Fundamentals of Digital Photography: December 5-7, 2014 - Death Valley National Park

Fundamentals of Digital Photography:  Dec 5-7, 2014

Death Valley National Park, California
Limited to only 8 photographers; $495 tuition

I just finished up a Death Valley workshop with Michael and wanted to say what a great experience! My expectations were met or exceeded on everything from the technical knowledge of the team leaders and their guidance and recommendations about composition, to the photography discussions during down-time or in the car rides between sites, to the unbelievable amount of general knowledge Michael possessed about the history and geography of the place and of course the amazing sites we had the pleasure of shooting.Kalim T. - Houston, TX

CLICK HERE TO READ THE TESTIMONIALS from many of Michael's workshop and tour participants.

Fundamentals of Digital Photography workshop

Fundamentals of Digital Photography is most ideal for novice to intermediate photographers and for first time visitors to Death Valley National Park (experienced photographers and Death Valley visitors should investigate one of my other offerings). This 2.5 day workshop is focused on the fundamentals and techniques of digital photography and will cover everything you need to know to become a better photographer! My teaching methods and techniques are enthusiastic, uncomplicated, and easy to comprehend.

Here's a partial list of what we'll learn and practice during the workshop: 

  • Overview of essential gear: Cameras, lenses, tripods, and filters
  • Proper exposure for digital sensors; understanding the Histogram
  • Digital exposure blending and focus bracketing
  • Understanding Depth of Field and Hyperfocal Focusing
  • Composition and Design Principles
  • Working with Light
  • Basic digital post-production (using Lightroom and Photoshop)

    NO PREVIOUS PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED! 


General Info and Policies
This workshop will provide you with in-depth instruction in the remote and unique field settings of Death Valley National Park. The main focus of this workshop is learning and practice. We'll have field discussions and demonstrations throughout each day; post-production work in a classroom setting; lots of camera practice and photography with extraordinary subjects and settings; and loads of fun, inspiration, and camaraderie. My small group size assures that you have adequate time with your instructor and that all your individual questions and needs can be met. We'll meet in Stovepipe Wells/Death Valley at 9am on Friday, December 5 and will conclude around mid-day on Sunday, December 7.

Location
This workshop takes place in world famous Death Valley National Park. We’ll be learning in some of Death Valley's most photogenic locations and will have access to all of Death Valley's incredible scenery. Participants will be required to transport themselves to and from the workshop location (carpooling is highly encouraged). Death Valley is an approximate 4-5 hour drive from Los Angeles and 2-3 hours from Las Vegas.

What is Included
Your workshop fee includes full instruction and location guiding. Upon receipt of your payment, you will be emailed a gear checklist, workshop notes, and other important information to assist you with your workshop planning.

What is Not Included
Airfare, car rentals, transportation, lodging, and meals are not included, nor are any items of personal nature.

Accomodations/Lodging
Lodging is available at Stovepipe Wells and Furnace Creek Ranch in Death Valley National Park. Rooms have been blocked for the group at Stovepipe Wells but registrants are responsible for payment and will be provided lodging information upon registration. You may also choose to camp in one of the Park's developed campgrounds.

Meals
This will be an intensive workshop with little downtime. Plan on quick breakfast bites, sack lunches in the field, and nightly dinners together at Stovepipe Wells Tollroad Restaurant at the close of each day's instruction.

Registration and Payment
To guarantee registration in this workshop, full payment is required. Previous workshop participants can enjoy a 10% discount on tuition and should contact Michael to register.

Cancellation Policy
It is impossible to predict the weather when scheduling a workshop. What some consider "bad" weather often makes for the best photography. The workshop will not be cancelled or postponed due to weather unless extreme conditions make it unsafe to continue. 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. We recommend travel insuranceIf you wish to protect your investment in the workshop and related travel costs.

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

Refund Policy
• If you cancel 30 days or less prior to the workshop start date, you forfeit your registration fees;
• If you cancel 31-60 days prior to the workshop start date, we will refund 50% of your registration fees;
• If you cancel 60 or more days prior to the workshop start date, we will refund your registration fees less a $150 administration fee.

Please contact Michael if you have any questions about this workshop. 

$495.00