Two days in the field to learn how to photograph wildlife effectively and respectfully, but also to truly understand it: not just "shots," but understanding what you're observing and why it moves the way it does. The course combines naturalistic knowledge and photographic technique: we'll begin with the biology and ethology of the main ungulates and carnivores, their behaviors and land use, to learn where to look, how to interpret signs of presence and situations, and how to position yourself without forcing an encounter.
The course will be based at ASD LA Ventura, immersed in a natural setting ideal for alternating classroom sessions with field trips: a comfortable and welcoming base. We will focus specifically on ethics, respect, safety, clothing and behavior in nature, environmental interpretation, and practical choices for moving around safely and "disappearing" into the landscape without disturbing others.
We'll also cover technical photography, with clear and applicable instructions: equipment, basic settings (shutter speed, aperture, ISO), light management, framing and composition, and image post-production. The course alternates photographic stakeouts and guided outings with an educational component, with the goal of developing a more informed understanding of wildlife and its environments, and returning home with better images and, above all, enhanced observation skills.
3 and 4 October 2026
ASD La Ventura
Locality Moretti Fraction Piancastagna.89 15010, Moretti AL
RECIPIENTS
Open to all, without specific prerequisites
FEE
€ 230
€200 Members of I'm Not Afraid of the Wolf and AIGAE who are up to date with their annual membership fee
PARTICIPANTS:
min. 6 – max 8
REGISTRATION CLOSES BY
15 days from the start date
AIGAE TRAINING CREDITS
YES – Recognized training credits: 5
INFORMATION
campi@iononhopauradellupo.it
Saturday
10.00 am: Notes on the ecology, biology and ethology of the main carnivores and ungulates of the Apennines and the Alps
11.00 am Recognition of main traces and signs of presence
11.30 am coffee break
11.45am Study of the territory in view of the stakeout
main stalking techniques anddifferences between stalking and hunting
12.30pm Ethics of nature photography
1.00 pm Correct behavior in nature during observations
13.30pm Lunch break
14.30pm References to the history and usefulness of photography, as a powerful means of communication and use in the field of conservation
3:00 PM: Equipment types and differences (fixed or zoom lenses, reflex and mirrorless, tripod types)
15.30pm How a camera works, and advice on settings for learning to take manual photographs and the main artistic and photographic techniques
16:00 pm: simple excursion to learn how to use a camera in the field
18:00 PM: A short stakeout to learn how to move silently and disappear from the animals' sight (wind, types of camouflage, where to position oneself, etc.)
19:30 pm end of the day and for those who wish, a convivial dinner at ASD La Ventura
SUNDAY:
7.00am dawn ambush
9.00 am return for breakfast
10:30am: Notes on post-production using Lightroom and Photoshop
12:30 pm lunch break
14:00 PM departure for an excursion where we will address various topics:
- environmental interpretation, reading traces and signs of presence
- Tips and tricks for bird, macro, and landscape photography
- ethics in nature photography
- how to tell a story through images
- 17.30pm return and final meeting between all participants
6:00 pm workshop closing
TRAINERS
Daniel Ecotti
Founding member and President
Environmental Hiking Guide – Environmental Educator
AIGAE ER940
Simone Giosso
Member and Volunteer
Nature Photographer – Videomaker and Environmental Hiking Guide
AIGAE LI267
SUGGESTED STRUCTURES:
It's recommended to bring a backpack, a water bottle (at least 1 liter), layered clothing appropriate for the season, hiking boots with treaded soles, and a waterproof or rain jacket. Also helpful, though not essential, are binoculars and a camera, a blanket to sit on, and a notebook. It's best to wear dark, unobtrusive clothing to reduce visibility.
Registered participants will receive further information and details about clothing and logistics by email.
The event will take place once the minimum number of participants is reached. It will continue even in the event of rain, except in exceptional weather conditions, in which case we reserve the right to cancel. A full refund will be given if cancellation is made within 60 days of the event start date or if the cancellation is due to reasons attributable to the organizers. Alternatively, the fee is non-refundable but can be used to pay for other I'm Not Afraid of the Wolf events.
Minors must be accompanied by at least one adult.
The program may be subject to change based on circumstances and weather conditions. The course fee does not include meals, accommodations, travel expenses, or personal expenses.