Spirit-N-Light

Advanced Workshop

Nov 9-13, 2014

The Spirit-N-Light workshops were designed to create stunning imagery with a concentrated focus on dramatic lighting; an element that can be the difference between a snap shot and a great shot.  Having a strong focus on one element, with exciting subjects, in an inspiring environment, can have greater impact on learning your craft and quickly elevating your photography.

This is an all-inclusive workshop held on a true working ranch with authentic cowboys and cowgirls; an experience of the romantic American West.  Nestled in a valley, surrounded by majestic rolling hills, this ranch envelops 20,000 acres in the heart of central California. The skilled wranglers will run the horses through the majestic landscape creating unparalleled photographic opportunities for action shots, clouds of dust, galloping through water (unless weather temperatures drop unexpectedly) , and silhouettes at sunset.

There will be continuous opportunities to photograph all aspects of ranch life including working the cattle, roping, portraits, close-ups, and detail work. The last evening we will gather at the cowboy camp for an authentic cowboy BBQ. During twilight we will photograph the wranglers sitting around the blazing campfire, relaxing, telling stories, and having a cold one; a scene most witness only though the ad on a billboard.

This workshop was created for intermediate, semi-pro, and advanced level photographers who understand the basics of photography such as; shutter speed, aperture, depth of field, exposure, rule of thirds, etc. Rather than discussing these basic topics we will be focusing on when and why you break the rules, manipulating shutter speeds to exaggerate movement, and purposely under and overexposing for creative value. We will work on portraits, learning how to manipulate shadows and natural light, so you can shoot during the harsh light and make every minute in the field count. During midday we will  have image reviews, mini lectures on lighting and composition, and a talk on the business of photography.

The Advanced Spirit-n-light workshop is one day longer than the spring, hobbyist/intermediate workshop and will be limited to only 8 photographers. The pace of the workshop will be on an advanced level, rising before sunrise to catch the soft hues of light and ending after the glowing gold of the setting sun.  Here is the link for information on the  hobbyist/intermediate Spirt-n-light workshop  that will  cover the basic photography topics listed above.

We will be staying right at the ranch in an upscale rustic style lodge to maximize every minute. Even a professional gets tired and needs to take some time out, so you can keep up with the pace or take a break sitting out on your porch soaking in the ambiance of this beautiful Ranch. The cozy lounge has comfy leather couches, shelves filled with books, tables to work at, and a traditional stone fireplace. We will meet here to share our stories, review images, discuss photography and be briefed on the next shoot. Our delicious meals will be just across the dirt road at the Parkfield café (included in your workshop fee).

This workshop is “all inclusive”.  From the time you arrive on Sunday afternoon until you depart on Friday, you will not have to pay for anything, but premium spirits. All accommodations, meals, wrangler fees, model releases, ranch fees, transportation while on the ranch, instruction, critique, and portfolio reviews are included. We will meet at the ranch by 2:00pm on Sunday, Nov 9 and depart on Thursday Nov 13, by noon.

The ranch is an easy 3-4 hour drive, depending on traffic, from Los Angeles or San Francisco Airports. The closest airport is San Louis Obispo County Regional Airport – http://www.sloairport.com.  All three airports have car rental agencies. Transportation is available on the ranch during the workshop, but it is your own responsibility to get yourself to the ranch.

Price

The cost of this all-inclusive workshop is $1,995.00, based on double occupancy.

Premium Single rooms are limited. If available the up-charge is $600.00

If a solo guest is willing to share accommodations, as specified on the registration form, we will do our best to match the participant with another guest of the same gender. If we are unable to match a solo guest with a roommate, then the single-room fee will be charged, but at a discounted rate of %30 – 50% off. Most rooms have a loft, so there is one bed in the loft and the other on the main level. If a solo guest is unwilling to share, requesting a premium single room, as specified on the registration form, the full single supplement will be charged.

What’s Included

• Accommodations
• All the 3 meals of the day with mineral water
• Ranch Fee
• wranglers
• model releases
• transportation while at the ranch
• 20 min portfolio review and image review
• instruction during all photo shoots

What’s NOT included

• Transportation to and from the Ranch
• premium spirits (House wine and domestic beer is included)

Interested in joining us?

The group size for this Advanced workshop  is limited to only 8 participants and may fill quickly.  To secure your spot, please complete the On-line registration form and make the $600.00 non-refundable deposit. Both a completed reservation form and deposit must be done to confirm a spot.

Deposit and Sign-up

1.  CLICK THE LINK TO  Fill out and e-sign the registration form (Ecosign)
2. Make your deposit of $600.00 by using the pay button below (Paypal

Below are images and testimonials from past participants

Piper’s enthusiasm for the subject is very contagious!  She inspired us to try new things even though we are experienced photographers, and worked tirelessly to make sure we came home with a wide variety of images.  – Lillian Roberts  – Californa

If you are looking to move your photography to a different level, the Spirit-N-Light workshop is for you.  The variety of location shoots was amazing. Reflections, horses galloping through water, portraits, panning, rim light – we had a chance to practice it all in a relaxed setting. Piper knew what she was doing and it showed. She waited for the light – whether it was hitting a hill at just the right moment or having the sun rise in a valley – we got to experience firsthand what she was talking about. There truly is a spirit in light and I believe all of the participants’ workshop photos reflect that. Piper has designed a memorable learning experience topped off by wonderful hospitality shown by the ranch, fabulous food and bringing together a great group to shoot with. I highly recommend it – Laurie Thomson – Ontario

Piper, you are the whole package!!! I have been on a few workshops and you top them all. Your extensive research, the program and the venue, combined with your enthusiasm, dedication, sensitivity, professionalism and photographic knowledge all came together to make for one fantastic workshop.  Being driven door to door by you was such a wonderful bonus for which I am truly grateful. You are one sensitive and caring workshop leader. THANK YOU for everything.  –  Astrid Fernandes, Toronto

I was very fortunate to have participated in Piper’s Spirit-N-Light workshop held at the beautiful V6 ranch in Parkfield, CA. To photograph horses on those golden, contoured hills maximizing the magical early morning and evening light was a highlight for me. Piper’s passion for her art was front and center throughout the entire experience. Her knowledge of light and her rapport with the ranch staff, allowed us so many opportunities to capture breath taking images, not just pretty pictures.  The log style inn accommodations were gorgeous, cozy, comfortable and lent marvelously to the western experience. And the food? Oh the food! Absolutely wonderful, particularly those warm baked treats ready for us when we would return from our morning shoots;-) Add to that the incredible staff and owners of the V6 ranch who couldn’t have been more accommodating, and you have one very successful workshop! – Sandy Spurell  Canada