Out & About: Wildflower Photography (May 18-Jun 1)

Dates: May 18 - June 1, 2024

Meetings: Saturday, 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM CST (3 sessions)

Location: Online Zoom Classroom + Washington County

Cost: $280 (HCP members receive a 10% discount)

Instructor: Laszlo Perlaky

Skill Level: Open to All Levels

In this informative and inspirational 3-part course, participants will learn how to photograph highly aesthetic images of wildflowers in various environments – in large wild fields, in urban landscapes, in smaller groups of wildflower patches, or even singled out as individual plants. Participants will receive an in-depth overview of useful equipment for wildflower photography including lenses and cameras, accessories to control light (diffusers, reflectors), low-angle tripod techniques, and much more. Students will learn how to soften images using soft focus lenses and effect filters, and how to photograph from close proximity using DSLR or mirrorless cameras, point-and-shoot cameras, or even smartphones. 

A guided hands-on field trip to prime locations in Washington County will allow participants to develop their observation skills, practice proper field techniques, and control the light to creatively emphasize wildflowers in their images. In the third session, students will review and discuss their submitted imagery while engaging in a supportive photo critique, offering and receiving valuable technical, aesthetic, and artistic feedback.

Objectives:

• Learn about useful equipment for wildflower photography 

• Review composition guidelines and recommendations on how to improve your imagery

• Understand the effect of focal length and depth of field on your subject and background

• Develop your awareness of natural lighting conditions and how to control the light

• Improve your light metering techniques to achieve accurate exposures

• Photograph beautiful pictures of wildflowers at the peak of their blooming season

Prerequisites: None

Course Prep: 

Students should be prepared to take notes during class and know how to take screenshots during online sessions.