ABOUT THE CADDO LAKE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Embark on a captivating journey through the serene cypress swamps of East Texas, where you'll not only capture beautiful images but lose yourself in the process of discovery. Photography at Caddo Lake is an immersive experience—an opportunity to get lost in the scene, to forget the noise of the world around you, and focus entirely on creating something meaningful. The thrill of composing that perfect shot, much like a prospector finding a hidden treasure, is an exhilarating moment that every photographer, regardless of skill level, will understand.
Surround yourself with towering bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, casting reflections in the bayous, sloughs, and ponds. As autumn colors paint the landscape, you'll discover intimate, enchanting scenes at every turn. This workshop is a chance to connect deeply with the natural beauty of Caddo Lake, Caddo Lake State Park, and Big Cypress Bayou, and it's also a chance to share in the fun and friendship of a supportive group of photographers—whether you're more experienced or just starting to find your own creative path.
WORKSHOP HIGHLIGHTS
UNIQUE CYPRESS SWAMP EXPERIENCE
Challenge your skills and creativity in the ethereal cypress swamps of Caddo Lake. This landscape, unlike any other, offers rare photographic opportunities where the beauty of the swamp inspires you to push your boundaries and become absorbed in the moment.
PHOTOGRAPHY ADVENTURES ON WATER
There's nothing like capturing the beauty of a landscape from the water itself. Our guided kayaking excursions will let you photograph from unique perspectives, allowing you to glide through narrow channels and quietly approach hidden corners of the lake. You'll be able to frame your shots in ways that others can't, letting the serenity of Caddo Lake seep into your work.
EXPERIENCE HISTORY & CHARM
Our group will stay at the historic Kahn Hotel in Jefferson, Texas—a quaint town that's rich in culture and character. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day of photography, and it provides a comforting environment to reflect on the day's adventures.
EXPERT GUIDANCE
Andy Cook will be with you every step of the way, offering personalized, hands-on guidance. This workshop is about you and your journey as a photographer—Andy is there to help you achieve your vision, not to capture his own photos. Whether you need help composing an image in the cypress groves or assistance in post-processing, Andy's goal is to ensure you feel supported and encouraged throughout the entire process.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS AND REVIEWS
Bring your laptop for midday and post-dinner image review sessions. This is your opportunity to get direct feedback, refine your techniques, and learn how to elevate your compositions—whether you're looking for help with a specific challenge or seeking advice on post-processing techniques.
WORKSHOP ITINERARY & SCHEDULE
LODGING LOCATION: Historic Kahn Hotel, 123 West Austin Street, Jefferson, TX 75657. 903-601-4471
Check-in: Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025
Check-out: Friday, Nov. 7, 2025
DAY 1, TUESDAY, Nov. 4, 2025:
2:00 PM: Check-in at the Historic Kahn Hotel.
2:45 PM: Welcome meeting and introductions.
3:15 PM: Depart for the first photography location at Caddo Lake.
DAYS 2-3, WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY, Nov. 5-6, 2025:
PHOTOGRAPHY SESSIONS: Explore Caddo Lake from elevated boardwalks, along the shoreline, and on guided kayaking excursions. With vibrant autumn colors, breathtaking reflections, and enchanting cypress trees, you'll have plenty of time to focus on finding the perfect shots that speak to your vision.
DAY 4, FRIDAY, Nov 7, 2025:
FINAL MORNING SESSION: Our workshop concludes after a sunrise shoot on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025. Photography will wrap up between 8:00-9:00 AM. Please avoid scheduling early flights to ensure you don't miss the final session.
We have reserved a block of rooms for the group. Participants should secure one of these rooms by calling the hotel directly and requesting one of the reserved rooms for "Rocky Mountain Photography".
WHAT TO EXPECT
MORNING: Each day will begin at picturesque locations, capturing the quiet beauty of civil twilight and sunrise over Caddo Lake. The mornings are peaceful and will allow you to focus deeply, framing the perfect compositions. After our shoots, we'll gather for a relaxing breakfast and share our experiences.
MIDDAY: On select days, we will pause for image reviews and post-processing sessions. This is the time to reflect on what you've captured, receive personalized advice, and refine your technique. Whether it's tips on composition or help with editing, we'll ensure you walk away with newfound knowledge to help you continue growing as a photographer.
EVENING: After our afternoon photography sessions, we'll regroup for dinner at local restaurants, where we can swap stories, share laughs, and build lasting friendships. This workshop is about camaraderie and fun—photography is a joy, and we aim to create a warm, supportive environment where you can connect with other photographers while doing what we all love.
Join us for this unforgettable adventure at Caddo Lake—where you'll not only improve your photography but also experience the joy of creation, the excitement of discovery, and the camaraderie of fellow photographers. Sign up for the Caddo Lake Photography Workshop today!
WORKSHOP REGISTRATION / DEPOSIT $300 USD
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WORKSHOP DETAILS
EXPERIENCE LEVELS: Beginner to Advanced Photographers
While our Caddo Lake workshop is tailored for intermediate to advanced photographers due to the kayak photography sessions, enthusiastic beginners are warmly welcomed. If you're eager to learn and comfortable with the basic operation of your camera, we encourage you to join us. Be aware that, while kayaking, our focus will be on ensuring everyone's safety and enjoyment, which means direct assistance with camera settings and composition will be more limited. However, you'll still gain valuable experience and learn from the stunning environment and fellow photographers.
SMALL GROUP SIZE: We limit this workshop to just 5 participants to ensure you receive personalized, one-on-one instruction from Andy. A smaller group means more time to focus on your goals, ask questions, and receive constructive feedback in a relaxed, supportive environment.
EFFORT LEVEL: Easy to Moderate
When photographing from shore, our selected photo locations are conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from the parking area, allowing easy access to stunning views of Caddo Lake.
The kayaking sessions are easy to moderate, with relaxed, 1-2 hour paddles through the cypress swamp. Participants will be required to handle their own kayaks, but we will assist with launching and bring everyone together for a smooth experience. A bit of physical independence will be needed to get in and out of the kayak, but this will be a low-stress part of the workshop.
KAYAKING SESSIONS: Our Caddo Lake workshop dedicates 1.5 days to photographing the lake's stunning beauty from a unique vantage point: kayaks. We'll embark on relaxed 1-2 hour paddles, allowing you to explore at your own pace, discover perfect compositions, and connect deeply with the tranquil surroundings. These kayaking sessions grant access to secluded areas of Caddo Lake—hidden gems that are unreachable by any other means. To ensure an enjoyable experience on the water, we recommend planning your beverage intake accordingly.
We'll provide radios, so you can stay in contact with Andy and fellow participants throughout the sessions.
WHY KAYAK FOR PHOTOGRAPHY?
We choose kayaks because they offer an intimate connection with nature that powerboats can't replicate. Quietly gliding through the water, you can approach wildlife undisturbed, navigate the intricate cypress forests, and uncover hidden compositions. Each paddle stroke brings the thrill of discovery, revealing unique perspectives and unexpected moments that will ignite your creative vision.
CONDITIONS: Prepare for fluctuating temperatures, ranging from chilly mornings to warmer afternoons. Layered clothing is key, as the weather can shift unexpectedly. Be ready for a wide range of atmospheric conditions that make Caddo Lake such a unique place to photograph.
INCLUDED IN THE WORKSHOP FEE: The fee includes kayak rentals and state park entrance fees. We take care of the logistics so you can focus on capturing stunning photos.
GETTING TO THE WORKSHOP
AIR TRAVEL: The closest airport is Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) in Louisiana, about 1 hour from Jefferson, TX.
Alternatively, you can fly into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 2.5 hours away by car.
DRIVING CONDITIONS: The roads to our photography locations are mostly paved, making a standard rental car ideal for getting around. We encourage carpooling to minimize our impact and build camaraderie among participants.
RECOMMENDED GEAR
FOR CADDO LAKE:
LENS RANGE: Andy recommends that participants bring a long zoom lens, such as a 100-400 mm or 70-300 mm (after lens multiplication factor), as it is essential for capturing the stunning wildlife and landscapes of Caddo Lake. Additionally, wider lenses like 16-35 mm and 24-70 mm (after LMF) can be useful for broader shots, but we encourage participants to bring their entire range of lenses to cover all photographic opportunities.
POLARIZING FILTER: A polarizing filter is beneficial for the Caddo Lake photography workshop as it minimizes glare and reflections on shiny, non-metallic surfaces like leaves, making colors appear more vivid, which is especially helpful for capturing the rich hues of fall foliage. Furthermore, the filter improves overall image clarity by reducing atmospheric haze, ensuring you capture stunning photographs of this unique environment.
TRIPOD: For the best shots, especially when standing at the water's edge where tripod legs may sink into deeper water, be sure to bring a sturdy, taller tripod. A small travel tripod will not provide adequate stability and could risk damage or loss of your equipment.
TRIPOD for KAYAKING?: While photographing from kayaks, most participants will likely prefer to handhold their cameras, though some may opt to use a tall tripod. If you choose to use a tripod in shallow swamp water, be cautious as it will get muddy. We recommend bringing an older tripod you don't mind getting dirty.
TALL RUBBER BOOTS: Ideally reaching almost to the knee, tall rubber boots are highly recommended to keep you dry and mud-free while enjoying amazing shoreline photography and entering kayaks.
STRONG FLASHLIGHT: We may be out in the dark before sunrise and after sunset.
DRY BAG: Andy recommends bringing a 40 to 60-liter dry bag to protect your camera, lens, and other essentials while entering and exiting the water and getting comfortable with the kayak. These bags are available online for approximately $60.
