There was this moment that I remember during the second night of our Lassen Workshop in Sept. of 2018. We were all sitting around a table at an Italian restaurant near Lake Almanor, high in the mountains of Northern California. I took this picture. It had been a good day followed by a great evening.
We were tired, hungry, and happy. The group had really come together after a day of working together. Everyone was relaxed and could be themselves. The guy on the end, Kirk, was on east coast time and really feeling the lag. We would jab him back to life every so often.
The interesting things about photography workshops aren’t the pictures as much as the people. Each of these artists could probably get many of the same the shots on their own. But it’s a much different endeavor when working with others. And I think, every now and then, a necessary one.
I keep putting together these events because I believe that photographers need to rub elbows with one another. It’s so very different than traveling on your own, with your family, or even with friends who don’t share your same passion for image making. There are a dozen little things that make the shared experience more satisfying. This night was one of them.
Maybe I keep doing these so that I can attend four workshops a year myself. Maybe I do it for the pizza. Whatever the reason, I’m doing it again in 2019. And I’m hoping that maybe this year you’ll take a seat at the table as well.
It’s the only way that you’ll ever really know what I’m trying to say here.
-Derrick
The 2019 TDS Workshop Season
Joshua Tree National Park - March 13-15, 2019 - This will be our first workshop visit to Joshua Tree. This fascinating environment is perfect for landscape work by day and night photography once the sun sets. We'll also visit the Salton Sea to capture migratory birds and to explore this unusual body of water. During our lab sessions, there will be instruction on maximizing your results with Aurora HDR, Lightroom CC, and Luminar. Add a little aerial photography, and we're set for photographically satisfying adventure. Three days, $725
San Francisco Street Photography - April 26-28, 2019 - We'll work entirely on location in San Francisco. We'll book a hotel in picturesque Union Square that will serve as our headquarters during the event. No rental car will be necessary. We'll explore the City's hidden treasures and capture them through our lenses. And we're adding new shooting locations again this year, including twilight assignments. This is San Francisco like you've never seen it before. And as a bonus, Olympus Trailblazer Mike Boening will be joining the teaching staff and leading sessions on street shooting and night photography. Two instructors, three days, small group, and all for just $725. (That's right, it's 3 full days in one of the most photogenic cities in the U.S.)
The Sonoma Coast Exploration - July 17-19, 2019 - Northern California's rugged coastline is the perfect setting to fine-tune our landscape and long-exposure water images. Plus, we'll visit a former Russian fort, movie locations, and interesting fishing villages. This workshop is the perfect escape from summer heat and humidity while adding hundreds of beautiful images to your photo library. During our lab sessions, there will be instruction on maximizing your results with Aurora HDR, Lightroom CC, and Luminar. If a workshop could be relaxing and stimulating all at the same time, this is it. 3 days - $725.
Humboldt Redwoods Photography Workshop - Sept. 18-20, 2019 - There is magic in the forest. If you've never experienced the magnificent redwoods of Humboldt County, you are in for a treat. Every detail of this vibrant ecosystem presents a photographic opportunity. The fern-covered floor with Dogwoods and azaleas, the towering Redwoods, fallen logs across bubbling streams... so much to work with. Additionally, we'll explore the fascinating Eel River and its wildlife. During our lab sessions, there will be instruction on maximizing your results with Aurora HDR, Lightroom CC, and Luminar. This workshop will delight your eyes and satisfy your soul. 3 days - $725
You can reserve your spot by visiting the 2019 TDS Workshops page and placing your $100 deposit for the event of your choice. If you have questions, please use the Contact Form on this site. I’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.