Here
are some answers to questions you may have. If you have other
questions, do not hesitate to contact
us.
Our philosophy in a nutshell?
Travel light and inconspicuously;
Take time to savor what is offered; and
Be adaptable, a necessity, given the nature of photographing in different
locations (Mother Nature has a mind of her own!).
What is included in the workshop fee?
Daily group and individual instruction from Margo and
Arnie in both the field and classroom (we each work with
each participant at least twice a day, and sometimes
three times— that's
four to six individual sessions a day);
Workshop materials;
Our final group critique and slide show that
many find is a very valuable part of the workshop experience
(hint, hint — don't leave early unless you absolutely
have to);
All other expenses are the responsibility of the individual participant.
How are the days structured?
Our days our full, as we want to give you the best value possible;
On the opening day, we start out with some technical
information and other basics before heading out around
3:00 for our first afternoon of photography, returning
for our traditional reception that varies depending upon
our location;
Depending upon weather, we often get up pre-dawn to have
enough time to get to our morning destination, scout,
and set up to capture the beautiful light of those early
hours as the skies lighten;
After our morning shoot, we return to our base
for editing and imaging and the occasional nap;
Along with discussions on composition, techniques, and
resources, there are daily individual critique sessions
where participants learn to recognize their successes
as well as what they might have done to make their images
stronger; sometimes, of course,
we have the "chimp
factor" (oooh-oooh
ahhh-ahhh) and just say, "Wow!";
Participants can either go out and grab some lunch or,
depending upon our location, we arrange to have it brought
in;
Around 3:00, we leave for our afternoon/evening
location, scout, and create more images;
Choice of dinner locations is always up to the individual
(although most like to join us for more fun, frivolity,
and shop talk); and
We suggest that participants download images ASAP, even
allowing the computer to chug away while you sleep or
have breakfast.
When should I arrive on the first
day?
We start at noon on the first
day; and
We generally leave around 3:00 in the afternoon after
introductions and a basic lecture on some of the Principles
of Photography.
When will the last day end?
At 2:00 in the afternoon, after our popular slide show
and group critique session, to give people time to catch
planes and/or drive home;
For those who must leave earlier, we always try to show
your images first so that
you will not miss out, as everyone looks forward to the
group slide show and learns so much from it.
What equipment should I bring?Use
this as your check list!
Your camera, of course, along with an assortment of fixed
and/or zoom lenses (no need to go out and buy any for
this workshop); that said, if you do not bring the lenses
you have, you will wish you had (after all, your assortment
of lenses is what you are used to using); for those who
want to experiment with other lenses, check out our resources
page for rentals (very reasonable prices).
If you do not have a digital camera, we highly recommend that you borrow one so that you can maximize your workshop experience;
Extra compact flash disks;
The card reader and cable for your camera and compact
flash disks;
Extra battery/batteries for your camera;
Your camera's manual (VERY IMPORTANT, as we cannot be
familiar with the different features of every camera manufacture);
A small 3"x5" notebook for recording tests
and unusual conditions that might not show up in your
metadata, as well as notes from lectures and critiques;
Waterproof protection for your camera in case of rain
(see weather question below), or a couple of large Ziploc
bags and heavy elastics that can be fashioned into protection;
A sturdy tripod and ballhead (most photographers find
the two-handled models too frustrating and time-consuming)
strong enough to carry the weight of your camera and lens;
it is usually recommended to get these with a capability
of at least 11 pounds, more if you can (if you are considering
buying a new tripod and ball head, contact us first,as
we may be able to guide you in a direction appropriate
for your budget and keep you from misspending your money
on something that will cause you frustration) — check out our blog on Tripods and Ball Heads;
A small flashlight for light painting and for working
in low light;
A laptop with the appropriate programs installed (see
next section below);
Model/property release forms in case you wish do photograph
someone or something where permission is needed; for those
who don't have any, you may download our model
release and/or property
release and substitute your
name for
"Zann and Pinkerton Photography" and "Photographer" for
"ZAP";
An umbrella;
Granola or power bars for when you don't have a chance
to grab something to eat;
Water and/or a water bottle, so you don't get dehydrated; and
A clear and rested head (don't laugh, if you are exhausted
when you arrive, you won't be your most creative).
What programs do I need for the
workshop? Use this as your check
list!
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