Groupon customers, please scroll to the very bottom to select the workshop date you would like and then complete the registration. Once your registration is complete, you will receive a confirmation number on your screen and can download your course materials from that page. Thank you and we look forward to seeing you at the workshop!
As the (insert amazing wild animal of choice here) steps out of the edge of the woods into view and you prepare to capture your award winning images of it, you suddenly are confronted by a vast array of choices on how to make the images, with only a short period of time to make them.
"What settings should I use...what ISO...should I try to move closer...should I shoot it as a vertical...should I put on a teleconverter...should I take off the teleconverter... what is a teleconvertor...should I use my flash...should I switch my car insurance to that company run by a lizard..."
Photography is all about choices, from the technical side of settings, to the art of composition. And sometimes all the choices we have to make behind the camera can be a little overwhelming. This is why we developed the "Total Exposure" photography workshop series, to provide the aspiring nature photographer with an opportunity to learn about all the different facets of nature photography, and be able to make the right choices when that amazing photography opportunity presents itself.
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In “Total Exposure” our goal is to provide the aspiring or seasoned nature photographer with exposure to as wide a range of nature photography subjects and techniques as possible (get it…exposure to a wide range of subjects…Total Exposure…exposure settings on a camera….okay, it was late and we were trying really hard to be clever :^) ). We also realize that everyone learns differently, and for some people, learning in a classroom setting is just not their thing. So we are also offering a "In the Field" only version of our "Total Exposure" class, where we will explore the wildlife opportunities and scenic beauty of Ft. De Soto Park.
For the "In The Field" classes, we will focus on "fieldcraft", all the things we do as outdoor photographers to "get the shot". We will cover everything from understanding the effect weather and tides have on nature photography, to how to approach wildlife and read their body language, to how to find those stunning landscapes and “work” a scene.
This half day course is designed for intermediate to advanced nature photographers who want to improve their skills working with nature subjects in real world situations. We'll build upon the foundation you already have in outdoor photography and add a variety of new tools and techniques you can immediately put to use to create amazing nature photography images. Our goal for this workshop is to have you leave with full minds, full memory cards, and "toolbox" full of new tools, tips, and techniques!
"In the Field" Outline |
Pre-Shoot Discussion – Class begins approximately 30 minutes before sunrise with a brief review of equipment and a discussion about quality of light and proper exposure of sunrise scenes. Times may vary slightly based on time of year and time of sunrise (see below for exact meeting times). Morning Photography Session – Before sunrise we will be in position for our morning shoot, and will continue our pre-shoot discussion. The workshop is flexible and adapts to meet the needs and interests of the participants. Each location has a variety of subjects available, such as birds, beaches, butterflies, wildflowers, and more. We may spend all morning at one location working specific subjects, or we may explore a variety of spots, working with subjects as we find them. We will discuss quality of light, composition, fieldcraft, and what sets excellent images apart from the rest. We will also talk about the natural history and ecology of the area we are exploring, with an emphasis on understanding the best times to visit for a photographer. After the morning shoot, you will have a final opportunity to ask any questions you have from the day’s shoot. This is a good time to review what you have learned or cover any questions you may still have. |
About Your Instructor
Jason Hahn is a professional nature photographer who specializes in capturing unique photographs of the creatures and scenery that make Florida such a special place. Certified as a Florida Master Naturalist, he uses this knowledge to capture exceptional photographs of wildlife and natural scenery in his resident state and abroad. He has been widely published in books and magazines nationwide such as Popular Photography Magazine, Outdoor Photographer Magazine, Florida Wildlife Magazine, Defender Magazine, and many more. He has been involved in projects with organizations including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and South Carolina Waterfowl Association.
Jason is an active member of the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA). His work has been awarded top honors by NANPA numerous times and he was also one of only 20 photographers from around the world selected to participate in the Images for Conservation Fund (ICF) Pro-tour competition for 2008. He came in fourth place overall in the competition, and was the highest placing first-time competitor in the year's competition.
In addition to his photography, Jason regularly conducts photography workshops and seminars for beginning and professional photographers. He is the co-owner of Outdoor Photo Workshops, offering the best in outdoor adventure and nature photography workshops, helping photographers improve their photography and make great images in a fun and relaxed setting.
You can see more of Jason's work on his website www.HahnNaturePhotography.com, and see the complete lineup of workshops he leads at www.OutdoorPhotoWorkshops.com.
Course Details
Location: Classes are held in two different locations, please see below to confirm the location of your class. The course content is identical in both of these locations.
Fort De Soto Park
3500 Pinellas Bayway S.
Tierra Verde, FL 33715
(727) 552-1862
We will meet at the East beach turn around at Fort DeSoto. Link to Google Map. Please note: there are 2 unstaffed tollbooths on the way into the park so you will want to have change or a SunPass handy.
Circle B Bar Reserve
4399 Winter Lake Rd,
Lakeland, Fl 33803
We will meet in the parking lot near the nature center. Please note: If you Google the address, it will only get you to the main road and not the nature center, please use this Link to Google Map.
Dates:
- Wednesday, March 14, 2012, 7:00am-11:00am (Check-in 7:00am), Lakeland (Circle B Bar Reserve)
- Friday, March 16, 2012, 7:00am-11:00am (Check-in 7:00am), St. Petersburg (Fort De Soto Park)
- Wednesday, March 21, 2012, 7:00am-11:00am (Check-in 7:00am), St. Petersburg (Fort De Soto Park)
- Friday, March 23, 2012, 7:00am-11:00am (Check-in 7:00am), St. Petersburg (Fort De Soto Park)
- Wednesday, March 28, 2012, 7:00am-11:00am (Check-in 7:00am), St. Petersburg (Fort De Soto Park)
- Tuesday, April 10, 2012, 6:45am-10:45am (Check-in 6:45am), St. Petersburg (Fort De Soto Park)
- Friday, April 13, 2012, 6:30am-10:30am (Check-in 6:30am), Lakeland (Circle B Bar Reserve)
- Monday, April 23, 2012, 6:30am-10:30am (Check-in 6:30am), St. Petersburg (Fort De Soto Park)
- Wednesday, May 9, 2012, 6:15am-10:15am (Check-in 6:15am), St. Petersburg (Fort De Soto Park)
- Monday, May 14, 2012, 6:15am-10:15am (Check-in 6:15am), Lakeland (Circle B Bar Reserve)
To register for the date you wish to attend, scroll to the bottom of this page and click on the link for the date you would like. From there, you will enter your information and once completed, you will receive a confirmation number on your screen as well as an email.
Photography Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced. You should have a solid understanding of exposure theory, understanding concepts like aperture, DoF, metering, and be fully proficient in how to operate your camera.
Activity Level: Moderate. We will spend several hours in the field, in potentially high temperatures as we photograph at a variety of locations in the park; some areas will require hikes through sand or woods. Be sure you check weather forecasts for St. Petersburg for your course day and dress accordingly. Please see the information packet downloaded upon registration for recommendations on weather appropriate gear.
Price: $129 - This includes one in-field photography sessions, either morning or evening, and class materials. We will also have drawings for some great photography giveaways at each course!
Cancellations, Delays & Refunds: No refunds will be given for delays or cancellations due to inclement weather, either before or during your workshop. We are not responsible for additional costs you may incur due to delays or cancellations.
Cancellations must be made a minimum of 48 hours prior to the workshop, or your workshop is forfeited. Cancellations made more than 48 hours in advance may contact us to reschedule their workshop on another available day. There are no guarantees of available dates in the event you cancel the date you initially registered for.
Physical Activity and Exposure to the Elements: Our workshops and guided tours are designed to appeal to a broad range of skill levels and abilities. However, each in-field portion of any workshop or tour is held fully outdoors in the elements. There are certain risks associated with outdoor strenuous activity. You and your personal physician must be the judge of your physical abilities and limitations. Outdoor Photo Workshops (OPW) accepts no liability for any injuries or illnesses that occur during one of our workshops or tours. At any point during a workshop or tour if you feel you cannot continue, please let your instructors know. OPW reserves the right to pause or stop a workshop or tour if we feel the participants are overexerting or endangering themselves or others. If you have any concerns please contact us prior to your workshop or tour. Before your workshop or tour, please read Jason Hahn’s article, “It Ain’t as Easy as it Looks: A Photographer’s Guide to Florida’s Natural Hazards”. It is available on his website at www.HahnNaturePhotography.com under the articles section dated May 30, 2005.
Don’t forget to download the complete information packet which includes a list of items to bring, an itinerary, and other important information!
(A link will appear on your confirmation page after registration to download.)
