Photo Talk (Special Yellowstone) with Dawn Wilson and Kyle Moon

Introduction

Introduction

Technological glitches aside, our recent live chat was an absolute gem. A big shout-out to everyone who joined us live, specifically John from Washington, Laura from Rhode Island, and Tim from Arizona. Today’s session was nothing short of captivating as we dived deep into the unparalleled beauty of Yellowstone with two phenomenal wildlife photographers, Dawn Wilson and Kyle Moon.

Get to Know Dawn and Kyle

Dawn Wilson

Residing in Colorado, Dawn is passionate about winter wildlife photography, capturing the ethereal beauty of snowy landscapes and the creatures that inhabit them. With extensive experience guiding tours worldwide, from Peru to Churchill for polar bears, Dawn's connection to the wilderness is profound. “Stick me in the cold, and I'm a happy person,” she says, encapsulating her love for the frosty outdoors.

Kyle Moon

Living on the Northern range of Yellowstone, Kyle boasts a rich background as a naturalist guide and wildlife photographer. Initially from Orlando, Kyle moved to Montana in 2017 and has since been sharing his expertise and passion for Yellowstone's incredible biodiversity with visitors. With an educational background as a biologist, Kyle’s approach combines scientific knowledge with artistic flair.

Why Yellowstone?

For both Kyle and Dawn, Yellowstone is more than just a photograph haven. It's a world where geothermal wonders meet fascinating wildlife. Kyle pointed out that Yellowstone hosts more than half of the world’s geothermal features, making it a unique destination. Wildlife enthusiasts can witness wolves and grizzly bears in close proximity, an encounter possible in very few places on Earth.

A Day in Yellowstone: What to Expect

When on a Yellowstone tour led by either Dawn or Kyle, you can anticipate an itinerary packed with adventure and surprises. The tour typically starts early, around 6:30 AM, with explorations spanning from West Yellowstone to Gardiner. The first part of the trip involves traveling via snow coach through scenic landscapes, stopping to photograph wildlife, geysers, and more.

During the second half, the journey continues in a van, cruising through Lamar Valley to Cook City, where you might encounter anything from majestic bison to elusive wolves. Essential stops include thermal areas, river valleys, and other spots where wildlife tends to gather.

Essential Gear for Winter Photography

Winter in Yellowstone can be harsh, and being prepared is critical. Here are some tips shared by Dawn and Kyle:

• Footwear: Invest in good-quality Mukluks or Corkers boots. These provide excellent insulation and, in Kyle's case, feature detachable bottoms for icy surfaces.
• Clothing: Layering is crucial. Fleece-lined pants, a solid base layer, and a waterproof jacket can offer adequate protection.
• Accessories: Gloves, preferably with liner gloves from the Heat Company, and hand warmers are necessary for keeping extremities warm.
• Tips for Heating: Avoid running the vehicle’s heater to prevent camera lens fogging. Additionally, keep extra batteries warm to ensure your camera remains functional.

Capturing Geysers and Landscapes

Photographing Yellowstone's geothermal features requires a bit of artistry:

• Backlighting: This technique works wonders with geysers, adding a dramatic effect to the steam and water.
• Slow Shutter Speeds and Video: These methods can enhance the dynamism of exploding geysers, capturing their majestic essence.
• Unique Conditions: Utilize opportunities to capture "diamond dust" – a phenomenon where moisture crystallizes in cold air, caused by backlight.

Workshops and Tours

Whether you’re a novice or seasoned photographer, both Dawn and Kyle offer extensive workshop opportunities:

Kyle Moon

• Florida Wildlife: Focus on birds, alligators, and iconic ecosystems.
• Freezeout Lake: Targeting snow geese migrations in Northern Montana.

Dawn Wilson

• Galapagos Islands: An immersive experience capturing unique flora and fauna.
• Rocky Mountain National Park: Custom tours combining wildlife and night photography.
• Louisiana and Alaska Expeditions: Explore rookeries and musk oxen in their natural habitats.

Subscriptions to their newsletters can keep you updated about new workshops and opportunities to learn directly from the masters.

Keywords

• Yellowstone
• Wildlife Photography
• Geothermal Features
• Winter Photography
• Tours and Workshops
• Naturalist Guide
• Snow Coach
• Geysers
• Layering for Cold
• Photographic Techniques

FAQ

What is the best time to see wolves in Yellowstone?

Wolves are more visible in winter due to the white landscape and their propensity to use roadways. This season offers the best photographable opportunities.

How should I dress for winter photography in Yellowstone?

Layering is vital. Use good-quality boots like Mukluks or Corkers, fleece-lined pants, waterproof jackets, and gloves with liner gloves. Hand warmers and battery management are also essential.

What opportunities are there for photographing geysers at night?

Photographing geysers at night is challenging in winter due to park restrictions. However, some thermal features in the Northern range can be photographed, primarily during the day.

What kind of workshops do Dawn Wilson and Kyle Moon offer?

Both photographers offer a range of workshops, from wildlife and landscape photography in Yellowstone to specialized trips in the Galapagos, Florida, and Alaska.

How do you handle camera batteries in cold weather?

Keep extra batteries in internal pockets to keep them warm. Cold weather can quickly drain batteries, so this is an essential tip for maintaining your camera's functionality.

What's the significance of backlighting when photographing geysers?

Backlighting helps to accentuate the steam and water effects, creating visually stunning, dramatic shots. It’s particularly effective for photographic geysers and steam vents.

By understanding these tips and insights shared during the live chat, your next visit to Yellowstone can be an extraordinary photographic adventure.