The details below apply to all of our workshops. Please read carefully to ensure a smooth experience.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS
INSTRUCTION: Our workshops provide hands-on, field-based instruction, with Andy available to guide you through landscape photography techniques. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced photographer, Andy will assist you at your skill level. This support includes help with camera settings, exposure, focus, composition, and post-processing. For more experienced photographers, Andy is also happy to offer guidance as needed or simply give you space to work independently.
LODGING: Participants are responsible for directly booking their own accommodations. Please contact the lodging provider to reserve your room(s).
WEATHER: Weather conditions may impact our itinerary and affect access to certain locations. We encourage flexibility, and participants may find it beneficial to stay additional days to take full advantage of optimal shooting conditions.
MORE WORKSHOP INFORMATION
FOOD / WATER: We will provide snacks for your enjoyment during the workshop. However, participants are responsible for bringing their own water bottles. Please remember to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
MEDICAL: While you don't need to be in perfect physical condition, your overall experience will be much more enjoyable with good health and preparation. We recommend consulting with your doctor before attending to ensure you're ready for the physical demands of the workshop.
HIGHER ELEVATIONS: At higher elevations, proper hydration is crucial. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, loss of energy, and even severe headaches. To avoid these issues, it's important to drink regularly, even before you feel thirsty.
PHOTO EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Please bring all essential camera gear, including your camera's manual.
LENSES: We recommend bringing your full range of lenses to cover a variety of shooting situations. This will allow you to be ready for any opportunity that arises during the workshop.
POLARIZING FILTER: A polarizing filter is highly recommended for most workshops. It helps reduce reflections, enhance contrast, and deepen skies for more dynamic shots.
ND FILTERS FOR WATER: To create long exposure effects—such as blurring streams or waves into a mist—bring a 6-stop (1.8) or higher neutral density (ND) filter. A screw-on type will work fine. Andy carries both a 6-stop (1.8) and a 10-stop (3.0) ND filter, which are especially useful for coastal scenes. This filter allows you to create smooth, compelling long-exposure photographs. If you bring an ND filter, also remember to pack a cable release to trigger the shutter without causing shake.
ND FILTERS FOR CLOUDS: If you'd like to blur the motion of clouds on a bright day, consider bringing a 9 or 10-stop ND filter (screw-on type). Again, a cable release is recommended for best results.
Note: Many variable ND filters suffer from issues like banding and differential darkening. Andy recommends avoiding variable ND filters for the best results.
MEMORY: Be sure to bring plenty of memory cards—64GB to 128GB if you plan on downloading and reformatting them during the workshop. If you're not reformatting, aim for 32GB to 64GB per day of shooting.
TRIPOD: A sturdy outdoor tripod is essential. It should be adjustable from standing height (without cranking up the center post) all the way down to very low to the ground. Ideally, it should have independent leg movement, without attachments linking the legs to the center post. This gives you greater flexibility for various compositions.
NO SHAKE: To avoid camera shake, please bring a cable release or make sure you're familiar with your camera's timer delay function.
LEVEL: If your camera doesn't have a built-in level, we recommend a 2-axis bubble level for the hot shoe. This is the easiest way to ensure your shots are level. You can find these levels from reputable dealers, typically priced around $40.
AEB - BRACKETING: Andy often combines images with varying exposures during post-processing. He will be happy to teach participants his field techniques (some cameras may require a cable release) and post-processing methods for this technique. If you'd like to follow along, please bring a laptop with Photoshop installed.
PARTIAL GEAR LIST
- GPS for Vehicle
- Flashlight
- Tripod
- Spare Camera Batteries
- Camera's Manual
- Lots of Memory
- Filters
- Extra Shoes and Socks
- Camera
- Rain Gear
- Hiking Boots
- Water Bottle
- Warm Clothes
- Umbrella
PRE-WORKSHOP PREPARATION
To ensure you're fully prepared and get the most out of our workshop, please review the following materials before the event:
2 VIDEOS (Overview and techniques you may use in the workshop)
7 LESSONS (Essential skills and concepts to refresh before the workshop)
7 WORKSHOP HANDOUTS (Detailed resources to help guide you through the topics that may be covered)
Rocky Mountain Reflections Photography, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Service Provider.
Rocky Mountain Reflections Photography, Inc. is authorized by the National Park Service, US Department of the Interior, to conduct services in Glacier National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Badlands National Park, Olympic National Park, Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, Death Valley & Joshua Tree National Parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Big Bend National Park and Acadia National Park.
Rocky Mountain Reflections Photography, Inc. is a permittee of the Uncompahgre National Forest.