Red Deer Rut Photography Workshop at Bradgate Park
A small group workshop at Bradgate Park, focused on photographing deer during the autumn rut, with practical guidance on fieldcraft, camera settings, composition and working safely around deer.
Monday 12th October 2026 | £110
Join me for a small group deer rut photography workshop at Bradgate Park in Leicestershire, timed to make the most of one of the most atmospheric events in the British wildlife calendar.
Limited to four photographers, giving me time to work with each person and help you get the most from the session.
At a glance
Location: Bradgate Park, Leicestershire
Date: 12th October 2026 - 4 spaces available
Price: £110 per person
Duration: Approximately 7 hours
Group size: Maximum 4 photographers
Subject: Red and fallow deer during the autumn rut
Recommended lens: 300mm or longer
About the workshop
Bradgate Park is one of the best-known locations in the Midlands for photographing deer, particularly during the autumn rut when the red deer stags become more active and vocal.
The workshop will focus on photographing red and fallow deer in a natural parkland setting, with an emphasis on fieldcraft, safe working distances, light, backgrounds, composition and camera settings. We will look for opportunities to photograph stags, hinds, behaviour and wider environmental images that show the deer within the landscape.
The aim is to help you come away with a varied set of deer images, but also with a better understanding of how to approach deer photography safely, respectfully and effectively.
What we will cover
Camera settings for deer photography
Working with autumn light
Exposure and shutter speed
Composition and backgrounds
Fieldcraft and safe working distances
Understanding rut behaviour
Photographing deer in a public parkland setting
Reviewing and adjusting your approach during the session
The exact content will depend on the weather, light, deer behaviour and the experience level of the group.
Who this workshop is for
This workshop is suitable for beginner and improving wildlife photographers who would like practical help photographing deer during the autumn rut.
You do not need to be an expert. The session is designed to help you understand the settings, fieldcraft and decisions that make deer photography easier, including exposure, shutter speed, composition and working with changing light.
You will need a DSLR or mirrorless camera and a telephoto lens. The workshop is not suitable for phone photography.
Good to know
Location: Bradgate Park is in Leicestershire, close to Newtown Linford and within reach of Leicester, Loughborough and the surrounding Midlands.
Walking and fitness: The workshop will involve walking through the park and may include uneven ground, slopes, mud or wet grass. Walking distances are not expected to be extreme, but you should be comfortable being on your feet for much of the session and carrying your own camera equipment.
Facilities: Full joining instructions will be sent before the workshop, including meeting point, parking information and any venue-specific details.
Weather: This is an outdoor workshop and conditions can change quickly in October. Please dress for the weather and expect early morning conditions to feel cold.
Other species: Grey squirrels, woodland birds and waterfowl may also be seen around Bradgate Park, along with opportunities for wider parkland and environmental images.
Safety: Deer are wild animals. During the rut, stags can be more active and unpredictable. We will work at safe distances and follow appropriate fieldcraft throughout the workshop.
Wildlife: Red and fallow deer are wild animals and their behaviour cannot be controlled. Bradgate Park provides an excellent opportunity to photograph deer during the rut, but sightings, behaviour, light and photographic results cannot be guaranteed.
What to bring
Camera equipment:
DSLR or mirrorless camera
Telephoto lens, ideally 300mm or longer
Spare batteries
Memory cards
Camera / lens cover in case of rain
Tripod or monopod recommended
What else to bring:
Weather-appropriate clothing
Warm layers
Comfortable, sturdy footwear
Drinks and snacks
Packed lunch or food for the day
Any personal items you may need during the session
The workshop price does not include:
Travel to and from Bradgate Park
Food and drink
Parking charges
Personal, travel or camera equipment insurance
Accommodation
Before the workshop
Before confirming your place, I like to have a short phone or video call to understand your experience level, the equipment you use and what you would most like to get from the workshop.
This helps make sure the workshop is a good match for you and allows me to tailor the session as much as possible within the small group.
Ready to join the workshop?
Please complete the booking form to start the booking process. I will confirm availability, arrange a short call and send the next steps, including payment details. Full workshop terms and conditions will be sent before payment is requested.