WILDFLOWERS
EASTERN SIERRAS
INTO THE FOREST I GO, TO LOSE MY MIND AND FIND MY SOUL.
Deviating from the beaten path of iconic destinations, our journey leads into a realm untouched by mainstream tourism. Plunge into this world of natural wonders and hidden gems, exploring through the eyes of those who discovered this landscape that inspired many of the greats. You’ll find towering peaks with enchanting valleys below, embellished with richly colored wildflowers laid out as a natural tapestry. Step into an rugged alpine grove, where ancient trees stand tall like wise sentinels, observing the world below for centuries. Stray further and you’ll discover glistening lakes, reflecting the splendor of surrounding peaks. This unparalleled adventure will leave an indelible mark on your soul, escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary, for the Eastern Sierras beckons those with a thirst for exploration and a yearning for the unknown.
TRIP DATES
JUNE 26TH TO 30TH, 2024
These dates were chosen specifically to maximize potential for wildflowers.
TRIBE SIZE
Limited to a small group of 10 students with 2 instructors to ensure that everyone receives 1:1 attention.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
This photography workshop is open to all experience levels, from beginner to advanced all are welcome.
HIKING
This workshop will require moderate hiking (no more than 3 miles) through rocky terrain, sometimes at altitude.
MILKY WAY
We will focus on how we can maximize composition with the Milky Way. Looking for shots that broaden your storytelling.
BRISTLECONES
Photograph the twisting branches of these 5,000 year old ancient bristlecones as they reach high into the sky.
WILDFLOWERS
With the photography gods on our side, we will have delicate alpine blooms decorating our compositions.
VARIETY
The Eastern Sierras is one of our favorite spots because of the wide variety of scenes to capture different ecosystems.
LANDSCAPE
KALEIDOSCOPE
Ah, the magnificent Eastern Sierras! It holds a special place in our hearts because it's a world of endless wonders. You see, what makes this place truly extraordinary is the mind-boggling assortment of scenes it offers. You’re stepping into a whimsical kaleidoscope of diverse ecosystems, each with its own distinct character and charm, just waiting to be captured through your lens.
You will marvel at majestic peaks, towering above and enchanting valleys laid out below, adorned with colorful carpets of wildflowers, natural creativity unleashed upon a grand floral canvas.
Then transport yourself into an alpine forest, where tall, ancient trees stand like wise guardians, their branches whispering secrets to the wind. And as you venture deeper a shimmering lake reflecting the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding peaks saluting you from afar.
Beyond the forests and mountain peaks lie the high desert. Here you’ll find yourself standing beneath colossal stone arches, with graceful curves framing the boundless reaches of the Eastern Sierras. As you wander through this marvelous landscape, you can't help but feel like you've stumbled into a different realm where the laws of physics take a backseat to pure imagination.
DAY 1
Meet and Greet, Sunset, Blue Hour, and Milky Way
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After a short meet and greet, we head out for sunset, blue hour, and Milky Way at the iconic Mono Lake tufas,.
DAY 2
More Iconic Locations & Classroom Session
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A morning sunrise at an iconic overlook. After a short break, our first classroom session begins.
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Another sunset, twilight and Milky Way shoot among the lakes and mountains of the Sierras.
DAY 3
Sunrise, Sunset, Blue Hour & Milky Way
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Starting the morning with boulders and mountain alpenglow. Then to the very top of the mountains to capture the ancient bristlecones during sunset, blue hour. Plus a special night shoot with timelapse opportunity.
DAY 4
Personalized Editing Instruction, Sunset, Blue Hour, Milky Way
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Starting with a late morning classroom session editing your favorite images, we will spend time with each student individually. Then one last sunset and night under the stars together.
DAY 5
Sunrise & Send Offs
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Our last spot is one of the most iconic places in Death Valley, so we're arriving early to immerse yourself in the experience.
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Our last morning together will be spent chasing light in a cactus garden before saying our final goodbyes
PRE & POST
ZOOM SESSIONS
Before we hit the ground running, we'll have a virtual rendezvous on Zoom. Trust us, we're like ninjas when it comes to photography, and we only have one shot (pun intended) to capture the perfect shots. So, we want to make sure you're well-equipped and ready to rock 'n' roll!
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After we've done some serious shutter clicking, it's time for the main event! We're talking an epic editing session where each instructor will spill their secrets and show you how to turn your photos into masterpieces. And the best part? You get to kick back, relax, and soak it all in because we're recording everything for you to binge-watch at your leisure.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
PLANNING YOUR SHOTS
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Scouting and evaluating conditions
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Composing an image to grab the viewers' attention
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Composing an image with a person in frame to tell a story
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Utilizing apps for more efficient planning
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Choosing the right lens and filters for the job
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How to shoot with a plan for editing
CAPTURING YOUR IMAGE
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How to capture intimate details and abstract images
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Histogram - how to read for perfectly exposed images
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Exposure control. how to use ISO, aperture and shutter speed in different scenarios
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Bracketing, Perspective blending and focus stacking
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Long Exposure, how to capture blue hour
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Creative uses of light at night
BRING THE IMAGE TO LIFE
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Lightroom & Photoshop, learn our post processing workflow
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Luminosity masks
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Dodging and Burning
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Understanding layers and masks
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Removing distractions
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Creating the orton glow and painting with light
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Build your social media presence, how to maximize engagement
MEET THE TEAM
Our goal is to leave you confident, motivated and passionate about photography with a new set of ideas and perspective. Be sure to check out our ABOUT page to learn more about our guild masters and you future favorite teachers ever!
JESS SANTOS
RYAN OSWALD
GET ALL THE DETAILS HERE
NEAREST AIRPORT
You will want to fly into MAMMOTH LAKES or
LAS VEGAS AIRPORT, we suggest arriving a day early.
MEETING LOCATION
We will be meeting in the town of Mammoth, California. This is a 5 hour drive from Las Vegas. We will meet at 3PM.
ADVENTURE INCLUSIONS
ALL LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS
We have reserved lodging for the duration of the workshop and each person will have their own designated room.
PHOTOGRAPHY
INSTRUCTION
In field photography instruction, Post processing instruction and photo critiques are the best part!
PRE & POST
ZOOM SESSIONS
Spend more time in nature. Then come back to relive those moments with a session in the digital dark room.
NOT INCLUDED
TRANSPORTATION
Flights / car transportation are not included we are helping attendees source capable, fully equipped vehicles
MEALS & DRINKS
You are responsible for all your meals and drinks during the workshop. Hotels may include a mini fridge and microwave.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
With any adventure, it is recommended you have travel insurance, especially for medical emergencies
RESERVE YOUR SPOT HERE
We've got limited space and it's filling up faster than a rocket launch, so make like a shooting star and be the first one to snag your spot. And don't worry, with not one, but TWO photography gurus at your beck and call, you'll have more one-on-one time than a astronaut stuck in the space station with their chatty roommate. We'll help you improve those skills you've been neglecting faster than you can say "Houston, we have a problem".