On May 16, the Nashwaak Watershed Association Inc. hosted a Birding and Wildlife Photography workshop offered by local wildlife lover and photographer Arielle DeMerchant. Close to 50 people gathered at The Ville Cooperative to learn how to identify a few bird species within the watershed, and how to prepare yourself for taking wildlife photos. Some of the bird species mentioned in the workshop included the pileated woodpecker, common loon, bald eagle, great horned owl, and the chickadee, all of which can be spotted in the Nashwaak watershed. To help other aspiring photographers successfully capture local wildlife, Arielle gave the group some pointers on how she prepares to take pictures of various species.
Some of these tips included:
- Dress appropriately by wearing comfortable shoes and dull colors to help you blend in with your surroundings.
- To capture more detail for smaller creatures, make yourself as low to the ground as possible or sit at eye-level.
- If you see an animal in the distance, move in slowly and keep pausing to snap photos along the way.
- Be patient and always have your camera ready!
The workshop also included a walk along the Marysville Flats, where participants were able to put their new-found knowledge to the test. Many came prepared with their cameras and lenses ready, and binoculars were provided to help spot potential subjects. Some of the bird species that were seen on the trail walk included a group of sandpipers and mallards. Overall, it was a successful workshop and a beautiful night to photograph bird species along the Nashwaak River!
To view some of Arielle DeMerchant’s photographs: https://www.adnaturephotography.com/
