Photography Tour Policies

These tours are oriented for all age groups and experience levels. Most importantly, I'm here for you! I provide both group and individual instruction and will tailor the subject matter to each individual's current level. I'll do my best to assist or advise all participants in photographic or compositional techniques. I will also demonstrate shooting techniques and equipment. The purpose of these tours is to have fun in a relaxed informal atmosphere!

Participants under 16 must be pre-approved prior to registering. Animals are strictly prohibited, as they can frighten wildlife. All participants MUST read and sign a liability waiver prior to departure. These are available from the Wyattphoto Web site or may be picked up at the Parks and Recreation office.

Equipment Recommendations

Usually, it's best to bring everything you own! A digital single lens reflex (DSLR) system is best, because you can easily switch to different lenses. "Point and shoot" or digital cameras will work fine, as well - they're just less flexible to use. Bring a variety of lenses, from macro to telephoto. Filters are quite useful, as well. The ones I use most include a circular polarizer, a) and a 2- or 3-stop split neutral density filter. A sturdy tripod will be very helpful for those low-light situations, or for greatly helping with proper composition. Before you purchase a tripod, please call me for recommendations!

Travel

Generally, we meet in Woodland Park at the Ute Pass Cultural Center front parking lot prior to the scheduled departure time. Please arrive early! Plan on carpooling with other participants to the tour locations, if possible. This will reduce the number of vehicles. Some photo stops have limited parking.

Participants who intend to meet the group "on-site" must pre-arrange this with the tour leader. Those who need to leave the tour early must inform the tour leader prior to departing. Meals and lodging are not provided. Please bring your own food, water, and appropriate clothing.

Topics Covered

Exposure- How to photograph in all lighting situations. Compensating for a light- or dark-toned subjects. Controlling mood with exposure.

Equipment- Expert advice on putting together a field outfit for any situation. Choosing the right film. Working with filters. Use of hand-held meters. Camera supports.

Lenses - Choosing the right lens for your subject. Using a lens to its best advantage. Maintaining top optical quality.

Composition- Finding the best subject. Controlling perspective. Finding an image's special points of power.

Close-Ups- Selecting the right lens for close-ups. Controlling the background. Controlling natural light. Using a flash for close-ups. Shooting high-magnification close-ups.

Professional Tips - Great shooting sites. Traveling with your equipment. Coping with the weather. Building a blind. Successfully stalking your subject. NANPA code of ethics.