Here at Looking Glass Photo, we believe photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s a way to connect, to explore, and to focus on the beauty that exists beyond ourselves. This past week, you, our community, embodied that spirit in the most profound way. You showed up for us, lifted us up, and reminded us of the deep connections that make this place so special. As a small way to say thank you, we’re inviting you to join Backyard Birds: Tips & Tricks—a 5-week online class, completely free. Starting April 5th, this course will dive into bird photography, observing our avian neighbors, and understanding their world from their perspective. We’ll explore habits, habitats, and ways to welcome more birds into our lives—all while learning how to be photo-ready for those fleeting, magical moments. Watching birds, making art, and immersing ourselves in nature can be a powerful remedy for stress and uncertainty, and after a challenging start to the year, we hope this class brings joy, inspiration, and a renewed sense of connection. Join us, and let’s celebrate the beauty of birds—and community—together.

Course Summary:

Embark on a five-week journey into the world of avian wonders with our online live course, "Backyard Birds: Tips and Tricks." Hosted by fellow bird enthusiast Jen, from Looking Glass, this engaging series is designed for anyone who likes looking at, talking about and learning about ... birds! Jen is a certified California Naturalist and 2024 Audubon Top 100 Photographer.

• When: Five consecutive Saturday mornings (April 5, 12, 19, 26 and May 3)
• Time: Each session begins at 9:00am with a duration of approximately 90-minutes
• Platform: Online Live via Zoom
• Duration: Roughly 1.5 hours per session
• Registration: Free with your RSVP. Click here to RSVP NOW →

What to Expect: Each week, Jen will help unravel the secrets of capturing stunning images of our feathered companions. From camera settings to editing techniques, she'll guide you through the nuances of photographing backyard birds. 

Course Highlights:

1. Photography Essentials: Enhance your photography skills with insights into camera settings, tools and techniques, composition, and editing. Jen will help you turn your backyard bird snapshots into works of art.
2. Bird Identification: Learn how to identify various bird species that grace your backyard. Jen will share tips on recognizing unique features and behaviors.
3. Bird Behavior & Habitat: Explore the habits and habitats of our avian neighbors. How better understanding of the birds can lead to better photographs of them.
4. iNaturalist, eBird and Merlin: Dive into the world of community science! We'll discuss how to utilize these online resources.
5. Online live: Sessions will be held live weekly and recorded. Recordings of the live sessions will remain available to participants for a month after the last session of class.

Interactive Sessions:

• Image Sharing: Each week we will make time for sharing some images of birds we captured that week. These can be favorite images, unique birds, fun bird moments, something you need help ID’ing or an image you would like to know how to improve. You decide.
• Q&A Sessions: As new questions arise while applying what you’ve learned, you can email Jen and she’ll make sure we address it for the group or ask during each week’s lively Q&A session, as time allows.
• Backyard Observations: Share your stories and observations from your own yard with the group, as we explore how diverse, predictable and unpredictable nature can be.

Click here to RSVP now and let the Backyard Birds class series bring some good light, conversation and learning into your Saturday mornings!