FINDING NOVEMBER... EARLY
October 22 - 26, 2023
Lenox, MA
Registration is open to previous attendees until April 10th,
then will open to other experienced photographers.
To register, please contact me.
With late season access to the summit of Mt Greylock!
An extraordinary event for intermediate to advanced photographers who want to deeply explore
the art of seeing in the late autumn Berkshires.
In 2015, I undertook a self-assigned project to photograph November, staying close to home in western New England and northern New York State. I was out nearly every day — anytime from predawn to night — making images and recording my impressions. My goal was to look beyond the bare trees and gray skies to discover November’s hidden beauty. It became a very personal project, an exercise in the art of seeing and improving my craft. I've continued to build upon it, shooting each of the past seven Novembers, including every day of the month in 2018 and 2020.
The ongoing project reveals the depth and character of the month, and the treasures to be found by looking deeper. And that's what I hope this workshop will do for participants. Designed like my photographic retreats, it's for seasoned photographers who want to challenge themselves to explore the art of seeing and immerse themselves in their craft.
This year's event is timed for driving access to the summit of Mt Greylock (MA DCR), the centerpiece of the region! Given suitable weather, we'll shoot from on high, with 75-mile views to Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York and Connecticut. We'll also concentrate on photographing the past peak landscape. Other possible shooting locations include some I shot in the initial project — Hancock Shaker Village, Pontoosuc, Onota and Cheshire Lakes, Wahconah Falls — and some of my other favorite Berkshire shooting locations. Beyond these iconic sites are numerous photographic possibilities in the area's rolling hills and rural farmlands. We'll shoot throughout the day — predawn, sunrise, sunset, twilight and at night — with some relaxation time between shoots.
A meeting room has been reserved at the Yankee Inn for presentations, image processing and review sessions.
Camera Skills Needed
This workshop is for intermediate- to advanced-levels photographers. Users of all types of cameras may attend. However, digital SLR and mirrorless cameras are preferred for their ability to provide immediate feedback and instant access to the images. Without one, you will not be able to take full advantage of this workshop.
Description of skill levels - click here.
Computer Skills Needed
A basic understanding of digital workflow and some working knowledge of Lightroom, Photoshop or other image editing software will be helpful.
Other Considerations
Locations visited during the workshop are easily accessible and do not require strenuous hiking or climbing. However, we may do short hikes involving moderate inclines and uneven terrain. Only those in good physical shape and able to ascend and descend moderate slopes should attempt.
As with all outdoor pursuits, some risk is inherent; all participants will be required to sign a waiver prior to the workshop.
Group Size
10 participants maximum.
Registration
To register, please call me at (413) 442-9125.
Registration Fees
$895 - Due by August 15th. Payable by check to Mark Bowie.
Details
Dates and Times
The workshop begins Sunday, October 22nd at 2pm and ends Thursday, October 26th at noon.
Where to Meet
We will gather in the lobby of the Yankee Inn in Lenox, MA on Sunday, October 22nd at 2pm.
Directions
The Yankee Inn is located at 461 Pittsfield Road (Rt 7) in Lenox, MA. For driving directions, see Google Maps.
Lodging
The workshop will be based out of the Yankee Inn in Lenox, MA. The Yankee Inn has granted special discounted pricing for the event: $89-$115/night depending on beds and building. Be sure to mention that you will be taking part in Mark Bowie's photography workshop. Reservations must be made by September 7, 2023 to insure a room. Contact the inn at (413) 499-3700 with questions.
Meals
Meals are the responsibility of the participant and are not included in the registration fee. I will organize and provide recommendations for nearby meal options.
Getting to the Event
The two nearest airports are Albany International (ALB) and Bradley International (BDL). Rental cars are available at both locations.
Transportation During the Event
Participants’ vehicles will be used for transportation during field trips. We will occasionally carpool for better access to parking and to lessen our impact on easily damaged roads. For insurance reasons, I am not allowed to provide transportation to participants during the event.
The Program Schedule
Day 1
Gather at the Yankee Inn in Lenox. Welcome and introductory session on late autumn photography. Dinner locally. Weather permitting, twilight and night shoot.
Day 2, 3, 4
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Morning field trip followed by breakfast. Brief instructional sessions on:
The Art of Seeing Creatively
Forest Photography
Photographing From On High
Image Optimization in Lightroom, Camera Raw & Photoshop
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Group critique of participants' images.
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Afternoon, sunset, twilight and night shooting field trips.
Day 5
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Morning field trip followed by breakfast.
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Group critique of participants’ images.
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Workshop wrap-up and participant slideshow.
Note - The actual itinerary may vary considerably from this due to weather and other conditions that cannot be anticipated.
What To Bring
Please read the What To Bring document, which lists recommended equipment and outdoor gear. And feel free to contact me with questions: 413-442-9125 or mbowiephoto@gmail.com.