FINDING NOVEMBER (EARLY)
THE PAST PEAK LANDSCAPE
October 18 - 22, 2026
Lenox, MA
Registration is open to previous attendees until January 15th,
then will open to other experienced photographers.
To register or be put on the Wait List, please contact me.
With access to Mt Greylock! (permit pending)
An extraordinary event for intermediate to advanced photographers who want to deeply explore
the art of seeing in the past peak 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. 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 nine Novembers.
That project revealed 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.
Born of that original project, this workshop — now the 8th annual — has evolved to include photographing what I call the "past peak landscape". It combines October's flair for color with November's more understated approach. The graphic nature of trees are revealed amongst splashes of remaining color. It is a truly remarkable time; the color palette is, amazingly, even wider than the height of peak fall color! And with weather, the landscape is moody and atmospheric.
I have again applied for a permit to photograph on Mt Greylock (MA DCR), the centerpiece of the region! And given suitable weather, we'll shoot from on high, with 75-mile views to Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York and Connecticut. I've also uncovered new forests to photograph. 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 locales. 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-level photographers. Users of all types of cameras may attend. However, mirrorless and digital SLR cameras are preferred for their ability to provide immediate feedback 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
12 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 18th at 2pm and ends Thursday, October 22nd at noon.
Where to Meet
We will gather in the lobby of the Yankee Inn, located at 461 Pittsfield Road (Rt 7) in Lenox, MA on Sunday, October 18th at 2pm.
Lodging
The workshop will be based out of the Yankee Inn. The Inn has granted special discounted pricing for the event: $138-$156/night depending on beds and building. If booking by calling the hotel, be sure to mention that you will be taking part in Mark Bowie's photography workshop. If booking online, use the booking code 101826MAR. Reservations must be made by September 18, 2026 to insure a room. I suggest making reservations shortly after registering for the workshop. 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. 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 past peak landscape 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 the Past Peak Landscape
Forest Photography
Photographing From On High
Image Optimization in Lightroom, Camera Raw & Photoshop
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Image review sessions 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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Image Review Session 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.