Black Bear Photo Workshops at The Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary
The Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary is 360 acres of North Woods habitat, ideal for black bears and other wildlife. Generations of bears frequenting the Sanctuary were habituated unintentionally by Vince Shute, as he tried to find a way to peacefully coexist with his forest neighbors. Vince fed the bears for more than 40 years. The feeding continues today as a means of preserving the extraordinary opportunities this unique situation provides. It allows The American Bear Association to educate the visiting public about the natural history of the American black bear and all natural resources. In addition, it allows The American Bear Association to offer you the chance to photograph this normally shy and reclusive animal.Dates for the 2008 Photography Workshops
The 2008 Photographic Workshops are now full
These workshops provide you with both expert classroom instruction and amazing field photography experiences. Approximately half your time is spent discussing various topics unique to nature photography, while the other half of the time is spent at the VSWS, photographing the 80+ bears that visit the site. Be aware, bears are not the only photographic subjects you will encounter. The area abounds with other wildlife, including whitetail deer, chipmunks, butterflies and myriad species of birds. In addition, you may discover a dew-kissed spider web or a trillium in bloom.
In order to better prepare participants for their time spent around wild bears, a representative from the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary will cover safety issues and give a brief talk on the history and mission of the organization. The lecture will include black bear natural history information with an emphasis on behavior. A staff member of The American Bear Association will teach this portion of the workshop.
Price
$375 for non-members and $350 for American Bear Association members. See below for membership details and benefitsReservations & Booking
Please fill in our online reservation form or call the American Bear Association at (218) 757-0172Schedule
SaturdayParticipants will assemble for registration, introductions, and bear safety instructions. The black bear ecology portion of the workshop will run until 2 PM, at which point the focus shifts to photography. John will provide an introduction and then the group will travel to the VSWS for an evening photographic session.
Sunday & Monday
Early morning and evening photography sessions at the VSWS are planned. Midmorning to mid-afternoon will be spent in classroom instruction. The VSWS is closed to the public on Mondays, so you will be the only guests!
PLEASE NOTE
With the exception of the meal on Saturday (i.e. the first day of the workshop), which will be provided to workshop participants, the ABA is no longer be able to provide meals during the photo workshops. However, the nearby town of Orr, located approximately 14 miles from the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary, has several cafes/diners.
Photo Workshop Instructor - John Pennoyer
John Pennoyer is a freelance nature photographer whose photo credits include: Wildbird Magazine, Bowhunter Magazine, The Minnesota Conservation Volunteer, Sierra Club note cards, The Lake County Journal and many others. He is also a longtime member of the Minnesota Nature Photography Club.John is an excellent instructor and has taught this class many times for the Twin Cities area camera club members and for The American Bear Association.
Past participants had these comments about John:
- "He was knowledgeable, congenial and a pleasure to be around."
- "The Best! Very helpful and informative."
- "His style makes one feel comfortable."
- "Good Job!! I'll be back again to attend another one of John's workshops."
Accommodation in Orr
Classroom instruction will take place in a beautifully remodeled barn at Grey Wolf Lodge. Make your reservations at Grey Wolf Lodge by calling 1-800-840-9653.Additional accommodations are available throughout the Pelican Lake area. Call 1-800-357-9255 for details or visit www.orrmn.com
Driving Directions
Travel Highway 53 north from Duluth, MN approximately two hours. One mile south of Orr, turn left (west) onto County Road 23. Grey Wolf Lodge is located approximately 6 miles down CR 23, while the VSWS is an additional 7 miles west on the same road.Map & Directions
Photo Workshop Information
- Class size is limited to 8 people, so register early
- All proceeds will go to support The American Bear Association
- All participants will be provided with bear safety tips
- All participants will be required to sign a VSWS liability waiver
- Be sure to bring all your camera equipment
- Be prepared for adverse weather
Cancellation Policy
Generally, the ABA must receive your written request for a refund two weeks before the workshop itself. Refunds will not be issued for cancellation requests that are submitted after these dates. A portion of the non-refunded payment may be applied to other services or products offered by The ABA with prior approval from management.Membership of the American Bear Association
Simply include your dues in the space provided on the registration form and pay the member's only price for this workshop. The American Bear Association is a Minnesota based nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. All support comes from the private sector through annual dues, visitor donations, merchandise sales and photography fees. The American Bear Association receives no federal or state support. Contributions are tax deductible to the full extent of federal and state law.Membership Benefits Include:
- Our quarterly publication, BEAR IN MIND
- Special discounts on ABA sponsored workshops and programs
- Knowledge that you are making a difference!
- Member - $30 annually
- 'Friend of the Cubs' - $100 annually
- Sustaining Member - $250 annually
Visiting Northern Minnesota
Who says you have to stay in the pristine Northwoods of Minnesota for only three days? There are numerous other opportunities available to explore. You could try some aerial photography of Pelican Lake and the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary. You could photograph the captive wolves at the International Wolf Center in Ely, Minnesota. You could even take a guided boat tour through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. And of course you can spend each evening at the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary, learning even more about the bears. Ask the Activities Director at your choice of lodging for details. Rob & Jo Kemkes of Grey Wolf Lodge have graciously agreed to help you plan a week-long adventure that will complement your workshop experience.For more information, please contact us at (218) 757-0172
Bear Sanctuary News
Keep up to date with developments and progress at the Vince Shute Wildlife SanctuaryBear Sanctuary News
Membership of the ABA
Help the bears by becoming a member of The American Bear AssociationMembership of the ABA
Wildlife Volunteers
Would you like to work with wild black bears? You've come to the right place!Wildlife Volunteers
Information on Bears
Facts about bears, including FAQ, Bear Biology and Bear Species around the worldInformation on Bears