Viewed from the road, Joshua Tree National Park only hints at its vitality. Closer examination of this desert reveals a fascinating variety of plants and animals that make their home in this land shaped by strong winds, unpredictable torrents of rain, and climatic extremes. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features, shaped by extreme tectonic forces, add to the attraction of this place. Washes, playas, alluvial fans, bajadas, desert varnish, igneous and metamorphic rocks interact to form a pattern of stark beauty and ever changing complexity.

Join stock photographer Scott Stulberg for this desert photo safari that will also include shooting models in the outdoors. Shooting opportunities abound as the powerful sunrise and sunset lighting bathe the gorgeous Joshua Tree cactus and monstrous rock formations. These gigantic rocks are filled with rock climbers high and low and can create some very unique photo opportunities, including some gorgeous silhouettes. Using Joshua Tree’s wondrous landscape as a background, participants will also be taught how to capture beautiful images by blending the natural environment with the human form. Emphasis will be placed on how to pose and light the models, capturing their persona in this unique environment.

On Friday afternoon at about 2pm, the group will meet Scott near Joshua Tree for a two-hour meet-and-greet session. This orientation meeting will provide an opportunity to share backgrounds, set expectations for the workshop, and discuss logistics for the weekend. Friday night, all day Saturday, Saturday night and most of Sunday will be spent shooting at Joshua Tree. (Friday and Saturday night will be filled with shooting the sunset, stars and light-painting.) An optional wrap-up session at JDPW will provide the group a chance to critique and discuss work.

Open to photographers with intermediate to advanced photography experience. Particpants must bring their own tripod. A wide-angle lens, telephoto lens and cable release are highly recommended. This is not a nude workshop. Limited to 8 students.

Note: The high/low temperatures in the fall average 85 and 50°F (29 and 10°C)

Dates: October 8-10

Workshop fee: $575 + $350 model and location permit/shooting permit fees at Joshua tree

Workshop fee does not include: Hotel accommodations, meals, transportation to & from Joshua Tree and transportation within Joshua Tree

Suggested / Recommended lodging: The Best Western Yucca Valley Hotel and Suites, 56525 Twentynine Palms Highway, Yucca Valley, CA 92284. Phone: 760-365-3555

This will be the primary rendezvous point for the workshop and will serve as the meeting area for Friday, October 8th, at approximately 2pm.

Alternative Lodging: Super 8 Yucca Valley, 57096 29 Palms Highway, Yucca Valley, CA 92284. Phone: 760-228-1773

Enrollment limit: 8 students

3 Session(s)
Fri, Sat, Sun  Exact times will vary. ,  October 8 - October 10

Instructor(s): Scott Stulberg
Location: Joshua Tree National Park