Golden Hour: Wildlife Photography Workshop in Big Cypress

This Big Cypress National Preserve tour begins at the Oasis Visitor Center located at 52105 Tamiami Trl E, Ochopee, FL 34141.

Upon arrival, please check-in with your Institute Naturalist by the flagpole outside of the Oasis Visitor Center. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure.

You will then ride in our Institute Van to your tour locations. The trip will end at your last stop. You will then return to the Oasis Visitor Center at the end of the program.

The following gear is required for the workshop:

• Mirrorless or DSLR camera
• Telephoto lens (within the 100-500mm range or higher)
• Backpack or other camera bag designed for comfortable transport while walking
• Tripods are optional (instructor will not be using one)

Restrooms are available at the Oasis Visitor Center before departure. Because local stores are closed early in the morning, please arrive prepared with the following items:

• Snacks
• Sun protection, such as sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
• A reusable water bottle and additional water (a water jug will be available for refills)
• Closed-toe shoes
• Long pants
• Layers, including an extra jacket or sweater
• Mosquito repellent

No printing necessary. You can even complete the waivers on your phone! Adults over the age of 18 must complete and submit their own waiver. Minors ages 17 and younger must have a parent or legal guardian complete and submit a waiver on behalf of the minor. There are separate waivers for adults and minors, please be sure you are completing the appropriate waiver. All minors must be accompanied by an adult. To complete the waiver process, you will need to confirm your email address through and email that will be sent by Smartwaiver.

If you have a medical condition described on the Medical Statement or any other condition that would be contrary to safe participation in any activities, you must provide documentation that you sought the advice of a physician prior to engaging in any activities.

How difficult is this trip?

This is a moderate adventure. While no strenuous hiking is required, participants should be comfortable walking a short hike and carrying personal items.

Do I need prior photography experience?

Yes. This is an intermediate-level photography program curated for participants with some prior photography experience.

What about bathrooms and facilities?

Restrooms will be available at the Oasis Visitor Center.

What will the weather be like?

Be prepared for layers, as program comes closer, naturalist and lead photographer will have a better idea on what they will recommend to wear.

How many people will be in the group?

This workshop is limited to 10 participants.

Can children join the program?

This program is open to participants ages 12 and up. All minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to pay the park entrance fee?

No. Big Cypress National Preserve does not charge an entrance fee, and no park pass is required.

When would this trip be canceled? 

Trips may be canceled due to unsafe weather conditions like high winds, lightning, or heavy rain. If the tour is canceled, you will have the option to reschedule or receive a refund. Photography workshops are prone to be rescheduled even due to cloud conditions, please keep an eye on emails from us about potential rescheduling. Please see our cancellation policy for more details.

This program is open to adults and youth ages 12 and up with some prior photography experience.

All minors must be accompanied by a participating adult.

To help us make your trip safe and enjoyable, please include a note in your reservation or notify your naturalist privately if any of the following apply to you:

• Recent surgeries
• Back injuries
• Medical conditions or allergies
• Pregnancy
• Any other health or safety concerns we should be aware of