Due to an instructor change, this class has an updated description and revised dates. 

Discover the art of capturing the stunning North Woods landscape through photography. While smartphones make taking pictures easier than ever, this course helps beginners transition to DSLR or mirrorless cameras to create more impactful images of the natural world.

This hands-on course introduces the fundamentals of photography, including essential camera settings like camera modes, aperture, shutter speed, white balance, ISO, and file formats. We'll dive deep into focus systems - often one of the most challenging aspects of modern cameras to master. The course also includes a brief introduction to Lightroom Classic for photo editing. For those interested in a deeper dive into Lightroom Classic, the instructor offers a comprehensive four-session online course each fall. Combining classroom instruction with field practice allows you to immediately apply what you've learned.

Weather and conditions will guide our choice of scenic locations around Grand Marais. During the first day and first morning of the class, we will stay close to the North House. The second day will include an afternoon field session. We may visit waterfalls, focus on landscapes, or capture Lake Superior's dramatic shoreline. Students should be comfortable hiking 2-3 miles during the course day over uneven terrain and come prepared for varied weather conditions.

Youth aged 12+ may register with a full-paying adult. The youth student will receive a 25% intergenerational discount; call to register.

Required Tools

• A camera body and lens that you own
• Tripod
• Extra batteries and memory cards  
• Rain gear,
• Long sleeves
• Long pants
• Hat
• Bug net
• Sunscreen
• Bug repellent
• Hiking boots/shoes

Optional Tools

• While not required, a laptop or tablet for uploading and editing photos will be helpful for our final day of class as we will be spending time learning about editing software (specifically Adobe Lightroom). Feel free to bring any additional photography gear that you own and want to practice with and/or need help with. This may include additional lenses, filters, etc.