Red-shouldered Hawk

I love exploring the hidden canals controlling Lake Blue Cypress's water level during the afternoons of my Ospreys Galore (and so much more) Workshop in Florida. This image was made during the first workshop on the afternoon of April 6 as this Red-shouldered Hawk flew a short distance between two trees.

The Sony a9 III has proven to be a remarkable action camera; the autofocus is a step beyond that of the Alpha 1, and the 120 fps Raw capture is a game changer.

Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus, Buse à épaulettes, RSHA) from my Ospreys Galore Workshop Lake Blue Cypress near Vero Beach, Florida, USA. Image copyright ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm ISO 2,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual Exposure. Full frame image. Join me for my Ospreys Galore workshop every April. To learn more, CLICK

Peregrine Falcon in Golden Light

Peregrine Falcons don’t nest in Florida but can be seen during seasonal migrations. We often get to see them during my Ospreys Galore Workshops every April.

Fun Fact: “Peregrine” means wanderer. Northern breeders migrate from the Arctic tundra to South America.

Peregrine Falcon in golden light (Falco peregrinus, Faucon pèlerin, PEFA) from my Ospreys Galore Workshop Lake Blue Cypress near Vero Beach, Florida, USA. Image copyright ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha a1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony 1.4X Teleconverter @840mm ISO5,000, f/5.6 @ 1/5,000s. Manual Exposure mode. Join me for my Ospreys Galore workshop every April. To learn more, CLICK

Another Crappie Osprey Picture - Osprey in flight in golden light with a Black Crappie

An Osprey in golden light with a freshly caught Black Crappie to feed its babies during my Ospreys Galore Workshop at Lake Blue Cypress in Florida.

One spot is still available for my April 5-7 Ospreys Galore Workshop after a last-minute medical cancellation.

The common English names of the black crappie are: calico bass, crappie, crawpie, grass bass, moonfish, oswego bass, shiner, speck, speckled bass, and strawberry bass. Other common names are kalikoabborre (Swedish), marigane noire (French Canadian), mustapilkkuahven (Finnish), perca-prateada (Portuguese), sort crappie (Danish), svart solabbor (Norwegian), and svart solabborre (Swedish).

Another Crappie Osprey Picture - Osprey in flight in golden light with a Black Crappie (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR & Pomoxis nigromaculatus, marigane noire) from my Ospreys Galore Workshop Lake Blue Cypress near Vero Beach, Florida, USA. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony 200-600mm Lens (@560mm) ISO 2,000, f/6.3 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Manual Exposure mode. Full frame image. Join me for my Ospreys Galore workshop every April. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Osprey flying with a fish & Ospreys Galore Last Minute Opening

I just had a cancellation, which opened up one spot for my April 5-7, 2024, Ospreys Galore Workshop on Lake Blue Cypress near Vero Beach, Florida. This is always a fun and productive workshop in a remarkable location with an incredible density of nesting Ospreys bringing fish back to feed their babies. Learn More about my Ospreys Galore Workshops every April HERE.

OSPREY Flying with a fish (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) from my Ospreys Galore Workshop Lake Blue Cypress near Vero Beach, Florida, USA. Image copyright ©Christopher Dodds Sony Alpha a1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens @600mm ISO 800, f/4 @ 1/6,400s. Manual Exposure mode. Full frame image. Join me for my Ospreys Galore workshop every April. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Amongst the many great things about leading photo safaris and teaching workshops are the people I get to meet and spend time with. Geoff sent along this great note after attending my Ospreys Galore workshop/safari a few years ago and I thought I would share it. A million thanks, Geoff!

"Osprey safari: An incredible opportunity.

I recently attended the Osprey safari offered by Chris Dodds, and I was positively thrilled with the excursion. The people in our small group were fantastic.  The environment was magical. The photographic opportunities were amazing and abundant. Every part of the physical expedition was most impressive, but what I was really taken with was the panoply of knowledge Chris demonstrated throughout the trip. Whether identifying various birds dozens of yards away simply by call, or exuding masterful control over the camera, Chris was able to display his expertise and offer assistance when needed. Chris is very amiable and approachable. No matter what skill level a photographer has, Chris always made one feel important with his one on one attention and did so without any air of condescension. It was very much like shooting with great friends with your own personal tutor to turn to if needed. I can honestly say that both my skill level and knowledge base increased from my trip with Chris. Thanks again Chris."

- Geoff Powell Vero Beach | FL | USA

Dave Christopher Testimonial

Check out these incredible images from repeat workshop participant Dave Christopher:

“Chris, I want you to know what an amazing time I had at your recently completed April 5-7, 2023 Osprey Workshop in Florida. The photo opportunities were endless and I came home with over 15,000 images. Yes, it took some time going through those, but my gosh, it was so much fun because the images were simply awesome!!

It helped that the lighting each day was amazing. The wind direction was fantastic as the Osprey took off from & landed into their nests facing us with the sunrise (at our backs) directly lighting up those incredible yellow eyes! I was also amazed at how close we were able to get to the osprey. I found myself often filling the frame with my 400mm lens.

I really appreciate attending a workshop led by a photography professional like you who puts me and the other attendees in the best position to capture incredible photos. The same was true when I attended your Snowy Owl workshop (my first with you) in January of this year. And now I just registered for your Eagles Workshop in Alaska next March. I can’t wait!

Thanks, Chris! Your workshops are exactly what I’ve looked for as an aspiring amateur wildlife photographer!

(Attached are my three favorite osprey photos, but definitely a challenge to choose just three. So many good ones to pick from!)”
— Dave Christopher

Speckled Perch and the Osprey

Osprey with fresh Speckled Perch (Crappie) (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) Lake Blue Cypress, Florida ©Christopher Dodds All Rights Reserved. Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE100-400mm F4.5-5.6 G Master OSS Lens with Sony 1.4X tele-extender @ 540mm Full Frame image. ISO 2,000 f/8 @ 1/2,000s Manual mode.

Just back from Florida after hosting two wonderful groups of photographers on Lake Blue Cypress for my Ospreys Galore workshop. There was no shortage of Ospreys returning to their nests with fish. The Speckled Perch (also known as a Crappie or Speck) were the prize catch for both the Ospreys and the photographers - smile! Ospreys often stop and eat the head of their catch before returning to the nest to feed the babies but I have so much experience on the lake, that I know which pairs are more successful gatherers and those more likely to return with whole fish.


Join me next April for my Ospreys Galore Workshop on Lake Blue Cypress in Florida. CLICK HERE to learn more and sign-up.

Osprey Workshop Testimonials Canon EOS 5D Mark III Firmware V 1.2.1

Osprey with Fish (Pandion haliaetus, Balbzard pêcheur, OSPR) Lake Blue Cypress (near Vero Beach), Florida ©Christopher Dodds All Rights Reserved. Canon EOS 1DX, 500mm f/4 L IS USM with Jobu L-Bracket  Hand Held ISO 1,600, f/4.5 @ 1/800s Manual mode. Click HERE to order a print or license image for publication.

Osprey Workshop Kudos

I had the pleasure of meeting Chris Dodds a few weeks ago in Florida when I signed up for his Osprey workshop. The sign up process and pre workshop communication was excellent and concise. I must admit that as I drove over from Tampa to the hotel I was a bit uneasy after looking at Chris's images wondering if he was approachable, patient, and a good teacher with someone like me who didn't have a lot of experience shooting wildlife before. We met in the hotel lobby , chatted for 30 minutes or so and thankfully Chris put my concerns to rest. I went to bed that night knowing that the next few days would be an adventure.

I can honestly say that Chris Dodd's workshop for Ospreys far exceeded my expectations. Chris is a great guy, very happy to answer your questions and the best thing of all, fun to shoot with. I learned a lot, met a new friend and best of all was blown away at the quality of my images because of Chris's help/techniques. I cannot wait to meet Chris somewhere else in the wild and experience another awesome outdoor shooting experience. Thank you Chris, I hope to see you again soon! 

Mark Weaver - Tampa, Florida, USA

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I recently joined Chris on his Ospreys Galore Photo Safari and Expedition. This was actually the second year in a row that I have joined Chris for this photo safari. Including myself, there were three repeat clients for this experience. All three repeat clients are from Florida. I have a chance to photograph ospreys year round but I have found this to be THE BEST EXPERIENCE to photograph ospreys in their natural environment. I agree with Chris that Lake Blue Cypress is one of the most beautiful places in Florida. The lake is surrounded by land that is designated as  conservation land. That means no development and pristine environment around the lake. Cypress trees ring the lake and I have never seen as many ospreys in one place.

One of the things I particularly like about being with Chris is his genuine concern for the safety and well being of his clients. On this last trip we had some weather passing through the area. Chris delayed going out in the pontoon boat until the stronger weather had passed. He also talked about the possibility of rain showers and made sure everyone was prepared even though it did not rain on us while we were out.

Chris’ knowledge and expertise was evident in getting us close to the ospreys. Most of my images taken during the three days were taken at less than 300mm. I was able to get in-flight and very close up images hand holding a 500mm lens, but most of my images were taken with a 70-200mm lens with a 2X extender. I didn’t need the big lens to get very good images.

While we were all shooting Chris would be keeping an eye out for all of us. He tailored his field instruction for each individual. His insight into the latest thinking on shutter speeds with DSLRs was especially invaluable to getting crisp images. Chris even shared his camera equipment with people to give them some experience with the latest equipment.

I have joined Chris on several trips and look forward to future adventures with him. 

Jim Boland - Titusville, Florida, USA

 

CANON EOS 5D Mark III Firmware Version 1.2.1 Available

Canon EOS 5D Mark III users should be thrilled to learn that has just released exciting new free firmware. The highlight for nature photographers is that Canon has enabled centre AF point auto-focus when extender/lens combinations have combined maximum aperture of f/8. If AF point expansion is selected with an f/8 maximum aperture lens/extender combination, the four AF points surrounding the center point will act as AF Assist points. This option effectively expands the size of the AF detection area to enhance autofocus performance with subjects that appear small in the viewfinder and difficult to track, such as small animals and birds in flight. AF points above and below the center will be sensitive to vertical contrast, while points to the left and right will be sensitive to horizontal contrast.

Check-out the comprehensive list of fixes and other improvements and download Firmware V. 1.2.1 HERE

Ospreys Galore Kudos

 OSPREY CATCH A GLIMPSE (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) Lake Blue Cypress, Florida. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Canon EOS-1D MKIV, 500mm F4 IS & 1.4X Extender III. ISO 800  f/5.6 @ 1/2,500s Manual. PURCHASE A PRINT or LICENSE IMAGE FOR PUBLICATION HERE.

Amongst the many great things about leading photo safaris and teaching workshops are the people I get to meet and spend time with. Geoff sent along this great note after the Ospreys Galore workshop/safari and I thought I would share it today with another couple of images from that trip - million thanks Geoff!

"Osprey safari: An incredible opportunity.

I recently attended the Osprey safari offered by Chris Dodds, and I was positively thrilled with the excursion. The people in our small group were fantastic.  The environment was magical. The photographic opportunities were amazing and abundant. Every part of the physical expedition was most impressive, but what I was really taken with was the panoply of knowledge Chris demonstrated throughout the trip. Whether identifying various birds dozens of yards away simply by call, or exuding masterful control over the camera, Chris was able to display his expertise and offer assistance when needed. Chris is very amiable and approachable. No matter what skill level a photographer has, Chris always made one feel important with his one on one attention and did so without any air of condescension. It was very much like shooting with great friends with your own personal tutor to turn to if needed. I can honestly say that both my skill level and knowledge base increased from my trip with Chris. Thanks again Chris."

- Geoff Powell Vero Beach | FL | USA http://www.artisticpx.com
OSPREY CATCH A GLIMPSE (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) Lake Blue Cypress, Florida. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Canon EOS-1D MKIV, 500mm F4 IS & 1.4X Extender III. ISO 800  f/5.6 @ 1/2,500s Manual. PURCHASE A PRINT or LICENSE IMAGE FOR PUBLICATION HERE.

Ospreys Galore Workshop a huge success

OSPREY FISH-ON (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) Lake Blue Cypress, Florida. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Canon EOS 1DMKIV,  500mm F4 IS. ISO 1000, f/5.6 @ 1/2500s Manual. PURCHASE A PRINT or LICENSE IMAGE FOR PUBLICATION HERE.

I can't believe that it's been over a month since my last blog entry! Many thanks to all who wrote to check and see if I was okay.  Much like many things in life; the break was not a planned one. After moving House, home, studio and office on March 1, our washing machine sprung a leak and flooded our new basement. Nothing was lost or damaged, though it did look quite disastrous at first; I was to set-up computers, workstations, bookcases and studio equipment that day, so the floor was littered with books, computers and camera gear (thankfully, everything was still in the double walled boxes and their thick walls kept the water out long enough for rescue).  Renovations start tomorrow and the new ceiling, floor and walls should be finished in about a week.

A large part of my moving logistics was dedicated to making sure that my image files were not susceptible to loss during the move, and to ensure that I knew where every copy was at all times, and that multiple copies existed in multiple geographic locations in the event of theft, loss, or simply being submersed under water during a flood! I made four fresh copies of my entire collection and placed each into a small watertight & bombproof case before distributing them to four separate locations (all will remain top-secret). Do consider taking inventory of your image collection and making at least one copy that you can keep in your safety deposit box, at your parents or a friend's home in the event of a disaster.

My Ospreys Galore (and so much more) photography workshop/safari at the beginning of April was a huge success! We were blessed with a mix of weather which ranged from fog to spectacular golden light. The small group was amazing (50% were repeat clients), as was our Captain Kevin who usually captains cruise ships and did a spectacular job of following my instructions and keeping us at the right angle and in the very best spots - leaving me free to teach and photograph - thank-you Kevin! Watch-out for more images over the next few days and be sure to consider signing-up early for this one next year and avoid the planned price increase of $100.00:
Ospreys Galore & so much more April 5,6 & 7, 2013   

Canon 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM ROCKS!

OSPREY head-on (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) Lake Blue Cypress, Florida. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Canon EOS 1DMKIV, 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM @300mm. ISO 640, f/5.6 @ 1/2000s Manual. PURCHASE A PRINT or LICENSE IMAGE FOR PUBLICATION HERE.

Here's an Osprey from my workshop on Lake Blue Cypress in Florida last April; it's full-frame, at the longest focal length of 300mm and wide-open at f/5.6. It's razor sharp. During the last day of the workshop, friends and long-time repeat clients, Rick & Melody, loaned me their Canon 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM lens. To make a long story short; I loved it so much that it is a new favourite carry everywhere, mid range zoom lens. The auto-focus is snappy and accurate and it's relatively compact and lightweight lens.

Like the new 70-200 f/2.8 L IS II USM, this lens auto-focuses down to 47.1 inches (mine will focus to 41 inches @ 70mm and 44 inches @ 300mm if focused manually), making it a great all-purpose lens ready for a close encounter with wildlife, or point it straight at the ground and start shooting details in nature. The new tripod and monopod sensing, 4 stop IS unit works just as advertised when used in low light conditions; I was blown away with sharp results at 1/4 second at it's widest 70mm, and 1/8 second at it's longest 300mm focal length.  

Overall, the build quality, image sharpness and auto-focus accuracy is all there; this is a sweet lens. Will it replace my 70-200mm L f/2.8 IS II USM lens? No, but I will have to own both from now on. This will be the most used nature, travel and general purpose lens, but the 70-200mm L f/2.8 IS II USM lens will remain in my kit when photographing events, people and extremely low light work, or when a really narrow depth-of-field is needed. As for the over-the-shoulder go-to lens? That's an easy one; it is now the 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM.

OSPREYS GALORE WORKSHOP ANNOUNCED April 22-24, 2011 Lake Blue Cypress, Florida

OSPREY Top-Side Dive (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Canon EOS 1DMKIV, 500mm F4 L IS.  ISO 320, F9 @ 1/1000s Manual.

I'm just in the door from an amazing seven weeks of sold-out Owl Prowls and anxious to share some exiting news and head out to a warmer place. My clients two weeks ago were, as is often the case, gifted photographers that I have known on-line for years. We became instant friends and quickly realized that we all shared the same ego-free love of teaching, and sharing wildlife photography. Alfred and Fabiola Forns are residents of Florida, gifted photographers and experienced workshop leaders; and they will be joining me for a SPECIAL, LIMITED EDITION WORKSHOP / SAFARI from April 22-24, 2011 (with a slideshow on the evening of April 21) at one of the most beautiful places in Florida; Lake Blue Cypress in southern Osceola County (just 20 minutes from Vero Beach).

OSPREYS GALORE (and so much more) a SPECIAL, LIMITED EDITION WORKSHOP / SAFARI

April 22-24, 2011 (with a slideshow on the evening of April 21) at one of THE most beautiful places in Florida; Lake Blue Cypress in southern Osceola County (just 20 minutes from Vero Beach).

Maximum of 8 participants with 3 leaders; Christopher Dodds with Alfred and Fabiola Forns.

The Crown Jewel of Florida, Lake Blue Cypress is the perfect habitat for the hundreds of Osprey nests that cover the ancient Cypress Trees which pierce the pristine water and surround the lake. We will have tons of opportunities to photograph Ospreys on their nests at (or below) eye level, diving for fish or gathering nesting materiel. Our trip is timed perfectly to see the parents bring fish to their babies. We will photograph other species of Florida birds and will have constant urges to capture the true beauty, spectacular sunrises and all it illuminates in landscape images of the unspoiled, wild and spectacular setting of Lake Blue Cypress.

With three veteran photographers / instructors, and a maximum of only eight participants, this workshop / safari represents exceptional value! We'll spend four hours photographing the many Ospreys of Lake Blue Cypress from our two pontoon boats on each of the three mornings. After lunch and a break, we may even head over to Vierra wetlands or Merrit Island for afternoon sessions on Friday and Saturday.

Who should attend: This is a great workshop for any level of photographer from the seasoned pro to a complete novice with basic equipment. Amazing flight images can be made with your crop factor camera and focal lengths of just 300-400mm; a fantastic venue for 100-400mm, 300mm, 400mm and 500mm lenses.

Price is only $1,095.00 per person with a limit of eight participants and THREE instructors. Price includes three 4 hour Pontoon Boat cruises (weather permitting). All Hotels, meals, beverages and items of a personal nature are not included.

REGISTER HERE


OSPREY with green nesting material (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) Image Copyright ©Fabs Forns. Canon EOS 7D, 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 L IS @400mm.  ISO 800, F5.6 @ 1/2000s

REGISTER HERE

OSPREY pair framed by moss (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) Image Copyright ©Fabs Forns. Canon EOS 1DMKIV, 500mm F4 L IS.  ISO 2000, F4 @ 1/1250s

REGISTER HERE

OSPREY pair interaction (Pandion haliaetus, Balbuzard pêcheur, OSPR) Image Copyright ©Fabs Forns. Canon EOS 1DMKIV, 500mm F4 L IS, 1.4X Extender.  ISO 400, F7.1 @ 1/2000s

REGISTER HERE