What You'll Learn

These are just a few of the things you can look forward to on this workshop:

• Reading a scene to create dynamic, compelling landscape compositions

• Finding both the wide, sweeping landscapes and tighter, more intimate compositions

• How to best focus your camera for landscape photography

• Workflow and post processing techniques to emphasize the story of your photo and realize your creative vision

• And much, much more…

From past experience, the more questions and thirst for knowledge you bring to the workshop, the more you will get out of it. Bring those questions!

What To Bring

Participants receive a detailed workshop handbook with a checklist of gear and clothing to pack. Here's a summary:

• A camera that is capable of manual mode. Interchangeable lenses are a plus.

• A variety of lenses. If you can pack only one, pack your most versatile lens.

• A sturdy tripod. It can get windy.

• A laptop with photo editing software.

• A polarizing filter and neutral density filters.

• A warm jacket, hat & gloves, and layers of clothing.

• Sturdy hiking boots.

• An open mind and a can-do attitude!

Physical Ability

This workshop will involve some hiking. If you are comfortable walking on uneven ground for 1 to 2 miles, you'll be fine on this workshop. Death Valley is a large park and the best photos require some walking across the flats or in the sand dunes. If a location is out of your comfort zone, we'll figure out an alternative.

Photographic Ability

This workshop is for photographers that are serious about improving their craft. All skill levels are welcome. You do not need to be an advanced photographer. You'll get more from the workshop if you already have an understanding of the fundamentals. If you can work comfortably in aperture priority mode and know when it's time to switch to manual/bulb, you are plenty prepared.

What locations will we visit?
We will visit the top, must-see locations like Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Dunes, and Badwater Basin, and Dante’s View. And that is just a taste of the photo opportunities. There are so many great locations to choose from in Death Valley.

I'm flying in. What airport should I travel to?
There are two options: Mccaren International in Las Vegas (LAS) or Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR). Both are about a 3 hour drive to the town of Furnace Creek in Death Valley – but this adventure is well worth it! Las Vegas is about 30 miles closer than Burbank, and there are generally more flight options in and out of Mccaren International.

Do I need a rental car?
Yes. You are responsible for getting yourself to Death Valley. I suppose you could Lyft or Uber your way there, but it'll be one heck of a fare! After the workshop, you might want to spend a couple of extra days exploring park yourself. There is just so much to see and photograph!

Where do I stay in Death Valley?
You are responsible to book your accommodations in Death Valley. Workshop headquarters is at The Ranch in Furnace Creek. All workshop activities begin and end at The Ranch, so staying there is a convenient option. You are also welcome to stay at another location, or camp, if you prefer.

When should I arrive in Death Valley?
I recommend arriving in Furnace Creek mid-afternoon on January 23rd, 2023. On the evening of January 23rd, we’ll meet for workshop orientation and get to know one another.

Our workshop runs a full 4 days, from Jan 24th - 27th, 2023 from sunrise to sunset. Photo activities begin before dawn on January 24th to take in our first sunrise in Death Valley together.

Are you authorized to teach in Death Valley?
Yes. I teach my workshops with permission granted from Death Valley National Park via their Commercial Use Authorization permit. I conduct this workshop based on, and in accordance with, the permit's guidelines.

What level of fitness do I need?
There aren’t any long, extended hikes. You do need to be sufficiently fit to walk a mile or two on uneven terrain with your gear. Of course, I’ll never force you to go somewhere out of your comfort zone. We’ll figure out alternatives if and when called for.

Is Death Valley hot in January?
It gets warm, but not terribly hot. On average, daytime temperatures at in the 70s F/20s C. Layers of clothing is advised, however. When the sun is below the horizon, the temperature falls rapidly, sometimes below freezing. It can be windy as well, especially at some of the lookout points. Bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves for our sunrise and sunset outings.

Can I bring a spouse or +1?
As you’ll take care of your own lodging (see the ‘Where do I stay’ question), you are welcome to bring your spouse, partner, or +1 on your trip. However, during the workshop events, our purpose is to live and breathe photography. Non-participants cannot join us on our location shoots or during post processing sessions. Your traveling companions are welcome to join us for meals.

What post processing software do I need?
Anything you are comfortable with using. I use Lightroom and ON1 Photo. I am also familiar with Luminar, Aurora HDR, and Apple Photos. If you don't have any post processing tools, read this blog post and download a free trial. 

When we talk about post-processing, my focus is to teach you why a photo needs adjusting and what should be adjusted to make your photo stronger. The mechanics of how to do that will vary from tool to tool... and it's usually straightforward to figure out once we know what to change and why.

Registration

The workshop cost is $1795. That includes personalized instruction, on location guidance, and post processing lessons.

A deposit of $495 reserves your space. Per the workshop cancelation policy, deposits are non-refundable. You will be invoiced for the remaining $1300 prior to the workshop. If you need a payment plan, contact me and I'll make arrangements.

Signups within 90 days of the workshop start date pay the full workshop price at registration time.