Sony to sponsor wildlife photography activities at North West festival

Wildlife photographers from across the UK are being invited to capture one of Britain's greatest natural spectacles as the North West Bird Watching Festival returns to WWT Martin Mere on 17 and 18 October 2026.

Set within one of the UK's most important wetland reserves, the festival offers photographers a unique opportunity to witness and photograph thousands of pink-footed geese and hundreds of whooper swans as they arrive on their autumn and winter migration. Their dramatic movements across the Lancashire skies create breath-taking scenes that attract photographers and birdwatchers from across the country every year.

Alongside these iconic species, visitors can expect opportunities to photograph a wide range of wetland birds including pintail, wigeon, black-tailed godwit, shelduck and many more species that make Martin Mere one of the UK's best wildlife photography destinations during the colder months.

This year's festival places a special focus on wildlife photography, with leading camera manufacturers and professional photographers joining the weekend programme.

Sony has been announced as the official activities sponsor for the festival and will host a series of Sony Alpha Wildlife Photo Walks led by Sony Imaging Ambassador Terry Donnelly.

An award-winning wildlife photographer renowned for capturing wildlife moments, Terry will guide participants around the reserve while sharing camera techniques and creative approaches to photographing birds and wildlife.

Festival visitors will also have the opportunity to try Sony's latest wildlife photography equipment (subject to availability), including specialist telephoto lenses and advanced camera technology designed specifically for wildlife photography. Features such as AI-powered autofocus for birds and animals and pre-capture functionality will give photographers the chance to experience some of the most innovative tools currently available for capturing fast-moving wildlife.

Amongst the activity line-up are close-up encounters with nature, from live bird ringing demonstrations of garden birds, to wild bird feeds in front of Martin Mere’s large Discovery Hide where thousands of birds come right up close, with no binoculars needed.

The exhibition hall will feature some of the biggest names in wildlife photography and imaging, including Sony, Fujifilm UK and Wilkinson Cameras, showcasing the latest cameras, lenses and accessories. Visitors will be able to speak directly with industry experts, test equipment and learn more about the latest technology.

Alongside the photography programme, the festival will host an inspiring line-up of conservationists and wildlife experts, including WWT Ambassador Lucy Lapwing, biologist and conservationist Sacha Dench, and ornithologist and wildlife presenter Jack Baddams.

Whether you're a seasoned wildlife photographer, an enthusiastic beginner or simply looking to improve your photography skills while surrounded by spectacular wildlife, the North West Bird Watching Festival offers a unique opportunity to learn from experts, try the latest equipment and capture unforgettable images in a wetland landscape.

Taking place at WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre in Lancashire, the festival promises a weekend packed with photographic opportunities, expert advice, and remarkable wildlife encounters.

For the full festival programme and ticket information, visit the WWT Martin Mere website.