Workshop Location Description
The picturesque town of Munising, along the shore of Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula is the home base for our Spring workshop.
A convergence of diverse woodland and wetland habitats make Munising an exciting location for nature photography. This area is also a popular tourist destination, but the workshops are timed to take place before the main influx of tourist visitation occurs, at a time when the area offers quietude and serenity.
Wooded habitats in this area vary from pristine northern bogs to exquisite birch and beech-maple forests. We'll explore some of the best stands of hardwood forest remaining in Michigan, visiting such places as the Big Island Lake and Rock River Canyon Wilderness Areas, and the Laughing Whitefish Falls State Scenic Site.
As soon as the snow melts, the forest floor comes alive with Dutchman's-breeches, squirrel-corn, trout lily and bloodroot. Early spring is the time to find these wildflowers -- all evidence of such early bloomers can disappear by Memorial Day.
Other wildflowers that could be in bloom include trailing arbutus, large-flowered trillium and several species of violets. Spring beauties and hepaticas (both round- and sharp-leaved) can literally carpet the floor of the old-growth hardwood forests we'll visit. Peak blooming times fluctuate greatly with the weather and the effects of Lake Superior and are impossible to predict.
Hikes through deciduous forests reveal more than wildflowers. Morel mushrooms offer great photographic opportunities (and good eating). Brilliant but tiny scarlet cup fungi reveal themselves to the discerning photographer.
We'll also seek out images of emerging ferns and leaf buds among the soft, warm, pastel greens of early spring.
The golden brown of last year's cattails and the soft yellow of willow catkins cast reflections in the still water of the quiet beaver ponds we'll visit.
The extensive deciduous forest south of Munising is dotted with hundreds of small lakes and is traversed by many creeks. Rod's first-hand knowledge of this area will help you find the best photographic opportunities in this vast expanse.
Several waterfalls are located nearby, some with spectacular drops into deep gorges, some with a more intimate charm. Among those we may visit are Chapel Falls, Laughing Whitefish Falls, Rock River Canyon Falls and Mosquito Falls. With ample spring runoff these should be at peak flow and prime for photography--and not packed with tourists.
A photographic trip to this area would not be complete without a visit to the beach along Lake Superior in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This ever-changing landscape features lots of driftwood and an endless array of multi-colored cobblestones shaped by countless years of lapping waves.
Following cold, clear nights, frost sometimes coats the landscape, creating unique photographic opportunities. After spring showers, raindrops on spring buds can inspire fascinating compositions. Rod will teach you how to take advangage of the varying photographic challenges that are brought on by changing weather conditions.
Bring your binoculars along on this workshop! With the trees not fully leafed out, the first wave of migrating northbound warblers will be easier to spot. Striking white-throated and white-crowned sparrows brighten the forest floor and fill the air with song.
Standard workshops are for photographers of all skill levels, beginner and experienced alike, and combine ample time in-the-field with classroom work.
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Tuition
Workshop tuition of $795 per person includes a complete set of workshop notes. Participants are responsible for lodging, meals, film processing and transportation. We encourage carpooling during field trips.
Payment: A deposit of $250 is required to reserve a space. The balance of $545 is due 90 days prior to the first day of the workshop. A 90-day advance notice is required for all cancellations. If you need to cancel with less than a 90-day notice your deposit/tuition will be refunded only if we are able to fill your space. All cancellations incur a $50 processing fee.
When we receive your deposit, we will send you a detailed confirmation letter outlining check-in time, travel map, suitable photographic equipment and recommended clothing. Prior to the workshop, we will provide a directory of participants, to facilitate joint travel plans.
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Lodging Rates and Accommodations
Comfortable accommodations are available at the AmericInn in Munising, Michigan, a short drive to the shops and restaurants of Munising. Our group's rate for lodging is $49.90 per night, plus tax (single occupancy) during the workshop. Those who wish to arrive early or stay after the workshop may do so with advance reservations. The room rate for Saturday night may be higher: please ask the AmericInn prior to making travel plans.
Please pay the motel directly at check-in.
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Non-Participating Spouse (Standard Workshop Only)
If space allows, a non-participating spouse may join the group during field trips. This feature is available only in standard workshops. Contact our office before making final plans. Fee is $250.
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Registration Information
Early reservations are recommended. By phone: Call (906) 293-3339. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST. For reservations made by phone, we accept credit cards for deposits only, or we'll hold your space for seven days, while awaiting your check.
You can also register online.
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