Flying Parrot Photography Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the FAQ page! Here you'll find answers to the most common questions about my bird photography workshops, private coaching and tours, both online and in-person.
Who is your bird photography tuition suitable for?
My workshops and tuition services are designed for advanced beginners to intermediate level photographers.
If you feel overwhelmed by the technical aspects of photography and the complexities of modern cameras, but disappointed with the results of shooting on Auto, you are a good match for my programs. You may be shooting on manual or part manual such as Aperture or Shutter Speed Priority but not confident with choosing the right settings on full manual.
I emphasise a natural shooting style and help my clients unlock their creativity with a variety of straightforward techniques that are light on technical wizardry. All my online coaching programs include my methods for adding some polish with simple, speedy editing using basic tools.
If you know how to change your camera settings, even if you're not 100% sure with settings choices - or simply want better and more consistent results, you're in the right place. Small group sizes mean there's plenty of individual attention, and I also offer private one-on-one coaching both in-person and online for a tailored experience.
If you are a total beginner only shooting on auto and not sure how to change your camera to manual settings, I recommend watching some YouTube tutorials and getting a little more familiar with your camera to make the most of your workshop or coaching experience.
Head to YouTube and search for your specific camera brand and model along with 'tutorial'.
Where are your workshops held?
My coaching services are mainly online via zoom, with limited options at Panboola Wetlands, where I host group workshops a few times a year, offer one-on-one coaching and private bird watching and photography tours.
What do I need to bring to an in-person bird photography workshop?
Please see the What to Bring page for recommended items.
What if I’ve never used full manual mode before?
I can help you shoot with confidence on full manual - but is is a good idea to know how to change your camera settings before we begin. Many of my clients are using Aperture or Shutter Speed Priority Mode. I’ll guide you step-by-step through settings like shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and focus modes. You’ll learn to take control of your camera and gain confidence in the field.
How do I book a coaching session or workshop?
Bookings for tuition and workshops can be made directly through my website. Simply visit the Tuition page to view upcoming options. Spaces are always limited to provide a high level of support, so booking early is recommended.
Visit the One-on-One Coaching page to request a coaching session at Panboola Wetlands. They are subject to availability as I do travel away for birding trips. Let me know as early as possible and I will do my best to accommodate you.
What is your cancellation policy?
You can view the full cancellation and refund policy on my Terms and Conditions page. In brief, deposits are non-refundable if cancelled within 30 days but are transferable to a future event. In the case of rescheduling due to weather or unforeseen circumstances a full refund or reschedule to new dates is available.
I don't request payment for tours or one-on-one coaching until the day before the booking to avoid the hassle (and extra bank fees) of issuing refunds if the weather is unkind and we aren't able to change to a mutually agreeable time and day.
Can I get feedback on my bird photography?
All online tuition includes a private community to upload photos for review. For in-person coaching and tours, a full review is available via zoom for an additional fee - if you send your photos I can send you the link to book (subject to availability).
What birds can I expect to photograph at Panboola Wetlands?
Depending on the season, common species include superb fairy-wrens, black swans, herons, cormorants, red-browed finches, robins, flycatchers, chats, spoonbills, thornbills, black-shouldered kites, swamp harriers, kites, egrets, swamp hens and moorhens, southern emu-wrens, a variety of honeyeaters, grebes, ducks and less frequent visitors such as falcons, goshawks and kingfishers.
Usually there's plenty of photo opportunities and a good variety of species. I do find the mornings yield the best results. READ MORE about Panboola.
Have a question that’s not here? Feel free to contact me anytime via the Contact page on the website or message me via social media. Or you can book a complimentary zoom call via the button below. I’m always happy to chat about birds, photography and how I can help you capture your best shots yet!