Photography Options

Jon Pugmire’s shot of a Snowy Plover sticking the landing at Summer Lake, OR in June of 2026.

VAS has multiple groups and activities that help people of all ages learn how to see and photograph SW Washington’s abundant nature, including birds. The rich interactions and learning experiences within these groups are elevating the quality of our Vancouver Audubon Photo Fest that takes place at our public meeting each December. Here are some VAS options for those interested in bird photography:

  • Steigerwald Photography Group (all ages) – This group of local wildlife photographers has been meeting for nearly a decade. They have a Facebook group where photos are shared, and monthly Zoom meetings, usually on the last Sunday evening of the month (6:00pm – 7:30pm) to hone their skills. All are welcome! See more details…
  • Cameraderie (10-18 years of age) Youth and adult VAS mentors take monthly wildlife walks to photograph nature including wildlife. Those who need cameras can borrow donated gear and give this great hobby a whirl. Walks are followed a week later by group Zoom meetings to share and learn from photographs taken during walks, or since the last meeting. See more details…
  • Youth Nature Photography Contest (8-18 years of age) This will be VAS’s third year to team with Back Yard Birdshop and HD Aluminum Prints to sponsor the Youth Nature Photography Contest. See more details…
  • Young Birders (10-18 years of age) This VAS group is similar to and related to Cameraderie. In fact, youth most often join both groups. Young Birders monthly outings are focused on learning how to see and identify bird species in the local area to Vancouver, helpful to both to Cameraderie members and those wanting to enter the Youth Nature Photography Contest.
  • Monthly Walks & Field Trips There are no limits on the ages of folks who join our VAS bird walks and field trips, as long as minors are accompanied by an adult. Outstanding leaders will facilitate the deepening of knowledge of identification by physical characteristics and behavioral tendencies of our bird species. Feel free to bring your camera gear! See more details…