2027 Crystal Coast Horse Workshop

Join wildlife photographers Neil Jernigan and John Mauser for an unforgettable five-day photography workshop on North Carolina's beautiful Crystal Coast. Together, we'll explore the remote beaches, dunes, salt marshes, and maritime forests of Shackleford Banks, home to the island's legendary wild horses and some of the most scenic coastal landscapes on the East Coast.

Limited to just 5 photographers, this workshop is designed to provide a relaxed, personalized learning experience with plenty of one-on-one instruction. With two experienced instructors in the field throughout the workshop, you'll have the opportunity to receive individual guidance, ask questions, and work through challenges as they happen. Whether you're looking to improve your wildlife photography, refine your composition, or simply experience one of North Carolina's most iconic destinations, we're here to help you take your photography to the next level.

Throughout the workshop, we'll photograph the island's wild horses in a variety of natural settings—from windswept dunes and sandy beaches to tidal marshes and maritime forests. Depending on conditions and opportunities, we'll also seek out shorebirds, coastal landscapes, seascapes, and the small details that make Shackleford Banks such a remarkable place.

Our days will be built around the best light and the behavior of the horses, taking advantage of sunrise and sunset while allowing time to rest, review images, discuss techniques, and prepare for each field session. We'll cover wildlife behavior, camera settings, composition, exposure, autofocus techniques, working with changing coastal light, creative perspectives, and creating compelling storytelling images.

This is a hands-on photography workshop—not simply a photography tour. We'll be putting in the work both physically and creatively to become better photographers. That means walking through sand and dunes, getting in and out of boats, changing positions, working different angles, adapting to conditions, and actively seeking out stronger compositions and better light. Our goal isn't just to help you photograph the horses—it's to help you understand why an image works and give you the tools and confidence to create better photographs long after the workshop is over.

This is more than just a photography workshop. It's an opportunity to slow down, immerse yourself in one of North Carolina's most pristine coastal environments, and challenge yourself creatively while learning alongside two passionate wildlife photographers. We'll work hard, have fun, get a little sandy, and most importantly, leave Shackleford Banks with new experiences, stronger skills, and images we're proud of Crystal Coast Horses Photography Workshop

The Details:

Dates: May 3rd-7th, 2027
Location: Beaufort, North Carolina
Cost: $3,400 per participant

Everyone arrives Monday May 3rd with the first outing scheduled for Monday afternoon to sunset. Tuesday-Thursday we will spend each morning in the field. Return to home base for mid day break, image processing/reviews and then returning to the field for sunset. Friday morning we will photograph in the field for the final time before returning to depart home.

What’s Included

• Pre Workshop Zoom Meeting

• 5 days of guided photography sessions

• Hands-on instruction in the field and group classroom teaching sessions

• One-on-one feedback and image reviews & post processing

• Private boat access to Shackleford Banks & Carrot Island

• Instruction tailored to your skill level

• Post Workshop

(Lodging, transportation are included. Meals are not included.)

Physical Difficulty: STRENUOUS. Climbing in & out of a boat into water on the beach. Climbing sand dunes and potentially walking a mile + each day.

What You’ll Learn

• • Wildlife Behavior & Field Craft: Read horse behavior, anticipate action, and learn how to position yourself for better images.

  • Camera Settings: Master shutter speed, aperture, and ISO while adapting to changing conditions.

  • Composition & Perspective: Create stronger images using composition, low angles, clean backgrounds, and the surrounding landscape.

  • Working With Light: Learn to recognize and use light to create depth, mood, and separation—especially during the golden hours.

  • Fine-Tuning Your Craft: Work on the small details that turn good images into great ones, from positioning and perspective to timing and creative decision-making.

Remember, this is a hands-on photography workshop. We’ll be putting in the work, physically and creatively, to become better wildlife photographers. That means walking, positioning ourselves, working different angles, and taking advantage of opportunities in the field. Come prepared to get a little sandy, work hard, and leave with more confidence in your craft.