Images from a workshop based in Aviemore, Scotland, organised by Photographers on Safari - details on their web site www.photographersonsafari.com. We spent a very enjoyable day with Neil McIntyre, photographing Crested Tits and Red Squirrels at Neil's own 'secret' sites. Neil places hazel nuts in various places for the squirrels, which appear regularly and eat their nuts, while sitting in heather or on logs etc. Neil feeds the squirrels in different areas of forest to provide a range of background options. The Crested Tits are attracted to peanut feeders, which Neil places in different trees next to suitable perches. He varies the backgrounds and positions throughout the session. We were delighted with the photographs we got, all obtained out in the open, rather than from hides.
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Falconry days provided some great backgrounds for shots of the birds. The Autumn colours in the Cairngorms are stunning.

The Highland Wildlife Park has a good collection of animals and a beautiful open area where the Red Deer can be seen. We had a free day and a second day where we were allowed close to the fences for Polar Bears, Lynx and Tigers. It was great to get some shots of Amur Tigers in particular,.

A final word about the Rowan Tree Country Hotel - highly recommended. It was a great place to stay; beautiful location, excellent food and a very warm welcome. We will definitely go back there and hopefully do some more photography with Neil McIntyre..