This is a fantastic opportunity to photograph mountain hares in their white winter coats. Using his expert knowledge of mountain hares and the surrounding area. Kevin will be there to teach you the fieldcraft needed to capture a wide range of amazing images, offering full camera tuition throughout the session.

The hares are distributed over a wide range in an upland environment, and you can expect to see several hares over the course of the day, although this does vary from day to day depending on the weather conditions. There are also times when it is advantageous to remain with an individual hare for long periods, waiting for some specific behaviour to unfold or to capture the perfect shot.

The approach to the site is on foot, and it is possible to locate hares on the lowerground after 20 minutes. Depending on conditions and fitness levels, the aim will be to move uphill looking for hares before reaching the higher plateau where hares are most numerous. This involves a walk of around 1 mile and an elevation gain of around 250-300m. The ground is moderately steep in places, uneven, and can be slippery in snowy or icy conditions. Snow cover is very variable during the winter, and there may be none at all, or there could be more than 0.5m.

Walking in snow in this kind of terrain is tiring and requires a good level of fitness and stamina, especially considering that you will be carrying heavy photographic equipment, although the pace will be slow and breaks can be taken!

Mountain hares are mostly white in winter and are perfectly camouflaged in the snowy terrain, making them difficult to spot, but they have favoured areas where they rest up during the day. Once a hare has been spotted, a slow and careful approach will be made to hopefully get within photographic range. Although some hares flee at the first sign of humans, many others rely on their camouflage and stay partially hidden, allowing for a much closer approach.

The approach can take some time, and it’s important that the hare remains relaxed and comfortable. Hares will often sit in the same position for hours if undisturbed, and so it may be a waiting game, hoping the hare will become more active and start to groom or stretch. If pushed, then most hares will eventually flee, running off away from the camera, so we want to avoid this by being patient and waiting for things to happen naturally

Location: Scottish Highlands - Between Aviemore & Inverness.

Meeting Point: Confirmed one booking is made

Fitness Level: Good level of fitness is required, we will be walking uphill, crawling uneven terrain.

Clothing: You will be in an exposed winter environment - Dress smartly (further details PDF)

Footwear: Good walking boots are essential; the day may include deep snow, and uneven terrain

Transport: to/from meeting place can be arranged if needed.

Food: Bring enough food/snacks for a long day on the hill - a hot flask is highly recommended.

Facilities: Please be aware we are on a remote Scottish hillside - nature will be the only toilet.

Recommended Camera Kit: Lens 300mm+. Waterproof cover for camera/lens (further details PDF)