Natural Photographer Blog

  • What's in the Bag

    What’s in my Camera Bag – Madagascar

    Jan 20, 2026 · Court Whelan

    If you are seeking real-deal wild, in one of the most photographable ways, Madagascar has to be on your travel list. This biodiversity hotspot is home to over 200,000 species…

  • What's in the Bag

    What’s in My Camera Bag – The Amazon

    Dec 28, 2023 · Court Whelan

    Just uttering the word Amazon conjures a feeling of the unknown…the wild…the immense. There is a lot correct about that feeling, for the Amazon truly is one of the largest…

  • Gear We Love

    What Is the Single Best Lens for the Galapagos Islands?

    Dec 10, 2023 · Court Whelan

    To say that the Galapagos Islands are spellbinding is an understatement. From the wild, unique animals to the moon-like landscape juxtaposed with one of the most vibrant marine ecosystems in…

  • Pro Tips

    Video Tutorial on Monarch Migration Photography

    May 10, 2023 · Court Whelan

    It’s no secret that the monarch butterfly migration is one of my favorite things to photograph. I’ve been guiding and photographing those little buggers in the fir forests of Central…

  • Pro Tips

    Monarch Migration in Action

    Mar 11, 2022 · Court Whelan

    Another incredible monarch migration seasons draws to a close and I’m still in awe of the marvels I witnessed from me recent monarch photo adventures. Each time I immerse myself…

  • Pro Tips

    5 Ways to Photograph the Monarch Butterfly Migration

    Sep 1, 2021 · Court Whelan

    Photographing the magnificent migration of the monarch butterfly probably isn’t at the top of most nature and wildlife photographers’ top goals—but it ABSOLUTELY should be. Not only is it one…

  • Pro Tips

    Macro Photography 101 & 102

    Jul 5, 2020 · Court Whelan

    What better time than now to learn some new camera techniques, get in your backyard or local natural area, and showcase the vibrant little things in life…flowers, beetles, butterflies, and…

  • Gear We Love

    What’s in my Camera Bag? Madagascar Photo Adventure

    Feb 17, 2019 · Court Whelan

    I often call Madagascar a biological treasure chest, and for the wildlife photographer it might as well be a treasure chest full of diamonds. Between the uniqueness of everything you’ll…

  • Pro Tips

    How to Take a Macro Shot without a Macro Lens

    Dec 18, 2018 · Court Whelan

    Macro photography is one of the most fun types of photography in areas where you’re likely to encounter the amazing little critters of the world. Think places with lowland tropical…

  • Learn by Example

    Getting this Shot – Poison Arrow Frog in Costa Rica

    Oct 4, 2017 · Court Whelan

    If you are headed to Costa Rica, you’ll certainly be on the look out for these amazing little critters, especially in the lowland Atlantic rainforests (e.g., Tortuguero, Sarapiqui, Tiskitia, etc.). …