Join us on this photography expedition to photograph the wild horses of Shackleford Banks. Located off the coast of North Carolina, this island is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore and is home to a most extraordinary breed of horse. Considered to be the oldest known population of wild horses in North America, Shackleford Banks offers us an opportunity to photograph some of the most unique behavior for wild horses known on Earth. With limited food available to the horses on the island, the Shackleford horses routinely swim off the island to access the nearby marsh islands to exploit the spartina and other marsh grasses that grow there. The tidal rip through this area can be extraordinary at times, and the bull sharks are infamous. Yet these horses have adapted. They have persevered this way for over 400 years.
Many other photographic opportunities abound. This area of North Carolina is a favorite of both professional wildlife and landscape photographers. Arguably the most picturesque, yet least photographed, lighthouse in the state serves as backdrop to these horses. Back and Core sounds (the bodies of water behind the islands) contain the largest population of American Oystercathers in the state and serve as home for hundreds of black skimmers. Dolphin and sea turtles are also likely to be encountered.
There are no bridges to this island. There are no roads, no houses. The only way for us to access these horses is by a shallow drafting boat. Working by boat offers us an infinite variety of options while we are shooting, allowing easy and quick access to the different parts of the island. We will work both on an off the boat while at Shackleford.
This workshop requires that you get wet. For that reason you will learn all of the necessary precautions to keep your equipment dry and safe while working in and around water. Participants will need to plan on shooting both in and out of the water and will need proper clothing and foot attire depending upon the season and conditions. A gear list will be provided upon registration for this workshop.
Full Day Workshops: $300
Two Day Workshop that also includes the Carrot Island mustangs: $450
One Day Workshop Dates:
April 22, 29
May 2, 3
Other dates may be available depending upon demand for single day versions of this workshop. Inquire for further details.
Two Day Workshop Dates:
April 23-24; 30- May 1
May 4-5; 7-8
June 25-26; 29-30