© Tony Sweet

Standing on the edge of an expansive and breathtaking landscape is an undeniable thrill. Except for the varying light and season, however, images by other photographers may look surprisingly similar to our own. Discovering and photographing smaller, more intimate scenes allows for more personal and unique interpretations. This workshop is an exciting blend of creative outdoor photography, hands-on technical instruction in the latest digital tools, and daily critiques. We spend the week seeking out small, interesting scenes to interpret photographically, while incorporating compositional techniques to isolate the subject and simplify composition. The result is a more dramatic and powerful image. We also discuss and practice pre-visualizing the final result with a particular software filter in mind.

Afterwards we take advantage of digital optimization tools, from raw processing to software and plug-in intervention, to create the image we see in our imagination. Plug-ins by companies like Nik Software and Alien Skin are easy to use and expand our creative choices. In addition, High Dynamic Range (HDR) programs such as Photomatix can increase the dynamic range of a photograph, making it possible to render a scene just as the eye sees it, with the option to create more abstract interpretations. Along with learning to see more cleanly and simply, participants acquire a greater understanding and more effective use of software, an integral element in modern digital photography.

Instructor(s)

Tony Sweet is a professional nature and fine-art photographer. His images appear in calendars, postcards, posters, annual reports, greeting cards, catalogs, and electronic media, and his fine-art prints are in private and corporate collections throughout the U.S. He is the author of four books: Fine Art Nature Photography, Fine Art Flower Photography, Water, Ice, and Fog, and The Digital Edge.

A popular workshop leader, Tony is a columnist for Nikon World magazine and a frequent contributor to Shutterbug and Rangefinder magazines. He was honored as a Nikon “legend behind the lens” and is a Lensbaby Guru, Bogen Mentor, and member of Nik Software’s Team Nik. Tony’s web site is www.tonysweet.com.

Who Should Attend:
Advanced Amateurs and Professionals

What You Should Know:
Working knowledge of digital workflow, Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom or equivalent, and manual mode on your digital SLR camera

Portfolio Required:
Please see the General Information section for your portfolio submission

Accommodations Available:
On-campus housing available. Click here for pricing information and suggestions for off-campus housing.

Meals:
Meal plan required
Breakfast available

Tuition & Fees:
Tuition: $995.00