 Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Photography Workshop June 29, 30 & July 1, 2012 Instructor: Andy Cook Join Rocky Mountain Reflections as we
photograph Colorado's premier national park. In early summer the
rockies retain snow fields creating dramatic mountains which contrast
nicely with the green of the season and reflect beautifully in the many
alpine lakes of the park. We will concentrate on shooting this dramatic
contrast and some intimate scenery.
Itinerary Outline We prefer that participants check-in with
the instructor Friday (June 29th) in the evening at 8 P.M. for a
brief
introduction and discussion in the instructor's room at Nicky's
Resort. Saturday,
June 30th we arrive at our first location (Bear Lake) 45
minutes before
sunrise and shoot through sunrise, then we hike uphill to another lake
(about 1.1 miles each way) We will provide breakfast bars, muffins,
juice and water for the early mornings. We return to Estes Park for an
early lunch, down loading, Photoshop demonstration... In the late
afternoon we
return
to the park and shoot
through sunset. Note: We are on the east side of the park, dramatic
sunsets will require clouds to liven the backlit mountains. We may
choose to photograph a waterfall and set of cascades in the alluvial
fan. Sunday,
July 1st we arrive at our first location 45 minutes before
sunrise and
shoot it through sunrise, then we will continue shooting additional
locations until about 10:00 A.M. when the
workshop ends. Short walks, no hiking on this day.
This workshop does involve
trail hiking and elevation gain which can mean vigorous activity.
Walking surfaces are generally uneven and two trails are a mile each
way. One does not have to be in tip-top shape, but one's enjoyment will
be
enhanced by good health and preparation, hiking boots are recommended. The elevation range of Estes Park and
our shooting locations is 7,500 to 12,000 ft. Please consult with your
doctor before attending our workshop or venturing to higher elevations.
Proper hydration is a must at higher elevations. Without it one will lose strength, energy and may develop a severe headache. To avoid dehydration one MUST drink beyond one's thirst; drink even though not thirsty. We will provide bottled water in the field, please drink it. Be prepared for possible temperature extremes and sudden changes in weather. Be aware that mornings and evenings can be very chilly in summer. Note: Some of the park's pine trees are dying from beetle kill.
Equipment Recommendations:
Bring all camera equipment including the camera's manual. We
recommend having a polarizing filter to use with most photographs on
this workshop. A 2 stop, hard edge
split-neutral density filter may also be useful; these filters should
be the rectangular type (Andy uses Singh-Ray filters) that can fit in
the Lee filter holder system (do not buy screw on
split-neutral density filters). If a participant combines high dynamic
range
images in post processing these filters may not be necessary. A lens
range
from 18mm to 100mm is recommended. However, we think that
participants
should bring their entire range of lenses, which will hopefully include
a long lens in the event we shoot wildlife. We recommend shooting with
a
sturdy outdoor tripod that can adjust from standing height
(without cranking up a center post) to very close to the ground. This
type of tripod does not
have attachments connecting the legs to the center post; i.e.
the legs can move independently. Please use a cable release or know how
to work the camera's timer delay to avoid camera shake. Also bring
hiking boots and a flashlight to the field portions of the workshop. We
will be walking in pre dawn and post sunset darkness.
Rocky Mountain Reflections Photography, Inc. is authorized by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, to conduct services in Rocky Mountain National Park. |
