Join renowned photographer and author of “Photographing the Aurora Borealis” on an immersive workshop designed to explore and photograph the breathtaking northern lights in Alaska. Set in Fairbanks, AK, from March 2 to March 9, 2024, the workshop accommodates a small group of up to four participants, ensuring personalized attention and instruction.
The aurora borealis, often referred to as the “Dawn Wind,” has captivated individuals for generations with its extraordinary colors and movements, often described as beyond the grasp of words or images. Witnessing this natural spectacle is a bucket-list experience that every individual should aspire to behold at least once. This workshop goes beyond simply observing, as participants actively engage in capturing the northern lights through comprehensive photography techniques that enhance their skills. Many attendees find themselves returning multiple times, enthralled by the experience.
With 2024 marking the 17th year of expertise in conducting northern lights workshops, ensure you learn the necessary skills and visit the most optimal locations to create truly stunning images. The workshop takes place during a peak in the solar cycle, known for its increased aurora activity, particularly in the region north of Fairbanks, at the Brooks Range. This area is recognized for being the best location in the continental U.S. to witness auroras, making it a prime time for capturing incredible shots.
Participants will benefit from meticulous planning and timing, with no instance in the past February-March workshops going without aurora sightings. The itinerary includes various locations for nighttime aurora photography and opportunities to capture beautiful daytime winter landscapes. The first two nights are spent in Fairbanks, away from city lights, allowing for ideal shooting conditions.
Reviews from former participants highlight the organization and comprehensive nature of the trip. Attendees have reported numerous photographic opportunities outside the northern lights, such as visiting the World Ice Art Championships and witnessing local sled dog races.
After arriving in Fairbanks, the group will travel north to a cozy multi-room cabin specifically positioned within one of the strongest bands of aurora activity. Here, participants will have ample opportunities to step outside at night for aurora photography, as well as enjoy stunning winter landscapes during the day. To ensure all settings are optimized for various photography conditions, personal hands-on instruction will be provided based on each participant’s individual camera and lens setups.
The workshop covers essential skills needed for aurora photography, including proper camera settings, exposure calculations, and unique techniques such as time-lapse photography and star trail stacking. For those who wish to delve deeper into the art of aurora photography, the author’s book serves as an invaluable guide, offering insights and techniques to enhance one’s skills.
The overall workshop experience includes accommodations, transportation, and meals, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable environment for creativity. With a focus on capturing exceptional images in a supportive atmosphere, participants are encouraged to develop their photographic abilities.
Ultimately, this workshop is a unique chance to not only experience the elusive northern lights but to document them through photography, creating lasting memories and stunning visuals.
