Photography for Wildlife

Discovery Bay Animals (Tide Pools and Aquariums)

Sunday, December 13, 2026 from 3-6 p.m.

From fish and sharks to sea lions and sea stars, animals of Discovery Bay can be challenging to photograph. Photographers need to manage low light, glare, and reflections with a subject that is often constantly in motion. Discuss strategies to overcome these challenges, including polarizer use, shutter speed, depth of field, minimum focus distance, and ISO settings. As a bonus, enjoy a special chance to go behind-the-scenes above the shark reef and chat with one of the aquatic animal care staff.

Approximate class schedule:
3:00pm - Welcome & classroom learning
• 3:45 pm - walk to Discovery Bay
• 4:00 pm - Above-reef photo access
• 4:30 pm - Discovery Bay photography practice
• 5:45 pm - Return to classroom and wrap-up

This class is geared towards people who already have a decent understanding of their camera and how to adjust their camera settings. Bring a camera and any relevant lenses you have; the photographer recommends:
• manual aperture, shutter speed, and ISO setting adjustability
• zoom lens(es) covering 24-200mm

Participants with simpler cameras are welcome to try some of the tips & otherwise enjoy the animals.

This program takes place mostly indoors; Discovery Bay is less than .1 mile from the classroom. There is a small set of stairs to the above-reef viewing area. If you have mobility or other accessibility questions/concerns, please email [email protected] to discuss the details of the specific program(s) you would like to attend.

Photographer: Don Tredinnick | Owner, Photographer, & Workshop Leader of Frozen Hiker Photography LLC
Fee: $70 for Zoo members; $75 for Non-Members (includes Zoo admission).
Meeting location: Education Event Center (EEC)
Program Maximum: 20 participants