Sunrise light on a grove of tufa towers emerging from the water of Mono Lake with soft green and dusty-red wild grasses in the foreground, Canada geese in the shallow water with reflections of the rocky towers, and desert hills in the distance.

Seminar spotlight: Mono Basin Fall Photography

Mono Lake and the surrounding basin is a magnet for nature photographers. Professionals and amateurs alike are drawn to the unique, otherworldly landscapes, striking canyons, and the dynamic light often present. The abundant opportunities provide the perfect outdoor classroom to learn the fine art of landscape photography.

Mono Basin Fall Photography • October 11–13 • $275 per person/$250 for members • sign up here

Lundy Canyon in autumn. Photo courtesy of Robb Hirsch.
Lundy Canyon in autumn. Photo courtesy of Robb Hirsch.

Join professional photographer Robb Hirsch as he teaches participants the process of creating the strongest possible images. Everybody has an individual perspective for appealing scenes to photograph; participants in this workshop will learn how to refine their own vision and best interpret it through the camera.

Topics to be covered include creating strong compositions, evaluating proper exposure, utilizing depth-of‐field for maximum impact, pre‐visualizing images, reading light to increase productivity, and how to visually isolate a subject for more appealing images. Robb will teach the visual and technical workflow process to create compelling images. There will be a high level of personal interaction as the group size is limited and Robb dedicates all his attention to the participants.

Mono Basin Fall Photography • October 11–13 • $275 per person/$250 for members • sign up here

Tufa and Mono Lake. Photo courtesy of Robb Hirsch.
Tufa and Mono Lake. Photo courtesy of Robb Hirsch.

This workshop is open to all levels of photographers. A digital or film SLR (rather than a point‐and‐shoot camera) is highly recommended as they offer greater creative latitude and are more productive to teach with, but not required. A tripod is also highly recommended as it greatly helps teaching and learning composition. It is expected that participants have a basic working knowledge of their cameras.

Instructor Robb Hirsch. Photo courtesy of Robb Hirsch.
Instructor Robb Hirsch. Photo courtesy of Robb Hirsch.

Robb is a biologist/naturalist turned professional photographer based in Groveland, California, just outside Yosemite. His images have appeared in numerous publications, including Nature’s Best, Sierra Club, and Mono Lake Committee calendars, and several textbooks. He maintains his gallery, Mountain Sage, in Groveland and has been invited to several other gallery showings of his work. Robb’s images are known for their compelling compositions, attention to detail and fine light. As a past naturalist and educator, Robb brings a positive and engaging teaching style to his workshops.

Mono Basin Fall Photography • October 11–13 • $275 per person/$250 for members • sign up here