A Discovery Series Workshop
October 24 - 28, 2024
Tution: $4,050 USD - Limited to 4 participants
The fog and mist of early morning mix with the sea spray along the coast and hang in the air until the first rays of sunlight scatter them like leaves before the wind. It's easy to see why this stretch of Californias Central Coast is so magical, with the Santa Lucia Mountains rising right out of the Pacific creating an impossibly rugged coastline with an endless variety of enchanting headlands, arches, sea-stacks, and secluded beaches. For the seascape photographer this is truly paradise.
Our adventure will take us from Montaña de Oro, south of Morro Bay to Salmon Creek Falls, just north of Ragged Point, and along the way we'll be treated to some breathtaking seascapes. We may encounter Sea Otters around Morro Bay and Cambria, Elephant Seals at San Simeon, and maybe even some zebras (yes, I said zebras).
Whether you're a budding photographer seeking to refine your craft or an experienced shutterbug aiming to capture the essence of coastal California, our workshop promises an enriching experience filled with both artistic inspiration and technical mastery. Join us on this photographic journey to unlock the secrets of capturing the mesmerizing coastal landscapes that define Central California.
This workshop is about honing your photographic abilities, both technically and aesthetically. Of course we don't have to limit ourselves to just beautiful seascapes, there will be opportunities to photograph wildlife, do a little macro work and possibly even some night sky imaging, it's really up to you.
It is our feeling that photography is not just about making an amazing image, it's about the artistic and physical journey to that image. Whether you're a budding photographer seeking to refine your craft or an experienced shutterbug aiming to capture the essence of coastal California, our workshop promises an enriching experience filled with both artistic inspiration and technical mastery. Join us on this photographic journey to unlock the secrets of capturing the mesmerizing coastal landscapes that define Central California.
What You Can Expect:
Professional, one on one photographic instruction on par with your level of experience.
Four Full Days of in-field shooting and instruction
Class sizes limited to four students to insure personal attention
Positive, interactive and fun learning environment
Water and snacks while in the field
What You'll Learn:
Set against the backdrop of rolling cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming coastal towns, this workshop blends hands-on field sessions with expert tutorials, ensuring participants develop a profound understanding of coastal photography techniques.
Among the things we'll talk about are - How to "see the light" and the way it affects the image. Lens options for landscape/seascape composition and subject isolation. High Dynamic Range (HDR) techniques. Focus Stacking techniques. Determining your point(s) of interest and how best to capture what you want your image to convey. How to use filters to control exposure and enhance your photograph. Smartphone apps that can help you plan your photo session and maximize your time in the field.
Physical Difficulty: Moderate.
This workshop is appropriate for photographers of average fitness levels. During the course of each day of the workshop we will walk, on average, 2 (5km) to 5 (8km) miles. A variety of terrain will be encountered, such as boardwalks, improved trails, sandy beaches, and coastal access routes, some being uneven and slippery. Average October temperatures for Central California Coast range from highs of 21°C (70°F) to lows of 10°C (50°F).
It is expected for all participants to be able to carry their own personal gear and water during the workshop. You will receive a document with greater detail on all aspects of the workshop after you register.
What's Included:
Field Photography Sessions, Class Session on Digital Image Processing, and Critiques.
4 nights lodging - single occupancy.
Airport pickup and drop-off at the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport.
Transportation during the workshop.
Park entrance fees.
Drinks and snacks while in the field.
A fun time with great memories.
What's Not Included:
Airfare
Meals, unless specifically mentioned in workshop description.
Alcoholic drinks
Gratuities
Anything that is not specifically stated in the workshop description.
Getting There:
San Luis Obispo, CA is the closest regional airport, there are several flights from both Los Angeles International and San Francisco International daily.
About Camera Gear & Equipment:
Basic requirements are:
DSLR or Mirrorless camera that is capable of shooting in manual mode
Sturdy Tripod
Remote Shutter Release
Fast Wide Angle or Wide Zoom Lens (f/2.8 or faster recommended)
Medium length telephoto lens or tele-zoom (200-400mm)
Extra Batteries
Backpack style camera bag
Suitable clothing. A windbreaker is recommended. Temps can range from low 10°C (50°F) to high 16°C (60°F) during the day.
After you have registered you will receive a pdf with lots of information specific to your workshop. In the meantime you can visit our “Preparing For Your Workshop” page.
Group size is limited not only for a more favorable instructor to student ratio, but also to help minimize the human impact on the natural environments we will be photographing. At James Neihouse Photography Workshops we strive to uphold the Leave No Trace code for outdoor ethics.*
Day 1 - Check in to workshop hotel. Meet & Greet, Orientation, evening photo session.
Day 2 - Early morning field session at Montana de Oro State Park, lunch break in Los Osos or Morro Bay, afternoon and sunset at Montana de Oro.
Day 3 - Early morning Morro Bay Harbor and Morro Rock, lunch break in Morro Bay, Cambria Moonstone Beach, late afternoon/sunset session
Day 4 - Early morning field session, lunch, Elephant seals, late afternoon/sunset session
Day 5 - Sunrise and morning field session, break for lunch, post-processing and critique session, Workshop concludes at 4:00pm.
*Schedule may vary to accommodate changing conditions, we like to be flexible.
To hold your place in this workshop you may choose to place a $500 DEPOSIT. This option is available until until July 26, 2024. The balance of the workshop fee will be due on September 24, 2024.
October 24 - 28, 2024
$4050 USD, including 4 nights accommodations.
Please be sure to READ and UNDERSTAND our Policy on Payments, Deposits, Cancellations, and Refunds and our Workshop Agreement before you proceed.
You are encouraged to purchase trip insurance to protect your investment in case of an unforeseen situation or emergency that requires you to cancel your workshop. Here is a review of travel insurance companies - Travel Insurance Reviews
We accept credit cards, and PayPal. Credit card payments are handled through Stripe.com and you should receive a payment confirmation from them.
Contact Us to pay using bank transfers, bank checks, Venmo*, and Zelle or for information about other payment options. Installment plans are available.
*Venmo payments must be made from a mobile device.
Click to Return To Workshop Description
You are encouraged to purchase trip insurance to protect your investment in case of an unforeseen situation or emergency that requires you to cancel your workshop. Here is a review of travel insurance companies - Travel Insurance Reviews
More Questions? Contact Us!
*Everyone at James Neihouse Photography Workshops is certified through the national Leave No Trace program.