A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography 20

The Magic of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Article written by David Miles illustrated with images contributed by Alison Jenkins.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

The Picturesque Magic of Dalmatian Pelican Photography on Lake Kerkini

Suppose you've ever dreamed of photographing in their native habitat. In that case, the stunning Lake Kerkini should be on your list for your next destination. Located in Northern , this picturesque lake is a haven for photographers looking to capture the majestic beauty of the dappled birds. With its incredible network of canals, wetlands, & meandering rivers, Lake Kerkini provides a variety of photography-friendly environments that draw the eye of photographers worldwide. From the moment you set foot on the shore of Lake Kerkini, you will be captivated by its immense beauty.


The lake & the surrounding wetlands stretch as far as the eye can see, but it is the elegant & majestic which bring photographers to the lake in droves. Every season, countless photographers come from around the world to capture the birds in their natural habitat as they hunt for food, take flight, splash in the lake, or congregate on the shoreline. With its unparalleled abundance of birds, Lake Kerkini offers photographers endless opportunities to create stunning photographs. The experience of taking photographic shots of these majestic birds can only be described as magical.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

From the stillness of the lake at sunrise to the perfect reflections of the in the water at dusk, the almost surreal beauty of Lake Kerkini is like no other place on Earth. Join us in this article as we explore the charm of Dalmatian Pelican Photography at Lake Kerkini & uncover its breathtakingly picturesque magic.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Overview of Lake Kerkini


Lake Kerkini is a true gem nestled in Northern Greece. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts & photographers alike, offering breathtaking landscapes & an abundance of wildlife. The reserve covers an area of approximately 72 square kilometres & is home to a diverse range of flora & fauna. One of Lake Kerkini's main attractions is its Dalmatian Pelican population. These magnificent birds are known for their striking black & white plumage & impressive wingspan.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Lake Kerkini provides the perfect habitat for these , with its shallow waters & rich food sources. Visitors to Lake Kerkini can explore its vast wetlands, meandering rivers, & lush vegetation. The best way to experience the beauty of Lake Kerkini is by taking a boat tour. Such a tour allows you to get up close to the pelicans & observe them in their natural habitat.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

What to Expect When Visiting Lake Kerkini for Dalmatian Pelican Photography


When visiting Lake Kerkini, you can expect to be greeted by stunning scenery at every turn. The lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains, creating a dramatic backdrop for photography adventures. As you explore the reserve, you will encounter other bird species, such as herons, cormorants, & egrets. The best time to visit Lake Kerkini for photography is during the winter when these birds gather in large numbers.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

During this time, you can witness their courtship rituals & capture incredible shots of them in flight or perched on tree branches. In addition to bird photography opportunities, Lake Kerkini offers plenty of other activities for nature lovers.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Details on the Dalmatian Pelican


The is one of the largest pelicans in the world. It can reach a height of up to 6 feet & has a wingspan of over 9 feet. These birds are known for their distinctive appearance, with their white feathers & black markings. Dalmatian Pelicans are primarily fish-eaters & use their large beaks to catch prey. They are skilled divers & can plunge into the water from great heights to catch fish.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Watching them dive & hunt is a sight to behold & provides photographers with endless opportunities to capture stunning action shots.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

During the breeding season, which typically occurs between January & April, Dalmatian Pelicans display elaborate courtship rituals.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Males perform head-shaking, bill-clattering, & wing-flapping to attract females. This is another incredible moment for photographers to capture.

Challenges of Photographing the Dalmatian Pelican

While photographing Dalmatian Pelicans at Lake Kerkini is a gratifying experience, it comes with challenges. One of the main challenges is capturing these birds in flight. Their large size & wingspan make it difficult to frame them properly within the camera's viewfinder.


A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Another challenge is finding unique angles & perspectives to photograph the pelicans. With so many photographers visiting Lake Kerkini, creating images that stand out from the rest can be challenging. However, with patience & creativity, it is possible to capture genuinely remarkable shots.

Finding the Perfect Angle


To find unique angles for your Dalmatian Pelican photography, exploring different vantage points around the lake is essential. This may involve hiking to higher ground or renting a boat to get closer to the birds. By experimenting with different angles, you can capture images that showcase the pelicans' grace & beauty.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Another technique to consider is capturing reflections of the pelicans in the water. The stillness of Lake Kerkini during sunrise or sunset provides the perfect opportunity for stunning reflection shots. Look for calm areas of the lake where the water acts as a mirror, creating a mesmerizing effect.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Tips & Techniques for Capturing the Best Images of the Pelicans of Lake Kerkini

Before embarking on your photography journey to Lake Kerkini, it's crucial to gather as much information as possible about the Dalmatian Pelicans & their behavior. Understanding their habits, feeding patterns, & preferred locations can significantly increase your chances of capturing exceptional photographs. Online resources, guidebooks, & local experts can provide valuable insights to plan your shoots accordingly.


A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

To capture the fine details & beauty of these magnificent birds, investing in the right equipment is essential. A telephoto lens with a focal length of at least 300mm is recommended to get close-up shots without disturbing the birds. A wide angle would also be useful for capturing the snowy mountain backdrop. Additionally, a tripod would be useful in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Lighting plays a crucial role in photography, & it's no different when . Early mornings & late afternoons offer the best lighting conditions, with warm, soft light that enhances the colors & textures of the birds. Avoid harsh midday sunlight, as it can create harsh shadows & wash out the colors. Experiment with different angles & positions to make the most of the available light.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

The eyes of the Dalmatian Pelicans are captivating, & they can add a sense of connection & emotion to your images. Ensure the eyes are sharp & in focus, as they will draw the viewer's attention & create a powerful impact. Use autofocus or manual focus techniques to achieve crisp, well-defined eyes in your photographs.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Dalmatian Pelicans exhibit a range of interesting behaviors, from feeding & preening to courtship rituals & social interactions. Don't just focus on capturing static portraits; try to photograph these behaviors to tell a story & showcase the natural dynamics of the species. Be patient & observe their behavior to anticipate the perfect moments.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Composition is key to creating visually pleasing & impactful images. Use the rule of thirds or other compositional techniques to create a balanced & harmonious frame. Experiment with different angles, perspectives, & focal lengths to add variety & interest to your photographs. Include elements of the surrounding environment, such as the serene lake or the distant mountains, to provide context & enhance the overall composition.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

While the Dalmatian Pelicans are the main subjects, paying attention to the background is equally important. Look for clean & uncluttered backgrounds that don't distract from the birds. Avoid busy or distracting elements that may take away from the focus of the image. A shallow depth of field can help blur the background & isolate the subject, adding a sense of depth & focus.

A Photograph From Alison Jenkins Which Demonstrates The Magic Of Dalmatian Pelican Photography

Capturing the best images of the Dalmatian requires a combination of technical skill, knowledge, & respect for the birds & their environment. By doing thorough research, using the right equipment, understanding lighting, & focusing on composition & behavior, you can elevate your photography game & capture truly stunning images of these magnificent creatures. So, pack your gear, follow these tips, & get ready to witness & capture the beauty of the Dalmatian . Happy shooting!

Which Photography Tours Does NaturesLens Schedule for Dalmatian Pelican Photography?


NaturesLens offers a range of Dalmatian Pelicans photography holidays designed to allow photographers of all levels to add images of the magnificent Dalmatian Pelicans to their portfolio. Our Dalmatian Pelicans Photography Workshop dates are generally in January when the Dalmatian Pelicans are most active.

Our photography holidays & workshops allow photographers to capture stunning images of the Dalmatian Pelicans as well as many other species of wildlife found on & around Lake Kerkini.

At NaturesLens, we aim to provide photographers with an unforgettable experience that will leave them with beautiful, memorable images. Our trips are led by experienced wildlife photographers who are passionate about wildlife photography & are dedicated to helping photographers capture the best images possible.

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