Introduction to Large Format Photography February 13-14, 2010

Alabama Hills, Eastern Sierra (just outside Lone Pine, California)
Limited to only 5 photographers; $349 per person

Despite the digital photography boom, large format film photography is witnessing a resurgence of interest and an increase in users. Large format negatives/transparencies offer extraordinary resolution, and view cameras offer extraordinary control over fine focus and perspective. Simply stated, a large format camera offers the ultimate in photographic control over the creative image-making process. Further, a market flooded with used but clean large format gear and a couple of new economical yet quality view camera manufacturers have made this an excellent time to enter the world of large format with only a moderate amount of expense (a good LF kit can cost and weigh less than a professional D-SLR kit).

My teaching methods and techniques are direct and easy to comprehend, and I will successfully put you in full control of your camera. At the completion of this intensive two-day workshop, you will be able to efficiently and confidently compose, focus, and expose your own photographs.

Here is an overview of what we will be studying and practicing:

Introduction to Large Format Photography

Comparison with other systems;

Overview of essential gear;

Demo of view camera controls;

Focusing the view camera

Camera movements and terminologies;

Scheimpflug principle;

When to use what movement;

Using compound movements;

Leveling the camera and zero detents;

Close-up photography

Lens selection;

Exposure considerations/bellows compensation;

Workflow

The importance of following a workflow;

Everything you need to know about film

Film types (pos/neg, color/B&W);

How film sees (latitude, contrast, reciprocity);

QuickLoad/ReadyLoad vs. loose sheets;

Film loading and unloading;

How to prepare exposed film to ship/deliver to a lab;

Metering and Exposure

Meter types;

Basic principles of Zone System;

Exposure guidlines for color transparency; color negative; and black and white;

Using a grey card;

Working with filters

Polarizer;

Graduated filters;

B&W filters;

Exposure compensation;

General Info and Policies This Introductory workshop will provide you with in-depth instruction in remote and unique field settings. The main focus of this workshop is learning; be prepared for intensive discussion, demonstrations, and camera practice, but come for the fun, inspiration, and camaraderie. Here especially, my small group size assures that you will have adequate time with your instructor and that all your questions can be answered.

No previous large format experience is required! A large format camera and kit is not required, but may be considered essential (Michael has an extra camera available). If you would like to attend this workshop but do not already own a large format camera, please discuss your options with Michael (rentals are available from select camera shops).

What is Included Your workshop fee includes full instruction and location guiding. Upon receipt of your deposit/payment, you will be emailed a trip checklist to assist with your preparations. At the workshop, all participants receive a complete instructional packet stuffed with technical and creative articles, a couple of useful LF tools, and a few other goodies.

What is Not Included Airfare, car rentals, transportation, and meals are not included, nor are items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, room service, etc.). Participants will be required to transport themselves (carpooling is not mandatory but highly encouraged) to and from the workshop location, which is about 15 minutes outside of Lone Pine, California.

Location This workshop will take place in the world famous Alabama Hills (featured in scores of movies and television commercials), just outside Lone Pine, California (in the rainshadow of Mt. Whitney and the High Sierra). We’ll be learning in an outstanding location and will have access to the Eastern Sierra’s incredible wintry mountain scenery.

Accomodations Due to varied lodging tastes and expectations (some like it inexpensive; some like it ritzy; some like to camp), you will be responsible for securing your own accommodations. You can also camp in one of the developed campgrounds found just outside of Lone Pine. Michael will provide a campground and lodging listing to all participants.

Meals This will be an intensive workshop with little downtime. Plan on sack lunches (you supply) and eating independently your breakfasts and dinners. There will likely be no group restaurant meals due to our location and the intensity of instruction.

Registration and Payment To guarantee registration in this workshop, full payment is required.

Cancellation Policy It is impossible to predict the weather when scheduling a workshop. What people consider "bad" weather often makes for good photography. Therefore, the workshop will not be cancelled due to weather unless extreme weather conditions make it unsafe to continue the workshop. Participants should come to the workshop prepared for all weather conditions (cold, hot, snow, sun, rain).

If the workshop is cancelled by Michael E. Gordon for any reason, a full refund of the amount paid will be sent to each participant.

Occasionally circumstances arise that prevent a person from participating in a workshop after registration. If you wish to protect your investment in the workshop and related travel costs, please investigate trip insurance. This insurance will reimburse you in the event that some circumstance prevents you from attending the workshop.

Cancellations, for any reason, must be in writing (e-mail or postal mail).

Refund Policy
• If you cancel 30 days or less from the workshop start date, you forfeit your registration fees.
• If you cancel 31-60 days from the workshop start date, you will receive a 50% refund.

REGISTER NOW for this workshop!