2024 Spring Wildflower Workshop

Unveiling Spring’s Beauty: Wildflower Photography

Join Todd Nettelhorst at a local Chicagoland Forest Preserve (TBD – scouted the week prior) for a photography experience unlike any other.

This workshop will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to translate the delicate details of breathtaking landscapes and floral moments into captivating photographs.

In-Field Sesson (April 13, 2024 @ 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM)

Golden Hour Exploration:

• Arrive at the forest preserve as the first light kisses the landscape. This “golden hour” is the prime time to capture wildflowers bathed in a soft, ethereal glow.
• After introductions and a short briefing, delve into the world of wildflower photography. Learn about the unique challenges and rewards of capturing these exquisite subjects.
• Embark on a guided exploration of the preserve’s most vibrant wildflower locations.
• Receive personalized coaching throughout the morning. Todd will be by your side, offering technical guidance and creative inspiration. Learn composition techniques, lighting considerations, aperture settings for creative depth control, and macro photography for capturing intricate floral details.
• Experiment with different angles and perspectives to create captivating wildflower compositions.
• Learn to harness the power of morning light to elevate your photographs such as backlight for a soft glow and sidelight to emphasize texture.

Personalized Coaching & Capturing the Essence

Receive personalized coaching throughout the entire morning. Todd will be by your side, offering expert guidance on:

• Composition: Learn to arrange elements within your frame to create visually compelling wildflower portraits.
• Lighting Techniques: Discover how to utilize natural light to your advantage – from soft backlight to sidelight for emphasizing texture.
• Aperture Settings: Explore the impact of aperture for creative depth control, isolating your subject or showcasing its environment.
• Macro Photography: Learn the secrets of capturing intricate details with macro lenses, revealing the hidden beauty within a single bloom.

Experiment with different shooting angles and perspectives to create captivating wildflower portraits and breathtaking landscapes.

Engage in independent exploration, putting your newly acquired skills to the test as you capture the essence of spring’s vibrant tapestry.

Reveal the Magic Through Processing (April 13 – May 3, 2024)

A Bridge Between Capture and Creation

• After the in-field session, you’ll receive exclusive access to an informative video lesson that will equip you with essential image processing techniques specifically tailored to wildflower photography.
• Learn how to enhance colors, adjust sharpness, make localized adjustments and bring your floral masterpieces to life.
• Utilize the following weeks to process and fine-tune your captured images using the acquired knowledge and software of your choice.

Image Submission (May 3, 2024 @ 11:59pm CT)

Online Image Review & Community (May 5, 2024 @ 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

• Following the video lesson, you’ll have ample time to explore your creative vision and process your captures.
• Select your two most compelling wildflower photographs to submit for the online review session.

• After honing your processing skills, select your two most captivating wildflower photographs.
• Join us for an engaging online image review session hosted by Todd.
• In this interactive environment, share your selected images and receive constructive feedback from Todd and fellow participants.
• Gain valuable insights on:
  • Compositional Strength: Refine your understanding of creating visually pleasing and impactful compositions.
  • Technical Aspects: Learn from Todd’s expertise to elevate your technical skills and avoid common pitfalls.
  • Creative Choices: Explore the impact of your artistic decisions and how they elevate the story of your image.
  • Processing Techniques: Refine your image processing skills while observing feedback on participant edits.

Benefits & Who Should Attend

• This workshop is ideal for photography enthusiasts at all skill levels, from beginners eager to explore wildflower photography to seasoned photographers seeking to refine their approach.
• A passion for nature and a desire to capture its fleeting beauty through the lens are all you need!

Investment in Your Creativity

The workshop includes:

• In-field photography instruction and personalized coaching (4 hours)
• Access to prime wildflower locations within the forest preserve
• Exclusive video lesson on wildflower image processing techniques
• 2-hour online image review session with instructor and fellow participants
• Gain exclusive access to a private online group page dedicated to this workshop which allows you to connect with fellow participants, share your wildflower encounters, and ask questions throughout the entire workshop experience.

What to Bring:

• DSLR, mirrorless camera or smartphone
• Macro lens (highly recommended for close-up shots)
• Tripod
• Cable release (optional but helpful for minimizing camera shake)
• Extra batteries and memory cards
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Water bottle, snacks
• Bug spray (optional)
• Positive attitude and a sense of adventure!

DATE	LOCATION	INVESTMENT	FITNESS	AVAILIBILTY
April 13 & May 5	Chicagoland Forest Preserve	$125	Moderate	10 Spots

Limited spots available! Register today to secure your place in this immersive learning experience.

Embrace the magic of spring wildflowers and embark on a transformative learning journey!  Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn from a professional, receive personalized feedback, and connect with fellow nature enthusiasts.