Taking a Critical Look at Black and White Photography

This workshop is geared to photographers who are looking to examine their work and take it to a higher level. You will gain a better understanding of what goes into making a portfolio-grade photograph and how Photoshop can help you attain your goals. The workshop is limited to 8 participants and will consist of location shooting as well as classroom instruction. 

Composition will take center stage during the workshop. You will not be taken to an iconic spot where you simply anchor your tripod and snap a few photos without giving any thought to the process. You will be tasked with the challenge of searching for good compositions while capturing photos – without that, you have little to work with. Great compositions are not always obvious at first glance; learning how to see them will be a big part of our location shooting experience. 

Many factors come into play when making a photograph and they vary dramatically from one photographer to the next. Bell’s goal is to help you achieve YOUR goal. You will receive Bell’s 50-page workbook (typically only offered to participants of his annual week long Lake Superior Workshop). In it, he shares Photoshop techniques that he uses to achieve the look and feel of his images. He says that this is where the ‘magic’ happens – he creates an ambiance that may, or may not, have been present during the time of capture of an image. You will have plenty of time to apply his techniques to the photos that you’ll capture during this workshop. Or you may choose to work on some images that you’ve previously taken. 

Bell’s style of instruction is to work individually as much as possible. This allows each participant to ask questions directly to work toward their personal goals. The Crooked Tree Art Center will be our base for the duration of this workshop. There will be some location shooting each day. 

Each participant is asked to share 4-6 photos that they will present during critiques (they should be printed and matted). Bell feels that critiques are one of the most valuable learning tools in a workshop, so a fair amount of time will be spent discussing each participant’s work. The information that you will gain will be invaluable. These sessions will be done in a relaxed manner without any pressure. 

Ample time is set aside for discussions. Participants are free to ask questions during the workshop. There will also be time to talk while traveling to and from shooting locations. Much can be learned from sharing amongst participants. 
 
Jan shared a quote from a workshop participant who has taken his Lake Superior Workshop more than once. Allow it to inspire you as you continue your path. 

“The week was both humbling and inspirational. Nothing quite compares to studying with a master photographer to help you refine the eloquence of your visual voice. I believe the mark of a truly great teacher and mentor is to inspire the highest level of critical thinking skills in a student. I found that with Jan Bell. His vision is the reason I came to study and I’m confident you’ll find that as well. I will be returning.” 
 – Joe V.