During the early winter on the north shore, the shoreline gets coated in ice and the waterfalls start to freeze up. Snow that falls often sticks to trees and creates a winter wonderland. It’s the perfect time of year for an Early Winter on the North Shore Photo Workshop.
On this workshop, we’ll explore the north shore as it transitions into winter. The classroom topics will include exposure, working methods, filter usage and composition. You’ll have a chance to practice what you learned in the classroom during the field sessions. The sun rises late and set early this time of year, so the workshop is perfect for getting outside and getting rest on your learning vacation.
This time of year is one of my favorites on the north shore. Each year is different and the photos made during this time can be stormy or calm, snowy and icy or even appear summer-like. The weather is often crazy which results in great shots and if it gets cold enough, we could see sea smoke.
This is a photo workshop that you don’t want to miss.
Early Winter✓ Lake Superior✓ The North Shore✓ Camera✓ Perfect!
Dates: Not currently scheduled. You can see the list of current photo workshops here.
Location: Grand Marais, Minnesota
Check out my current photo workshop schedule.
Itinerary
- Day One: If you arrive the night before, we’ll shoot the sunrise. The workshop officially begins at 1pm with a presentation on exposure, working methods, filters and composition. After the presentations, we’ll head out into the field to shoot sunset.
- Day Two: We’ll spend the day exploring early winter on the north shore with a break for breakfast. Other meals will be on the road. Sunrise to sunset in the field. Sunrise is at 7:30am and sunset is at 4:15pm.
- Day Three: We start at sunrise, break for breakfast and then meet for an image review. The workshop ends at 1pm.
Note: The itinerary will be fluid based on the weather. Expect cold, icy conditions.
Lodging
Aspen Lodge in Grand Marais, MN is the lodging partner for this workshop. It is on the east side of Grand Marais across the street from a popular restaurant, My Sister’s Place. Aspen Lodge offers views of Artist’s Point, the East Bay and the Coast Guard Station. It has a whirlpool spa, a sauna and a pool. It’s within walking distance of downtown. After you register you will receive details on the room blocks.
Getting There
Grand Marais, Minnesota is 110 miles north of Duluth, Minnesota on Highway 61. Duluth boasts a small international airport. It’s 260 miles north of Minneapolis, Minnesota, which has an international airport that also acts as a regional hub. Grand Marais is 128 kilometers south of Thunder Bay, Ontario on Highway 61. Thunder Bay has a small airport. Car rentals are available at the airports.
Required Photography Equipment
I’ll send out a full equipment list when you register for the workshop.
Maximum number of participants: 10
Level: This workshop is for all levels of photographers and works best for photographers using digital cameras.
Activity level: Expect up to 3 miles of hiking a day. Most of our destinations are right on Lake Superior near the parking lots. The shoreline is rocky and has uneven terrain. The rocks can be icy, so cleats or crampons are required.
What’s included in the workshop fee: Quality small group and one-on-one instruction. Conference room for classroom time. Fun!
What’s not included in the workshop fee: Transportation to Grand Marais and photography locations. Carpooling is highly recommended. Lodging. Meals.
Lodging partner: The lodging partner is within walking distance of downtown Grand Marais. After you register, you’ll receive information about booking your room in the room block. Lodging costs are not included in the workshop fee.
Check-in date: Dec 4
Check-out date: Dec 7
Getting to Grand Marais: Grand Marais, Minnesota is 110 miles north of Duluth, Minnesota on Highway 61. Duluth boasts a small international airport. It’s 260 miles north of Minneapolis, Minnesota, which has an international airport that also acts as a regional hub. Grand Marais is 128 kilometers south of Thunder Bay, Ontario on Highway 61. Thunder Bay has a small airport. Car rentals are available at the airports.
Weather: The average temps are 19°F for lows and 32°F for highs. There may be ice on the ground. While snow is unlikely, it isn’t unusual.
Equipment list: After registration, you will receive a suggested equipment list and participant package. The package will discuss equipment options, photography techniques and more.
Registration and Cancellation Policies
Please, read the Registration and Cancellation Policies at the link. There are no exceptions to the policy.