• Workshops
• Spirit of Structure: Abandoned Farms of North Dakota

Spirit of Structure: Abandoned Farms of North Dakota

May 13 – 18, 2012 Rugby, North Dakota Tuition: $1500 Register by downloading our Workshop Application (PDF). Or you can register at www.theworkshops.com

Imagine the unique opportunity to photograph in isolated abandoned farmhouses and nearly deserted towns in north central North Dakota. Conditions of the structures range from mere windowless shells to intact buildings containing personal belongings of the long gone occupants. Despite the perception that photographing buildings falls under the genre of “architectural” photography these structures also provide the photographer with rich possibilities for still life, portrait and abstract, as well as landscape interests.

This is a location workshop in which we will focus on creating photographs. All camera formats, film and digital, are welcome. Large format and film are always welcome in my workshops but be advised that there is no opportunity for processing film in the area. Digital photographers should bring their own laptop for editing their work.

In response to feedback, I have added a critique component to this workshop’s format. Although the emphasis is on making photographs, we will take time together as a group to look at each other’s work. If you are working with a digital camera, you have the choice of showing images made during the workshop or from a portfolio you have brought with you. Those working with only film will have to bring a portfolio of images for review. For all participants: Bring five of your images for introductions. All reviews will be done in the five-images-in-five-minutes format.

Based in and around Rugby and Rolette, we will work in at least two locations each day. Rugby, the geographical center of North America with a population of approximately 3000, is where we will be lodging. Most locations are within an hour’s drive and if there is a particular location that “speaks to you” there will be ample opportunity to explore that site several times. Most of your days and evenings we will be spent photographing.

Participants are responsible for lodging, meals and transportation. The workshop will begin on Sunday (May 15th) at 6 p.m. with dinner at the Northern Lights Inn. We will end the week with a closing dinner on Friday (May 20th).