Anza-Borrego Institute of Photography

Instructors: Paul Johnson and Ernie Cowan
Members $295 / Nonmembers $325

Anza-Borrego Institute of Photography presents a two-part workshop program that is designed to improve the skills of photographers who focus on the natural environment. Each workshop will begin on Friday evening with a classroom overview, discussion and examples of the things you will have a chance to learn and perfect in the field.

We begin with a weekend workshop in November that is geared to the basics, but will move students into the more creative concepts and prepare you for our advanced workshop.

Part 1 - The Basics: November 6-8, 2009

Friday, November 6, 6-9 pm
At this first evening session, you will learn how an adjustable camera works and how to use all of the controls to create outstanding photographs. The subject matter will include the use of f stops and shutter speeds to control exposure; the three ways to control depth of field; choosing the right focal length; use of white balance; and the huge differences between shooting on automatic and manual. This will be the dawn of your creative awakening.

Saturday, November 7
On Saturday we will travel to a scenic location to experience the drama of early morning light and to capture unique landscape images under the guidance of workshop instructors. The emphasis of each workshop will be to anchor your foundation in photographic techniques and to stretch your creative skills into new areas.

We return to Borrego Springs for lunch on your own and informal discussion, then return to the field in the afternoon for another shot at one of Anza-Borrego's many spectacular locations. Saturday evening will be a spirited time of interaction where we review some of the techniques used during our field shoots, and challenge you for the next phase.

Sunday, November 8
Sunday begins with a sunrise photography session and a final meeting to complete your weekend of photography instruction. Following the weekend of intense instruction and field shooting, students will be encouraged to edit and print their work for a group critique at a later time. The last session will end at approximately 2:00 pm.

Students are expected to have a single lens reflex camera with the capability of interchangeable lenses. Participants provide their own meals and transportation.

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Part 2 - Advanced Workshop: March 12-14, 2010

When the desert is in its spring glory, our second workshop will take you beyond just "taking pictures" and introduce you to the techniques that will allow you to create photographic art. Students will be introduced to advanced techniques of creating panoramic images, macro photography, understanding and using light and "seeing" in creative ways.

Sign up in advance for both the fall and spring workshops and save $40. Price for both workshops is $550 for members and $610 for nonmembers. Please call Joan at 760-767-4063 to take advantage of this special offer.

Ernie Cowan is a photographer, journalist, and member of ABF's Board of Trustees. He brings to us a wealth of experience, gleaned from decades of exploring the backcountry of San Diego County, including Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Paul Johnson has lived and worked in Borrego Springs and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park since 1973. During that time he has worked as a Park Naturalist, professional tour guide, photographer and photography instructor. He currently works for the Colorado Desert District as an Environmental Services Intern, conducting field research and photographic monitoring.