Last week, I taught "Wanderlust: The Art of Travel Photography" at the John C Campbell Folk School. It was an absolute pleasure having Dale, Rozie, Gail, and Herb in my class. We had such a fun week and everyone learned so much, including myself. What I love most about the folk school is that everyone shares and helps out one another.
Terry, my partner, was able to join me again on this trip to this very special place and take a leather class, while I was teaching mine. It had been nearly been two years since we'd been to the folk school and it sure was wonderful to be back!
For my students, whom were advanced beginner to intermediate photographers, we focused on some basics in photography to start with from exposure to composition and all points in between. We also learned about what makes a great travel photograph no matter where you are, how to prepare for such a trip, expect the unexpected, and what equipment to bring, and some tips on planning.
With the folk school campus as the location for most of our assignments, we also took a field trip last Wednesday morning to Vogel State Park, which is just over the border near Blairsville, GA. We spent a few hours there and everyone enjoyed it. Trahlyta Falls, within the park, is always a site to see and a great practice for long exposures. There is much to see and do in this beautiful Georgia state park and it's a feast for the photographers' eyes.
Our class also enjoyed exploring, with cameras in tow, the town of Brasstown with all of the cool arts and crafts shops, old gas pumps, and the iconic Clays Corner, "Home of the Possum Drop". We also hiked up to The Crown, which is a restaurant up in the hill overlooking the folk school's campus.
On another morning, we all met at the trailhead to River Cane Trail, which is also on the folk school's campus. This is where our class photo was taken - Herb gets the photo credit! There are some nice sculptures and totem poles throughout the trails. The Rainbow Bridge leading over the creek is pretty special too.
We couldn't of asked for better weather, for the entire week. Not too hot, sunny most days, even a little fog (which photographers love!), and a little rain upon our arrival Sunday evening. On Friday morning, a storm rolled through when we were in the classroom working on final selections. The timing was perfect as we weren't stuck out it in on campus or field trip!
Once final selections were made, a slideshow of student work was put together for the student show and closing ceremony, which took place Friday afternoon. It was fun to see everyone's reactions as they watched the slideshow.
Posted here are the same photos. Now everyone can see them here on the blog! Each photo has the individual student's name and © on them.***
Our week sure was full of fun, adventures, laughs, and learning! If this class sounds like something you'd like to take, I will be doing the same in July 2024 at the folk school. Stay tuned for details!
***Please do not copy photos without permission. All are © copyright protected!
Thank you again Dale, Rozie, Gail, and Herb!
0 Comments