Why should I take a workshop with you?

Photography workshops should be sanctuaries of learning and inspiration, not just excursions led by artists. As your guide, my mission extends beyond showcasing mesmerizing locations; it is to illuminate the path of discovery and mastery in photography.

My approach is grounded in the philosophy that a great photographer does not necessarily make a great teacher. Thus, I dedicate myself to being both. My focus is unwavering in nurturing your talent, sharing wisdom that transcends technical skill, and sparking the creativity that fuels your passion. It's about imparting the nuances that transform good shots into great art.

For more on what makes a workshop meaningful, read this short piece here.

When do I pay?

A 50% deposit is required to secure your spot. I recommend you make your payment at your earliest convenience to secure your spot. I confirm every payment. Once I receive your deposit or full amount, I’ll email you and confirm your space. 

If you haven't received an email confirmation from me within 48 hours, then there may have been an issue with your checkout - email me with your order number and we will finalize the order.

What camera gear specifically is best?  Should I bring every lens I own?

You certainly don't need to bring everything you own. It’s just more to carry! But, we can discuss this 1:1 after you book and I can help you get your kit dialed for this specific workshop.

By default - I’d suggest the equivalent to a 16-35mm and 24-70mm (or 24-105mm).  Although a 70-200 can come in handy at times, you have to decide if you want to lug it around all week.

A stable tripod is a necessity.

A cable release is essential—don’t forget it. Long exposure photography is a key focus of my workshops, so while a stable tripod is necessary, a wired cable release is just as important. Wireless remotes often don’t support long exposures. Without a cable release, your camera may limit you to 30-second exposures. With one, I’ll teach you how to create exposures of 2 minutes or longer. Since cable releases are specific to each camera model, I recommend searching B&H for '(Your Camera Brand) Cable Release.' Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Neutral Density (ND) filters are essential for long exposure photography. My top recommendation is the JetMagPro system, which you can find here in my shop. I also offer a few other high-quality options in the store, so you can choose what works best for you. Regardless of the brand, every photographer should have at least a 3-stop, 6-stop, and 10-stop ND filter that fits each lens they plan to use during the workshop.

In some cases, I may also suggest renting an item if your kit is missing something critical.

What do I need to bring in addition to camera gear?

For footwear, comfortable shoes are a must. You’ll be walking quite a bit, so I recommend waterproof sneakers or hiking shoes that will keep your feet warm and dry.

The weather in Carmel/Big Sur in March can be cool, with lows in the upper 40s and highs in the low 60s. I suggest layering with warm clothes, a rain-resistant jacket, and a hat for sun protection. A small umbrella - like the Blunt Metro umbrella - can be useful both for shooting in the rain and for general protection to shield against wind. It’s a tool I never photograph without! I strongly recommend this item.

Should I bring a laptop?

This is entirely up to you. I’ll be bringing my laptop for sessions where we review images in the digital darkroom. If you prefer to keep things light and wait to work on images at home, that’s fine. If you’d like to edit along the way, feel free to bring your own laptop. Either option works!

What are the essentials for the landscape photographer?

At minimum, I suggest:

• A camera with manual controls

• A 16-35mm and 24-70mm lens (or similar)

• A stable tripod

• A cable release

• A few ND filters

If your kit is missing anything essential, let’s chat after you book—I’m happy to help you avoid unnecessary purchases.

Can I bring my spouse?

This particular workshop is designed for participants who want to immerse themselves fully in the photography experience. Given the nature of the schedule and the amount of time spent in the field, this trip is not suitable for spouses or non-participating guests. All group meals, transportation, and activities are reserved exclusively for workshop attendees.

What if we have to cancel due to weather?  What about severe weather?

The weather in Carmel/Big Sur during March is typically mild, though we may encounter mist, fog, or rain, which can add incredible atmosphere to our images. We will adjust the schedule to work around the conditions and make the most of every opportunity. In the case of severe weather, safety will always be the priority, and we will adapt accordingly. Flexibility is key, and "bad" weather often leads to the most dramatic and rewarding photographs.

Will we be shooting sunrise?

Yes, we’ll have early morning shoots to capture the stunning coastal light at sunrise. These will be balanced with sunset and evening sessions along the coast, ensuring you get a variety of lighting conditions throughout the workshop. There will be opportunities for rest between shoots, so you can recharge while exploring the beauty of Big Sur.

What is your refund policy?

Please read the Terms and Conditions for all the details regarding cancellations and refunds. If you have further questions, feel free to contact me.

I’ve added the workshop to my cart—what do I do now?

After filling out the questionnaire and submitting it, click on the “Cart” in the upper-right corner of the page to proceed with checkout. Once I receive your payment, I’ll confirm your booking. If you encounter any issues, just let me know.