, for White Sands extension.

Extra Days      return to top
Participants wishing to extend their Workshop days for additional photography and instruction may do so by prior arrangement for a fee of $300 per day double occupancy, or $375 per day in a private room.

Meals      return to top
Your Workshop fee includes breakfast and lunch for each of the five photo days plus the departure day. You are responsible for dinners, and we generally go as a group. Our meals are scheduled around the best photography times. We sometimes take our meals with us to maximize time in the field.

Transportation      return to top
We provide all ground transportation during the trip from your arrival in Albuquerque, NM. We will pick you up and drop you off at the airport in Albuquerque.

For your convenience and flexibility, you can bring your own vehicle or rent at the airport. If you are arriving by car you can meet us at our accommodations in Socorro.

About the location      return to top
Although New Mexico is home to an arid landscape, it is bisected by the magnificent Rio Grande River. In the not-too-distant past, the floodplains that border the river spawned dense woods that the Spanish called bosques, along with vast seasonal marshes that harbored countless migrating ducks, geese, and cranes.

As man has endeavored to dam, control, and redirect the river, most of this habitat has disappeared. The mission of Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is to preserve and restore some of the last remnants of these vital wetlands. As a result, the Refuge has become the winter home for tens of thousands of beautiful Snow Geese and, at last count, 18,000 majestic Sandhill Cranes.

The Refuge is bordered east and west by scenic mountain ranges, and colorful sunrises and sunsets often form the backdrop for images of thousands of birds taking to the air as they move about the refuge in search of food and shelter.

A well–maintained networks of roads and dikes allows photographers unparalleled access and photo opportunities. From telephoto portraits to ultra wide–angle shots of huge flocks across the sky, Bosque is a must–visit location for every serious bird photographer.

Photographer Guidelines       return to top
We will provide detailed information on equipment, clothing, travel, and suggested reading materials for photo tour participants.

A message from the trip leader      return to top
"I am an enthusiastic and patient instructor and trip leader. I offer these trips because I enjoy teaching and I love the natural world. I will gladly share my knowledge and love of nature and photography with you, and help you get the most from your experience.

"My photographs are published in such magazines as Birder's World, Birdwatcher's Digest, Nature and Wildlife, Outdoor Traveler, and WildBird. My work appears in numerous calendars including Sierra Club and Audubon, and numerous books and advertisements. I am a full time nature photographer and workshop leader.

"Past participants have been very enthusiastic about their experiences. Our small group size allows you plenty of time for your questions. I work hard to make your trip memorable and productive. I hope you’ll consider joining us!

"Feel free to call, write, or E–mail if you have any questions. References from past participants are available upon request."

—Ralph Paonessa

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