A photography workshop offers an immersive chance to focus an extended period on your photography. Prior to embarking on the adventure, it’s important to prepare yourself in order to make the most out of the experience.
In April 2024, I participated in a 4-day workshop on Vancouver Island. If you’re aiming to refine your photographic abilities, gain fresh insights, or connect with fellow photographers, these can be groundbreaking experiences. In this series, I’ll share helpful pointers and reflections I gathered from participating in workshops. First up is how to choose a workshop and prepare for your participation.
A brief note: This primarily reflects the perspective of a landscape photographer, but many of these aspects should be applicable to various photography styles.
Selecting a Workshop
The initial step is to identify the appropriate workshop for you. Which photographers motivate you? Which ones provoke your thoughts? These could be excellent candidates to guide your experience, if they fit within your financial plan. There are also lesser-known photographers who lead workshops in fantastic locations, and if you’re on a limited budget, these might be worthwhile options. However, ensure you examine their portfolios before making a reservation!
As you narrow down your choice of workshop, consider what you aspire to learn from the photographer(s) conducting it. Do you wish to adopt some of their techniques, philosophies, or distinctive viewpoints? Or is the advantage of the workshop in having the logistical elements managed for you? When I selected a workshop with Adam Gibbs and Alister Benn, I was captivated by their unique styles. Adam’s skill at capturing the intricate beauty of ancient forests resonated with my passion for nature photography, while Alister’s philosophical approach to creative expression challenged me to reconsider how I view my work.
Another essential factor is the workshop’s structure. Most workshops strike a balance between fieldwork and presentations or critiques. Perhaps you appreciate that format, or maybe you’d prefer to spend more time actively photographing. There are also various methods of leadership in the field. Some photographers provide more hands-on, one-on-one instruction, while others offer guidance based on location and light before allowing you to explore on your own. Ensuring the format aligns with your expectations from the outset enhances your confidence when making a reservation. And if the structure isn’t clear from the promotional materials, don’t hesitate to reach out and inquire!
Finally, select a location that inspires you. For instance, attending a workshop that included Vancouver Island’s blend of ancient woodlands and rugged coastlines was too enticing to pass up. The combination offered a plethora of opportunities to capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest that I cherish. Choosing a destination that ignites your creativity will keep you motivated and involved throughout the workshop.
Preparing Your Equipment
Packing your gear may appear to be the simplest aspect of workshop preparation, but taking the time to ensure it’s correct is crucial. Beyond the must-haves—camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards, etc.—think about the equipment that aligns with your shooting style and the specific subjects and environments you’ll face. In general, strive to bring items that have multiple uses; carefully consider any specialized tools you plan to bring since you will be responsible for transporting everything! I opted for the traditional landscape photography setup: wide-angle, standard, and telephoto zoom lenses, along with a tripod. I left my macro lens behind, knowing I’d be satisfied with the zoom capability on my telephoto for this particular excursion.
Once you’ve made your gear selections, double-check everything. Confirm you have the correct accessories packed. I discovered this the hard way when I mistakenly brought the wrong battery charger, realizing only when I was unpacking at the lodge. Luckily, our small group was primarily composed of Canon shooters, most of whom used the same battery type. A kind participant lent me her spare charger for the duration of the workshop.
You definitely want to pack your laptop or whatever device you use for reviewing and editing your photos. This is especially important if your workshop includes critique sessions. Additionally, ensure you have a backup plan in place—whether it’s an external hard drive or cloud storage—to safeguard your hard work.
As my workshop date neared, I recognized that clothing would be a vital aspect of my preparedness. The forecast predicted rain for each day, so I ensured I had waterproof layers that could withstand extended periods outdoors. With the cooler spring temperatures, it was essential to have quality layers beneath those outer shells. I kept my feet comfortable with hiking boots for the forests and tall rain boots (wellies) for the coastal shoots. Different environments may require various clothing, such as comfortable footwear for urban exploration or heavier outerwear for winter conditions.
Ready Your Mindset
Photography workshops are an investment, not merely in terms of finance, but also in time. To maximize their effectiveness, contemplate what you aspire to gain from the experience before participating. Are you aiming to master a particular technique or skill? Do you wish to delve into a new genre or style of photography? Are you feeling stagnant in your growth as a photographer? Or perhaps you’re encountering a creative block? Taking the time to define your goals can assist you in maintaining focus and purpose during the workshop.
Considering your objectives, reflect on the instructors’ strengths and how they correlate with your goals. Think about the questions you have for the leader(s) and where they might be well-positioned to support you. For example, Adam Gibbs is renowned for his stunning images of Pacific Northwest forests; I sought his guidance to improve my woodland photography skills and to capture the emotions those magnificent trees evoke. Conversely, I relied on Alister Benn to expand my thinking and approach to photographing the awe-inspiring locations we explored. Understanding what you wish to learn will allow you to engage more effectively with the workshop content and instructors.
One of the advantages of workshops is the ease of having knowledgeable guides organize everything. Instead of spending time scouting locations and understanding ideal weather conditions for them yourself, you can lean on experienced guides who have done that hard work on your behalf. For numerous individuals, this is the primary value of a workshop. I witnessed this firsthand, with several fellow participants relieved knowing these logistical details were managed, allowing them to concentrate on and enjoy their photography. This advantage is equally valuable for those of us desiring to develop our skills and is beneficial whether the workshop is held in a genuinely exotic destination or somewhere more accessible.
Ultimately, embrace an open and flexible attitude. Workshops often encourage participants to step beyond their comfort zones, whether it’s trying new techniques, exploring different locations, adapting to varying weather conditions, or being receptive to constructive feedback. Remain willing to accept whatever challenges come your way. By approaching the experience with an open mind, combined with your clear objectives, you’ll set yourself up for a genuinely fulfilling experience.
Conclusion
Participating in a photography workshop can mark a significant point in your creative journey. By carefully selecting a workshop, preparing your equipment, and clarifying your objectives and aims, you’ll be poised to fully immerse yourself in the experience. In the subsequent article of this series, I will share more about my time on Vancouver Island, discussing how the workshop progressed and what to anticipate if you decide to attend one yourself.