Photography Walk and Talk: Birding at Reflection Riding
Learn about wildlife and birding photography in this interactive class with The Chattery.
This Photography Walk & Talk class builds on the Intro to Photography course and is designed for students who want to develop confidence photographing wildlife in a natural outdoor setting. Held at Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center, this guided session places a primary focus on introductory birding photography, with a secondary emphasis on landscape and scenic nature images.
Participants will practice adjusting camera settings for movement, distance, and changing light while learning techniques for observing and photographing birds responsibly and patiently. Instruction is hands-on and conversational, with guidance on focus modes, shutter speed, and composition to help students capture wildlife in motion while also recognizing opportunities for wider environmental and landscape shots.
This class encourages slowing down, listening, and responding to the natural environment through photography. Students will learn how to balance technical camera skills with awareness and timing—key elements in successful birding and outdoor photography. It is ideal for those who have completed the Intro to Photography course or have a basic understanding of their camera and want to expand their skills into wildlife and nature imagery.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own camera and, if available, a zoom or telephoto lens. A limited number of extra camera bodies and telephoto lenses will also be available to rent. To set up rentals email me at anhbao@anhbao.com. The class will involve walking and standing outdoors on trails for the duration of the session.
About the teacher: Anh Bao Tran-Le is a Chattanooga-based photographer and educator whose work focuses on portraiture, community storytelling, and building genuine connections through photography. His work spans portraits, weddings, and personal projects that explore place, texture, and narrative.
His ongoing series, Walls and After Dark, center on community storytelling by examining the textures, history, and overlooked moments within familiar spaces. Through these projects, Anh Bao invites viewers to see their communities and surroundings with fresh perspective and curiosity.
As an educator, Anh Bao emphasizes accessibility, curiosity, and hands-on learning. He believes photography is best learned through practice and encourages students to understand their cameras while developing confidence and creative intention. Through a supportive and collaborative environment, he helps students move beyond technical overwhelm and toward making meaningful images.
Register with The Chattery below, and all participants must sign the liability waiver before attending.
As an outdoor facility, our programs and events are almost always dependent on the weather. In the event of severe weather, programs may have to be canceled.