The Farne Islands
Puffins

The Farne Islands is home to nearly 70,000 breeding Puffins, along with Eider Ducks, Terns, Shags, Razorbills & Guillemots to just name a few. These islands are a fantastic opportunity for any budding wildlife photographer to get up close and personal, with ample opportunity to photograph various species. We will visit two separate islands that offer unique opportunities and bird species. Spending two hours on each island, there will be plenty of time to capture unique images whilst receiving full tuition and support throughout the day.

Opportunities at every turn

There’s no better opportunity to develop your skills with wildlife photography than on the coast. We will spend 4-5 hours with these beautiful birds, some on the islands and some below the cliffs from the boat, giving each participant ample opportunity to develop your skills throughout the day with advice and support constantly available. With a small group, you will get more individual attention to maximise your time spent during the day.

All levels of experience welcome

From complete beginners to seasoned professionals, this workshop will be tailored around your individual requirements. Whether it’s settings, composition, fieldcraft or even post processing, I’m on hand throughout the day to provide this support.

Groups or individuals welcome

Group sizes remain at 5 to ensure everyone receives 1-2-1 support and tuition throughout the day. Larger group sizes are possible on request.

Gift vouchers available

Vouchers are available to purchase for this workshop and are also exchangeable for other workshops of the same value.

Where

Farne Islands, UK

When

This workshop isn’t currently running. Please contact Billy Shiel’s directly to visit the Farne Islands.

Fitness Level

A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Occasionally uneven terrain and up to 3 miles of walking

Cost

N/A

FAQ

What lens / focal length will you need?

500mm+ recommended but there’s huge potential for shorter lenses like a 100-400mm. I have OM System equipment available to loan at no extra cost on the day if needed.

Is this workshop weather dependant?

This workshop can be affected by poor weather. Trips can be postponed with enough warning or alternative arrangements are made on the day.

What will I need to bring?

Packed lunch & plenty of water, however there is a cafe and shop if needed.
Waterproof, layered, warm clothing.
Sturdy walking boots.

How long is this workshop?

This is a full day workshop which lasts up to 7 hours.

T&Cs

In the last month I have been on a Puffin Workshop and a One-to-One Workshop with Tesni. On the first workshop Tesni impressed me with her managing of the group, giving each of us equally of her time. Her understanding of the birds and their habits was particularly helpful in obtaining images, such as puffins in flight with sand eels and the group being attacked by terns. At the end of the day I felt I needed more time to learn the ways of such a sophisticated camera and so I booked a One-to-One. Once again Tesni was remarkably patient and very skilful in imparting her knowledge of the camera, thereby increasing my confidence in obtaining spectacular images of birds in flight by 100%. It is now down to me to take up her implicit challenge to do this. I am already thinking it will be a very good idea to do a refresher course, not least because Tesni is both an excellent photography/wildlife teacher and company.

Photographing Puffins in the Farne Islands has long been an ambition of mine and with Tesni’s help and guidance I have come home with images I am truly proud of, it is one of the best photographic experiences I have ever had. Her calm manner and friendly approach puts you at your ease, and her love of wildlife and photography shines through, a true inspiration. Whether you are a beginner trying out that shiny new DSRL or just need more field craft knowledge, Tesni’s your girl. Thanks again and until the next time, a badger workshop perhaps!!

When I saw the opportunity to go on a course to photograph the Puffins (and other seabirds) on the Farne Isles, I jumped at the chance. Even better that it was with the highly acclaimed wildlife photographer Tesni Ward. Her knowledge in both nature and cameras are second to none, and her professional guidance ensured that the day went well. Knowing the islands as well as she does ensured that the best locations were chosen to provide the most opportune photographs. Although I am only an amateur photographer, her advice helped me take some professional looking photographs. Tesni’s amiable personality made the day more relaxed, and the instruction more personal. I thoroughly recommend Tesni and her photography courses. Professionalism and pleasure at their highest.

We went on the Puffin Workshop to the Farne Islands last year with Tesni. Her knowledge of the Olympus system was incredibly helpful as I had just moved from a lifetime using Nikon cameras to Olympus. We decided to go again this year as we’d learnt so much and had enjoyed the trip immensely. We were also hoping to see the Sand eels this year as they had been late arriving last year, due to the cold Spring. This year’s trip exceeded our already high expectations. Tesni’s in depth understanding of the seabirds’ behaviour was invaluable and ensured that we were able to obtain the pictures that we were really hoping to get. Tesni was able to adapt her advice to all levels of photography. It was a brilliant day. Thanks Tes – you are a star!