Upskill at the Auckland Zoo

If you fancy the opportunity to shoot some photos of exotic animals you wouldn’t usually capture in your everyday life without braking the bank on international travel, the Auckland Zoo has some fresh workshop offerings that can scratch that itch.

Bring your DSLR along to the zoo and professional photography tutors can help you lift your game, whether you’re an auto shooter or more experienced enthusiast, in a recently relaunched workshop programme set amidst the collection of native and exotic wildlife.

There are three types of  workshops available through the Auckland Zoo — the beginners’ workshop, the intermediate workshop, and the young photographer’s workshop.

Beginners’ workshop:

If you’ve got a DSLR camera and you want to learn how to use it to its full potential, this workshop is for you. You’ll receive a run down on all the basics of your camera and how to use your camera beyond its automatic modes.

Two photography tutors will take you round the zoo and help you understand how to use your camera like a professional. There are plenty of opportunities and challenges you’ll face when taking photographs at the zoo so it’s a perfect environment to get your fingers tapping at that shutter button.

The next workshop is coming up on Sunday, April 6 from 9.30am–3pm with only a few spaces available, otherwise the following workshop will be held on Saturday, May 17.

Intermediate workshop:

If you’re already confident in using you DSLR, or have graduated from the beginners’ workshop then taking part in the intermediate workshop will be the next step. You should ideally understand the basics of aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, and you may consider yourself a bit of a serious amateur who’s looking to take their photography further.

If taking professional photos is your next step, enrol for this workshop now. You’ll spend the day with two photography tutors and you’ll be guided around the zoo to take photos, with tips and advice to get your photography to the next level.

The next workshop will be run on Sunday, April 20 from 9.30am–3pm. Make sure your battery is fully charged and dress for a lot of walking.

Young photographer’s workshop:

For the younger generation interested in photography this workshop will teach you how to use creative scene modes and how to compose photos while snapping photos of animals, nature, or people. If you’re 10–14 years old, sign up to be guided by two photography tutors around the zoo.

An experienced zoo guide will also accompany you to tell you some cool stories about the animals. The next workshop is scheduled for Sunday, May 4 from 9.30am–2pm.

These workshops run all year round, so if the current dates don’t suit you can always make plans later down the track, or contact the zoo to arrange a half or whole day of bespoke one-on-one tuition at a time that suits you. To enrol in any of these workshops call the Experience Products team on 09 360 4700, or email [email protected].