The Figure in the Western Landscape July 25th to August 1st 2009 (The Figure in the Western Lands...

Artists have long worked with the human figure as a subject in every medium, and photography certainly has a rich history in that regard. Form, gesture, line, texture, light and shadow, and artistic intention all play a vital role in creating successful images. Placing the human figure into a unique landscape reveals countless opportunities to explore these themes, and we will spend time examining all of them. Certainly, developing a personal vision in this subject is important, and we will spend time critiquing the images the class produces. Additionally, you’ll learn how to work with models in a professional manner that creates an environment of trust and collaboration, and how to establish a rhythm to the shoot that encourages artistic feedback and active participation by your model. This class will be held on a 5000 acre ranch in Park City, Utah. This magnificent property includes large stands of aspen trees, streams, large rock outcroppings, and a lake. The models are professionally trained dancers, and there will be a 2:1 ratio of students to models. Maximum of 10 participants. Our week begins with an evening program and portfolio review on Saturday night. Each day thereafter, we will start out early and shoot until around noon. When we break for lunch, we’ll take time to review work from the past day’s outing, and go over any technical questions that may come up. Then it’s back to shooting in dramatic afternoon mountain light. For this to work best, it is recommended that participants shoot with digital cameras and bring a laptop for editing. Although you are welcome to shoot film, feedback on your efforts would certainly be limited.