Zion's Splendor in Autumn

Zion. The very word imparts a powerful image. Monolithic, iconic rock formations, classic southwest scenery, and intimate details are just part of this amazing place. The splendor of Autumn adds rich yellows, oranges and the brilliant reds of leaves to your visual palette. During this change of seasons, there are often storm systems that pass by, creating dramatic light and clouds. From the grand landscape to the intimate close-up, our days will be filled with photography and learning. Join us for a journey to experience Zion at it's best.
2 spaces available as of 10/24/12.

BEAUTIFUL LOCATIONS

We will visit great locations throughout the park, both iconic locations as well as lesser known spots that offer intimate photographic opportunities. Daily sunrise/morning and afternoon/sunset photo sessions, and sometimes in between if the light's right, will give you the opportunity to experience the magic that is Zion.

Workshop Details

Our instructional tour will help you create beautiful images from the varied landscapes and scenes of Zion National Park. We'll be photographing majestic red rock formations, dry washes lined with sandstone formations, and the drama of sunrise on the cliffs of Zion. It's a time of stunning Fall color when the cottonwoods are a blaze of yellow and the big-tooth maples are a brilliant red along the washes. While Autumn's peak varies from year to year, we'll photograph whatever phase we're in, capturing the change of the seasons.

We will also consider doing night photography if weather conditions allow. Each day is filled with beautiful vistas and photo opportunities as we lead you to locations at the right time to take advantage of the light and location. We emphasize learning on the go - helping you make images with impact, helping you to tell the 'story' of what you see. We'll have a classroom session for image review and for this instructional tour, we'll also have an in-depth discussion on workflow using Lightroom and plug-in software including NIK and Topaz. The program is limited to 12 participants

The price listed is for tuition only. We've reserved a block of rooms at a hotel in Springdale, with all the amenities you'll need. Meals will be taken individually or as a group in the town of Springdale. Transportation by car from Saint George/Las Vegas airports is convenient and a scenic drive! Carpooling will be required during the tour. We'll have total and flexible access to areas inside the canyon using our own vehicles as the shuttle service will be finished by time our even begins. Some light hiking is involved. Inquire for more information if you have questions.

Skill Level:Participants should have a good understanding of their camera equipment, including reviewing histograms, switching modes from Aperture to Manual, etc., and other basic settings, and be able to create accurate exposures. We’ll be focusing on creative vision and technique, but will happily help anyone with technical issues on a one-on-one basis. Film photographers are welcome but there will be no processing available. Bring a laptop with RAW processing and image editing software to prepare your images if you want them reviewed.

General Daily format- Each day's schedule varies based on weather, which locations we'll visit, and how long we will photograph while there. If the conditions are right we will photograph beyond just morning or afternoon/sunset light. Participants should come with a flexible attitude to get the most out of the program and be prepared to be out for several hours at a time. We'll be out daily for sunrise and early morning, as well as afternoon/sunset, and whenever the light is right, we'll stay out and photograph longer! Midday we'll have breaks and time for informal discussions of technique and equipment.

We'll begin the first evening at 4:30 pm - for introductions, schedule review, and an pening night presentation. We'll then go into town for a quick dinner. (Note: Starting times may vary and will be indicated in the materials sent to participants prior to the instructional tour start date.)


You'll be led by professional photographers and experienced workshop leaders Brenda Tharp and Jed Manwaring. (We reserve the right to substitute a leader in the event Jed cannot lead with me) Please visit the about us tab above for more information.

Topics covered will be based on each person's individual skill level, but will also include:

• Creating visual depth with choice of aperture and choice of point of view
• Choosing a dynamic point of view
• Composing for impact - balance, visual tension, visual flow
• Incorporating visual design elements
• Panning to create abstracts
• Using Graduated ND Filters (when they are better vs. doing in the computer)
• Capturing star trails and star points of light

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to walk 1-3 miles per day (though not all at once) over uneven outdoor terrain
• Sturdy Footwear with good traction
• Open mind, flexible attitude

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Digital SLR Camera (film cameras are accepted but there will be no processing available)
• Wide angle in the 20-24mm range, (highly recommended); mid-range telephoto (70-200mm) Longer lenses as desired
• Sturdy Tripod
• Remote release (highly recommended)
• Polarizing filters for all lenses or an adapter to fit one filter to all lenses
• 3 stop graduated neutral density filter (highly recommended - contact us if unsure about this one)
• Rain protection for your camera/lens

You will receive additional information about preparing for the trip several months out from the start date, once we receive enough participants.

DEPOSIT/PAYMENT INFORMATION

$300 due upon acceptance - please click sign-up now button above to fill out an inquiry form. When you receive acknowledgment of space, you'll be able to pay your deposit at that time.
Balance due 60 days prior to start of program
View the Cancellation Policy