For the beginners, we start at 1pm on Saturday with talk and slideshow on the camera basics. Advanced shooters will join the group at 2 p.m. for a slideshow focusing on photographing animals. When the light starts to look good, we’ll load up the safari wagons and explore the 400-acre preserve. The itinerary of our drive will depend on the interests of the participants and, of course, the whims of our very independent subjects. We’ll leave seats open in the trucks so photographers have room to turn and quickly grab a shot of a kudu battling a grumpy addax with a newborn, or the perfect light on the horns of our white rhinos. Our classroom is in the acreage so you’ll have ample time for questions. When the light fades, participants can relax with a glass of wine and a gourmet meal overlooking the gallivanting giraffes before heading into the Elephant Room where we’ll present our visual voyages to the group. Together we’ll find ways to improve our shots on Sunday and pick up some Photoshop tips.

On Sunday we awaken early for a unique experience photographing the Safari West animal handlers feeding fruit to lemurs, playing soccer with cheetahs and watching our exotic birds swoop in to catch their morning meal of mice and mealworms. Our animals are fickle, so we’ll grab what we can with the help of those who care for them daily. After breakfast and a cup of coffee we’ll jump back in the trucks and seek out the morning light. We’ll finish our day with lunch and a quick look at the base compound.