Beyond the Barrier: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities - Photo Workshop with Alex Dugan

Build sharper technique and smarter shooting habits by learning to navigate the unique challenges of zoo photography.

Friday, November 13 - Saturday, November 14, 2026 - 9:00am - 5:00pm both days

Held at the Oklahoma City Zoo, 2101 NE 50th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73111

** Day 1 – Foundations & Field Practice **
9:00AM : Presentation (Classroom Session)

Following Presentation – Nikon Gear Distribution and Morning Field Session in the Zoo

1:30–2:15PM : Lunch Break (Provided)

Afternoon – Continued Field Shooting

5:00PM – Day 1 Concludes


** Day 2 – Refinement & Field Application **

9:00AM : Classroom Session

Following Classroom Session – Nikon Gear Distribution and Morning Field Session in the Zoo

1:30–2:15PM : Lunch Break (Provided)

Afternoon – Flexible Field Shooting, Editing Session, or Small Group Instruction

5:00 PM : Workshop Concludes

What You'll Learn:

• Shoot through fences and barriers effectively using positioning and focal length

• Achieve accurate focus on animals using appropriate autofocus settings
• Properly expose images in varying zoo lighting conditions
• 
Make real-time adjustments to camera settings while shooting
• 
Select and perform basic edits to enhance a wildlife image

• Leave with increased confidence photographing animals in a zoo environment

Required Gear Needed:
- Interchangeable lens camera (DSLR or mirrorless) OR willingness to borrow available Nikon mirrorless loaner equipment

- Memory cards (required even when borrowing loaner gear)

- Fully charged batteries
- Laptop for Day 2 editing session
- 
Telephoto lens recommended (200mm or longer preferred for zoo photography)

- Good walking shoes

Optional Gear:
- Tripod or Monopod

- Wagon or cart

Nikon mirrorless bodies and lenses will be available in limited quantities on a first come, first served basis. Participants using Nikon lenses must use a Nikon camera body.

Optional Field Supplies: 
- Hat
- Water bottle (no glass)

- Microfiber cloth

- Notebook
- Sun protection (Hat & SPF)

Speaker Bio:
Alexandra Dugan is a studio photographer based in Oklahoma City whose work spans portraits, commercial and branding projects, and wildlife photography. A graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma with a Bachelor’s degree in Photographic Arts, she initially discovered photography through an elective course that quickly reshaped her academic path and set the direction for her career. Alexandra has built her portfolio around timeless, natural, boldly colored images that tell genuine stories, partnering with a wide range of clients, creatives, and businesses across the region.



Although her career began in portrait and commercial spaces, regular visits to the Oklahoma City Zoo with a camera in hand sparked a lasting passion for wildlife photography and conservation storytelling. That curiosity continues to shape her work as she documents animal behavior and encourages deeper connections between people and the natural world. Alongside her photography practice, Alexandra also enjoys teaching and mentoring photographers in conference and classroom settings, sharing real-world insights on topics like anticipating candid moments, working more confidently with lighting, and streamlining creative workflows.