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Did you know that photography is a great way to have fun, relax and record memories? And we are sure that you already know photographing animals is just like photographing children: fun, entertaining and frustrating all at the same time! It is a fantastic way to spend a few hours. By trying to get that great photograph of a Gibbon, Lemur or Red Panda it means you may spend a little more time observing animals and watching their antics. You might even get a great shot just by being in the right place at the right time!

Over the years the Lake district Wildlife Park has had many photographers visit, both individuals and clubs. They have kindly sent in their pictures of Tapirs, Zebras, Zebus, Cappuchins and Wildebeest. Others have captured stunning action shots of our Birds of Prey soaring and gliding through the air. We have received magic moments of our Otters playing, Meerkats sunbathing and Flamingos displaying.

Last year we hosted photography workshops, where students learned some “tricks of the trade” and how to get the best out of their cameras. We also welcomed a group of young budding photographers from Ireby school, who were taught by local photographer Carmen Norman. The enthusiastic youngsters took fantastic close-up photos of Luna the Bearded Dragon and Tommy the Royal Python during our Reptile Talk.

During lockdown local photographer Al Milby donated a framed Red Panda photograph to help us raise funds for these endangered animals. Staff have decided to hold a raffle in the summer holidays as part of our fundraising activities for the Red Panda Network. The lucky winner will receive the stunning picture as the prize. Please keep checking our website and facebook page for updates.

Al visited the Park last week to take more photos of our animals and he has a couple of tips to help any budding animal photographers:

“If photographing through glass, get the lens touching the glass,” For those with more photography equipment he suggests “a lens hood and a circular polariser will help to reduce glare”.

“If you are taking photographs through a fence, get as close as possible & use the maximum aperture of your lens.”

However, his final words of wisdom are that the best photographs are mostly achieved by patience and luck! So, if you want to create some happy memories of your own come down to the Park and have a go. If you happen to be in the right place at the right time, you could capture some very special moments!

All photos courtesy of Al Milby Photography.