Birds in Focus: A Desert Photography Workshop
Master the Art of Bird Photography in California’s Largest State Park
Join professional bird photographer Sandeep Dhar for a hands-on, two-day workshop in Borrego Springs and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where you’ll sharpen your technical skills, explore the ethics of wildlife photography, and capture stunning images of desert birdlife in golden morning light.
Space is limited to 10 participants—reserve your spot and take your bird photography to the next level!
What to Expect
- Instruction on camera settings, lighting, and composition tailored to desert bird photography
- Expert fieldcraft tips for photographing birds ethically and effectively in arid environments
- A guided field session in Anza-Borrego during ideal morning light, with personalized coaching
- Comprehensive take-home materials including cheat sheets and post-workshop resources
- Opportunities to photograph desert species like Cactus Wrens, Verdins, and Black-throated Sparrows
Who Should Attend
- Intermediate photographers looking to specialize in bird or wildlife photography
- Birders who want to translate their sightings into compelling images
- Nature lovers seeking a focused, small-group photography experience
- Conservation-minded photographers interested in ethical wildlife photography
- Anyone looking to improve their skills in a unique and inspiring desert setting
Date/Time/Location:
Technique & Composition Class:
Saturday, February 7, 2026, 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
Anza-Borrego Foundation Administrative Office
587 Palm Canyon Dr. #122, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Field Photography Class:
Sunday, February 8, 2026, 7:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center
Cost: (Price includes workshop, field session, & parking pass)
ABF Member: $68
Non-Member: $80
Student: $40
Cancellation Policy & Scholarships: Please see our FAQs page to read our cancellation policy and learn about scholarship options.
What Previous Attendees Are Saying:
”Small group size. Amazingly energetic, thoughtful, helpful and knowledgeable speaker.”
”The program was very informative and interesting.”
About the Instructor:
Through years of devotion to bird photography, San Diego resident Sandeep Dhar has developed a distinctive approach that fuses artistic vision with technical precision to create compelling images that not only capture the beauty of birds but also tell their stories in ways that inspire others to protect them and their habitat. An educator at heart he finds immense joy in helping others discover their photographic voice. His work has earned recognition in several prestigious venues, including selection for the 2024 Bird Photographer of the Year contest.
