September 12-14
This weekend is a superb opportunity to get double value for your workshop dollar; photography and an intimate look at autumn's natural wonders. Mid-September in the Berkshires is a wonderful time to observe migrating birds that are lingering in the area and trees such as red maples that are beginning to display their true colors. During this weekend with interpretive naturalist and photographer John Green, we will enjoy the subtle transition from summer to autumn by identifying trees and late blooming flowers, song birds and birds of prey.
Inspired by the simple and abundant beauty of the natural world, John purchased his first camera in 1970 and began teaching himself the technical aspects of "pure nature photography" , that which uses only available natural light. Green's approach to photography encourages you to slow down and pre visualize the results you want to achieve. John is known for his keen observation, patience, and ability to work with people at a variety of skill levels to help them improve their pictures. As you slow down and observe nature more closely, you'll discover a whole new way to use your camera to make beautiful images.
John covers an amazing amount of information in a few days, ranging from the technicalities of operating a camera in manual mode to extensive nature lore. You'll be challenged to photograph landscapes, woodland scenes and streams as well as close ups of flowers and mushrooms, using the basic elements of composition, depth of field and exposure. Evening hours will be spent discussing each day's field discoveries along with viewing John's outstanding natural history slide programs and enjoying a sampling of photographs and slides presented by participants. Anyone with any type of camera is welcome, and even if you don't have a camera, you will enjoy roaming Rowe's early autumn landscape with John. This program is limited to 18 people.
John Green has been photographing nature for over 30 years and has achieved an impressive background of knowledge and a large portfolio of work. He has been featured on the television series "PBS Kids," and his print work and slide shows have been exhibited widely around the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts. Also an interpretive naturalist, John is skilled in bird and plant identification, and he possesses a working knowledge of many mammals, insects, reptiles and amphibians. He has run a weeklong field school on nature photography for the Massachusetts Audubon Society for more than 15 years and leads photographic excursions all over the country. He has lived in Western Massachusetts since 1972 where he is frequently found photographing the wilds of Quabbin Reservoir, presenting his slide shows to civic and nature groups, and teaching workshops in nature photography.