As we enter our 10th season of photography workshops, I must confess, I’ve never enjoyed these more. Every year seems better than the last. And as I look forward to the 2020 season, I believe that trend is going hold.

We have four physical workshops scheduled for 2020: LA Street Photography, Humboldt Redwoods, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and the Eastern Sierra. The design of these 3-day events has evolved over the years based on my experiences and the feedback from our participants. Each group and location create their own magic. But the logistical side of the equation is quite refined. The upshot is that those who sign up for one of the events next year are in for a special experience.

Here’s an overview of the schedule.

LA Street Photography Experience Workshop - March 13-15, 2020

We kick off our workshop season with an exploration of classic Los Angeles locations and architecture. Our excursions will take us as far west as Venice Beach as well as famous movie spots and the back streets of this fascinating Southern California area.

You will learn new techniques for safe and effective street photography, how to capture the vibe of great architecture, and enjoy some classic Californian cuisine along the way.

This workshop is limited to 9 participants and features two experienced instructors: Derrick Story and Mike Boening. Typically the weather in So Cal in great in the Spring, so this should add up to an exciting experience for those who want to deepen their enjoyment of urban photography.

Humboldt Redwoods and Coastal Workshop - Redwood Riverwalk Hotel - May 12-14, 2020

After our outstanding event here in 2019, we’re enthusiastically returning again in late Spring. Our headquarters are in the hospitable town of Fortuna on the banks of the Eel River. From there we explore the magnificent redwood groves of Humboldt County.

Plus, this year, we’re adding a full day of rugged Northern California coastline photography as well. This workshop explores three distinct ecosystems all in a satisfying 3-day event.

Our hosts at the Redwood Riverwalk Hotel create a welcoming environment that’s just perfect for a full immersion into our photographic exploration of Humboldt County. With the Eel River in their backyard, and the magnificent redwoods just a few miles south, we are in perfect position for an excellent adventure.

Lake Almanor, Lassen National Park Workshop - Cabin at Lake Almanor - July 16-18, 2020

This is a workshop experience unlike most, and one that you will forever remember. We start with a spacious cabin at Lake Almanor, one of the best secrets in the California mountains. We enjoy our meals together at the cabin or in the stunning landscape of Lassen Volcanic National Park or peaceful Lake Almanor.

Our days will be a combination of exploring the diverse environment with our cameras, then convening at the cabin for our classroom work and post production.

Night photography is also on the agenda, with gorgeous dark skies and temperament evenings. Those who attended our first Lassen workshop two years ago will attest to the unique camaraderie and artistry that come together for this event.

Eastern Sierra Photography Workshop - Silver Maple Inn - Sept./Oct. 2019

Of all the seasons in the Eastern Sierra, Autumn can be the most spectacular for photographers. And that’s why we’re returning once again to one of our most popular workshop destinations.

Our event is headquartered at the Silver Maple Inn in Bridgeport, CA - gateway to Bodie, Mono Lake, and June Lake. We’ll take advantage of the spectacular morning light to photograph some of the most unique landscape in North America.

The afternoons will feature classroom time and post production in the historic Cain House that’s located right there on the premises of the Silver Maple Inn.

We will also have the opportunity to try our hand at night photography under the star-filled skies of the Eastern Sierra. And we’ll even make room for a little rustic urban photography in the picturesque town of Bridgeport.

Our Fall event will be a fitting close to the workshop season. If you’ve never joined us in the Eastern Sierra, then this is the year to see why this is one of our most popular events.

If You Want to Join Us

These 3-day events are limited to 9 participants. Every workshop has an assistant, plus two of the events have co-facilitators. We specialize in hands-on experiences that you will remember fondly for years. High value is also important. The tuition for each event is only $749. And lots is included.

If you want to join us, start by placing a $100 deposit by visiting our 2020 Workshops Reserve List page. Those on the reserve list are guaranteed the opportunity to sign up for their chosen event. Once the reserve list is full, interested photographers may join the wait list in case someone cancels.

If you’ve never attended a TDS Workshop, I hope 2020 is the year that you make that happen. You will emerge a better artist and make new friends in the process.

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.