Walks, Talks and Slideshows.Natural History, Wildlife and Wildlife Photography Talks.I have a full set of digital presentation equipment including projectors, sound system and screens and am able to offer fully illustrated Wildlife Speakers Talks on a wide range of Natural History subjects to interested groups, clubs or societies. I travel extensively and subject matter can encompass Wildlife and Wildlife Photography not only from Gt Britain and Europe but also many other of the world's wild and wonderful places. I have comprehensive cover of a wide range of subjects and can offer talks to suit either “general” or “special interest” groups. For mixed audiences such as General Wildlife and Conservation groups I would recommend choosing from the list under the heading of “General Interest” since these talks have been structured to appeal particularly to audiences of mixed age and/or interests. Having said that many of the “Special Interest” talks also have considerable peripheral and associated content but are, nevertheless, based on a central theme and are often in some depth. Whilst the majority of the Talks I give seem to be requested from my list of “Tailormades” I am quite happy to structure a talk specifically to suit your group provided that I feel that I have sufficient coverage of your chosen subject to acquit myself satisfactorily. I am normally busy picture taking in the Spring and Summer and so would prefer to limit my Talk Season to the months October through March. That said, though I do not normally take long-term advance bookings for the Spring/Summer period, if I am in the country I am always able to take a booking at short notice should you find yourselves either in the lurch or subject to unforeseen circumstance that have caused a cancellation by an anticipated speaker. This latter opportunity applies through the winter months as well and I can often turn out at as little as 24hrs notice. I regret that I am not in a position to subsidise these talks and so would respectfully refer you to the relevant sections below dealing with "Talk Fees" and "expenses". (Whilst I am quite happy to take phone enquiries my travel schedule often means that I may not be able to take your call or access my voicemail easily. If you are phoning and cannot get through to me first time round, for any reason, then please contact me by Snailmail or Email and your enquiry will be dealt with as promptly as possible as I normally have someone to monitor these communications in my absence.)
Quick Guide to available Wildlife and Photographic Talks by section . (Further information regarding pricing and individual talk content can be found in the relevant descriptive sections below following the Quick Guide Listings.)
General Interest Talks:- 1. A Wildlife Ramble through the seasons. 7. The Bulbous Beauty of Britain and 2. Wildlife of Hants and Dorset. Europe 3. Wildlife Photography on a Budget. 8. On a Wing and a Prayer. 4. Living a High Life in Spain. 9. Feathered Friends and Foes 5. Wildflowers and orchids of Gt Britain. 10. Wildlife of the Falkland Islands 6. Terrestrial Orchids of Europe. 11. Worldwide Wildlife Showcase.
Specific Interest Wildlife Talks:- 1. Bulbous Plants of Europe 5. Orchids of Gt Britain. 2. Narcissi of Iberia and the Pyrenees. 6. Orchids of Europe. 3. Grasshoppers and Bush Crickets of Gt Britain 7. Ophrys Orchids of Gt Britain 4. Dragonflies and Damselflies of Gt Britain and Europe. 5. Terrestrial Orchids of Gt Britain. 8. Waterfowl of the World.
Wildlife Talks for Care Homes, Day Centres and Third Age Groups 1. Various. Please see descriptive section below.
Wildlife Talks for Horticultural Clubs Our standard lists plus various horticultural adaptations.
Wildlife Photographic Talks for Camera and Photographic Clubs & Socs. 1. Wildlife Photography on a Budget. 2 Working on the Wild Side. 3. Our standard list plus various photographic adaptations. "Contact us" for info.
Shorter Wildlife Talks for General Interest Groups. 1. Wildlife of the New Forest. 6. Getting close to Fur and Feather. 2. Wildlife on my Doorstep 7. Living Wild in the Falkland Islands. 3. Wildflowers of Britain and Europe. 8. Plus we can offer a shorter version of 4. All Things Bright and Beautiful. many of our full length Talks. Please 5. A Wild Time in Zimbabwe "Contact us" for info.
***Brand New Widescreen Talks for Coming Season.*** (Please see descriptive section below for full details).
Wildlife and Photographic Talk Price Guide .
Our Wildlife and Photographic Talks pricelist is based on a "Talk fee" plus normal travel expenses. These consist of a mileage charge only (based on current fuel prices) for distances of up to 50 miles from Bournemouth. In excess of 50 miles we would request mileage plus the cost of a "motorway type" snack-meal for two and, for some evening venues in excess of 100 miles, we will possibly also require overnight accommodation for two in either a twin or two singles. Your details can be confirmed at time of booking.
The constantly changing production costs and associated expenses of our very wide range of presentations, coupled with frequently extensive forward booking periods, prevents us from being able to issue a long-term pricelist and has given rise to a degree of variation in the "talk fees" applied to the various talk sections listed below. These fees will, however, be quoted and guaranteed for twelve months at, and from, time of booking.
A quick email will ascertain the latest situation and our best "guesstimate" of an overall price for forward bookings if required.
Please don't worry if you are unsure which talk you require or you need to refer the matter to a committee. There is no great urgency for deciding on your talk title as this can usually be changed or confirmed up to one month prior to reservation date. To avoid disappointment, however, please secure a booking for your proposed date as soon as possible as we are already committing to dates some two years hence. Dates may be initially reserved by phone or email but, due to pressure of demand, I do ask that they be confirmed by email or post within 14 days of reservation.
General Interest Wildlife Talks . This section of talks has been structured to appeal to Wildlife and Conservation groups with mixed interests. Talk duration is, on average, 90 mins and allows for a break partway through, and normally includes a short section at the end featuring a selection of images from my Wildlife Showcase Portfolio. 1. A Wildlife Ramble through the seasons. This talk covers the Wildlife species most often encountered in the local countryside with an emphasis on the changes effected within both species and habitats by the changing seasons. 2. Wildlife of Hants and Dorset. Similar in content to the above but limited to the Plant and Animal species to be found in the two counties mentioned. "Limited" is not the word to use since the diverse ecology of these two counties is amazing. 3. Wildlife Photography on a Budget. This talk seeks to dispel the belief that successful Wildlife Photography is dependent on long lenses and expensive equipment and demonstrates the achievability of stunning images for all levels of photographic abilities. There is no techno babble content, rather a concentration on the diversity of the species of Plants, Birds, Invertebrates, Mammals and Reptiles that present a never ending and easily accessible source of subject matter. These are portrayed, often in super closeup. 4. Living a Highlife in Spain. This covers the Wildlife that can be found in many of the dramatic mountain ranges of Spain often within easy reach but invariably overlooked by travellers visiting the better known tourist Meccas of the coast. 5. Wildflowers and Orchids of Great Britain. As the title implies this talk covers many of the Wildflowers and most of the Terrestrial Orchids to be found in Great Britain. Whilst the emphasis is on the Orchids there is also, in addition to the Wildflowers, a degree of coverage of other associated Wildlife species. 6. Terrestrial Orchids of Europe. Because of the size and diversity of this range of Wildlife species the emphasis of the talk is firmly on Orchids and their habitats but as in the talk above there is also a degree of coverage of other relevant Wildlife species. 7. The Bulbous Beauty of Britain and Europe. This is a closeup look at the striking beauty of many of the bulbous plants of Britain and Europe. Whilst Orchids are represented they have to take a backseat in favour of the many other genera covered. Irises, Fritillarias, Lilies, Narcissi, Crocuses and many others are shown both in habitat and closeup. A degree of license has been taken with the World Map as many Wild Tulips and other species from Turkey and Iranian Kurdistan have been included under the “Europe” banner. 8. On a Wing and a Prayer. A close look at the many species of Butterflies, Dragon and Damselflies, Grasshoppers and Bush Crickets of the UK and some of the many hazards they face on a daily basis and the tricks they use to survive. 9. Feathered Friends and Foes. A look at some of the many bird species both friendly and otherwise from around the world. Sometimes drab, sometimes garish but ever fascinating from the diminutive Cobbs Wren of the Falklands to the Ostrich of the African landscape and all points in between. 10. Wildlife of the Falkland Islands. An in depth look at the Falkland Islands and its very approachable Wildlife populations. Views from Port Stanley and the surrounding landscapes and islands give an insight into the rigours of life towards the edge of the Antarctic and an appreciation of the resilience of the many Wildlife species to be found there. 11 Worldwide Wildlife Showcase. This is a compilation of images from my “Showcase Portfolio” of Wildlife from around the World. Big Cats, Raptors, Plants, Invertebrates, Primates and other assorted Mammals all play their part in the bio-diversity of the “Wild World” the future for much of which seems often to be both “in doubt” and “in our hands” simultaneously. Should your group have areas of special interest complementary to the chosen talk subject I can often incorporate them into the talk or provide a short section at the end, as long as I am given sufficient notice.
Shorter Wildlife Talks for General Interest groups . In addition to our normal listings we are pleased to be able to offer the following Talks specifically structured to fit into a shorter time-frame. I receive many requests for short talks of 45/60 mins and the following list should satisfy that requirement. We do, however, request that, where possible, we be granted the full 60 mins since the nature and content of our illustrated talks, and the message we try to put across, is such that it can be difficult to squeeze it into 45mins. 1. Wildlife of the New Forest. This is a close-up view of many of the Plants and Animals to be found in this very diverse habitat. 2. Wildlife on my Doorstep. This covers much of the Wildlife to be found in the various habitats existing within the County Boundaries of Hants and Dorset 3. Wildflowers of Britain and Europe. Many of the better known species are portrayed in stunning close-up together with some of the rarer bulbous varieties not often seen. 4. All Things Bright and Beautiful. A selection of the more visually striking species of Plants, Birds, Insects and Mammals that can be found both at home and abroad. 5. Having a Wild Time in Zimbabwe. Having only recently returned from a 2 year stint in this well publicized African Country this talk portrays much from my time there not only with Wildlife but also of the school I was building in the bush for 240 local primary age children. 6. Getting close to Fur and Feather. Close-up encounters with a wide range of birds and animals from around the world, many of which would normally be photographed from a safer distance! 7. Living Wild in the Falkland Islands. Another habitat close-up, this time looking in on the Wildlife and dramatic scenery of this desolate but stunningly beautiful part of the world. In addition to the above list of short talks we can often offer a short version of some of our other full length presentations. Contact us for info.
Specific Interest Wildlife Talks. These talks are geared towards groups with a very specific interest in the listed subject and tend to concentrate on it accordingly. There is little or no peripheral flim flam or extraneous coverage and the talks are directed at the dedicated enthusiast. Duration of the main talk is approx 1 hr. The underlying intent of my Wildlife Photography, however, is to promote an “awareness” of wildlife in all its diversity and so, if requesting one of these talks on a specific subject, I do ask that I be given the opportunity to include a further 30mins section on general wildlife after the main body of the talk. Talks are listed by subject matter and not by name. The contents are continually updated as and when possible. 1. Bulbous plants of Europe (up to and inc Turkish and Iranian Kurdistan). 2. Narcissi of the Pyrenees and Iberian Peninsula. This covers many of the diverse range of Narcissus species to be found in this rugged and beautiful habitat. 3. Grasshoppers and Bush Crickets of Gt Britain. Apart from the orthopteran species involved there is a degree of coverage of associated habitats and predators. 4. Dragonflies and Damselflies of Gt Britain. Also included is content of habitats, predators and foodstuffs. 5. Terrestrial Orchids of Gt Britain. Most of the 50 odd species to be found in the UK are portrayed together with other associated wildlife and habitats. 6. Orchids of Europe. Much the same as the above but with a far wider area of distribution, as far afield as Iranian Kurdistan. 7. Ophrys Orchids of Gt Britain and Europe. This Talk concentrates on the Ophrys or Insect Orchids of Britain and Europe highlighting the intricacy of designs and invariably displayed in incredible closeup. 8. Water-based Birds of the World (Formerly Waterfowl of the World but renamed to include other associated bird species) This talk is not so much story based as some but seeks to highlight the incredible diversity of size, shape and design of a wide selection of bird species from around the world that frequent Water and Wetland habitats.
Wildlife Talks for Day Centres, Care Homes and Third Age Groups. I have a number of talks geared up for the above audiences. In practise, however, I have found it more convenient to discuss the content with the various organisers concerned personally and so have not prepared a named list. Rather I would prefer you get in touch with me by phone, or email me with contact details and I will get back to you, when we can discuss what would suit your particular group. At any one time I normally have two or three “talks of the moment” the content of which changes on a regular basis and reflects recent travels and photographic experiences and will probably have been well tried and tested. Talk duration is normally about 1 hour though longer is not normally a problem should you require it. I have a very strongly illuminated projector so that if your premises do not allow a complete blackout we can usually still manage. I have all the equipment required including a very good sound system. As mentioned above I can usually turn out at quite short notice so if you suffer unexpected setbacks in your anticipated programme please feel free to call. Please note that whilst I am happy to take long term pre bookings for the months of Oct through March I am not always available in the Spring and Summer months though a quick phone call will usually ascertain my availability on a short term basis.
Wildlife Talks for Photographic Clubs and Societies. Our new range of "Widescreen" presentations are particularly suitable for Photographic Clubs and Societies wishing to stage a "major event". Full details can be found in the Widescreen sections below. In addition to our normal comprehensive listings there are two talks we are currently offering specifically for Camera Clubs only which are designed almost on a Part 1 and Part 2 basis with Wildlife Photography on a Budget being the first and Working on the Wild Side being the second should you invite us back in a following season. Both these Talks are constantly updated though their relevance one to the other is maintained. We are currently working on a third option since we have already visited many clubs on more than one occasion. This one will, however, probably be produced in a wide screen format as will most of our new General Talks from here on in. For these we will be using a Wide Screen though not as large as the 12ft by 9ft mentioned elsewhere. The new size will be such as to suit most venues.
1. Wildlife Photography on a Budget. This is a "themed" talk, constantly updated, which concentrates on highlighting the wealth of potential wildlife subject material that is available to all and sundry on a day to day basis without the need to undertake expensive foreign travel. The Budget referred to is not just one of finance but takes into account also those other budgets that control the lives of most of us such as Time, Aptitude, Equipment and Intent. The finding and Photographing of a wide range of Wildlife is covered including Plants, Insects, Birds, Reptiles and Mammals. Something for everyone, newcomers and old hands alike.
2. Working on the Wild Side. Whilst there may occasionally be a degree of overlap with the above, this talk is loosely titled to enable me to update regularly and to incorporate into it the results of my latest Photographic Forays, as well as having a somewhat wider geographic base than the above. Some of the Wildlife depicted may not be so readily available and a degree of travel may be required to see and photograph it. Its loose title also enables me to build into it, where possible, any particular aspect of Wildlife Photography you may wish your club to see. I would need details of this at time of booking. Not such a rigid theme as the above but, nevertheless, always emphasising the diversity, availability, and potential for rewarding images, of a wide range of Wildlife subjects. These talks are about Wildlife in its many forms, where to find it and how to photograph it. As well as promoting an "awareness" of Wildlife in general the emphasis is on portraying, in depth, the tremendous variety of suitable Wildlife readily available as photographic subjects for varying levels of competence and equipment. Whilst there is a degree of instructional content these talks assume a certain standard of photographic ability on the part of the viewer since they are not designed to deal with the absolute basics of camera and enhancement programme use. There is a separate talk available which covers this for the benefit of beginners and newcomers to the world of photography.
Wildlife Talks for Gardening and Horticultural Societies.Our various lists of Talks contain a number that are particularly suited to Gardening/Horticultural audiences. In addition to the named talk itself all our presentations contain a short section at the end relevant to the type of society booking the talk. In this way we are able to virtually customise a Talk to suit your individual requirements. If you would wish this section, which normally contains some of the more spectacular wildlife of the world, to reflect your specific interests then just advise us at time of booking and we will adjust it accordingly. Special Widescreen Wildlife Talks List for 2011. There will be a short list of talks available for the 2011 Talks Season at a price somewhat higher than for our normal listings. These will be presented in a 16:9 widescreen format and will be limited to venues that can accommodate a 12ft by 9ft screen. They will be structured using top-end full HD software and hardware and, apart from a wide range of amazing visual effects, there will also be video and sound content as well. These "Widescreen Talks" are intended as major presentations and, unfortunately, their sheer scale and associated production costs and expenses are such that the consequent "talk fees" may make them unsuitable for some small group meetings. We are working on a more economical version of these products for smaller venues and details can be found at the end of this section. Please email or phone for current price confirmation before deciding your talk requirements. This range of talks has been designed to encompass a diverse selection of Wildlife and Locations in order to appeal to as broad an audience as possible. There will be two options with these Talks. The first is for single club presentations and will follow the pattern of the normal Talk programme excepting that the widescreen format allows for some stunning effects. Talk length will be 90-100 mins with a refreshment break approximately halfway through. Whilst breakdown will be relatively rapid we will, however, require at least 30 mins uninterrupted setup time. Talks will initially be limited to three titles, as outlined below, but no doubt this list will be extended in the fullness of time and a quick email will establish the current situation. The price for these Talks will be based on a "fee" plus our normal travel expenses. The subjects initially on offer are as follows:- 1. “Southern Wildlife through the Seasons”. This covers a wide range of Wildlife occurring through the Southern Counties of Gt Britain including Flowering Plants, Insects, Birds, Reptiles and Mammals together with a number of sequences demonstrating the hardships of the seasons that they have to cope with. 2. “Life's Tough at the Top”. This features a tremendous variety of Plants, Birds, Insects, Mammals and Scenery from many of the various Mountain Ranges of Europe. 3. “All Creatures Great and Small”. As the title implies this covers a Showcase Portfolio of Wildlife from around the world and, because of the diversity of subject matter in this Talk, we will be able to constantly update it to take into account our very latest photographic forays.
Special Wildlife Widescreen "Fundraiser" Talks In addition to the above we will be offering a comprehensive Wildlife presentation geared towards a multi-club get together, or suitable as a possible fund-raiser for the promoting club with tickets available to the general public. Any event marketing costs and venue hire etc will be the responsibility of the promoting society. Again it must be borne in mind that the venue will need to accommodate a 12 x 9 screen raised some 3ft from the ground unless mounted on a stage. Our own projection and sound systems will be satisfactory for most venues but should larger venues demand use of their in-house systems then we will require full details of these well in advance. Talk times will be based on two parts of approx 1 hour each with a refreshment break of your required duration in between. Breakdown and set-up times will be as outlined above. We will, initially, be offering only two titles though the list will grow over time. The first presentation will be “A Walk on the Wild Side with Brian Pettit.” Subject content will span our world-wide photographic coverage with particular care being taken to satisfy as broad an interest base as possible. The second will be "Close Encounters with British Wildlife" and will concentrate on a mix of both rare and well known species from the diverse range on offer throughout Gt Britain.
Addendum:- Due to the large amount of interest expressed in these widescreen talks, and the fact that our current 16:9 format screen measures some 13ft x 9ft, we are hoping to introduce shortly a small range of talks geared to presentation on a "Widescreen" of somewhat smaller dimensions than the one above in order to avoid disappointing the many interested clubs with limited space that cannot accommodate the larger unit. The new one will be some 10ft x 7ft and should suit most smaller venues.
Unfortunately, as in the case of the more major presentations outlined above, the Widescreen Production costs far exceed the older "squarescreen" costs and this increase will have to be reflected in the appropriate "fee" structure. Please email for our up to date prices which will be guaranteed for twelve months at time of booking.
It is likely that, though we will continue to offer our current extensive range of "Squarescreen" presentations, all new additions to the list will fall under the "Widescreen" category with their own relevant range of titles. Unfortunately it will not be possible to "mix and match" titles and formats and to avoid disappointment it is important to make sure that your chosen Title is selected from the appropriate list. Over a period we will no doubt produce some of our very popular squarescreen presentations in the new format as well and when this occurs they will be indicated in the advertised Talks List by the caption "Also available in Widescreen".
Should I have managed to totally confuse you please do not hesitate to contact me and, between us, I feel sure that we can sort things out to your satisfaction!
The charge for these Talks will consist of a "fee" plus our normal travel expenses. These will be based on a mileage charge which, in view of recent fuel price increases, will have to be confirmed nearer the time plus, for venues more than 50 miles from Bournemouth, we will require the equivalent of a “motorway” type meal for two and for venues of more than 100 miles from Bournemouth we will possibly, depending on actual distance, require overnight “stabling and fodder” for two in either twin or two singles accommodation. Distance no object. Whilst my Talks Season is limited to the 1st Oct through to 31st March it is sometimes possible to arrange an event at other times of the year. This is dependent on my travel schedule and a quick email will establish my availability. Especially during Spring and Summer I am not always in an area with regular receipt of phone signals. Email is the preferred means of contact since I have someone to monitor these when I am out of reach. |
