Wildlife Photography Course

AN IMMERSIVE TRAINING EXPERIENCE AT THE HEART OF THE RESERVE

THE EXPERIENCE

La Réserve des Monts d’Azur offers an exceptional setting — unique in France — to discover or refine the art of wildlife photography.
It is one of the very few places where you can practise up close with large European wildlife roaming freely, in real conditions, within a respectful and supervised environment.

This wildlife photography course takes the form of a 3-hour safari, designed as a true field training session.

You are accompanied by two complementary experts:
a certified professional photographer, who will guide you in learning wildlife photography,
a naturalist guide, ensuring respect for the natural environment and helping you better understand wildlife behaviour.

This dual expertise allows you to work on both photographic technique (settings, light, composition, anticipating movement) and animal observation skills: movement patterns, posture, and the best moments for observation.
An ideal setting to learn how to photograph without disturbing and to truly understand what you are observing.
A fully immersive experience, made possible by the unique nature of the réserve: a vast, preserved territory and a rare proximity to wildlife, offering incomparable learning conditions.


COURSE OBJECTIVES

  • Learn to observe and understand animal behaviour in order to anticipate movements and capture the right moment.
  • Master the essential camera settings (shutter speed, aperture, ISO) to produce sharp and well-balanced images.
  • Develop composition and framing techniques specific to wildlife photography.
  • Learn how to work with natural light and make the most of available conditions to enhance your subjects.
  • Receive practical guidance on image selection, post-production and basic photo editing.

PRATICAL INFORMATION

Duration:
3-hour safari & photography course

Languages:
French / English / Spanish

Recommended equipment:
• A DSLR, mirrorless or bridge camera
• A telephoto lens, if possible
• A monopod (optional but recommended)
Participants are encouraged to bring their own camera. If you do not have one, you may work in pairs using the equipment of another participant or the instructor.

Level:
Beginners and amateur photographers


Price:
€150 per person

(Course confirmed with a minimum of 4 participants)

Available dates:

Click on the desired date

  • Caption:
  • Available
  • Full or exceptionally closed

What they have to say
about our experiences

Joan Dulera

Sun. 25 August 2024

A unique experience that our family did yesterday at the Reserve des Monts-Azur. We've seen the wild european buffalos, the deers and the wild horses that originated in Mongolia. This reserve is a 700 hectares with free wild animals roaming around the place without human help. They co-exist in this habitat. I was amazed to see them sooo close! It's a different experience than seeing animals on captivity. I recommend for families visiting this place:-)

Angelique Amable

Wed. 10 July 2024

Not far from the city, nice drive!
If you’re gonna take a carriage, you can see the animals closer and there’s no need to wear sneakers if you’re not gonna do the promenade.
Carriage: 1 hour
Walking: 1.5-2hrs

Kirill Abikus

Sun. 23 June 2024

This is a great mini safari in the mountains! You can see horses and bisons in the wild. Walking tours or in the carriage. Very beautiful nature and nice staff.
Please note that it is usually cold in the mountains so dress appropriately (long sleeves and trousers are recommended).
You can have a very good lunch at moderate price in the restaurant. Book in advance.
Nice boutique with souvenirs.
Children liked the tour very much.
We did not stay for the night.

Schas Mien

Mon. 20 May 2024

Very beautiful reserve with stunning views. You can observe the animals in peace. Don't forget the binoculars! The crepes were very delicious.
Attention for non-French speakers: we had asked before booking if an English-speaking tour guide is available and this was not a problem. Unfortunately, on-site this was limited to just a few sentences and we understood almost nothing. That was very unfortunate!

Joanne Storey

Wed. 23 August 2023

Where do i start... Amazing place, the guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, great fun and spoke excellent English! We booked private carriage tour for our family. We loved seeing all the animals and learning a lot. We went to the restaurant for lunch, they had a great selection including children's menu. The food was beautiful and plentiful. I would highly recommend this place to anyone local or tourists! Thank you

See all reviews

Frequently asked questions

Do you have another question? Contact us at contact@haut-thorenc.com

The ecolodges are not heated. For your comfort, we make them available only during the summer season, from May 17 to October 15. Outside these dates, you can enjoy our other accommodations: Le Petit Manoir and Villa Bioclimatique.

Yes, of course! Children of all ages are welcome at La Réserve. Only guided walking safaris and our Lodges are not available for children under 5, for insurance reasons.
The Brame and Privilège stays can be enjoyed by families with young children, but only if the safaris are fully privatized.

For your safety, but also for health reasons, pets are not allowed.

We strongly advise you to book your safari or stay in advance.

No, our restaurant will be delighted to welcome you for lunch and dinner.

Here's all the information you need to get to La Réserve des Monts d'Azur :

  • 651 route des châteaux
    06750 THORENC
  • GPS coordinates:
    43°48'20 " N - 6°50'43 " E
    43.8049886,6.8431416
    GoogleMaps

We can be reached on the following telephone numbers:

Please note, annual closure from November 6 to December 1, 2023.