Fountains Abbey Landscape Photography Workshop - Sep 12th 2016

In association with The Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Centre, Harrogate

This event is designed as a therapeutic workshop for people enduring the troubling journey that a diagnosis of cancer can initiate. It is there to help participants use photography to inspire, learn, Immerse themselves in nature, meet others, have fun, laugh, develop strong friendships and help others.

What to expect on this workshop?

Splendid historic architecture in one of England most beautiful monastic abbeys. Amazing autumn forests with mature characterful trees. Moving water, waterfalls, lakes, interesting vistas and a hundred and one things to photograph.

Aims of the workshop:

To join a supportive group of likeminded people who have similar experiences
To develop inspiration through creativity in a naturally beautiful environment
To experiment with learning a new fun skill that will enable you to produce stunning images
To seek support from others in a safe, sensitive positive environment.
To have fun
To lose yourself in a new creatively rewarding pastime

What level of fitness do I need?

This particular workshop is on very flat and easy conditions. Everywhere we go will be accessible and if you need assistance you can hire (free) an electric buggy to make it easier to walk the couple of miles we will be doing. There is the option of moving into the woods and going off the path in a number of places, but this will depend on the group and personal limitations. Nobody will push themselves beyond their comfort zones.

How many people will be on the workshop?

I usually take very small numbers, but I also don’t want to turn people away that would benefit from the workshop, so I have decided to take up to 10 people. There will be me and a Macmillan nurse there on the day to assist anybody that needs it.

Isn’t photography a guy thing?

Not at all! Landscape photography attracts men and women in equal amounts. Yes it can be technical but it can also be very creative. So if you’re a technical woman or a creative man, or anywhere in-between, then you will be made extremely welcome by everybody attending the workshop.

What photographic equipment will I need to bring with me?

I usually offer workshops to photographers that have a little experience of working with DSlr’s, but it’s totally fine to bring any type of camera with you. Our objective is to produce work that makes you happy and technical perfection isn’t the main aim. That said I will be helping everybody achieve both technically and conceptually more than they come with. I will be helping you individually so this will be different for everybody, but that’s ok because we have a small group. You may want to visit my FAQ for my other workshop that can help you understand what equipment I usually recommend.

Are there any costs?

I’m providing my time for free, but you will have to pay to enter the National Trust property. You will also be responsible for any refreshments on the day. If you feel you want to contribute to the workshop you are more than welcome to offer a donation to help Macmillan continue their fantastic work. Or alternatively if you want your donation to directly benefit the Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Centre you will need to donate to ‘Harrogate & District Foundation Trust’, but that’s your call and there is no pressure to do so.

Can I bring my partner?

Yes you can. I myself know how important it is for anybody going through this difficult time to have support and it’s important for them too.

Why are you offering this free workshop?

I have personal experience of being in the world wind after the diagnosis of my partner and I’m extremely grateful for the kindness and support my wife and I received. This is the first of a set of free workshops to help repay the kindness back to others in similar circumstances.

Group size: Eight places available
Duration: 9.30am – 1pm (dependant on light and conditions)
Start and Finish Location: Fountains Bridge Carpark
Date: TBC September 2016
Price: Free
What’s included: At least 4+ hours of Tuition, a friendly supportive learning environment.
What's not included: Insurance, transport to locatioon, food and drinks.
Fitness level - Please be aware workshop involves walking approximately 2 to 3 miles on flat ground. I always respect an individual’s personal limitations. If you need to discuss any concerns and need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact me, I will be happy to help.

Essentials

• Camera and spare batteries (ideally a SLR but any camera is good)
• Memory Cards
• Walking Boots or Wellies
• Warm waterproof clothing
• Personal insurance

Optional but will improve the day

• Selection of lenses
• Sturdy Tripod (I have a couple spare if needed)
• Neutral Density Graduated Filters (I use B+W 3,6 and 10 stop)
• Prints for critiques (over coffee)
• Camera manual

Itinerary

9.30 am Rendezvous and introductions Fountains Bridge Carpark
10 am historic building
11 am Café next to lake for refreshments
12 am Abbey
1pm Finish

Considering attending this workshop, you might find this questionnaire helpful