June 13-16, 2013
This is a special informal workshop for 6 experienced photographers to join me on a ranch, to create stunning imagery with a focus on dramatic lighting. I scouted this ranch over the New Years weekend and now I am going back to put into action the shots I discussed with the head wrangler. Nestled in a valley surrounded by majestic rolling hills, this true working ranch envelops 20,000 acres in the heart of central California. It is centrally located between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The workshop is set in June when things are a little dryer and also a little warmer. This is so the cowboys can really kick up the dust. When the dust picks up the golden light you will get those glowing moody jaw-dropping images. Expect the unexpected and be ready to get out of your comfort zone as we step it up a level to create stunning images with a focus on dramatic lighting.
The wranglers will drive the horses through water and we will try side lighting to make the water spray sparkle. They will run the horses through the majestic landscape as we drop to our bellies for a different perspective using wide angles and practicing pan blurs. If you have a tilt-shift, bring it along; this is the time to experiment with ultimate creativity. We will try longer exposures to exaggerate movement, different perspectives, and unique creative compositions. We will work hard to capture the romance of the west, in a fresh new way.
During the mid afternoon we will work on portraits using light modifiers, off camera flash, and wide angles to capture the wranglers with stunning landscapes in the background.
This informal workshop is about shooting, shooting, and more shooting. We will start before sunrise, go all day and into the evening with daily critiques after dinner. IF time allows, I will give some creative post processing instruction using NIK software. I will have time for two, twenty minute, portfolio reviews each day. During our meals we can discuss anything about photography or the business side of photography.
This informal workshop is “all inclusive”. From the time you arrive on Thursday afternoon until we part on Sunday; you will not have to pay for anything but drinks. All accommodations, meals, fees, transportation while on the ranch, instruction, critiques, and portfolio reviews are included. We will meet at the ranch by 2:00pm on Thursday, June 13 and depart on Sunday, June 16 by around noon. We will be staying in wonderful accommodations right at the ranch to maximize every minute!
You keep mentioning the word “informal” workshop, what does that mean? This is an exploratory workshop and NOT a formal teaching workshop. There will be no planned lectures in a classroom setting, or formal demonstrations, but creative instruction will be given throughout the shoots. I am available to answer any questions you have and if time allows, I will give an on the spot teaching slideshow.
This is the fist time I will be running a horse workshop in this location. Although, I have scouted the ranch over a weekend, I have not put into action the shots and itinerary planned. I offer this greatly discounted price to experienced photographers who understand this is not a formal teaching workshop. This gives you an opportunity to come shoot at a great location and it gives me the opportunity get valuable feed back. This feedback allows me to make adjustments in the itinerary, plan the timing for out of the field teaching, and put together a solid valuable workshop in this location for 2014. I want to make sure my clients will get the best possible experience on a formal workshop. The workshop in 2014 will be for all levels of photographers and include formal teaching and demonstrations.
Photographers who would like to participate should be experienced and have good working knowledge of all their gear. You will get the most out of this opportunity if you understand the basics of photography such as: aperture, shutter speed, depth of field, ISO, exposure, and know your camera settings. We will be working on more advanced skills in lighting and composition. If you are unsure, please contact me with any questions before signing up.
The Cost
The cost of this special exploratory workshop is $1,095.00 Based on double occupancy. Most rooms are with a loft, so there is one bed in the loft and the other on the main level. Single Supplement is very limited but available at $275.00We will do our best to match you with a roommate. However, if we are unable to match a solo guest with another guest of the same gender, then the single supplement will be charged.
What’s Included
- Accommodations
- All the 3 meals of the day with mineral water
- Ranch Fee
- wranglers
- transportation while at the ranch
- 20 min portfolio review
- informal instruction during all photo shoots
What’s NOT included
- Transportation to and from the Ranch
- beverages
- Formal lectures or post process training
Interested in joining us?
The group size for this expedition is limited to 6 participants and will fill quickly. If you want to take advantage of this special opportunity then now is the time to register. A $300.00 non-refundable deposit and the completed on-line registration form is required to secure your spot. Once the workshop is full, I will except request for the wait list by email.
Sign-up Now
- Fill out and e-sign the registration form (Ecosign)
- Make your trip deposit. $300 non-refundable (Paypal)