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"Animal and Bird Behavior for Wildlife Photography"

“Espen is an amazing and talented photographer, looking forward to this session. Thanks for your time today.” – Tim W. Oliver
“Wonderful presentation, information and wonderful images. Thank you very much Espen.” – Swati
“Thank you very much, Espen. I enjoy all your shots and your YouTube channel. By the way, I am also an OM digital camera user.” – kalliat
“Thank you so much for the wonderful presentation. Your photographs are so beautiful. Good luck out in the field. I hope you get many more beautiful images.” – Tangula Unruh
“Thank you, excellent presentation and information. Great photos, thanks for sharing!” – Sharal

Do you ever feel like birds move too quickly, leaving you with missed shots or stiff-looking images?

Many wildlife photographers struggle with capturing authentic behavior because they focus only on gear and settings—without understanding what the animals are actually doing.

In this training, Espen Helland, a wildlife and conservation photographer and videographer based in Perthshire, Scotland, shared how to read, predict, and ethically approach animals so you can capture powerful, natural images.

Espen is an OM System Ambassador with a background in wildlife biology and ecology, and he has more than 3 million views on YouTube where he teaches bird and animal photography.

What You’ll Learn in the Training

The core theme of this session is understanding animal and bird behavior so you can anticipate action and photograph wildlife in a natural way. Espen broke it down into practical lessons you can apply in the field.

Where to Find Birds (and Why Location Matters)

  • Look for habitats that match the bird’s feeding and breeding needs.
  • Research hotspots in your area to increase chances of consistent encounters.
  • Use field guides and local reports to identify areas with seasonal activity.

When to Target Specific Species

  • Understand how migration influences where and when birds appear.
  • Track breeding cycles to know when birds will be most active and visible.
  • Adapt your schedule to seasonal changes for better opportunities.

How to Identify Birds by Songs and Calls

  • Train your ear to pick up calls before you spot the bird.
  • Use recordings or apps to practice identification by sound.
  • Recognizing vocalizations saves time and helps you locate species faster.

How to Approach Birds Without Disturbing Them

  • Move slowly and avoid direct eye contact to reduce stress on the bird.
  • Use natural cover or hides to get closer without altering behavior.
  • Always prioritize the welfare of the animal over the photo opportunity.

How to Predict Bird Behavior

  • Watch for body language cues like feather ruffling or wing stretches.
  • Anticipate repeated actions—many birds follow consistent routines.
  • Position yourself where the bird is most likely to move next.

How Weather and Seasons Affect Behavior

  • Light, temperature, and wind all influence activity levels.
  • Rain can bring out behaviors like preening or flocking near cover.
  • Adjust your strategy based on the conditions for more natural results.

Who This Training Is For

This session is designed for wildlife photographers who want to go beyond technical settings and capture authentic behavior. It’s especially valuable if you are:

  • A bird photographer who wants more dynamic, storytelling images.
  • A wildlife enthusiast who struggles to get close without disturbance.
  • A photographer who hears birds but can’t locate them visually.
  • An intermediate or advanced shooter aiming to anticipate action, not just react.

Real Feedback From Attendees

“Excellent presentation and wonderful images. Thank you.” – Tim W. Oliver

“Wonderful presentation, information and wonderful images. Thank you very much Espen.” – Swati

“Thank you so much for the terrific presentation, Espen – love your beautiful images! Best wishes to you and thank you again for your time and sharing your work!” – Victoria Brader

“Superb presentation! Thank you Espen.” – Carolle Marchand

“Nice presentation! Thanks for doing this.” – Kevin

About the Presenter

Espen Helland is a wildlife and conservation photographer and videographer based in Perthshire, Scotland. Originally from Norway, he studied wildlife biology and earned a Master’s in Wildlife and Conservation before working five years as an ecologist. Today, he uses photography and film to tell conservation stories and inspire others to protect the natural world.

Espen is an OM System Ambassador, a regular contributor to Wildlife Photographic Magazine, and a judge for the Scottish Nature Photography Awards. He also runs workshops and courses, and his YouTube channel has surpassed three million views.

You can learn more about his work on his website: espenhelland.com.

How to Watch This Training:

This event is exclusive to members of the Journal of Wildlife Photography.

Not a member yet?

  • Select a membership below and join today to unlock access to this event and so much more.
  • After subscribing, the link to this event and all others will be available on your members dashboard.

We look forward to seeing you there and being a part of your wildlife photography journey.

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Join Today and You’ll Also Receive These Bonuses!

BONUS #1:

Monthly Live Webinar Trainings

Learn from Award-Winning Photographers in our Live Monthly Trainings.

As a member, you’ll get free monthly 90-minute trainings by award-winning professional wildlife photographers like Simon d’Entremount, Isaac Grant, Greg Basco and many more who dive deep into both beginner and intermediate topics. Directly following the trainings, the speaker will open up the floor for 30-minutes of Q&A. You’ll get instant access to all new and past trainings with your membership.

(Value $197.00/month)

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BONUS #2:

Monthly Live Photo Contest Image Critiques

Learn how to improve your photo contest entries.

We’ll choose 4 to 5 non-winning photos and provide detailed insights on how they could be improved and possibly win next time. Directly following the critique, we will open up the floor for 15-minutes of Q&A. You’ll get instant access to all new and past critiques with your membership.

(Value $197.00/month)

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BONUS #3:

Digital Magazine

Workshop-Level Education in an Easy-to-Read Quarterly Publication.

In 2019, the Journal of Wildlife Photography was created to bring wildlife photographers workshop-level training into the pages of a digital publication. With columns on conservation, macro photography, bird photography, animal behavior and habitats, underwater photography, DSLR and Mirrorless Autofocus systems, light and composition, and so much more.

(Value $97.00/year)

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BONUS #4:

Social Community

Share Your Photos and Get “Real-Time” Feedback From Our Private Online Community.

Connect with other wildlife photographers, share your photos, and learn from award-winning professionals through live virtual workshops, training, and seminars. Receive personalized feedback from your peers and get valuable insights from image critiques by working professionals. 

(Value $97.00/year)

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BONUS #5:

Article Library

In-depth Articles on Wildlife Ecology, Shooting Tips, Field Techniques, and More.

Explore topics such as animal behavior, habitat management, outdoor photography, and shooting skills, among others. Each article is carefully researched and written in an engaging style, making it easy to follow and understand. You’ll get instant access to all new and past articles with your membership.

(Value $97.00/year)

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BONUS #6:

Monthly Photo Contests

Every month, JOWP hosts themed photo contests with cash prizes of $500.

These contests feature diverse themes that celebrate the beauty and diversity of wildlife photography, inviting photographers of all levels to participate. What sets these contests apart is the enticing prize awaiting the winners: a $500 prize will be awarded to the winners in each skill level. This not only recognizes the talent and dedication of the winning photographer but also provides an additional incentive for participants to push their boundaries and strive for excellence in their craft. Join us each month as we embark on new photographic adventures and celebrate the captivating world of wildlife through the lens.

(Value $120.00/year)

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LIFETIME

$397USD

$397.00

One-time
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Per Year

MONTHLY

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Per Month

Cancel Anytime

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“Animal and Bird Behavior for Wildlife Photography”
Espen Helland
Thursday, September 11, 2025 8:00 pm EDT
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