How To Prepare For Your Workshop
Our photography workshops are designed to be educational, enjoyable, and inspiring. While we take care of the planning and logistics, a little preparation on your part will help you get the most from your experience.
Before your workshop, you'll want to become familiar with your camera, understand the physical requirements of your destination, and pack the clothing and gear needed for the conditions you'll encounter. The more prepared you are, the more you can focus on creating incredible photographs and enjoying the experience. And if you have questions along the way, we're always just a phone call or email away.
Our Commitment To You
Getting ready for your workshop is something we do together.
Preparing for your workshop is something we do together. From the moment you register, we're here to help you feel confident and ready for your adventure.
Approximately 90 days before your workshop, you'll receive a detailed information packet with everything you need to prepare, including travel information, weather expectations, packing recommendations, camera gear suggestions, and important workshop details. You'll also receive a camera equipment checklist to help ensure you bring everything you'll need.
About 30 days before the workshop, we'll host a live Zoom meeting where you'll meet your instructors, review the itinerary, discuss gear and camera settings, answer questions, and help you prepare for a successful workshop. If questions come up before or after that meeting, we're always available by phone or email to help.
The physical demands of our workshops vary depending on the destination. Some workshops involve only short walks on level ground, while others may include longer hikes, uneven terrain, higher elevations, or extended days in the field.
Please be honest with yourself and with us about your current fitness level so we can help determine whether a workshop is the right fit for you. If additional preparation or training is recommended, we'll let you know well in advance.
We're always happy to answer questions and help you prepare for your workshop. Our goal is for every participant to have a safe, enjoyable, and successful experience. If we haven't traveled with you before, we may ask a few questions about your fitness and mobility to ensure you're comfortable with the physical demands of the workshop.
Fitness
Being prepared allows you to focus on what matters most—creating extraordinary photographs.
Your workshop will be more enjoyable if your fitness matches the terrain, pace, and conditions.
Know Your Camera
Become comfortable with your camera's essential controls so you can focus on creating great images, not searching through menus.
One of the best ways to get the most from your workshop is to arrive with a solid understanding of your camera's basic functions. The more familiar you are with your camera, the more time you'll spend concentrating on composition, light, and creativity instead of trying to find the right setting. We encourage you to practice before the workshop, including making adjustments in low-light conditions so you can confidently change settings during sunrise, sunset, and night photography sessions.
Camera skills you should know before you arrive
Exposure Modes
Be comfortable using Manual Mode and understand how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO work together to create a properly exposed image. You should also know how to use Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Exposure Compensation when the situation calls for them.
Auto ISO
Know how to use Auto ISO, including setting a maximum ISO and minimum shutter speed. You should also understand how Auto ISO behaves in Manual, Aperture Priority, and Shutter Priority modes so you can confidently adapt to changing light conditions.
Autofocus
Be comfortable switching between autofocus modes, including Subject Detection, Zone (or Wide) AF, and Single-Point AF. You should also know how to quickly move your focus point in both the viewfinder and Live View.
Display and Review Tools
Know how to use your camera's image review tools to evaluate focus, exposure, and composition in the field. Be comfortable zooming in to check sharpness, using the histogram to evaluate exposure, checking the electronic level, and reviewing the RGB histogram during playback.
Photography Gear
Prepare your camera equipment before you travel so you can focus on making great photographs.
Technology & Software
Update your laptop, camera firmware, and editing software before you leave. If you use Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, open the Creative Cloud app and verify that your software is activated while you have a reliable internet connection. Log out of your Adobe account, then sign back in. This refreshes your license and helps keep apps like Lightroom Classic and Photoshop available offline during the workshop.
Camera Setup & Maintenance
Clean your camera sensor and lenses, set the correct date and time for your destination, and make sure your camera is set not to fire without a memory card installed. That simple setting can prevent a frustrating mistake in the field.
Packing & Accessories
Double-check that you've packed all chargers, batteries, memory cards, cables, adapters, and other accessories. A small travel power strip can be especially helpful, and soft-sided luggage is often easier to transport during workshops.
Batteries & Air Travel
Pack all spare lithium-ion batteries in your carry-on luggage, as required by most airlines. A fire-resistant battery storage bag is also recommended.
Gear Planning
Approximately 90 days before your workshop, you'll receive a recommended gear list tailored to your destination. Review it carefully and contact us if you have any questions. We'll help you decide what to bring—and just as importantly, what to leave at home.
Clothing and Weather Gear
Pack for changing weather so you stay comfortable and focused on creating great photographs.
Dress for Worse Than the Forecast
When packing for a workshop, it is best to prepare for conditions that are colder, windier, wetter, or even hotter than the forecast suggests. Weather can change quickly, and long hours in the field often make even moderate conditions feel more demanding.
If you're debating whether to bring rain pants, an extra insulating layer, or a second pair of gloves, it's usually wise to pack them. A spare pair of socks can make all the difference after a stream crossing, a wet trail, or time spent photographing near breaking waves.
The goal isn't to overpack—it's to arrive prepared for changing conditions and long days outdoors. If you're cold, wet, or uncomfortable, it becomes much harder to stay patient, think clearly, and create your best photographs.
Dress in Layers
The best way to stay comfortable during a photography workshop is to dress in layers that can be added or removed as the weather changes. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer for warmth, and finish with a waterproof outer shell to protect against wind and rain.
Even if the forecast looks favorable, it's a good idea to pack a warm hat, lightweight gloves, and compact rain gear. If you're photographing at sunrise, sunset, or during night sessions, hand warmers can make a surprising difference in keeping you comfortable and focused on your photography.
Protect Yourself from the Sun
Sun exposure is something many photographers underestimate. Whether you're photographing at high elevations, along the coast, in snowy landscapes, or under wide-open skies, the sun can be much stronger than expected. Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are simple items that can make long days in the field much more enjoyable.
Footwear Matters
Your footwear can make a big difference in your comfort and enjoyment throughout the workshop. Make sure your hiking shoes or boots fit well and are fully broken in before you arrive. Waterproof footwear is recommended for most workshops, especially when photographing on wet trails, uneven terrain, snow, or along shorelines.
A good pair of socks is just as important. Merino wool socks are an excellent choice, and packing an extra dry pair is always a good idea. Depending on your destination, gaiters or traction devices may also be recommended for muddy, snowy, or slippery conditions.
For some workshops, you may also want to bring a lightweight pair of shoes or sandals for relaxing at the hotel or wearing during travel. If you're unsure what footwear is best for your destination, just ask. We'll be happy to recommend the right options based on the terrain and conditions you can expect.
Keep Clothing and Gear Dry
Protect your clothing and camera gear from the elements by packing a few waterproof storage options. Dry bags, rain covers, or even simple resealable plastic bags can help keep extra clothing, gloves, socks, batteries, and small accessories dry when you're photographing in rain, snow, or near water.
Questions? Just Ask
Every workshop is different, so be sure to review the information packet you'll receive before your trip. It includes destination-specific recommendations, packing suggestions, and any special requirements for your workshop. If you're unsure about what to bring, don't hesitate to contact us—we're always happy to help you prepare.
Packing List
Use this checklist as a starting point, then customize it for your specific workshop.
The list below includes general recommendations to help you prepare for your photography adventure. Because every workshop is different, not every item will be needed for every destination. Climate, terrain, season, and photographic opportunities all influence what you should bring.
Approximately 90 days before your workshop, you'll receive a detailed packing guide customized for your destination. It will include recommended clothing, camera gear, travel essentials, and any special items that may be helpful. If you have questions or are unsure about what to pack, just ask. We're always happy to help you arrive prepared, without bringing more than you need.
Core items for most workshops
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Sturdy tripod
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Ballhead and the correct camera and lens plates
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Camera strap
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Camera body, plus a second body if you have one
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Plenty of batteries and chargers
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Lenses appropriate for the workshop
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Plenty of memory cards and a card reader
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Laptop with Lightroom Classic and any other needed software installed and updated
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Lens cleaning cloth
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Camera rain cover
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Comfortable camera backpack
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Sturdy, broken-in boots or shoes appropriate for the workshop
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Reusable water bottle
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Headlamp
Often useful, depending on the workshop
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External hard drive or other backup storage
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Plug adapters for international travel
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Travel power strip or extension cord
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Filters, especially a circular polarizer and ND filters
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Wired remote trigger or intervalometer
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Rain jacket, warm hat, neck gaiter, and gloves
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Sunscreen, bug repellent, and a mosquito head net
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Waterproof boots or overshoes
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Traction spikes for icy conditions
Nice to have on some workshops
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Specialty lenses or cameras, such as macro, tilt-shift, extreme wide-angle, or a fast wide prime for night photography
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Sensor cleaning supplies
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Protective covers for lenses and camera bodies
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Knee pads
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Trekking poles
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Travel coffee or tea mug
Travel and backup items to keep in mind
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Camera manual, ideally saved as a PDF on your phone
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Backup ID for international trips, plus a photo of your passport
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Small tool kit or multitool, packed in checked luggage if you bring one
Insurance
The right insurance can provide peace of mind when travel doesn't go as planned.
Travel insurance is an important part of preparing for your workshop. Depending on the destination, some workshops may require medical evacuation insurance, especially when photographing in remote locations. Even when it isn't required, we strongly recommend purchasing both travel and evacuation coverage for your protection
Medical Evacuation Insurance
For workshops in remote areas, medical evacuation insurance can be invaluable if an emergency occurs. Before purchasing a policy, make sure you understand what is covered and whether the provider coordinates evacuation services or simply reimburses eligible expenses after the fact. If you're unsure whether evacuation coverage is required for your workshop, please contact us.
Travel Medical Insurance
If you're traveling outside your home country, don't assume your current health insurance will provide adequate coverage. Before your trip, check with your insurance provider to understand what medical services are covered, whether out-of-network restrictions apply, and if any limitations could affect your care while traveling.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance
We also recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to help protect your investment. Depending on the policy, coverage may include trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delays, lost baggage, and certain medical expenses. Be sure to read your policy carefully so you understand what is and isn't covered.
For the greatest protection, we recommend purchasing your travel insurance soon after making your initial workshop deposit. Many policies include time-sensitive benefits that are only available when coverage is purchased shortly after booking your trip.
Ultimately, it is your responsibility to obtain any required insurance and ensure your coverage is appropriate for your destination and the type of travel involved.
Medical and Health
A little preparation can help ensure you stay healthy, comfortable, and ready to enjoy your workshop.
Before You Travel
Bring all prescription medications, eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other essential medical items in your carry-on luggage. We recommend packing enough medication for your trip, plus a few extra days in case of unexpected travel delays. It's also a good idea to bring a small supply of common over-the-counter medications, as your preferred brands may not be available at your destination.
Take Care of Yourself
Before and during the workshop, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, eat well, and dress appropriately for the conditions. Photography workshops often involve long days in the field, so taking care of yourself will help you stay energized and enjoy the experience.
If You Become Ill
If you begin feeling unwell during the workshop, please let your workshop leader know as soon as possible. Because we travel, photograph, and often dine together, even a minor illness can affect the entire group.
If necessary, we may ask you to take reasonable precautions, such as wearing a mask in shared vehicles or indoor spaces, maintaining distance when practical, or temporarily stepping away from group activities until you're feeling better. Our goal is to protect everyone's health while helping you receive the care you need.
Common-Sense Health Practices
We ask all participants to be considerate of others by practicing good hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, and washing or sanitizing their hands regularly. Our workshop leaders will use their best judgment to help maintain a safe, healthy, and enjoyable experience for everyone.
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