SALTWATER PONY EXPEDITION 2026
WORKSHOP SNAPSHOT
Embark on an unforgettable photography adventure in coastal Virginia, capturing Chincoteague island’s legendary wild ponies during the magical foaling season! Photograph newborns and playful foals from the comfort of a boat, all while keeping a safe and respectful distance. These historic ponies, believed to be descendants of Spanish horses shipwrecked in the 17th century, offer an extraordinary subject for your camera. With a small group size, you’ll have plenty of time to fine-tune your skills while exploring the stunning coastal landscape. Don’t miss out on this exclusive, immersive wildlife experience!
Dates: Thursday, May 14-Saturday, May 16, 2026. Meet Joe on Thursday, May 14 in the afternoon in the hotel lobby. Your first session on the water will be Thursday evening. The adventure will conclude on Saturday, May 16 following the evening session.
Why Travel with Us: The team at Wild Shutter Adventures prides themselves on providing customized, small group, in field photography and camera instruction. Joe has scouted the locations, vetted local guides and researched the weather and sun to provide photographers with the highest possibility of capturing the shots they desire.
Cost: $1,950
Deposit: A $750 non-refundable deposit is required. The balance is due 60 days before the date of the workshop and is then non-refundable. Deposits can be made via checks payable to Joe Subolefsky or PayPal/Credit Card (+3%).
Participants: Limited to five clients
Start and Finish: Chincoteague, Virginia
Trip Leader: Joe Subolefsky
Fitness Level: Easy
Temperature: High 70°F/ Low 55°F
Experience Level: Beginner to Professional
ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP:
Experience the captivating coastal beauty of Chincoteague, VA, on a specialized photography excursion focused on the island’s iconic wild ponies. Timed to coincide with the foaling season, this unique opportunity allows you to photograph newborns and foals just weeks old, all from the safety and comfort of a boat. Maintaining a safe, ethical distance from the animals ensures that your photographic experience is both respectful and immersive.
Chincoteague ponies are believed to be direct descendants of horses that were shipwrecked on the island in the 17th century, likely from a Spanish sailing vessel. DNA analysis conducted in 2021 confirmed the ponies’ lineage, with DNA matching that of a confirmed Spanish horse from a colony in Haiti, cementing the historical connection to the Spanish herd.
This excursion offers numerous sightings and small group sizes, providing ample opportunity to refine your photography skills while capturing these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.
Included: Photographic instruction; boat and local guide
Not Included: Travel to Virginia, hotel, meals, personal items, gratuity for the boat captain(s)
Booking and Trip Policy: Click Here to view our policies before booking a trip.
Questions: Joe@WildShutterAdventures.com or call Joe at 443.640.5649
