Photography for Wildlife*

Photography can be a powerful force for wildlife. With the help of a Zoo naturalist and a local photographer, connect photography and conservation while enjoying exclusive access to photograph Zoo animals without the crowds. Each class focuses on a different trail, with trail-specific photography tips and highlights from the animals’ personal and conservation stories.

Low Light on the Tropics Trail

Tropical rainforests are known for their amazing animal and plant diversity, including the dense canopy of trees that shade the forest floor. Leave winter for a few hours and enjoy the tropics close to home, on the Minnesota Zoo’s Tropics Trail. Learn about some of the animals and plants on the trail after photography instruction focusing on low-light techniques like camera stabilization and ISO settings. Practice these techniques while joined by the photographer, Zoo naturalist, and animal care staff to help answer questions and share stories about the amazing tropical life you photograph.

Approximate class schedule:
• 3:30 pm - Welcome & classroom learning
• 4:15 pm - Photography practice on the trail
•6:15 pm - Return to classroom and wrap-up

Bring a camera, any relevant lenses you have, and a tripod or monopod if you have one. This class is geared towards people who already have a decent understanding of their camera and how to adjust their camera settings.

*Teacher/Educator Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for professional development available for participants upon request.

Previous Programs:
• Treetop Trail- Adapting to Nature Through the Lens (Photographer Stefanie Toftey)
• Minnesota Trail- Vanishing Fences (Photographer Gil Dignen)
• Animal Ambassadors - Animals Without Barriers (Photographer Asha Lalla)

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