Long Exposures, Short on Light: The Painted Desert at Sunrise

Instructor: David Behar

The intensity of low-level, pink- and blue-colored glow at sunrise can produce surprising and varied results when photographing in color and making long exposures at relatively low ISO settings. Through slight over and under exposures, the participant can come away from this workshop with a unique set of low light color photographs of the famed and richly colorful Painted Desert.

The goal of this workshop is to introduce each participant to early lighting as it transitions into the striking morning glow over the Painted Desert.  It is a lesson in careful observation of how the changing light affects the intense colors found in this unique landscape.  By the end of the morning, you’ll have captured that gentle, welcoming glow as only the magnificent sunrise can provide, and still have the rest of your day to explore the park and its treasures.

Schedule

• Meet at 7:30 am
• Finish at 11:00 am

Cost

• $89 – Non-Member
• $80 – Member
• Includes park entrance fee for 7 days

Registration Form

Class Notes

• Maximum number of participants: 12
  
• Minimum age: 12 (must be accompanied by guardian)

We’ll meet first at the north Visitor Center, Interstate 40, exit 311, then continue on to the Painted Desert overlooks—Lacy Point, Nizhoni Point, Pintado Point, Chinde Point, Kachina Point and Tawa Point, if time permits.

Equipment and essential gear: A DSLR or mirrorless style digital camera in any size format with at least one wide angle, normal, and telephoto lens, or a zoom lens. (Any 35mm or medium format film camera is also acceptable). Extra digital memory cards, a sturdy tripod, cable release, lens cleaning brush, its. (color film for film cameras). Hand held light meter (optional).

Be prepared with good hiking boots or walking shoes, protective clothing for sun and rain (dress in layers), hat, bug spray, sunscreen, sun glasses, lunch and snacks, and at least two liters of water (per person) in a comfortable day pack. Each participant is responsible for their own transportation through the park.