Adventure photography can be an adventure in itself, involving breathtaking locations, extreme conditions, and working with elite athletes in risky situations. It requires a host of skills, including technical excellence with the camera, familiarity with a sport, and the ability to be mindful of your goals and your safety at all times.

This workshop concentrates on creating unique images of rock climbers, kayakers, mountain bikers, and trail runners, as well as the activities of a working ranch. Using elite athletes as our models and northern New Mexico’s incredible landscape as our backdrop, we explore innovative ways to express the excitement of each sport and location. Topics include research and preparation, composition and camera angles, equipment selection, use of natural light, fill flash, and battery-powered strobes, and autofocus techniques. We also learn how to work with athletes who routinely put themselves at risk, and we discover the best methods for capturing the intensity of their exploits. Location days find us working with athletes who are as daring as they are skilled.

Classroom time includes daily editing, review sessions, and one-on-one meetings with Michael. In addition, Michael shares his insights and experiences regarding career development, portfolios, and photographing for stock, editorial, and commercial clients.