Dramatic Portrait: Figure in the Badlands
Badlands of South Dakota, with Douglas Beasley, May 24 – 28, 2012
Only 2 Spaces Left
Whether you are a very experienced people or figure photographer or you are a complete novice who has never worked with the nude, this is a wonderful opportunity to work with the figure in the landscape in a supportive, non-sexist, non-competitive environment. We meet in Interior, South Dakota (one hour from the Rapid City, SD airport), for this five-day workshop in and around Badlands National Park and Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, home of the Oglala Lakota. This remote, very sacred land with its sculpted soil, sweeping vistas, unpredictable weather and extraordinary light is an ideal dramatic background for figurative image making. We will work collaboratively with our models to connect with and integrate this sacred land to our own vision.
Each morning and again in the afternoon we will move to a new location, as there are many spectacular and emotionally rich places to photograph. We will work on maximizing available potential, using exposure as a creative control and to create more powerful images with emotional impact, mood and personal style. There will be a combination of guided photo exercises and assignments, group sessions and photo shoot demonstrations but the majority of our time will be spent one-on-one or working in small group pairings with our models doing individual photo shoots, with Doug available for feedback and guidance, if desired. There is also much to be learned from each other, as we push and inspire each other to new creative heights. In the evening we gather together for dinner with our models and discuss the days photo shoot and then hang out and enjoy the view and camaraderie or review photos for planning personal goals for the following days photo shoot. Expect magic.
Accommodations:
Modern and comfortable accommodations are at The Circle View Ranch, a real, working cattle ranch, located on stunning family land that goes back for generations. Owned and operated by our wonderful friends Phillip and Amy Kruse, it is located high on top of a dramatic bluff with a spectacular view of the White River and the Badlands National Park.
Upon registration, we will make a reservation for you at the Circle View. If you prefer a single room, please let us know. Singles will be filled on a first come, first serve basis and go very quickly, so sign up early if you want a guaranteed single room. There are also 2 separate small cabins available on the premises, just a short drive away. If you prefer a more rustic option, you can set up your own tent on top of the bluff or near the fire pit for only $40 per night (including Amy’s amazing breakfast) and watch the sun rise over the majestic Badlands. The large overhanging balcony is also an awesome place to hang out at night and discuss the days’ shoot with a glass of wine or just listen to the coyotes howl. Only workshop participants will be housed at the Circle View during our workshop. If you desire a place away from the rest of the group, or are traveling with family, there are also several nearby motels and a Badlands National Park campground by Cedar Pass Lodge. Let us know if you need more information on these outside accommodations.
Meals
For those staying at the Circle View, a great homemade breakfast is included each morning. To avoid the mid-day sun we take a long afternoon siesta or will review work in progress. We will be on our own for lunch, there are several local choices or you can make your own at the Circle View kitchen. We will have optional homemade dinners three nights during the workshop, for a small additional fee. These meals are lovingly prepared by Amy using many locally-sourced and/or organic ingredients, with hormone-free free-range meat from their ranch or buffalo from managed herds on Pine Ridge Reservation. Vegetarians beware! (Just kidding- vegetarian welcome and vegetarian options are always available at each meal) Other dinners can be prepared ourselves at the ranch, where they have a full kitchen upstairs for us to use. Going into town (Population 67) and visiting the Wagon Wheel Saloon is a must, where you can visit with local cowboys, eat wonderful homemade pizza and play pool.
Who Should Attend
No experience working with models or nudes necessary, this is a perfect opportunity to explore this classic aspect of photography in a nurturing setting. While participants must have a basic working knowledge of their camera, the creative process of image making will be emphasized over the mechanics of camera use. Both digital and film, in all formats, are welcome. Open to all levels of experience but better suited to those looking to expand their creativity and vision. If you are interested, please register early, as this workshop usually fills quickly.
See some student photography from this workshop.
Student testimonials from this workshop:
“The Badlands was a workshop I shall not forget for some time. It is rare when you are having a great experience that time stand’s still, but I engrossed myself in the workshop so much that time seemed to be a dimension that didn’t exist. The morning of the last day I was “In the Zone” and didn’t want it all to end. The people, the setting, the Circle View, and your inspirational discussions all made it positively unforgettable. Here’s to good wine, good food, good chocolate, and most of all good people.” — John Olson, Plymouth, Minnesota
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“The Badlands was a workshop I shall not forget for some time. It is rare when you are having a great experience that time stand’s still, but I engrossed myself in the workshop so much that time seemed to be a dimension that didn’t exist. The morning of the last day I was “In the Zone” and didn’t want it all to end. The people, the setting, the Circle View, and your inspirational discussions all made it positively unforgettable. Here’s to good wine, good food, good chocolate, and most of all good people.” — John Olson, Plymouth, Minnesota
“I’d say these were some of the best workshops I’ve ever attended. They brought me back to some core aspects of myself and helped me expand my photographic vision so it better connects to who I am.” — Ray Remiszewski, Vancouver, British Columbia
“I want to thank you so much for the experience you gave to Ray. I can hear in his voice that his soul and spirit were so moved by the space you created. This has had such an impact for Ray at a personal level and in his work as a photographer. With what you gave to him, you have also so given to me and there are no words to truly articulate my gratefulness.” — Bernadette Barton, Vancouver, British Columbia
“I had such a wonderful week with you and everyone in the Badlands. It was by far the best workshop I’ve done. I felt I really did learn some things out there. I gave myself the freedom to shoot, even if that ‘little voice’ was saying ‘no’. By the time the last day came the ‘no’ was barely audible. It felt good to have that freedom. Thanks again.” — Michelle Blair, Minneapolis, MN
“Thank you for another surreal experience. I will have to get used to going back to Texas and waking myself up from the dream that your workshops create.” — Tillye Kamin, Austin, TX
“The time I spent in the Badlands was truly one of the most powerful experiences I have encountered so far in my life. I thank you for creating such a safe space for that energy to flourish. — Ilia Horsburg, Vancouver, British Columbia
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Dates:
May 24 to May 28, 2012
Arrival: Wednesday evening May 23rd
Workshop begins 8:30 Thursday morning May 24th
Ends Monday May 28th at 12:00 noon.
Cost:
$550 plus $250 models fee. $800.00 total ($200 deposit). Meals and lodging not included but room reservations at the Circle View Guest Ranch will be made for you upon registration, unless other accommodations are desired.
Class limit:
10
