Description:

From mid June onwards, the weather in the southern part of Bulgaria becomes drier and warmer. Insect life is reaching a peak now. The European Roller, a characteristic bird in the many areas in Bulgaria, is feeding their offspring with large insects like mantis, grasshoppers and beetles in this period, offering good photo opportunities. Bee-eaters are very busy taking care of their youngs too. Little owl, shrikes and various other species can be seen and photographed well in this period.

Emil installed several drinking ponds which do attract lot’s of different bird species especially in this period, when water becomes more and more scarce. Warblers, Grey Partridge and buntings are visiting regularly and can be photographed from permanent hides. Little Bittern, Ferruginous Duck, Night Heron and Grebes on one of the bigger lakes can be seen and a morning out in the water with the floating hide can be very productive and certainly is a very special experience. Of course, these are only a few examples of species, that can be seen and photographed. This workshop, taking place in the southern part of Bulgaria, offers even more than birds. Unspoiled regions offer rich insect and plant life and will keep any macro enthusiast busy for a while. Grasslands are bustling with insects and especially butterflies are numerous now. European Sousliks are located just minutes away from the hotel – surely an entertaining subject as well.

The hotel for this workshop is located in a small town near the Rhodope mountains, appr. 90 minutes drive from Sofia airport. It offers comfortable double- or single rooms and typical Bulgarian hospitality. All meals will be served here, but even picknick can be arranged out in the beautiful nature nearby.  Most of the various photospots can be reached within short drives from the hotel. During lunch time, when the light isn’t favourable for photography, a meal is served and there is time to review the results from the morning session. Later in the afternoon, photographers are heading out again and usually work until sunset. After dinner, there is time to discuss results and the plan for the next day.

For alternative dates please also check out Emil’s Spring Workshop