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The
Quest for the Expressive Image: Photographing the Pt. Reyes
National Seashore
 Photography
boils down to three things: what inspires us (the psyche),
how we deal with light (exposure), and where we choose to
stand (composition). Finding intriguing subject matter and
exposing film correctly are facets that most photographers
handle reasonably well. But often, their images fail to
inspire and do not convey what they experienced. During
our weekend workshop, we will focus our attention on the
third element in the development of our artistry—composition.
Fall is a remarkable time to visit the Pt. Reyes Peninsula,
for it is a time of transition. The skies are clear and
crisp, filled with the flight of migrating birds. In the
woodlands and meadows, the gifts of autumn abound. Deciduous
trees reveal the intricacies of their forms, while salt
marshes are tinged with subtle colors and shapes. The low
angular light of autumn intensifies the textures and patterns
of the coastal landscape, aiding us in our visual exploration
of this dynamic landscape.
Our accommodations for the weekend afford us an intimacy
with the coastal environment that will be aesthetically
gratifying. From our unique vantage point, we will access
Limentour Beach, Drakes Bay, Chimney Rock, McClure's Beach,
and other dynamic habitats where the patterns and visible
motions of nature will be revealed.
Through slide-lecture presentations and hands-on group and
individual work in the field, the instructor will help students
find inspired subject matter and give insights and tools
for composing more expressively. Other topics that will
be explored are: the color quality of light, how the kind
of light dictates what subject one can effectively photograph,
choice of film and lenses, exposure, and the usage of warming
and graduated neutral-density filters.
Students should have a solid working knowledge of their
camera (especially on all manual) so that group and individual
energy can be focused on the joys of discovery and the refinement
of personal expression through composition. Sharing work
and getting feedback will be an essential part of learning
and of opening our doors of perception. Participants should
bring slides or prints to review and the photographic equipment
they are most comfortable using. Photographers of any ability,
working in any format are welcome and should be prepared
for a hike of up to mile round trip on both days. While
lodging is provided, participants are responsible for their
own transportation and meals.
PT.
REYES: 1 weekend and 2 evenings; October 3-5, 2008
October 3: Friday 7-10 pm (orientation); October 4 , Saturday, 9 am-5 pm (field);
October 5 , Sunday, 9 am-4 pm (field).
Point Reyes: Directions and workshop details will
be mailed to enrollees.
Course
Fee: Approx. $220 ($210
members), includes 2 nights’ lodging at the Clem Miller
Environmental Education Center. Our
accommodations at Point Reyes National Seashore are two
hours north of San Francisco, CA. Enrollment
limited.
For enrollment in this class: call (415) 663-1200, Mon-Fri, 9 am-5 pm or enroll on the web through: Pt Reyes Field Seminars Enrollment
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