Newsletter
Florida Photography Festival
Florida’s Photo Fest 2026
April 22-26, 2026
Celebration Hall, St. Anastasia
Located at 5205 A1A S., St. Augustine Beach, FL
(Just 6 miles south of the Alligator Farm)
Elevate Your Photography at the 2026 Florida Bird and Photo Festival!
Join world-class photographer Todd Nettelhorst and an elite lineup of industry-leading professionals at one of North America’s premier photography events! The Florida Bird and Photo Festival returns with unparalleled opportunities to refine your craft, expand your portfolio, and connect with fellow photography enthusiasts.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Florida’s Historic Coast, this festival brings together top-tier photographers, new expert instructors, and an expanded selection of in-field programs designed to push your creative boundaries. Whether you’re an avid birder, a wildlife photography enthusiast, or a passionate visual storyteller, this festival is your gateway to exceptional experiences and hands-on learning.
Festival Highlights
- Expert-Led Workshops & Seminars – Engage with internationally acclaimed nature and wildlife photographers offering hands-on instruction tailored to all experience levels.
- Expanded In-Field Programs – Capture breathtaking birding moments and wildlife encounters in diverse natural habitats.
- Exclusive Technical Training – Sharpen your skills with courses on composition, lighting, editing, and specialized photography techniques.
- Immersive Community Experience – Join a welcoming network of photographers and nature lovers, all gathering to celebrate the art of visual storytelling.
Key Registration Dates
- Early Bird Registration: February 1 – February 28
- Festival Schedule Release: February 9
- Seminar & Workshop Tickets On Sale: February 9
Secure your spot early and take advantage of special pricing!
2025 – Todd Nettelhorst’s Exclusive Seminars & Workshops
Wild Encounters: Bird & Wildlife Photography (Field Workshop)
- When: Wednesday 7:00–10:00 AM | Friday 4:30–7:30 PM
- Where: St. Augustine Alligator Farm (999 Anastasia Blvd.)
- Price: $100 + Annual Photo Pass
- Max Participants: 10
- Skill Level: All Levels
Workshop Overview: Experience the magic of wildlife photography at a renowned location rich with avian species and diverse wildlife. Todd will guide you through essential techniques for capturing stunning images, from composition and lighting to behavior anticipation and ethical photography practices.
Gear Recommendations:
- DSLR, Mirrorless, or advanced Smartphone
- Telephoto Lens (200mm+ recommended)
- Tripod, Filters (CP/ND), and extra batteries
The Photo Adventure: Planning, Preparing & Executing (Classroom Seminar)
- When: Wednesday 3:30–5:00 PM
- Where: Celebration Hall at St. Anastasia (5205 A1A S.)
- Price: $30
- Max Participants: 30
- Skill Level: All Levels
Seminar Overview: Gain the skills to plan and execute breathtaking outdoor photography adventures. Learn essential gear selection, safety planning, composition techniques, and ethical field practices for capturing extraordinary landscapes and wildlife moments.
Close-Up & Personal: Joys of Macro Photography (Classroom Seminar & Hands-On Workshop)
- Seminar: Thursday 1:00–2:30 PM ($30)
- Workshop: Thursday 3:00–5:00 PM | Friday 1:00–3:00 PM ($50)
- Where: Celebration Hall at St. Anastasia (5205 A1A S.)
- Max Participants: 30
- Skill Level: All Levels
Experience macro photography like never before! Learn techniques to capture intricate details in tiny subjects, from flowers to insects. The workshop provides hands-on stations to refine your skills with expert guidance from Todd.
Suggested Gear:
- Macro lens, zoom lens, or extension tubes
- Tripod, filters, and remote shutter release
Hidden in History: Abstract & Pattern Photography Walk
- When: Saturday 8:00–11:00 AM
- Where: Castillo de San Marcos (1 S Castillo Dr.)
- Price: $100
- Max Participants: 10
- Skill Level: All Levels
Explore the historic charm of St. Augustine through an abstract photography lens. This creative session will help you discover patterns, textures, and hidden compositions within the city’s rich architectural landscape.
Wings Over Water: Mastering Shorebird Photography (Field Workshop)
- When: Sunday 6:30–8:30 AM
- Where: Matanzas Inlet Beach
- Price: $100
- Max Participants: 10
- Skill Level: All Levels
Master the art of capturing shorebirds in flight and at rest. Learn autofocus strategies, composition techniques, and ethical field practices while photographing birds in a stunning coastal environment.
Recommended Gear:
- Telephoto lens (300mm+ recommended)
- Waterproof protection for gear & clothing
- Knee pads for low-angle shooting
From Above: The Art of Drone Photography (Classroom Seminar)
- When: Sunday 10:00–11:30 AM
- Where: Celebration Hall at St. Anastasia
- Price: $30
- Max Participants: 30
- Skill Level: All Levels
Learn how to unlock new perspectives with drone photography! Todd will guide you through drone selection, flight techniques, composition, lighting, and post-processing to elevate your aerial imaging skills.
Exclusive Product Demo: Vanguard Tripods & Digiscoping (FREE Session)
- When: Saturday 12:00–1:00 PM
- Where: Exhibit Hall – Main Stage
Get hands-on with Vanguard’s latest tripods and discover the art of digiscoping for wildlife photography. Todd will demonstrate stabilization techniques and offer expert tips on achieving crisp, detailed images from a distance.
Register Now and Take Your Photography to the Next Level!
Don’t miss your chance to learn from some of the best in the industry while experiencing the stunning beauty of Florida’s Historic Coast. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today!