Night Photography

with Philipp Scholz Rittermann

July 15, 20-21, 24th 2024

This workshop dives deep into the When, How, and Tech of night photography. Through online learning and two dedicated evenings / nights working in the field we’ll cover all the basics of finding your way to photographing at night, and making personally meaningful and exciting images in the process. Topics covered include selecting and working with the appropriate camera gear, scouting locations for success, exposure techniques, handling extreme contrast, light painting, avoiding unwanted flare, managing noise, image processing, and much more.

The cost of this workshop is $595 to general public / 15% off for Medium Photo members (Supporter level +)

Who should take this workshop?

This workshop is designed for enthusiasts seeking to explore the nocturnal interplay of light, shadow, and stillness in urban and natural environments. Seasoned photographers hoping to explore their interest in meditative imagery through long exposures are encouraged to enlist in this course. We also welcome photo enthusiasts, equipped with a basic understanding of manual camera settings, hoping to create more impactful images beyond what smartphones can capture.

At night, long exposures offer opportunities which short daytime exposures can’t provide. During a long exposure one can introduce objects (or oneself) into the image, selectively light or obscure certain areas, draw words or shapes with hand-held lights, etc. The camera gathers all of these traces into a still image, revealing the sum of what occurred during exposure. Places, structures and events which seem mundane or commonplace during the day, can become ambiguous, evocative and charged with mystery at night. Long exposures compress a fluid stretch of time into a still two dimensional image, revealing a world we cannot observe with our own eyes. We get to see beyond our senses.

What can I expect from this workshop?

This workshop is designed to prepare you for taking the best images in low light and in night time conditions. The first course will be held over Zoom where participants will meet the instructor, get an introduction to the course, and how to prepare for 2 days of field work. Philipp will go over the necessary equipment required to ensure your success throughout the workshop. Following your nights in the field, the final course will conclude once again on Zoom. During this final course, student critics and course wrap up will take place. It is highly recommend participants be present for all 4 workshop days to get the most out of this experience.

Here is a list of equipment that we recommend you bring to be successful in this workshop:

• digital camera with manual settings capable of long exposures

• extra camera batteries & charger

• laptop & charger capable of processing your camera’s RAW files 

• sturdy tripod

• headlamp or flashlight

• warm clothing, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots

• snacks and drinks