BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: Photowalks and Excursions

DESCRIPTION

This guided photowalk at Seal Beach Pier is designed to help photographers develop their skills in natural light photography during the golden hour and sunset. Participants will learn how to evaluate changing light conditions, make exposure adjustments, and create stronger compositions in a coastal environment.

Instruction will focus on practical camera settings, composition strategies, and creative approaches to working with dynamic lighting as the sun moves toward the horizon.

This class is suitable for photographers using DSLR or mirrorless cameras who want hands-on experience applying photographic concepts in a real-world setting.

MATERIALS

• Camera

• 24-70mm lens (recommended)

• Fully charged battery (spare battery recommended)

• Tripod (recommended)

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Payment for parking

LOCATION - Seal Beach Pier

LEVEL - Beginner to Intermediate

INSTRUCTOR - David LaNeve, CPP

Note: Shooting time is the time indicated on the booking - however, we ask that you arrive 30 minutes prior to locate the group and set up.

DESCRIPTION

Step into the fascinating world of Macro Photography at the beautiful Fullerton Arboretum. This hands-on workshop is designed to help photographers develop the skills needed to capture the intricate details, textures, patterns, and colors that often go unnoticed in nature.

Working among the Arboretum’s diverse collection of plants and natural subjects, you'll learn how to create compelling macro images of flowers, insects, leaves, and abstract details while gaining a deeper understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of close-up photography.

MATERIALS

• DSLR or Mirrorless Camera

• Macro lens (recommended)

• Telephoto lens with close-focusing capability (optional)

• Tripod or monopod (optional)

• Extra batteries and memory cards

LOCATION - Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton

LEVEL - Beginner to Intermediate

INSTRUCTOR - Scott Crawford

DESCRIPTION

Experience the magic of the Milky Way in Joshua Tree National Park during one of the best times of year for night sky photography. This beginner-friendly workshop is designed to help you confidently capture the beauty of the Milky Way while exploring the park's iconic rock formations, twisted Joshua trees, and dramatic desert landscapes.

Whether you're photographing the night sky for the first time or looking to improve your astrophotography skills, we'll guide you step-by-step through camera settings, achieving sharp focus in the dark, composition techniques, and practical tips for creating stunning Milky Way images. August offers warm evenings and an excellent view of the Milky Way core, making it an ideal time to learn and practice.

Throughout the workshop, we'll visit carefully selected locations that showcase Joshua Tree's unique scenery, giving you the opportunity to create memorable nightscape images while building confidence in your night photography skills.

SCHEDULE (details will be sent in an email)

Evening - meet & greet. Meet for dinner and discuss objectives and equipment.

Sunset and Blue Hour - Go out into the field to practice composition, bracket exposures, and capturing blue hour.

After Dark - Capture the stars and milky way!

MATERIALS REQUIRED

• DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual mode

• Wide-angle lens (14-24MM or faster is recommended)

• Tripod

• Remote shutter

• Extra batteries and memory cards

• Red-light headlamp

NOT INCLUDED

• Lodging - we recommend checking Motel 6 Twentynine Palms; Best Western Twentynine Palms Joshua Tree; or Holiday Inn Twentynine Palms- Joshua Tree

• Meals

• Transportation to Joshua Tree

LEVEL

• Beginner - Advanced

DESCRIPTION

As the sun sets, the bridge becomes an incredible subject for exploring composition, exposure, and long-exposure photography techniques. This hands-on workshop is designed for photographers of all skill levels who want to gain confidence shooting in changing light conditions while creating striking images of one of Southern California’s most recognizable landmarks.

Throughout the photowalk, participants will learn:

• How to expose properly during sunset, twilight, and blue hour

• Techniques for capturing light trails from passing vehicles

• Creating long-exposure images with smooth motion and dramatic lighting

• Composing architectural and landscape photographs for maximum impact

• Using reflections, leading lines, and foreground elements to strengthen compositions

• Recommended camera settings for low-light photography

MATERIALS

• Camera

• 70-200mm lens

• Fully charged battery (spare battery recommended)

• Tripod

• Comfortable walking shoes

LOCATION - Across from the Vincent Thomas Bridge in San Pedro

LEVEL - Beginner to Intermediate

INSTRUCTOR - David LaNeve, CPP

DESCRIPTION

Participants will learn how to capture dynamic light trails from passing traffic, photograph illuminated cityscapes, and create striking images of the iconic Queen Mary. Instruction will cover camera settings for night photography, tripod techniques, managing highlights and shadows, focusing in low-light situations, and using long exposures to add movement and visual interest to your photographs.

Throughout the evening, students will receive hands-on guidance, practical shooting techniques, and individualized feedback while exploring a variety of urban and waterfront scenes. The class will also address common challenges photographers face after sunset, helping participants gain confidence in creating sharp, well-exposed images in changing lighting conditions.

This class is suitable for photographers with a basic understanding of their camera who want to expand their skills and creativity in night photography.

MATERIALS

• Camera

• 24-70mm lens (recommended)

• Fully charged battery (spare battery recommended)

• Tripod (recommended)

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Payment for parking

LOCATION - Downtown Long Beach; Shoreline Marina

LEVEL - Beginner to Intermediate

INSTRUCTOR - David LaNeve, CPP

Note: Shooting time is the time indicated on the booking - however, we ask that you arrive 30 minutes prior to locate the group and set up.

DESCRIPTION

This hands-on field workshop is designed to help early-bird photographers improve their camera skills while exploring one of Southern California’s premier locations for wildlife and nature photography.

The sanctuary's network of wetlands, ponds, and walking trails provides excellent opportunities to photograph a variety of bird species, natural landscapes, reflections, and environmental details. Throughout the morning, participants will learn how to observe, anticipate, and photograph wildlife while developing a stronger understanding of composition, exposure, and natural light.

TOPICS

• Camera settings for wildlife and nature photography

• Techniques for photographing birds and moving subjects

• Understanding shutter speed, aperture, and ISO in outdoor environments

• How to use natural light to create more compelling images

• Composition techniques for landscapes and wildlife subjects

• Creating stronger images through framing, perspective, and storytelling

• Focusing techniques for sharp wildlife photographs

MATERIALS

• DSLR or Mirrorless Camera

• Telephoto lens (recommended for wildlife)

• Wide-angle lens (optional for landscapes)

• Extra batteries and memory cards

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sun protection and water

LOCATION - IRWD San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary

LEVEL - Beginner to Intermediate

INSTRUCTOR - Scott Crawford