2024 Colorado Fall Color Workshop September 30-October 4

 Fall color in Colorado… Magnificent! Aspens are the main draw with their stately graceful white trunks and leaves hitting all the warm colors on the wheel from yellow to orange and even brilliant red. But that’s not all – the Gambel oaks turn rusty orange and red in a good year offering additional depth to an image.. And don’t forget the cottonwoods! But where to go and when. The entire state rarely turns color at the same time and there is a general progression from north to south. After years of traveling there for the autumn display, I think the best place to be for a combination of grand scenics and more intimate opportunities is Southwest Colorado in the San Juans. Early October seems to be the sweet spot, so these dates are chosen to offer the best chances for a great photographic and travel experience.

Hotel rooms are already tight for 2024 in Ouray and Crested Butte, which is an alternative destination, and nothing for groups, so logistics will be fluid. This will be a private to semi-private affair and will involve renting a house and sharing space. I will make a reservation after the first registration. A lodging deposit will be required after registration, lodging costs to be determined based on house, the number of photographers, spouses, etc. Based on photographer preference, either Ouray or Crested Butte, or even a combination can work.

There are multiple dining options as well as hot springs for those interested in Ouray. Montrose is the closest airport to Ouray followed by Durango. Montrose also works for Crested Butte. Montrose is served by United, American, JetBlue, and Southwest, and is accessible in all weather conditions.

The grand scenes at Dallas Divide, as well as the wonderful scenes to be had going over Owl Creek Pass and down to the Silver Jack Reservoir area offer days of wonderment and exploration. The roads leading to the trailheads to Mount Sneffels as well as Woods Lake and Ophir all offer endless opportunities. All the images in my 2021 Colorado Fall Color gallery came from this area and illustrate the possibilities. Crested Butted lends to intimate scenes in extensive aspen groves along Kebler Pass Road, but there are larger scenes to explore. There are iconic scenes to be sure, but we will also be looking for more intimate, personal images. Let’s look deeper than the pretty postcard scene to find that vision, that special unique image.

Carpooling is a great option to get to know each other as well as talk photography. 4WD is important on this as there is potential for snow; most rental 4x4 SUVs are adequate. Gnarly 4x4 excursions are not part of the plan, but 4WD is an extra margin of assurance on forest service and unpaved county roads.

Itinerary – Chosen to allow extra time to have a down day in the event of unshootable weather conditions, and otherwise to have a bonus day to enjoy autumn splendor in Colorado.

September 29 – meet at the hotel. Introductions and depart for a nearby photo destination, to be determined based on conditions.

September 30 - October 4, We will have 5 full days of photography consisting of a morning session, followed by a break for breakfast. Great photography doesn’t stop during mid-day, and we will explore options presented each day. Lunch may be a sandwich on the road on any given day, and certainly on some days. Mid-day image review is always an option depending on group preference if no compelling photo ops present themselves. Evening sessions will be chosen based on weather and conditions. There is always a restaurant that can be reached before last seating regardless of that location so difficult decisions can wait for another trip.

October 5 -- Check out in the morning and return home. A last farewell morning shoot for those who have the time.

Additional time before and after might be available, as well as flexible dates.

Activity level:

Easy to mild, most locations are drive-up. A couple of charming locations are options for a short easy hike for those interested. Ouray is at 7,700 feet Dallas Divide is at 8,700 and Silver Jack Reservoir around 9,000 -- altitude sickness is not a problem for most, and activity limiting symptoms quite unusual. Check with your personal physician for any concerns.

Lodging:

Not included in the tuition price. Based on current room availability, my expectation is it will be a shared vacation home or condo depending on group size. The cost will be on an equal share basis per person.

Transportation:

Not included, but rental vehicle recommendations will follow upon reserving. Montrose is the closest airport with commercial jet service at this time of the year.

Meals:

Not included.

FUN:

Included

Group Size: Limited to 4

Tuition: $1,495.00

lodging deposit and final costs to be determined

$100.00 discount for alumni of prior workshops

Includes my services for 5 days of photography with emphasis on field techniques and composition, aesthetics and development of personal style and vision.

This is both a tour and workshop. This means that while I will be focused on you, I may also photograph for my own portfolio.

Covid vaccination required for attendance.

Antigen testing with a home kit requested 24 hours prior to attendance.

Deposit $450.00 due by June 1st, 2024. Balance due by September 1, 2024.