WHF BIG CATS (& CUBS) SANCTUARY, KENT
**********************************************************************
Two Tiger Cubs & Two Leopard Cubs
***********************************************************************************Can you believe it? There has never before been any cubs raised at this special venue. Now they have not only a pair of Tiger Cubs, but also a pair of Leopard cubs. It is a testament to the abilities of Mark Edgerley and his staff's skills in successfully changing the venue's direction into a breeding centre of excellence. Due to the pedigree of the parents, the leopard cubs are some of the most important captive bred leopards in the world. It is sincerely hoped that further down the line, some of the cubs' offspring could eventually be released into the wild. Click below to see the leopard cubs inside their living quarters;
http://www.kentishexpress.co.uk/kol08/article/default.asp?article_id=52549Tiger Cubs & Leopard Cubs up close
Photographers on Safari held three workshops at this venue in January 2009. Both the tiger cubs and the leopard cubs were well acclimatised to photographers. The Leopard Cubs were absolutely fearless and constantly practiced their hunting skills on each other and on their mother. The tiger cubs were less active but just as cute. We had plenty of time with both subjects and it was a privilege to be so close to them. They will grow fast and are bound to be hugely entertaining throughout the coming year and beyond. Do not miss this rare and special opportunity.
Privileged Access to Big Cats
The Wildlife Heritage Foundation Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent houses a number of endangered big cats with a view to breeding and, where possible, re-introduction to the wild. Although this centre is not open to the general public, Photographers On Safari have arranged for photographers to have privileged up-close access to these amazing animals.
Sumatran, Bengal & Siberian Tigers
There are currently less than 400 Sumatran tigers left in the wild. At the current attrition rate, there will be none left by 2012. There is a male "Nias" and a female "Puna" present here. In June 2008 they provided the first two cubs for the new breeding programme. Probably the best known of the big cats here is "Indy". She is of the Bengal variety and is absolutely stunning.
Amur Leopards & Snow Leopards
There are two Amur Leopards here. They are the world's most endangered cat. They share the same enclosure and there is often great interaction between them. Action shots are the order of the day here. They are also encouraged to climb up a branch of a tree and again this makes a good action photo.
African Lions, Cheetahs & Serval
No big cat collection would be complete without lions. Photograph these magnificent animals from just a few feet away and be amazed at the power of their jaws as they crunch large bones right next to you. The cheetahs and serval complete this collection and again provide wonderful photo opportunities.
Pumas, Lynx & Pallas Cats
2008 saw new enclosures built at WHF. It has allowed new species to be brought into this wonderful collection. The Lynx is a gorgeous cat and one that everyone wants to photograph. The Pallas Cats are more tricky to capture, and their eyes pop out as if on stalks. The Pumas have a fantastic new enclosure and are high on everyone's photo list. The pictures of these two cats jumping to and from logs over a pool of water really are something special. The backgrounds are quite superb.
Large Enclosures means Natural Photos
The enclosures here are large, and it is possible to photograph the cats with trees and bushes as backgrounds. This makes for stunning photographs that are not normally achievable in captive conditions. The shot of a tiger leaping out of the water is most people's favourite.
Wildlife Photography Tips & Tuition
The day begins with a few pointers on how best to get some great big cats photos during the day. One to one advice is available and actively encouraged throughout the day. Learn new techniques while taking fantastic photographs.
Up Close to your Subjects
Long lenses are not a requirement here. Some of you may choose to use a telephoto lens for headshots, but you will regularly be close enough to your subjects to use nothing more than a standard lens.
Restricted Group Size
Photographers On Safari will not be trying to cram an inordinate amount of photographers into one big cats day. Group sizes will be strictly limited to sixteen for this event.
Novices Welcome
You do not have to be a budding professional to enjoy this venue. An absolute novice with a compact camera will go home with some great shots of these wonderful animals. You will be close enough to them to smell their breath.
Revisit your Favourite Animals
During the day, you will be introduced to the animals in turn. A buffet lunch will be provided, and later in the afternoon you will be given the opportunity to revisit your favourite cats. This is a great time to possibly work on your own and capture more intimate shots.
Customer's Recommendation
I would like to thank you again for hosting this wonderful event. The privileged access, the in depth knowledge & enthusiasm shown by the staff made it a fantastic day. I must also comment on your expert & helpful attitude shown to our group, irrespective of experience or equipment. Everyone was full of praise for the whole day. I would particularly like to thank you for the help you gave me, especially with the custom white balance settings & fill-in flash. I felt I learned a lot that day and I hope it shows in my pictures (attached). Once again, thank you for a fantastic day & I am already planning which "Photographers On Safari" event to go on next. Paul Hancock.
**********************************************************************
Click here for more Big Cat Photos.
**********************************************************************
Typical Itinerary
10.45 Meet and greet + teas / coffees
11.00 Group tuition and safety briefing
11.30 to 1.00 Photograph under controlled conditions with one to one tuition as necessary
1.00 to 1.45 Lunch (provided)
1.45 to 4.00 Photograph under controlled conditions with one to one tuition as necessary
4.00 to 5.30 Free time to revisit your favourite subjects
(leopards excepted)
Event Cost and Dates for 2009 :
Sat. JUly 25th '09 SOLD OUT
Sun. JUly 26th '09 SOLD OUT
Sat. aug. 15th '09 11.00 - 5.30 £115.00
Sun. aug. 16th '09 11.00 - 5.30 £115.00
Sat. SEPt. 5th '09 11.00 - 5.30 £115.00
Sun. sept. 6th '09 11.00 - 5.30 £115.00
**********************************************************************
**********************************************************************
Specialist's Event for Max. 5 Photographers
**********************************************************************
**********************************************************************
We have also come to a special agreement with WHF, whereby we can run exactly the same format (excluding weekends) with just 5 photographers present. This means that you will have a really fantastic opportunity to take your pictures from exactly the angle you choose. There should be no reason why you will not leave this venue with a considerable number of really stunning shots. The animals can be encouraged to perform directly in front of you, thus enabling you to go home with a number of photographs of a real "professional standard". Both group, and one-to-one tuition will be available throughout the day. Time will also be set aside for reviewing the photos you have taken during the morning (if required). Constructive advice on any potential areas of improvement to your photography will then be offered where appropriate. Cost of this workshop is £199.00
mon JUly 6TH '09 sold out
TUES. JUly 7th '09 11.00 - 5.30 £199.00
mon JUly 27TH '09 SOLD OUT
tues JUly 28TH '09 SOLD OUT
mon. aug 17th '09 11.00 - 5.30 £199.00
TUES. aug 18th '09 11.00 - 5.30 £199.00
NB. This event can be arranged most times of the year (weekdays only) when 5 persons are wishing to partake. Please register your interest if the above date is not suitable.
One to One sessions available
