2022 Winter in the Eastern Sierra Workshop FAQ’s

This is a winter workshop. Kerik and I recommend using a layered method of dressing. We recommend following the “Cold-weather Laryers” description in this REI article. Warm boots, like Sorels, are great in below-zero temperatures! Specific for photography, Kirk has used Freehands Gloves with removable fingertips, but any gloves and/or mittens will work – just make sure you have them!

This is a digitally-based workshop. Here’s our recommended gear to bring:

• At least one digital camera body. We recommend a full-frame sensor camera with great ISO capability for night photography.
• Minimum lenses: A wide-angle zoom (17-40mm or equivalent), telephoto zoom (70-200mm or equivalent). Recommend a decent night lens like a Rokinon 24mm, f/1.4 or something similar to easily capture photos at night.
• A tripod is a must. Recommend aluminum or carbon legs, with a height that is eye-level. A ball head is also recommended for quick work in the field.
• Filters: UV filters work well mostly to protect the front of your lens. A circular polarizer is a trusty filter that cuts out harsh reflections. All other filters, such as ND filters, are optional, but welcomed!
• Extra batteries for your camera body.
• Extra memory cards.
• Something to protect your camera and lens during stormy weather. We recommend the handy OP/TECH Rainsleeve, but any plastic bag can work.
• Headlamp for finding your way in the dark.
• Optional: Flashlight for light painting. It’s also a back-up if the headlamp stops working. Kirk uses an earlier version SureFire, with an incandescent bulb for warmer light output.
• Bring your computer for optimizing images for converting to digital negatives. Laptops are preferable, as the studio we’ll be working in has limited space. They’re also easier traveling with on airplanes and in cars. Lastly – The studio/venue is not responsible for computers sent via UPS/FEDEX or USPS. We appreciate your understanding.

Yes! We will have everything to make prints at the workshop venue. If you already do platinum/palladium printing and have your favorite paper or chemicals, you’re more-than welcome to bring them.

While we warmly welcome the use of film cameras for the workshop, know that we are focusing on digital techniques. We are not allocating any time for film processing and will not be discussing film techniques.