Free wildlife photography class offered June 25 in Brevard

Class will focus on close-up photography

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is offering a free wildlife photography class on June 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education in Brevard.

“Level II: Close-up Photography,” taught by center educator and photographer Jennifer Rowe, will cover the basics of macro-photography — the art of creating photographs of small items larger than life size to reveal detail, pattern and texture that might not be readily seen by the naked eye. Participants will learn about camera settings and techniques for capturing the closest, sharpest images of tiny plants and animals found around the Pisgah Center.

“In this class, participants will learn about what makes a great macro shot and how to turn extreme close ups into compelling photographs,” Rowe said. “We advise everyone to wear sturdy shoes, bring their camera, questions and extra batteries to enjoy a morning of learning and clicking.”

While all cameras are welcome, Rowe suggests that participants bring cameras capable of manual exposure, if they have one, as she will be discussing aperture, ISO and shutter speed settings.

Rowe, an accomplished and skilled photographer, has a certification from the New York Institute of Photography and has been teaching photography classes for the Pisgah Center for 10 years.

The class is open to participants 14 years old and up and is limited to 15 people on a first-come, first-serve basis. Pre-registration is required by registering online. For questions, email Rowe at Jennifer.rowe@ncwildlife.org or call 828-877-4423.

The Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education is located near Brevard, just south of Asheville, by the Davidson River in Transylvania County. The center features nature trails and five large aquariums representing aquatic mountain habitats. The center is adjacent to the Bobby N. Setzer State Fish Hatchery, where trout are raised in 54 raceways. The center is open Monday through Saturday from April through November and Monday through Friday from December through March. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

For more information on the Wildlife Commission’s four wildlife education centers and other activities and events, visit www.ncwildlife.org/learning.