Here
are some answers to questions you may have. If you have other
questions, do not hesitate to contact
us.
How are the days structured?
Our days our full, as we take advantage of the gorgeous
light of early morning and late afternoon/evening with
breaks for meals, of course.
We get up pre-dawn to have enough time to grab a Continental
breakfast (arranged with our hotel), get to our morning
destination, scout, and set up to capture the beautiful
light of those early hours as the skies lighten.
After a morning of shooting, we head back to our base
for editing, imaging, and printing lessons.
Along with discussions on composition, techniques, and
resources, there is a daily critique session where we
share images in a digital "slide" show and learn
what we might have done to make them stronger; of course,
sometimes, we have the "chimp factor" (oooh-oooh ahhh-ahhh)
and just say, "Wow!"
We either go out and grab some lunch or arrange to have
it brought in, depending upon our location.
Mid-afternoon, we head out for our afternoon/evening
location, scout, and create more images.
Choice of dinner location is always up to the individual.
We suggest that participants do some imaging in the evening,
at least a quick edit, before going to sleep.
When should I arrive on the reception
day?
We encourage everyone to arrive by noon on the opening
day, so that we can calibrate your monitors before heading
out for a free half day of shooting with the instructors
at no extra charge.
We generally leave around 3:00 in the afternoon after
monitor calibration and a brief lecture.
For those who can't or do not wish to take advantage
of this bonus opportunity, our receptions generally start
around 7 p.m. with wine and a light supper.
When will the last day end?
Usually at 2:00 in the afternoon to give people time
to catch planes and/or drive home.
We structure our last day, so that those who must leave
early will not miss out.
What equipment should I bring?
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.
Extra compact flash disks.
The card reader and cable for your camera and compact
flash disks.
Your camera's manual.
A small 3"x5" notebook for recording tests
and unusual conditions that might not show up in your
metadata.
A portable jump drive/"stick" (portable hard
drive small enough to fit onto a key chain) to transfer
files for our critiques.
Waterproof protection for your camera in case of rain
(see weather question below), or a couple of large Ziploc
bags that can be fashioned into protection.
A sturdy tripod, preferably with a good ball head (most
photographers find the two-level models too frustrating
and time-consuming).
A small flashlight for light painting and for working
in low light.
A laptop with a version of Adobe Photoshop, Bridge, and
for those who are interested, Lightroom, already installed
to take advantage of our printing element. For those who
do not have these, there are free, 30-day trial versions
you can download at the Adobe
website.
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.
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?
Either Photoshop CS3 or Elements (please make sure you have
the latest version); one-time, 30-day free trial downloads are
available at Adobe.
Adobe
Camera Raw and DNG Converter (as we will be using
RAW settings if your camera supports them; otherwise,
we will work with your camera's highest quality JPEG).
What should I pack?
We dress comfortably, so a combination of slacks and/or
shorts is appropriate. Remember that some eateries have
dress codes involving shirts with sleeves, etc.
Layers are always best, as one can keep warm more easily
that way (remember, pre-dawn and post-sunset can be cool).
Rain gear, just in case; a poncho works really well,
as it can keep your camera bag dry if you wear it around
your waist.
A hat to protect you from the sun (and hopefully NOT
inclement weather) .
Sunscreen in a heavier rating than you usually use.
What will the weather be like?
Mother Nature, of course, has a mind of her own.
Check out our Weather page
for average temparatures and precipitation in our various
locales.
Remember that inclement weather can produce some really
dramatic and wonderful images.
May I bring along a spouse, SO, or
friend?
Yes, of course. We always welcome them in the field and
in the classroom, just as as long as they do not take
time away from our paying participants.
We are always in beautiful areas, and it gives them a
chance to enjoy the surroundings and while you photograph
or do imaging and printing.
Where will we stay?
Barefoot Contessa Photo Adventures always arranges for
a place where we can all stay, often with a workshop discount.
If you wish, you may choose to stay elsewhere, and on
all our workshop information pages, there are links to
other options.
In addition to all you have learned,
you will go home with:
PRIVACY POLICY: Barefoot Contessa Photo Adventures is respectful of your privacy and any information you give us, either through our interactive forms or via e-Mail. We are committed to ensuring the security and safety of this information. To that end, our policies are outlined in our Privacy Statement.
