Autumn’s Wild Encounters
Wildlife Photography Workshop

Workshop Overview

Autumn in Yellowstone brings changing light, cooler weather and the energy of the elk rut. Autumn’s Wild Encounters gives photographers time to observe wildlife carefully and work on images that connect animal behavior with the colors and textures of the season.

Elk are a focus, with possible opportunities to photograph bison, bears, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, wolves and other wildlife. Rut behavior, fall color and particular sightings are not guaranteed. We follow wildlife activity, access and safe viewing conditions.

Details

Location  Yellowstone National Park, based in Gardiner, Montana.
Dates  September 22–26, 2027.
Price  $2,395 per attendee.
Drop-in option  $650 per day, subject to availability.
Duration  Five days; approximately 8–10 hours per field day.
Group size  Maximum five attendees.
Experience level  Beginner through advanced; familiarity with manual or semi-manual settings is helpful.

Highlights

• Five days focused on elk rut, wildlife behavior and fall landscapes.

• In-field guidance in action photography, light and composition.

• A group meal at a local dining establishment.

• One-on-one post-workshop editing session via Discord.

Field experience

What you will learn

• Choose shutter speed and focus settings for movement and interactions.

• Photograph dark animals against bright grass, sky and autumn color.

• Use foliage and landscape context without cluttering the composition.

• Recognize behavioral cues while keeping a respectful distance.

• Build a cohesive seasonal portfolio with variety in scale and subject.

How the experience unfolds

We will begin early and use the day’s conditions to decide where to spend time. Sessions may focus on elk behavior, other wildlife, landscape compositions or changing light. We will return to productive areas when appropriate and adjust when wildlife rests or moves. The daily field schedule is flexible and will be provided before the workshop.

Where we photograph

Potential areas include Lamar Valley, Mammoth and other accessible parts of Yellowstone selected for current wildlife activity and fall conditions. Routes depend on road access, weather, pickup point and wildlife activity. No location, color peak or animal behavior is guaranteed.

Booking and Planning

What is included

• Transportation within Yellowstone during scheduled field sessions.

• In-field wildlife and landscape photography instruction.

• Starlink Wi-Fi onboard.

• Spotting scopes by Vortex.

• Water and snacks in the workshop vehicle.

• A group meal at a local dining establishment.

• One-on-one post-workshop editing session via Discord.

What you will need to cover

• Lodging, flights, airport transfers.

• Travel insurance and personal expenses are also your responsibility.

• Park entrance fees.

• Camera or lens rentals.

• Meals. (other than the included group meal)

Arrival and accommodation

Plan to arrive in Gardiner the day before the workshop and depart the day after the final field day. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport is a practical arrival airport; travel to Gardiner is arranged separately. Confirm the meeting point and workshop dates before making nonrefundable travel reservations.

Camera equipment

Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a telephoto lens of 300mm or longer if available, a mid-range zoom, extra batteries, memory cards and a lens cloth. A monopod and rain cover could be useful. A laptop and external drive for offload and back up.

Clothing and footwear

Pack warm layers for cold mornings, rain protection, sun protection and sturdy footwear.

Why join this workshop?

Immerse yourself in the heart of Yellowstone National Park and step into the world of wildlife photography like never before. This workshop offers an unparalleled opportunity to capture majestic wildlife, including bears, bison, elk, deer, pronghorn, sheep, and more, all in their natural habitat.

Under the guidance of professional photographer Christopher Georgia, you’ll gain not only technical expertise but also the confidence to tell visual stories of endurance and grace. Whether you’re building a professional portfolio or simply seeking to experience Yellowstone as few ever do, this winter workshop is designed to inspire, challenge, and transform your connection to the wild.