Gannets Galore with Christopher Dodds
June 2024
June 2 to 4, 2024 2 SPOTS LEFT!
June 5 to 7, 2024 SOLD OUT!
Daily 4 hour Zodiac boat excursions (weather permitting).
3 days of in-the-field instruction from Christopher Dodds.
We will be within inches of thousands of Gannets at the largest Gannet colony in the world.
National Geographic Traveler Magazine ranks Gaspé as the number three tourism destination in the world (Nov./Dec. 2009).
Group size is limited to 7 photographers.
The small group size means more assistance and one-on-one guidance and coaching for every participant.
Long lenses are not mandatory for this tour; 200-400mm reach is adequate for an impressive portfolio.
Photographers of all levels are welcome; the tour pace will suit everyone’s needs and skill level.
Owners of all camera brands are welcome; my 40 years of professional photography includes the last six years as a Sony ambassador, 16 years using Canon as a Canon Northern Explorer of Light and 16 years using Nikon before that. I can help anyone with any brand improve their photography.
Christopher Dodds has over 35 years of experience leading workshops on Bonaventure Island.
Join world-renowned Canadian nature photographer, blogger, photo educator, lecturer, Sony ambassador and X-rite Master Coloratti Christopher Dodds, at the largest Northern Gannet colony in the world. Bonaventure Island, off the Gaspe Peninsula of Quebec, is home to more than 55,000 nesting pairs of Northern Gannets and it is such a beautiful place that National Geographic Traveler Magazine ranks Gaspé number three tourism destination in the world (Nov./Dec. 2009). You haven’t really seen a Gannet until you see the activity at a breeding colony. Bonaventure Island is perhaps one of the world’s best places to teach birds in flight techniques. Other photographic opportunities will include all aspects of breeding behaviour; courtship display, bowing (territorial display), sky pointing, fencing (two mates clashing their bills together while pointing skyward), mutual preening and copulation. Most of the nests will be occupied and will contain babies at various stages of development. We will be feet away from hatching eggs and adults feeding their young on their nests. The workshop is timed to coincide with the annual Caplin run in June, so we hope to have plenty of opportunities to photograph these magnificent birds diving; sometimes forming huge diving funnels containing thousands of birds. Other photographic possibilities include thousands of nesting Black-legged Kittiwakes, Common Murres, Black Guillemots, Razorbills, Gulls, Grey Seals and various Whales. Highlights will include a daily four-hour boat adventure on a 24 foot Zodiac Hurricane (weather permitting). We should have ample opportunities to photograph Gannets diving and feeding in large funnels.
Access to Bonaventure Island is tightly controlled, and it is impossible to land on the island before nine o’clock. The addition of the Zodiac voyage is the best way to maximize the morning light and photograph Gannets in a unique way. This is your chance to spend four hours (weather permitting) onboard our 12 people (though our group of seven will be the only passengers on board), 24-foot Zodiac on each of the three mornings of the workshop. Our Captain will be a huge asset to our expedition as he has lived in Perce all of his life and is an expert pilot who naturally positions his Zodiac in precisely the right place for photography. We will be his only passengers, and he will be sure to maximize our time aboard. We will have many opportunities to photograph nesting Black-legged Kittiwakes, Razorbills, Common Murres and Grey Seals, all at close range. We'll have many opportunities to photograph diving Gannets. After our Zodiac trip, we will land on the main pier of Bonaventure Island at about nine o’clock for a snack before setting off on a 1.75-mile hike to the colony, where we’ll spend the remainder of the day (transportation for physically challenged photographers can be arranged for an additional fee). Our camera equipment will be hauled up to the colony by a motorized Kawasaki Mule, so we won't have to worry about carrying it on our backs.
Chris’ in-depth knowledge of the Park, island, surrounding town and species gives him an edge when it comes to being in the right place at the right time to get the best photograph. Get hands-on help from Chris to improve your photography and take better pics! Absolute newbie amateurs to seasoned professionals are welcome; Chris has decades of experience teaching and explaining everything from the basics to the advanced fundamentals of photography. Chris shares many of the professional tips, tricks and techniques he uses every day to capture his artistic and technically perfect images; he holds nothing back!
Includes three morning Zodiac boat excursions (weather permitting) and return from Bonaventure Island to Pérce on a larger, commercial ferry, three full days of professional instruction, guiding and logistics management by Christopher Dodds. Not included in the price is your transportation to the workshop, park access fees, hotels, meals, drinks, souvenirs, or other expenses of a personal nature.
Who should attend: This workshop is highly recommended for any level photographer. Whether you are completely new to nature photography, an experienced amateur, or a seasoned pro. There will be something to photograph and we will have plenty of time to tailor your instruction to your abilities. The seasoned pro can take full advantage of the logistics, my site and subject knowledge. Personal fitness level required for this workshop is minimal, but you should have no issues standing for periods while walking slowly 1.75 miles to the colony and back. Physically challenged photographers can be transported to the colony on a 4 wheel all terrain vehicle at additional cost.
Getting there: Bonaventure Island is 77km from Gaspe Airport (YGP), 776km from Quebec City Airport (YQB) and 1029km from Montreal Pierre Elliot Trudeau Int’l Airport (YUL).
Details: An extremely detailed email with the precise itinerary, hotel recommendations, camera gear suggestions and tested clothing checklist will be emailed after registration is complete.
Questions: Feel free to email me at chris@chrisdoddsphoto.com or call me at +1 (514) 945-6195
Sign-up Now
Join world-renowned Canadian nature photographer, blogger, photo educator, lecturer, Sony ambassador and X-rite Master Coloratti Christopher Dodds, at the largest Northern Gannet colony in the world. Bonaventure Island, off the Gaspe Peninsula of Quebec, is home to more than 55,000 nesting pairs of Northern Gannets and it is such a beautiful place that National Geographic Traveler Magazine ranks Gaspé number three tourism destination in the world (Nov./Dec. 2009). You haven’t really seen a Gannet until you see the activity at a breeding colony. Bonaventure Island is perhaps one of the world’s best places to teach birds in flight techniques. Other photographic opportunities will include all aspects of breeding behaviour; courtship display, bowing (territorial display), sky pointing, fencing (two mates clashing their bills together while pointing skyward), mutual preening and copulation. Most of the nests will be occupied and will contain babies at various stages of development. We will be feet away from hatching eggs and adults feeding their young on their nests. The workshop is timed to coincide with the annual Caplin run in June, so we hope to have plenty of opportunities to photograph these magnificent birds diving; sometimes forming huge diving funnels containing thousands of birds. Other photographic possibilities include thousands of nesting Black-legged Kittiwakes, Common Murres, Black Guillemots, Razorbills, Gulls, Grey Seals and various Whales. Highlights will include a daily four-hour boat adventure on a 24 foot Zodiac Hurricane (weather permitting). We should have ample opportunities to photograph Gannets diving and feeding in large funnels.
“In September 2011, I attended Christopher Dodds’ “Gannets Galore” workshop in Perce, Quebec, Canada. I have attended many wildlife photo workshops over the years and this workshop was a 10+ without a doubt. The trip was exactly as he described on his web site; no overpromising and under delivering.
Chris provided access to a colony of 63,000 nesting pairs of Northern Gannets (and at least as many non-breeding birds) and his relationships with the local park staff allowed us to get to locations in the park that were closed to the public. Throughout the trip he was cheerful, very well organized and took care of all those details (and this was a complicated location) that can ruin an experience.. I was able to concentrate on what I came to do…..photography.
As a professional photographer I know my field, but it is a major bonus to find someone who can provide instruction to me. My flight shots improved dramatically! Chris has an uncanny understanding of composition and light and presented me with many opportunities to test my skills. He understands creativity in photography as well as being a technical master. This trip was perfect for a beginner or a professional and he gives as much instruction and guidance as you need without arrogance, attitude or making you feel too shy to ask. I would encourage any photographer, no matter what level, to sign up for Chris' workshops.”
— Terry Turrentine San Francisco | CA | USA
“In June of this year, I joined Chris Dodds on one of his Gannets Galore Workshops on Ile Bonaventure in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, Quebec. Wow! What a place. Not only is the area surprisingly beautiful, the sheer number of Gannets nesting on this island is mind boggling - several hundred thousand Northern Gannets. In addition to Gannets there are other species photographable along the sea cliffs which Chris's participants get to experience like no others. Under a special clause, exclusive to Chris's workshop a zodiac with the participants is allowed to get up close to the sea cliffs to photograph Razorbill, Common Murre, Black-legged Kittiwake, Harlequin Duck and much more in their habitat. In addition, we spotted Blue Whale and Minke Whale and photographed Gray Seal and Humpback Whale. Nice touches like transportation of photo gear the 1.8 miles to and from the nesting colony really make this a worthwhile and productive trip. For seabird lovers, Ile Bonaventure is a must and the way to experience it is with Chris Dodds who has nearly 30 years of experience on this island.
— E.J. Peiker, Nature Photographer
“I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for an amazing trip. I especially enjoyed shooting from the zodiac for all kinds of great shots. You lead an outstanding tour, and I would certainly consider future trips with you. I can tell that you could be of great help as I finish off my wish list of species for the new waterbirds book, as you know many of the key spots for specific species and behavior. I also have a lot to learn about the digital process, and you are gifted in this area. Many thanks my friend!
— Middleton Evans Baltimore | MD | USA
“Pat and I had a great time on your recent Gannets Galore photo tour. We have been on many photo tours and yours was one of the best. We have never seen so many excellent photo opportunities. Even the 5 AM Zodiac trip around the island offered great opportunities. The small size of the group, 6 photographers, added to our enjoyment since you were able to spend considerable time with each of us. Your tips on using manual camera settings were excellent. I now use manual settings for virtually every photograph, flight or static. Thanks again for a truly outstanding photographic experience.”
— Stokes Fishburne Chapel Hill | North Carolina | USA
“Thanks for a truly remarkable photographic experience on both land and water! The Zodiac rides were a wonderful way to spend the early mornings. I was amazed at how close we were able to get to the birds and the seals. The nonstop action at the Gannet colony provided countless photo opportunities every second. Now I can see how you can still find it interesting and challenging even after visiting the island over 350 times. Your extensive experience photographing at the colony meant that we always knew where the best opportunities were at any given time as the wind and weather constantly changed throughout the day. And your excellent tips on exposure, technique, composition, and use of flash allowed us to take advantage of those opportunities and capture some wonderful images.
On a logistical note, your fluency in French also proved invaluable at many points during the trip when you came to the rescue of us dumbfounded English speakers.
Hope to see you again soon, maybe even on a June trip back to Bonaventure!
— Mike Milicia Boston | MA | USA
“Thank you for a great experience on your Gannets Galore Workshop. Even though I have been photographing birds and mammals seriously for the last 6 years and have had many photos published in national and regional magazines and calendars, I still picked up some valuable skills by photographing with you. You gave me confidence to explore new photography methods, which I have already put to use. As a result, I am able to get photos now that I would not have tried before.
Bonaventure Island is a truly remarkable location for bird photography and observation. I thoroughly enjoyed the Gannets and other pelagic species. All three days were full of non-stop action, giving me plenty of opportunity to practice my skills; new and old.
I also want to thank you for your hospitality. I had a great time in the Perce’ area and credit that to you. I admire the respect you give to the park service employees. As a result, they treated all of us very kindly.
A trip to Bonaventure Island alone would not have yielded near the number of quality images that I was able to take while participating in your workshop. Thank you for your leadership, advice, tips, and hospitality.
Best wishes and please stay in touch.
— Stan Buman Carroll | IA | USA
“A trip of a lifetime. The workshop was amazing. The scenery was awesome and the people were fabulous. Chris Dodds knowledge of our subjects was expansive. The instruction was top notch, We were given so many opportunities to explore and learn the aspects of shooting pictures under conditions that allowed us to work with light, speed and movement.
There were so many aspects of photography I had never paid much attention too but Chris incorporated them in my experience effortlessly, patiently and with the understanding what is necessary to accomplish beautiful and professional photographs. Chris is thoroughly professional, knowledgeable and very personable.”
— Marla Moore Arlington Heights | IL | US
“Chris is everything I could ask for in a workshop leader. He is patient, accommodating, and knowledgeable, both about photography and birds. I learned a lot and took hundreds of great pictures that would not have been possible without Chris' instruction and experience. Aside from being a great teacher and leader, Chris is an all-around great guy and a pleasure to spend time with.
Bonaventure Island itself is spectacular, and the Zodiac trips around the island in the morning are incredible experiences, both photographically and visually, in part because this is the only way to see and photograph gannets in morning light, since the island is inaccessible until 9AM. Chris knows the place backwards and forwards, and always knew where the best photography experiences would be under a variety of conditions - an important resource to have on an island containing several large colonies.
In short, if you're on the fence about going, do it! Chris' Gannets Galore Workshop truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
— Matthew Barr Chevy Chase | Maryland | USA
“Bonaventure Island GANNETS GALORE with Christopher Dodds (June 2013). This
location and subject matter was challenging, photographically superb, and an
outstanding learning opportunity. I’ve been on several tours similar to this format—a
well-known photographer, great location, and variable learning opportunities.
Christopher is by far the best at teaching the fundamentals of photography such as
achieving correct exposure using manual settings, introducing the best locations for
photography, and giving honest feedback in a non threatening manner. He was willing
to repeat technical instructions and show me how to use the techniques he discussed.
Furthermore he took the additional step of being ‘present’ when needed for
information and facilitated my getting the most out of this wonderful location. I
recommend Chistopher Dodds without reservation-the very best.
Dwight Tomes, Grimes, IA”
— Dwight Tomes | Grimes | IA | USA