Southwest Florida Women’s Retreat
Birds, Beaches & Burrowing Owls
Thursday, February 19, 2026 - Sunday, February 22, 2026
This workshop is being offered through the Women in Wildlife Group
Fitness level: Moderately easy. Clients should be able to walk up to one mile on a sandy beach.
The listed workshop fee includes:
o Pre-workshop Zoom orientation and coaching (will be recorded.)
o Six in-field photography coaching sessions. Two half-days and two full days.
o Post-workshop Zoom image review (date within two weeks of workshop end.)
o Accommodations (single or double) with shared bathrooms, and transportation.
This rate does not include meals, beverages/alcohol, incidentals, tips and souvenirs..
Maximum 5 participants (based on one shared double room) 4 participants if all are singles.
Winter on the Florida beaches are nothing but glorious. Balmy days, and cool nights and minimal bugs makes February a perfect month to visit. Join professional photographer, Emily Carter in a long-weekend in beautiful Southwest Florida to enjoy birds, beaches and burrowing owls. This photography workshop will be based in Fort Myers, and accommodations will be in a luxurious home rental.
During this photography workshop, we will explore the area around Fort Myers, Florida including Sanibel Island with Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Cape Coral, and plentiful beaches in search of the best photographic opportunities. This workshop will also include a sunset and dolphin cruise off of Sanibel Island.
Topics Include:
Understanding natural habitats and the birds that live in them.
Bird identification, by both sight and sound.
Essential elements in bird photography.
Compositional approaches to bird photography, especially with large flocks.
Technical aspects for proper exposure and capturing birds and birds in flight.
Creating slow exposures in the early morning light with birds in flight.
Recommended Equipment:
Digital camera with a zoom lens with the longest focal range available. Landscape lens for wider perspectives.
Tripod with gimbal head for long lens support. Ground pod if available
Clean memory card and a fully charged battery, with backups of each.
It is always suggested to bring your camera manual for reference.
WEATHER & CLOTHING
The weather can be seasonably unpredictable. Upper 60s during the day and cooler at night. Plan on possibly rainy and overcast days.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended as no refund will be offered due to cancellations for any reason. This insurance must be purchased the same day you make payment for this workshop. Reimbursement will be considered if your spot in the workshop is filled by another participant. Should Emily Carter ~ Nature as Art need to cancel this workshop for any reason, then a full refund will be issued. Visit this website for trip insurance options https://www.insuremytrip.com/ or check with your credit card company.