BLACK HILLS OF SOUTH DAKOTA

CLASS DESCRIPTION: This is an opportunity to work on our image-making in a natural environment, far from the tourists, with just a handful of other photographers, maximizing individual attention and feedback. The group size will be intentionally kept small so we can dig deeper into strengthening our creative vision along with sharing our successes and challenges as image-makers and be vulnerable with each other about the creative blocks and challenges we face. Insights as well as constructive feedback on ways to move forward will be offered. 

Our workshop starts with a Wednesday evening informal get-together where we can get to know each other better and review work brought from home. Each day, after a delicious light breakfast, we delve in, making photos guided by prompts provided by Doug on field trips and discussions on process, presentation and ways to take our work further. Ample time will break given to sharing projects of work-in-progress and discussions on ways of developing new projects.  Late afternoon will be time for collaboration with others and plenty of one-on-one time with Doug and Jenna. There will be evening presentations by both Doug and Jenna, with Jenna also sharing her popular presentation on her approach to image titling. Sunday morning participants will each share a short presentation of their images created during the workshop.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: This is a perfect opportunity to explore photography in a nurturing, mutually supportive, small group setting. While participants must have a basic working knowledge of their camera, the creative process of image making will be emphasized over the mechanics of camera use. Both digital and film, in all formats, are welcome. Open to all levels of photo experience but better suited to those looking to expand their creativity and vision.

LOCATION: Spearfish Canyon Lodge, Black Hills of South Dakota (about a two hour drive from the Rapid City SD airport) We can help arrange car-pooling to and from the airport to the hotel if desired.

MEALS: Breakfasts at the Lodge, lunch in the field or other local options, dinner at Spearfish Canyon Lodge 

DATES: Arrival: Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Departure: Sunday, November 10, 2024.

COST: 850.00

REGISTER: Follow link to Open Air Places
You can register online, or by calling Jenna at 715-577-6857. Final Payments are due 30 days prior to the workshop.

DEPOSIT: $450 paid to Open Air Places. Please review our workshop policies and guidelines prior to placing your deposit.

LODGING: Spearfish Canyon Lodge, Spearfish Canyon, SD
Or stay at a local hotel or Airbnb of your choosing in the town of Spearfish, about an hour away.
Not included in the cost of workshop.

MEET YOUR COHOST: Jenna Erickson is a painter, self-portrait photographer and emerging cinematographer based on the South Shore of Lake Superior, in Northern WI.  She is deeply inspired by the natural world and the land she lives on and nurtures.

Her work is influenced by the ebb and flow of the seasons, a daily grounding practice and a commitment to being immersed in nature as much as possible.  On a daily basis, she engages in The Art of a Creative Life which flows out through her chosen mediums.

Her photographic work is an exploration in self-portraiture, embracing found objects sourced from place and always deeply informed by the environment. Jenna’s titling practice for her images is an important part of her creative practice and seeks not to explain the work, but rather imbues it with another layer of meaning and mystery.

View Jenna’s Photography here.

Portrait of Jenna by Douglas Beasley