"Wonderful! I have learned so much. My photo taking has changed so much. I know what to look for, what to get rid of and just how to take better pictures" - Anne Costain, Charlottesville, VA
Workshops: What to Expect...
Workshops will start in the evening with a meeting for introductions and an orientation. I like to find out everyones experience level and goals so I make sure to address them. From there the schedule will depend on the weather and location. Sunrise and sunset opportunities call for long hours in the field getting up early and staying out late. Meals will be worked around shooting. So if you're like me and have to eat frequently bring snacks.
If the weather is spectacular we will spend more time in the field than the classroom. I will teach in the field at these times. During times of suboptimal shooting we'll retreat to the classroom for teaching sessions and critiques.
Workshops are geared towards digital and film SLR cameras. All experience levels are welcome but a basic working knowledge of the camera in manual, aperture and shutter priority is desired. If you are a complete beginner using only automatic I highly recommend taking a basic course prior to the workshop to get the most out of your experience.
Critiques are meant to be fun and informative. I love to see everyone's images and I hope to improve your photography through this exercise. Bring images you have questions about, you will learn more than just showing your best. Bring 10-15 images for critique. We will do sessions of 5 images each per participant. The number of critique sessions will depend on the weather and time. I usually try to get at least 2 sessions in. You may bring prints or digital images for critique. To prepare digital images for critique please follow the guidelines here.
My goal is for you to have a fun and informative photographic experience. I will do very little shooting in the field. I hope to spend my time helping you find and execute beautiful images. I want you to learn how to get the most out of your camera.
Workshops: What to Bring...
Camera: 35 mm film or digital any brand. Camera must be capable of manual operation i.e. setting the shutter speed and aperture (f-stop). You should have at least a basic understanding of setting the shutter speed and aperture to expose properly. Bring your instruction manual. Other formats are welcome also but the workshops are geared towards 35mm. I have limited experience with medium and large format cameras.
Tripod – a must for nature photography. If you do not have one please contact me to discuss buying a good one. You can waste a lot of money, time and frustration purchasing a cheap tripod. Get a good one and it’ll last you for years and improve your photography by leaps and bounds.
Lenses – Bring a variety. Wide angle to telephoto, macro, bring whatever you have. If you don’t have something let me know. I can offer suggestions for purchase or you can come and see what I have or other participants at the workshop. This is a great time to see what’s out there.
Accessories –
Cable release
Extension tubes
Circular polarizing filter – one for each size lens
Split neutral density filters – ask me before you buy
Gray card
Camera batteries – at least 2 sets and re-charger
Media cards/film – bring all you have for media cards. For film bring at least 10
rolls. I prefer Velvia 50 or 100.
Laptop and portable storage device if you have one
Bubble level for tripod
Other stuff
Raincoat, suntan lotion, hat, knee pads or kneeling pad for gardening, plastic bags or raincoat for camera, bug spray, water bottles, binoculars, field guides, flashlight, snacks, extra shoes and socks, alarm clock, flashlight.
Don’t feel obligated to buy expensive gear prior to the workshop. If you have any questions please contact me at 434-295-9391 or victoria@victoriasimages.com for suggestions. I will have a variety of gear for you to see.
For Critique
Bring 10-15 prints or digital images for review. Click here for how to prepare images for critique.
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