All the attached pictures were taken on a full-frame camera with only a standard pop-up flash and using the 80mm end of an 80-400mm lens. For those using a camera with a crop factor of 1.5 a 50mm lens may well be sufficient and certainly no more than 100mm should be necessary. Although I use a powerful studio light to aid autofocus, some sort of flash system is still recommended.
Both Tawny and Barn Owls can usually be photographed all-year-round (though the Tawnies are most active in the first half of the year, when the male is most likely to come in multiple times). Barn Owl numbers vary according to the season and prevailing weather conditions but rarely drop below three to four birds and are sometimes nearer double figures. Both species regularly come as close as six feet!
Prices start from £85 for a two-hour session (90% refundable in the event of a rare non-show – most likely relating to weather conditions). Numbers are usually limited to three or four (though occasionally exceptions can be made for groups) and for those just wishing to observe for a short period the cost reduces to £30. Feeding times vary but are always after dark.
Guided photography sessions using my 4x4 as a hide are also available and are usually limited to one photographer (two at a stretch) and start from £250 for 8 hours for one photographer, or £180 pp for two (depending on time of year and itinerary). There is also an option of either early morning or late afternoon sessions (primarily for owls and hares) at suitable times of year (primarily winter and early spring) or even longer dawn to dusk sessions for those who are really keen! Birders can also be catered for at the same rate. Sadly, following a number of last-minute cancellations of late I’ve regrettably had to introduce a £25 pp non-refundable deposit.
Accommodation on site at a modest price (self-catering only) is also an option for those wishing to do several days and incorporate some night-time owl photography.
Please contact me to check availability.