Days 01 – A Long Hike
When you photograph in locations where the light lasts long, it makes for early-morning alarm clocks and late dinners. That’s the only way you are going to capture the light.
This year, we decided to get the two most challenging shoots over at the beginning of the workshop. This day, the first of the workshop, it was the long hike up to Delicate Arch.
It was hot, so we had plenty of water and electrolytes to make sure we didn’t get dehydrated, but still, we took it easy. Having done this hike often, I know where the good stopping places are, where there is a little shade. We did not want to dawdle either, as this particular location depends upon the light. Too late, and one of the elements is gone.
We found our way to the spot I had in mind, and we carefully found our positions. Sand on sandstone is slippery, so the footing is often tenuous, but it does afford a view of the Arch that is far less common that viewed by most people. For me, helping the others, it was a one-shot deal. It was important that they learn something and get some shots of their own.
Our group all agreed that it was well worth the hike, and they learned a lot about positioning tripods, finding angles, waiting for clouds, and capturing the essence of this iconic Utah feature in a more unusual way.
We started down as the light started to fade, so that we would not be hiking in the dark. Again, loose sand on sandstone is better seen when it’s light.
After loading up the cars, we headed back to our inn for our traditional wine and pizza reception. One of our participants came in late, because his flight was not only delayed, but rerouted. We recapped the Principles of Photography for him and gave him his book so he could read it more at his leisure.
The group was small this year, but they gelled well, and we were already joking and laughing, always a good sign.
Next: A Really Early Morning and Red Cliffs
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