Canonical URL: https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/hungary/hungarian-winter-wildlife/ # Hungarian Winter Wildlife [Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/join-a/wildlife-photography-holiday/) 20th - 27th Feb 2027 - Full [Europe](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/) - Guided By [Pui Hang Miles](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) [![Eagle With Fish At Bence Mates Photography Hides During The Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/eagle-with-fish-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1024x683.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/eagle-with-fish-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) Full Reserve with a deposit of £850 No payment is taken at enquiry stage. We confirm availability first, then send booking forms and deposit payment details. Please read our [booking conditions](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/booking-condtions/) and [financial protection information](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/financial-protection/) before paying a deposit. ## Hungarian Winter Wildlife - 20th - 27th Feb 2027 - Full - Single occupancy Join Waiting List No payment is taken at enquiry stage. We confirm availability first, then send booking forms and deposit payment details. Please read our [booking conditions](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/booking-condtions/) and [financial protection information](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/financial-protection/) before paying a deposit. Keen wildlife photographers are invited to join a small group led by [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) for an extremely special 7 night Hungarian [Winter Wildlife](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/norway/arctic-varanger/) photography holiday in **Pusztaszer**, [Hungary](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/hungary/). This photography holiday offers you the opportunity to be one of a select group of photographers who will have access to [Bence Máté’s farm in winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/specific-location/bence-mates-hides/) – a truly magical setting transformed by Bence’s expertly crafted lighting setups. This isn’t just a photography trip; **it’s a rare opportunity to capture utterly unique images in conditions few ever experience**. With only six spaces available in each group & only six groups scheduled each winter season, this fantastic photography adventure promises an extraordinary level of attention & creativity. **Long lenses are not necessary due to the specially designed hides that accommodate anything in the range of 70-200mm, 300mm, & 50-150mm lenses**. More than just a chance to take stunning photos, it’s a unique learning opportunity to improve your skills. If you’re after once-in-a-lifetime shots & the chance to learn from the best in a breathtaking winter wonderland, now’s the time to secure your place on this spectacular photography holiday! The 7 night photography holiday has an itinerary designed to capture images of Photographic opportunities, at the locations found on this trip, should provide opportunities for capturing images of various species, including [Common Buzzard](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-buzzard/), [Common Kingfisher](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-kingfisher/), [Eurasian Otter](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eurasian-otter/), [Eurasian Spoonbill](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eurasian-spoonbill/), [Great Bittern](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-bittern/), [Great Cormorant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-cormorant/), [Great Egret](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-egret/), [Grey Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/grey-heron/), [Marsh Harrier](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/marsh-harrier/), [Otter](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/otter/), [Pygmy Cormorant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/pygmy-cormorant/), [Red Fox](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-fox/), [Water Rail](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/water-rail/) & [White-tailed Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-tailed-eagle/). & any other species that appear in front of the hides. ## What makes the photography hides designed by Bence Máté unique? The photography hides designed by Bence are pretty special, & offer a unique take on wildlife photography. Using his skills as the ‘invisible wildlife photographer’ & knowledge of the natural world, Bence has created hides that combine technological innovation with secret spots in nature. These hides, designed for different specialisations, meet professional & amateur photographers’ needs. The photography hides designed by **[Bence Máté](https://natureslens.co.uk/why-photographers-keep-returning/why-photographers-keep-returning-to-bence-mates-hides/)** are truly one-of-a-kind & give wildlife photographers an unbeatable advantage when capturing remarkable images. With a combination of quality construction, natural materials, & innovative design, Bence Mate’s hides have revolutionised how wildlife photographers approach their work. ![Feeding Frenzy At Bence Mates Photography Hides During The Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/winter-feeding-frenzy-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) ## Which photography hides will be available during the Hungarian Winter Wildlife photography holiday? The following are the **photography hides** on Bence’s farm that will form the itinerary during the [Hungarian Winter Wildlife](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/hungary/hungarian-winter-wildlife-2028/) photography holiday sessions – participants will be rotated through the hides on a custom-designed schedule. ### The Theatre Hide The **Theatre Hide** is suitable for [24-hour action photography](https://natureslens.co.uk/for/nocturnal-photography/) during winter. Bence Máté has ensured that there are ideally situated natural & artificial lights, the background distance is perfect, & the hide itself is designed for a comfortable stay whilst photographing the visiting Hungarian wildlife. The principal, frequent species are the [Great Egret](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-egret/), [Grey Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/grey-heron/) & [Great Cormorant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-cormorant/). Other possible species: [White-tailed Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-tailed-eagle/), [Common Buzzard](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-buzzard/), [Marsh Harrier](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/marsh-harrier/), [Caspian Gull](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/hungary/), [Black-headed Gull](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/hungary/), [Pygmy Cormorant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/pygmy-cormorant/), [Spoonbill](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/hungary/), [Great Bittern](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-bittern/), [Otter](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eurasian-otter/), & [Red Fox](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-fox/). ### The Cinema Hide Similar to the Theatre Hide, the **Cinema Hide** is suitable for [24-hour action photography](https://natureslens.co.uk/for/nocturnal-photography/) during winter. Bence has ensured that there are ideally situated natural & artificial lights, the background distance is perfect, & the hide itself is designed for a comfortable stay. The most frequent species are [Otter](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eurasian-otter/), [Great Egret](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-egret/), & [Grey Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/grey-heron/) – Other species that visit this hide may include [Great Bittern](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-bittern/), [Water Rail](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/water-rail/), & [Moorhen](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/hungary/). ### The Winter Drinking Station At the **Winter Drinking Station**, Bence has set up an environment for stunning backlit photography of deer & birds. ### The Kingfisher Hide Bence Máté’s **Kingfisher Hide** is the first [Kingfisher hide](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/hungary/) where you do not need to use complicated flash systems but instead use a specially designed LED lamp system. This system allows you to shoot images of fishing [kingfisher](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-kingfisher/) at 1/5000sec, ISO 4000, & f4.0 any time of the day. ### The Hotel Hide In 2021, Bence established a new wetland in front of the lodge, now known as the **Hotel Hide** & installed a similar backlight system to that found in the drinking station hide. This location is frequented by fish eaters such as herons, egrets, [otters](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/otter/), etc. Photographic opportunities involving these species form a natural extension of the NaturesLens winter photography portfolio, where cold-season light, habitats, & behaviour combine to create compelling imagery. Explore related experiences across our [winter wildlife photography tours](https://natureslens.co.uk/holidays_to_photograph/winter-wildlife/). The wildlife highlighted on this departure represents an important strand of the NaturesLens winter photography portfolio, demonstrating the strength of photographic storytelling during winter months. Discover more seasonal journeys via our [winter wildlife photography tours](https://natureslens.co.uk/holidays_to_photograph/winter-wildlife/). This trip is one of our [wildlife photography holidays in Hungary](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/hungary/) & part of our programme of [European wildlife photography holidays](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/). [![Fighting herons at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/fighting-herons-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x1024.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/fighting-herons-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) ## Hungarian Winter Wildlife Photography Holiday Itinerary The following is the proposed itinerary for this photography holiday, it should be considered provisional & subject to change. - Day 1 - Assemble Budapest Airport - transfer to Pusztaszer - overnight Bence's Family Farm in Pusztaszer - Day 2 - Day 7 - Photography of various species from the hides available on the farm & in surrounding areas - overnight Bence's Family Farm in Pusztaszer - Day 8 - Transfer to Budapest Airport [![Fighting Wading Birds At Bence Mates Photography Hides During The Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/fighting-wading-birds-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x1025.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/fighting-wading-birds-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) The **White-tailed Eagles** are provided with fish to ensure their continued survival, even during periods of limited resources. In colder temperatures, these mighty birds of prey are particularly likely to come foraging for food during the day. [![Fighting Eagles at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/fighting-eagles-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x1023.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/fighting-eagles-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) ## Hungarian Winter Wildlife Photography Holiday Highlights We have taken care to refine the itinerary for this wildlife photography holiday; as such, we consider the following to be amongst the highlights of this tour. - Capture stunning images at Bence Mate's hides - Stay for 7 nights on a full board, non-shared basis - Great guide to client ratio of no more than 1:6 - Guided by Pui Hang for NaturesLens - Protected by package tour regulations as legally required for photography tour operators within the UK [![Otter at night at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/otter-at-night-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x1022.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/otter-at-night-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) Part of the itinerary will include a stay at the **"Theatre Hide"**, designed to accommodate three or four photographers comfortably. This hide boasts several creature comforts, such as sleeping quarters, a small kitchen, & amenities like electricity & wifi. To reach the hide, visitors must pass through a 15-metre tunnel. [![Backlit wading birds at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/backlit-wading-birds-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x864.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/backlit-wading-birds-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) When the sun sinks below the horizon, **specially designed lighting** illuminates several areas, resulting in a striking backlit effect. Birds, wading among the water, seem to come alive as they fling droplets everywhere with a shake of their catch. On occasion, it has been possible to witness several birds embroiled in a battle, their wings spread wide & their silhouettes backlit by the lighting set behind them. The contrast of their action against the backlight particularly amplifies the intensity of the spraying water from their wings & the splashing of the water from the commotion. [![Backlit Herons At Bence Máté's Photography Hides During The Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/backlit-herons-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x1024.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/backlit-herons-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) ## What Do You Need To Bring With You? The items listed below are intended as guidance rather than requirements. They outline optional & recommended clothing & camera equipment to help you prepare for the conditions & photographic opportunities you may encounter. Clothing We Recommend Camera Equipment We Recommend Clothing suggestions for the conditions expected. - Clothing suitable for cold conditions - Warm layers for early mornings & evenings - Footwear for very cold conditions - Warm hat & gloves - Sunglasses Suggested camera equipment for the opportunities expected. - DSLR or mirrorless camera body - Spare camera body - Spare batteries, charger & memory cards - Super-telephoto lens (e.g. 400mm, 500mm, 600mm, 800mm) - Lens cleaning kit - Camera backpack or suitable carry-on bag - Laptop or storage device for image backup [![Breath of an Eagle at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/breath-of-an-eagle-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x1024.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/breath-of-an-eagle-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) The photography is primarily focused on a **select few photography hides** built at the farm; however, the wildlife in these areas is particularly active at this time of the year. There is a reasonable chance of snow & ice & plenty of chilly temperatures. But think of the awe-inspiring light & all the beautiful misty breaths that are likely to be seen! [![Alert Cormorants At Bence Máté's Photography Hides During The Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/alert-wading-birds-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x1024.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/alert-wading-birds-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) ## Intended Photographic Subjects During The Hungarian Winter Wildlife Photography Holiday This wildlife photography holiday is carefully structured around reliable encounters with a diverse range of wildlife. Intended photography subjects include [Common Buzzard](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-buzzard/), [Common Kingfisher](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-kingfisher/), [Eurasian Otter](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eurasian-otter/), [Eurasian Spoonbill](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eurasian-spoonbill/), [Great Bittern](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-bittern/), [Great Cormorant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-cormorant/), [Great Egret](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-egret/), [Grey Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/grey-heron/), [Marsh Harrier](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/marsh-harrier/), [Otter](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/otter/), [Pygmy Cormorant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/pygmy-cormorant/), [Red Fox](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-fox/), [Water Rail](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/water-rail/) & [White-tailed Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-tailed-eagle/). As with all ethical wildlife photography, sightings cannot be guaranteed. [![Feeding frenzy at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/feeding-frenzy-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x1025.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/feeding-frenzy-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) ## What's Included & What's Not Included On The Hungarian Winter Wildlife Photography Holiday Before booking the Hungarian Winter Wildlife Photography Holiday, we recommend reviewing what is included in the trip price, along with any items that are not. This helps ensure you have a clear understanding of what is covered, allowing you to focus fully on the photographic experience. Included In The Trip Price Not Included In The Trip Price Most services & experiences are included in the trip price. - Guidance from our experienced team members - Accommodation on a Single occupancy basis - Internal transfers - Park fees - Hide access - Permits - Meals on a full board basis Some items & services are not included in the trip price. - International flights - Internal flights - Camera equipment - Travel insurance - Visas - Gratuities - Personal expenses - All drinks [![Heron with fish at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/heron-with-fish-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x1022.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/heron-with-fish-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) ## Travel Insurance Travel Insurance – it is a requirement when booking on any wildlife photography holiday scheduled by NaturesLens that you have adequate travel insurance, we suggest a policy from [TrailFinders](https://www.trailfinders.com/insurance) or [Campbell Irvine](https://www.campbellirvinedirect.com). ## The Kingfisher Hide Bence’s Kingfisher hide has **revolutionized** how photographers can capture images of diving & fishing kingfishers. Using a **custom-made LED system**, photographers no longer need to use cumbersome flash systems to take photos. This system allows photographers to take perfect images of kingfishers at speeds of 1/5000sec, ISO 4000, & f4.0, regardless of the time of day. [![A diving kingfisher at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-diving-kingfisher-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1024x1536.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-diving-kingfisher-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) [![A kingfisher takes to the water at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-kingfisher-takes-to-the-water-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-864x1536.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-kingfisher-takes-to-the-water-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) [![A kingfisher breaks free from the water at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-kingfisher-breaks-free-from-the-water-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1024x1536.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-kingfisher-breaks-free-from-the-water-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) [![A kingfisher emerges from the water at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-kingfisher-emerges-from-the-water-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1024x1536.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-kingfisher-emerges-from-the-water-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) A **backlit photograph** draws attention to the subject's form & shape with the light source behind them. The backlit technique creates contrast & vibrancy in the image, bringing out its features & making it stand out. [![Amazing Backlit opportunities at Bence Máté's Photography Hides during the Hungarian Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/amazing-backlit-opportunities-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter-1536x809.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/amazing-backlit-opportunities-at-bence-mates-photography-hides-during-the-hungarian-winter.jpg) Additional Information Similar Photography Tours NaturesLens photography holidays **do not include flights** unless it is explicitly stated on the event page. When it is time to book your flights, we will send you the details in plenty of time to allow for bookings at the best available price. The photography holiday itinerary is subject to change & is to be considered provisional. NaturesLens photography holidays require **a minimum number of participants in order to be viable**. If this minimum number is not met, the photography holiday may not go ahead. In the event that the minimum number for a photography holiday to go ahead is not reached, NaturesLens reserves the right to cancel any given photography holiday. In that event 100% of monies received will be returned. However, NaturesLens is not responsible for expenses incurred by its customers. **Not all mentioned wildlife can be observed & photographed at all times of the year**, thus some activities may be considered seasonal & not available. Please note **the cuisine on many of the NaturesLens photography holidays is authentic & typical of the region** in which you are travelling. International or western cuisine is often NOT available. If you have any concerns over the food arrangements or have any special dietary requirements, please contact us prior to making a booking. All personal luggage are the responsibility of the owner & we request that photography holiday participants limit their luggage to the equivalent of one suitcase, one flight bag, one camera bag & tripod. We do not wish to appear dictatorial in this matter & the request is made to ensure space & comfort for everyone in our vehicles. NaturesLens & its agents act only as agents for the passenger in all matters relating to travel arrangements, & as such, do not assume responsibility for injury, accident, damage, loss, delay or irregularity which may occur via defect of transportation or any other cause. NaturesLens reserves the right to substitute hotels, & other previously outlined arrangements as necessary, to either improve or equal the travel experience. NaturesLens reserves the right to pass on to photography holiday participants any additional & unplanned expenditure incurred during a photography holiday, via events beyond the control of NaturesLens. NaturesLens reserves the right to accept or decline any person as a member of any photography holiday. Payment of a deposit by photography holiday participants or their representative constitutes their acceptance of all conditions contained herein. All bookings are made subject to our terms & conditions. - Hungarian Winter Wildlife - 20th - 27th Feb 2027 - Sorry - Full Capture images with us on our wildlife photography holiday in Hungary, during February 2027, focused on Hungarian winter wildlife photographed from winter hides. [View More Information](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/hungary/hungarian-winter-wildlife/) Difficulty Medium Group size 6 guests Photography style Hide Based Activity period Mixed Itinerary type Photography Holiday We explore wildlife photography in Hungary in greater depth in [Why Photographers Are Drawn to Hungary](https://natureslens.co.uk/why-photographers-are-drawn-to/why-photographers-are-drawn-to-hungary/). ## Related Trips If this photography holiday appeals to you, you may also be interested in the trips below. They feature similar species, photographic opportunities or wildlife experiences, offering alternative destinations & complementary subjects for your future adventures. - [Hungarian Winter Wildlife - Hungary - Feb 2028 - 7 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/hungary/hungarian-winter-wildlife-2028/) More time with birds & mammals, at a similar time of year. - [Japanese Wildlife in Winter - Japan - Feb 2028 - 14 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/japan/japanese-wildlife-in-winter-2028/) More time with birds & mammals, with Pui Hang guiding again. - [Northern Sweden’s Eagles In Winter - Sweden - Feb 2028 - 5 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/sweden/northern-swedens-eagles-2028/) More time with birds & mammals, at a similar time of year. - [Winter Wildlife of Yellowstone - United States - Feb 2029 - 9 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/united-states/wildlife-of-yellowstone/) More time with birds & mammals, at a similar time of year. ## Frequently Asked Questions We’ve compiled answers to the questions we are most commonly asked about this photography tour, covering everything from accommodation, transport & group size through to photography opportunities, fitness requirements & what to expect in the field. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re always happy to discuss any aspect of the trip before you book. ## Location & Species ### Why are Bence Máté's hides special for winter wildlife photography? Bence Máté's hides are designed with expertly crafted lighting setups that transform winter photography possibilities. The custom LED systems & backlighting create unique conditions for capturing dramatic silhouettes & water action, while the hides themselves are positioned at optimal locations for wildlife activity during Hungary's cold winter months. ## Photography Opportunities ### What White-tailed Eagle behaviours can I photograph at the hides? You can photograph White-tailed Eagles descending to frozen lakes with talons outstretched, carrying fish, & engaging in territorial interactions. The eagles are provided with fish to ensure continued visits, particularly during colder temperatures when they actively forage throughout the day. ## Wildlife & Species ### What wildlife can I expect to photograph? Species regularly photographed include White-tailed Eagle, Common Kingfisher, Eurasian Otter, Great Bittern, Great Egret, Grey Heron, Marsh Harrier, Great Cormorant, Eurasian Spoonbill & Common Buzzard. Additional species may also appear in front of the hides. As with all wildlife photography, sightings can never be guaranteed. ## Photography Sessions ### How much time do we spend at the photography hides? This is a dedicated hide-based photography holiday, with photography centred around Bence Máté's farm for 6 days. All photography takes place from the specially designed hides on the farm & in surrounding areas, maximising opportunities to capture winter wildlife behaviour. ## Hide Features ### How do the specially designed hides work? The hides feature custom LED lighting systems that eliminate the need for cumbersome flash equipment. The Theatre Hide accommodates 3-4 photographers comfortably with sleeping quarters, kitchen facilities, electricity & wifi, accessed through a 15-metre tunnel. Different hides are designed for specific specialisations to meet photographers' needs. ## Kingfisher Photography ### How does the Kingfisher hide's LED system work? Bence's Kingfisher hide uses a custom-made LED system that allows photographers to capture diving & fishing kingfishers at speeds of 1/5000sec, ISO 4000 & f4.0 regardless of time of day. This revolutionary system eliminates the need for flash equipment while capturing perfect images of kingfisher behaviour. ## Group Benefits ### What are the benefits of a 6-photographer group? The 6-photographer limit ensures everyone has sufficient space in the specially designed hides, receives personalised guidance from Pui Hang Miles & enjoys a more relaxed photographic experience. With only 6 spaces available per group, this provides an extraordinary level of attention & creativity. ## Winter Conditions ### What makes winter conditions special for photography at the farm? Winter brings snow, ice & chilly temperatures that create awe-inspiring light conditions & visible breath from the wildlife. The cold weather increases wildlife activity as animals actively forage, while the specially designed backlighting creates dramatic silhouettes against winter landscapes. ## Lighting & Backlighting ### How do the backlit photography opportunities work? Specially designed lighting illuminates several areas when the sun sets, creating striking backlit effects. Birds among the water appear dramatically silhouetted as they shake their catch, with water droplets & wing movements amplified by the contrast against the backlighting. ## Accommodation ### What is the accommodation like? You'll stay at Bence's Family Farm in Pusztaszer for 6 nights on a full board basis. Single occupancy accommodation is included as standard. The farm provides direct access to all photography hides & serves as your base throughout the holiday. ## Equipment ### What camera equipment should I bring? Bring a camera capable of high-ISO performance, lenses in the 70-200mm, 300mm or 50-150mm range, spare batteries & memory cards. Your camera equipment must be fitted with Arca-Swiss compatible plates as these are required for use with the tripod heads in the hides. ## Skill Level ### Do I need advanced photography skills? No advanced skills are required. Pui Hang Miles & the local guides provide experienced guidance suitable for photographers of all levels during the hide sessions. This is a unique learning opportunity to improve your skills while capturing extraordinary winter wildlife images.