The beautiful town of St. Augustine hosts the Florida Birding and Photo Fest every year. It is an incredible experience filled with many exciting photography and birding events.
This event brings together birding enthusiasts and photography lovers to celebrate their passions and compete in photography contests.
This festival is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Florida‘s Historic Coast and capture breathtaking images of the region’s diverse bird species.
The Fest
Prepare for five days of excitement and discovery at the Florida Birding and Photo Fest. This festival offers a wide range of workshops and events, covering everything from capturing birds of prey in flight to exploring the creative processes of photography in general. Join renowned photography leaders for field workshops that will take you to picturesque locations, such as the beach and historic architecture, providing endless opportunities to refine your skills and capture stunning shots.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced photographer, classroom sessions are available where you can learn essential techniques, including Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, composition, processing, and printing. The festival is dedicated to providing technical training opportunities for photographers of all levels so everyone can learn and grow in their craft. Florida’s Historic Coast, with its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, serves as the perfect backdrop for the Birding and Photo Fest. In addition to the field workshops and classroom sessions, birding in-field programs allow participants to immerse themselves in the region’s avian and wildlife species.
Alligator Farm Events
A highlight of the festival is the immersive in-field session at the renowned St. Augustine Alligator Farm. Led by experienced photographer Todd Nettelhorst, this session is tailored specifically for bird and wildlife photography enthusiasts. Located in the heart of Florida, the Alligator Farm offers a rich tapestry of avian and wildlife species against a backdrop of lush landscapes and historic charm. Whether you’re a novice looking to master the basics or a seasoned photographer aiming to elevate your craft, this hands-on experience caters to all skill levels.
Don’t forget to bring your gear, including cameras (DSLR, mirrorless, or the latest smartphone models), a telephoto lens with a focal length of 200mm or greater, a teleconverter, filters, cable release/remote, fast memory cards, extra batteries, and field guides. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the exclusive events held at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm during the Florida Birding and Photo Fest. Capture awe-inspiring images of birds and wildlife, learn from experienced professionals, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Photography Contests
The Birding and Photo Fest also hosts photography contests that provide a platform for participants to showcase their skills and creativity. One of the notable contests is the Young Birders Contest, which invites young birding enthusiasts to capture stunning bird photographs while competing for recognition and prizes. This contest aims to encourage young photographers to explore their passion for bird photography and celebrate the beauty of nature. It’s a wonderful opportunity for young individuals to share their vision with a broad audience.
The Legacy Contest, open to photographers of all ages, invites participants to submit their best work that represents the legacy and beauty of Florida’s birdlife. This contest celebrates the rich natural heritage of the region and encourages photographers to unveil unique perspectives and stories through their images. By participating in these contests, photographers have the chance to compete with fellow enthusiasts, gain recognition for their talent, and contribute to the preservation of Florida’s birdlife.
Plan Your Visit
Book your stay at Beacher’s Lodge Oceanfront Suites and experience the warm hospitality, comfort, and convenience that our property offers. We look forward to welcoming you and ensuring that your stay in St. Augustine for the Florida Birding and Photo Fest is unforgettable.
Follow The Festival
To stay updated with the latest news and updates about the Florida Birding and Photo Fest, make sure to follow the festival’s social media pages on Instagram and Facebook. These central locations serve as hubs for festival activities and ensure easy access to up-to-date information on all the events and attractions offered during the festival. Also, be sure to check their official website routinely for updates.
Mark your calendars with important dates related to the festival! On February 16th, Seminar and Workshop Tickets went on sale, so be sure to reserve your spot in the sessions that will further enhance your photography skills and knowledge. The Florida Birding and Photo Fest promises to be an incredible experience, and by staying connected, you won’t miss a single moment of this remarkable event.
Stay with Beacher’s Lodge
When visiting St. Augustine for the Florida Birding and Photo Fest, make the most of your experience by staying at Beacher’s Lodge Oceanfront Suites. Our premier beachfront accommodations offer a range of vacation rentals and condos in St. Augustine, providing a comfortable and convenient home away from home. Relax and unwind in our oceanfront suites, where you can enjoy stunning views of the beach and take in the soothing sound of the waves. Each suite at Beacher’s Lodge is equipped with a kitchenette, allowing you to prepare your meals and snacks whenever you desire. This convenient feature is perfect for those who want the flexibility to dine in or try out the local restaurants in St. Augustine. Start every day with a homemade breakfast before heading out to explore the Florida Birding and Photo Fest. Return to relax in the comfort of your own suite whenever it’s convenient to you.
Take advantage of our temperature-controlled pool, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim after a day of birding and photography adventures. The pool area offers a tranquil setting, surrounded by lush vegetation and a comfortable sun deck for lounging and soaking up the Florida sunshine. Located just a short distance from the festival headquarters and other attractions, Beacher’s Lodge is the ideal choice for your stay during the Florida Birding and Photo Fest. Our friendly staff is dedicated to providing excellent service and ensuring comfort and satisfaction throughout your stay. In addition to the festival events, St. Augustine offers a wealth of attractions and activities to explore during your free time. From historic landmarks to charming shops and restaurants, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Stroll along the historic district’s cobblestone streets, visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, or indulge in the local cuisine at one of the many seafood restaurants.
Beacher’s Lodge is ideally situated to provide easy access to all that St. Augustine has to offer. Whether you want to explore the natural beauty of Anastasia State Park, learn about history at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, or simply relax on the beach, our oceanfront location allows you to make the most of your time in this charming coastal town.