Rocky Mountain Nat’l Park

REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED FOR THIS EVENT!

ONE DAY WORKSHOP!

Sunday, September 24, 2017

6:30am-3pm

Rocky Mountain National Park, Moraine Valley

Join renowned photographer and instructor, Michelle Theall, in the field (literally) photographing the elk during the rut, along with the fall leaves and snow-capped peaks. Theall’s work has been published globally from the U.S. to Australia, in titles including Backpacker, Sierra, and Alaska, where she handles photo selection for the travel, nature, and adventure sections of the title.

Our permit allows our group access to all areas of the park, but we’ll be focused on the Moraine Valley area for most of the day.

 

Itinerary:

6:30am-11am: We’ll meet bright and early at 6:30am sharp in front of the Fall River Visitor’s Center. From there, we’ll caravan to nearby Sheep Lakes / West Horseshoe Park where we’ll look for a herd of elk or bighorn sheep. If no animals are present, we’ll continue on to Moraine Valley, stopping on the way for wildlife images.

Sunrise is at 6:50, so we’ll begin shooting right away to capture that golden morning light. We’ll continue shooting for several hours in one or two locations. Some short hiking may be involved.

11am-1pm: After a few hours of shooting (in one or two locations), we’ll gather at a spot in Moraine Valley meadow to discuss basic and advanced concepts for great wildlife shots and landscapes. We’ll go over composition, exposure (shutter speed, ISO, aperture), focal length, lighting, animal behavior, action shots, and depth of field. We’ll discuss what it takes to get your best images published in magazines and/or get picked up by a stock agency.

1pm-3pm: We’ll put what we’ve learned into practice, heading out into the field again. You’ll shoot alongside Michelle Theall, while she gives hands-on instruction and advice.

3pm: The workshop officially ends at 3pm, but attendees are encouraged to stay in the park until sunset to capture the elk rut action as the light fades to dusk.

What you get:

Fee includes all instruction and instructional materials/handouts. Yes, there will be handouts for you to take home.

Small group, hands-on instruction in the field from a pro who makes her living at wildlife and nature photography.

Guiding to the best spots for photography in the park.

Socialization with fellow shutterbugs who love wildlife and geeking out over camera equipment.

Snacks to eat during breaks.

A coveted Wild Departures hat with the bear logo!

 

 

What you need to bring:

Lunch and water. Sunscreen, layers for warmth, rain gear (for the camera and your body), and footwear with sturdy soles and good tread.

Park fees and transportation are not included.

SPACE IS LIMITED. SIGN UP TODAY!